A groundbreaking sensor system small enough to be mounted on a drone has been developed by a team of international researchers, offering potential applications in precision agriculture and beyond.
The team, which included experts from RMIT University, CUNY, the University of Melbourne, and the ARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems (TMOS), unveiled the innovative “flat-optics technology” in a recent announcement. This technology has the capability to enhance traditional optical lenses across various industries.
One of the key features of this sensor system is its ability to swiftly switch between edge detection and detailed infrared imaging, without the need for large data processing. This breakthrough could revolutionize the way industries approach tasks such as pest control, fertilization, and water management at a plant level.
Lead author Dr. Michele Cotrufo highlighted the significance of this dynamic switch in capabilities, stating that it sets this sensor system apart from previous static devices in the field. The research, published in Nature Communications, showcases the potential for this technology to compete with digital image processing systems.
TMOS Chief Investigator Professor Madhu Bhaskaran and her team at RMIT developed the sensor system using a vanadium dioxide filter, which enables the shift between edge detection and infrared imaging. Bhaskaran emphasized the versatility of materials like vanadium dioxide in creating smart devices for environmental sensing applications.
With a granted US patent and pending Australian patent application, the team at RMIT is already looking towards mass production of the sensor system. PhD scholar Shaban Sulejman noted that the design is compatible with standard manufacturing techniques, paving the way for rapid integration into commercial systems.
This innovative sensor system holds promise for a wide range of industries, offering a glimpse into the future of flat-optics devices for drones and satellites. As researchers continue to push the boundaries of technology, the potential applications of this sensor system are endless.
