Project Milky Way

The backbone of a smart home is studded with MEMS sensors. They measure air quality, keep the temperature comfortable, and detect when a window is open that should be shut. They help keep burglars at bay, recognize gestures, and adjust the lighting to the intensity of the sun’s rays. A robot vacuum cleaner fitted with MEMS sensors and a Wi-Fi module provides a running report on its position.

Multi-sensor systems are key to the success of Industry 4.0 applications. More and more machines and even workpieces are being fitted with smart sensor systems. That way, every product can report on how it is to be assembled and its state of completion. Ongoing production uses this data to largely organize and monitor itself. It detects technical issues at an early turn and automatically performs inspections. MEMS sensors also localize the position of goods.

MEMS sensors enable recognition-based gesture spotting for video games and treat users to a satisfying virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) experience. When a user straps on an AR or VR device, the virtual image’s movement has to track the motions of the user’s head with utmost precision. This presents a tremendous challenge for sensors. If the tracking is even slightly off or drift effects occur, users may experience motion sickness. Intelligent MEMS sensors are up to this challenge.

Every modern-day vehicle is equipped with as many as 50 MEMS sensors which help to keep you safe: from acceleration sensors that trigger your airbag, through yaw-rate sensors which allowed wide-scale deployment of ESP®, to sensor-enabled motorcycle stability control and ABS for motorbikes. With the help of pressure sensors in engine management systems you can conserve fuel and curb emissions. Automated driving in the years to come will require inertial sensors with unprecedented stability and precision. Aviation is another application on the horizon, particularly toy drones and flying taxis.

Environmental sensors, which measure relative humidity, barometric pressure and ambient temperature are being implemented in smartphones, tablets and even wearable devices to improve their context awareness and allow your devices to learn what conditions fit your needs the best. MEMS sensors can indicate weather and temperature changes, help provide you with an accurate weather forecast and even monitor the quality of air around you!

A personal electronic fitness trainer equipped with MEMS sensors wakes users on time on a schedule that matches their natural biorhythm. Smart sportswear can improve workout efficiency by measuring speed and calories burned. MEMS sensors help users navigate through the city and stabilize the shot if they want to take a picture during a run. They provide the perfect solution if users want to take sharp snapshots with their head camera, smartphone, or toy drone.

Did you know that you most likely have a Bosch MEMS sensor in your pocket? More than every second smartphone and tablet worldwide contains at least one of these tiny helpers. Bosch MEMS sensors stabilize images, detect gestures and activities, and count your steps.