Novel Magnetic, Acoustic and Chemical Micro Sensors for In-situ, Real-time, and Unattended Use

摘要

Consistent with the underlying long-term objectives of the development of the Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS) program, we are developing a new planted ground sensor platform based on Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) which offers magnetic, chemical and acoustic detection. The envisioned micro-system will be low-power and low-cost, and it will be built around a single type of microstructure element integrating a monolithic optical system and electronics package. In the first phase of our work supported by DARPA, we demonstrated that the microcalormetric spectroscopy technique can be applied to detect and identify chemicals in the ppm level and that the studied magnetometer can provide sensitivities in the order of 1umT. Continuation studies will be discussed that aim to achieve chemical detection sensitivities in the order of ppb or better. We will present the methods to be used to achieve magnetic detection sensitivities in the order of 1pT @ 1Hz. The studied acoustic detection system will act as the trigger for the overall system. Sensors of this type are required for the next generation of magnetic and chemical multisensor instrumentation. And will be useful in numerous commercial and military applications where small size, low- power consumption, low cost, and prime requirements. Possible applications of such a system include: sensitive perimeter monitoring, auch as minefields and military/nuclear bases, vehicle detection, airports security, and medical industry applications.