Performance magnetic field sensors

Advantages cited for fiber sensors include their small size and low cost. In contrast to electrical measurements, where the difference of two absolute potentials must be measured, fiber optics are self-contained and do not require an external reference signal. Because the signal is optical, there is no electrical risk to the patient, and there is no direct interference from surrounding electric or magnetic fields. Chemical analysis can be performed in real-time with almost an instantaneous response. Furthermore, versatile sensors can be developed that respond to multiple analytes by utilizing multiwavelength measurements. 

Components of a smart material (or system) include some type of sensor (which detects an input signal) and an actuator (which performs a responsive and adaptive function). Actuators may be called upon to change shape, position, natmal frequency, or mechanical characteristics in response to changes in temperatme, electric fields, and/or magnetic fields. 

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