Current trends in photonic sensors

Photonics is one of the most important technologies of the 21st century. It is the fundament of today's optical communications, all-optical signal processing, biomedical diagnostics, optical sensing, display systems and energy efficient smart lighting. Photonic sensors as a basic part of many photonic systems are under huge development. It is represented by really multidisciplinary research. Small, smart, sensitive, selective, fast, robust, inexpensive and remotely controllable sensors are the ultimate goal. The potential to achieve these capabilities has been demonstrated by different optic and photonic sensor designs and implementations in photonic structures. Progress in material technology, all optical signal processing, innovative system solutions and fabrication technology have driven the optic and photonic sensors further. This paper gives an overview on new trends for optic and photonic sensors.