The convergence of IoT, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI) has opened new frontiers in automation, smart devices, and autonomous systems. Choosing the right sensors and boards is critical for developing AI-powered applications that are efficient, reliable, and scalable. With the rapid advancements in technology, 2024 offers a variety of cutting-edge options for IoT and robotics projects. Let’s explore the most optimal sensors and boards for AI applications this year.

1. Sensors for AI Applications

Sensors are the foundation of IoT and robotics, enabling devices to collect real-world data for AI processing. Here are the top sensors to consider:

a. LiDAR Sensors

• Best For: Autonomous vehicles, drones, and mapping applications.
• Why Choose LiDAR?
  • High accuracy in distance measurement.
  • Exceptional performance in 3D mapping and object detection.
  • Examples: Velodyne’s Alpha Prime, Ouster’s OS series.

b. IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) Sensors

• Best For: Robotics navigation, motion tracking, and stabilization.
• Why Choose IMU?
  • Measures acceleration, gyroscopic motion, and magnetic fields.
  • Crucial for maintaining orientation and stability in robots.
  • Examples: Bosch BNO055, MPU-6050.

c. Environmental Sensors

• Best For: Smart home devices, agriculture, and healthcare.
• Why Choose Environmental Sensors?
  • Monitors temperature, humidity, air quality, and more.
  • Enhances AI models for predictive analytics.
  • Examples: DHT22 (temperature and humidity), MQ-135 (air quality).

d. Vision Sensors (Cameras)

• Best For: Computer vision applications like facial recognition, object detection, and surveillance.
• Why Choose Vision Sensors?
  • Captures high-resolution images and videos.
  • Compatible with AI frameworks for deep learning.
  • Examples: Intel RealSense, Sony IMX series.

e. Bio-Sensors

• Best For: Healthcare and wearable devices.
• Why Choose Bio-Sensors?
  • Measures heart rate, blood pressure, and other vitals.
  • Enables AI-driven health monitoring.
  • Examples: MAX30102 (pulse oximeter), AD8232 (ECG sensor).

2. Boards for AI Applications

Boards serve as the processing unit for IoT and robotics devices, executing AI algorithms and managing sensor data. Here are the top boards for 2024:

a. NVIDIA Jetson Nano

• Best For: AI and deep learning applications.
• Why Choose Jetson Nano?
  • Powerful GPU for AI inference.
  • Supports TensorFlow, PyTorch, and other AI frameworks.
  • Ideal for robotics, drones, and computer vision projects.

b. Raspberry Pi 5

• Best For: General-purpose IoT and AI projects.
• Why Choose Raspberry Pi 5?
  • Affordable and versatile.
  • Supports lightweight AI models and edge computing.
  • Extensive community support and resources.

c. Arduino Portenta H7

• Best For: Industrial IoT and robotics.
• Why Choose Arduino Portenta H7?
  • Dual-core processor for running complex tasks.
  • Built-in compatibility with TensorFlow Lite.
  • Suitable for low-power AI applications.

d. Google Coral Dev Board

• Best For: Edge AI and machine learning.
• Why Choose Coral Dev Board?
  • Integrated Edge TPU for fast AI processing.
  • Optimized for TensorFlow Lite models.
  • Compact and energy-efficient.

e. ESP32

• Best For: Cost-effective IoT applications.
• Why Choose ESP32?
  • Low power consumption with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Supports AI frameworks for basic ML tasks.
  • Perfect for smart home and wearable devices.