The slow evolution of the wireless sensor

For over 40 years, the test and measurements community has voiced requirements for wireless transducers. The primary interest has always been in overcoming specific limitations of "hard-wired" transducers needed to measure phenomena on moving test articles. The following paper deals with the reflections, assertions, and opinions of a company, Invocon, that has contributed to the initial technology development of civil infrastructure systems (CIS) wireless sensors and is still in operation to discuss the trials and tribulations of slow market growth. The paper reviews: (1) Invocon\´s opinions on why the market growth is slow; (2) the successful strategy implemented by Invocon to withstand the monetary challenges of slow market growth; and (3) the future areas of R&D needed to achieve products and services that will move the CIS utilization onto the next level.