Demanding environments

Our expertise

Sensors and complete sensor systems are at the core of what we deliver—from the sensing element itself to fully instrumented systems ready for deployment in the field. Reliable measurements are essential for the green transition: what we cannot measure, we cannot optimize or trust.

Around the sensor, we develop embedded electronics and software that acquire, process and communicate measurement data accurately and energy-efficiently. We cover the entire development chain, from circuit schematics and component selection to multilayer printed circuit board (PCB) design, with a focus on signal integrity, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and thermal management, including both digital and analog layouts for noise-sensitive circuits.

A particular strength is our expertise in high-temperature electronics that operate reliably under extreme thermal conditions—crucial for applications such as geothermal energy, where standard components fail.

We develop real-time firmware for microcontrollers and FPGAs, both bare-metal and based on real-time operating systems (RTOS), with signal processing, calibration, and anomaly detection running directly on the sensor node. Our software expertise ranges from embedded algorithms and communication protocols to tools and data analysis in Python, C/C++, and MATLAB.

How we work

We take sensors all the way from idea to reality. The group develops new sensor solutions from the conceptual stage (TRL 1), through modelling, design, and prototyping, to fully functional prototypes tested and verified under realistic conditions.

This complete development chain is our strength: we combine multiphysics simulation and sensor design with electronics and PCB development, embedded systems and firmware, advanced packaging technology, and in-house testing facilities for environmental qualification and failure analysis.

Our packaging technology is application-specific. We design packages and interconnects with both manufacturability and harsh operating conditions in mind, verify integrity through multiphysics simulations (FEM) of stress, heat transfer, and sealing, and build prototypes and small production series through rapid iteration cycles.

We design for long service life and low power consumption, ensuring that solutions can withstand extreme temperatures, pressure, vibration, and corrosion in the field—and continue to perform reliably over time.

What sets us apart?

Our specialist expertise comes into play where off-the-shelf solutions fall short. We have extensive experience with high-temperature electronics and ceramic substrates for hermetically sealed installations, fibre-optic and distributed sensing, low-power and edge AI solutions that move intelligent data processing closer to the sensor itself—reducing both data transmission and energy consumption—and robust packaging technologies for subsea, downhole, and other demanding environments.

When failures occur, we identify the root cause. Through systematic failure analysis using FMECA, SEM cross-sections, and fractography, we uncover root causes and develop corrective measures that make solutions more robust and longer-lasting.

With our in-house laboratories for pressure, vibration, flow, and underwater testing, we can qualify solutions against relevant standards before deployment.

How we can help you

Sensor technology is a key enabler of the green transition. The group focuses its efforts on five strategic areas:

• Energy transition through geothermal energy, hydropower, and power-grid monitoring
• Defence and societal security
• Microelectronics through the EU Chips Joint Undertaking (Chips JU)
• Climate and nature
• Industry in demanding environments

Interested in collaborating?

We work closely with the neighbouring research groups within the Smart Sensors and Microsystems department—Applied Optics, Computer Vision, and MiNaLab—as well as with other specialist communities throughout SINTEF. Together with national and international partners, we bring technology from concept to practical application and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Feel free to get in touch with us!