An Integrated Circuit (IC) is a small chip, typically made from semiconductor materials like silicon, that contains numerous electronic components such as:
Transistors
Resistors
Capacitors
All of these are embedded on a single surface, enabling various electronic functions within a very compact space [1].
An IC can perform roles such as:
Microprocessor – used in computers and mobile phones
Signal amplifier – used in audio and television systems
Oscillator – used in digital clocks and RF circuits
Data storage – as in RAM or ROM memory devices [1]
ICs can be:
| Type | Applications |
|---|---|
| Digital IC | Computers, phones, automation systems |
| Analog IC | Audio equipment, radios, analog sensors |
A sensor is a device designed to detect a physical, chemical, or biological phenomenon (such as temperature, pressure, light, force, motion, current, sound...) and convert this information into a measurable signal, usually an electrical signal [2].
Detection – Sense changes in the physical environment such as force, temperature, sound, etc.
Conversion – Convert the detected quantity into an electrical signal.
Transmission – Send the signal to a processing device (like a microchip or computer) for analysis, storage, or responsive actions [2].
Smart bricks are innovative construction materials embedded with sensors and integrated circuits (ICs). These bricks can collect environmental data such as vibration, tilt, temperature, humidity, and pressure, then process and wirelessly transmit the data to a central server.
The goal is to turn each brick into a “sensing node” within a structural health monitoring (SHM) network [3].
Choose suitable sensors: e.g., accelerometers (for vibration/tilt), temperature, pressure, or humidity sensors.
Design the control and signal processing circuit: use ICs for functions like sampling, analog-to-digital conversion (A/D), processing, and data transmission.
Integrate wireless transmission modules: usually with a helical antenna operating at 915 MHz.
Note: The circuit board must be compact, energy-efficient, and easy to embed into bricks.
Install AAA or rechargeable batteries for the circuit.
Consider using ambient energy sources (heat, light, motion) to extend lifespan.
Place the sensor board into the brick mold (concrete, clay, or ceramic), fix it using heat-resistant glue or insulating padding.
Protect the board against moisture and minor impacts using a plastic case or epoxy coating.
Pour the brick material into the mold, encasing the sensor board.
Compress or press the brick, then fire (for clay bricks) or air dry (for concrete).
Test physical properties (hardness, durability) and sensor functionality post-casting.
Connect the smart brick to the “mother-node” (central receiver) via radio frequency.
Run software to test signals, validate measured values (temperature, vibration, etc.).
Assess signal transmission efficiency in real conditions (through walls, inside concrete, etc.).
Install bricks in desired locations (floors, walls, staircases...).
Connect bricks into a wireless sensor network if needed.
Configure the system for real-time alerting, data logging, and processing [3].
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Civil Structure Monitoring | Track vibrations, tilting, and cracking in buildings, bridges, towers. |
| Fire Safety Monitoring | Detect hotspots and fire propagation via thermal sensors in bricks. |
| Structural Danger Alerts | Bricks in walls/stairs send alerts when deformed. |
| Smart Homes | Used in floors to trigger automatic lighting upon footstep detection. |
[1] B. Academy, "Integrated Circuit (IC)," 2025. [Online]. Available: https://academy.binance.com/en/glossary/integrated-circuit.
[2] Dewesoft, "What Is A Sensor and What Does it Do?," March 4, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://dewesoft.com/blog/what-is-a-sensor. Accessed July 10, 2025.
[3] J. M. Engel et al., "Smart Brick - A Low Cost, Modular Wireless Sensor For Civil Structure Monitoring," Sept 2005. [Online]. Available: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/292049862_Smart_brick. Accessed July 10, 2025.
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