RESUMO
Sensors are becoming of considerable importance in several areas, particularly in health care. Therefore, the development of inexpensive and miniaturized sensors that are highly selective and sensitive, and for which control and analysis is present all on one chip is very desirable. These types of sensors can be implemented with microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), and because they are fabricated on a semiconductor substrate, additional signal processing circuitry can easily be integrated into the chip, thereby readily providing additional functions, such as multiplexing and analog-to-digital conversion. Here, we present a general framework for the design of a multisensor system on a chip, which includes intelligent signal processing, as well as a built-in self-test and parameter adjustment units. Specifically, we outline the system architecture and develop a transistorized bridge biosensor for monitoring changes in the dielectric constant of a fluid, which could be used for in-home monitoring of kidney function of patients with renal failure.
