Intellectual Property and Technology Licensing Office (IPTLO)

Available innovations

Review innovation summary, intellectual property status, and related information.

Available technology

Ultra‑Sensitive MEMS Fiber‑Optic Microphone for Harsh and Remote Environments

Case ID: 06-052

Description

MEMS Fiber Optic Microphone

Technology Overview: This is a micro‑electromechanical system (MEMS)–based fiber‑optic microphone designed for high‑sensitivity acoustic sensing in environments where conventional electronic microphones fail. The system converts sound‑induced vibrations into optical signals transmitted through fiber, enabling operation in electromagnetically noisy, high‑temperature, or corrosive environments. Its compact MEMS architecture allows for precise detection of acoustic pressure with minimal signal distortion and immunity to electromagnetic interference. The fiber‑optic design also enables remote sensing over long distances without signal degradation, making it suitable for distributed and embedded monitoring applications.

Industry Pain Point: Traditional microphones suffer from electromagnetic interference, limited durability, and performance degradation in extreme or hazardous environments.

NJIT Solution: This technology delivers optically transmitted acoustic sensing with MEMS‑level sensitivity, enabling reliable sound detection in settings inaccessible to conventional sensors.

Key Features & Advantages

  • Immune to electromagnetic interference
  • High sensitivity in compact MEMS form factor
  • Operates in high‑temperature and harsh environments
  • Enables long‑distance, remote acoustic sensing

Development Stage: TRL 5–6 – Functional prototypes demonstrated in relevant environments.

Target Markets

  • Aerospace and defense sensing
  • Industrial process monitoring
  • Infrastructure and environmental acoustic monitoring

Market Opportunity

  • Global acoustic sensing & microphones market (2026): ~$3.5B
  • CAGR: ~8–9%
  • Projected market size (2035): ~$7–8B

Patent information

Title App Type Country Serial No. Status Patent NO. File Date
MEMS FIBER OPTIC MICROPHONE NPV - NonProvisional United States 11/750,643 Issued/Granted 7561277 5/18/2007