A new intelligent environmental sensor combines real-time monitoring of multiple air quality parameters with CAN bus connectivity, enabling smarter HVAC control, predictive maintenance and regulatory compliance across mobility and industrial applications.
Air quality monitoring in connected vehicles and industrial environments has taken a step forward with the introduction of the Metis Engineering Air Wise air quality sensor. Designed as a CAN-based multi-parameter environmental monitoring solution, Air Wise enables continuous measurement of critical air quality indicators while supporting intelligent HVAC control and system automation across transport and industrial platforms.
The sensor provides real-time monitoring of multiple environmental parameters, including carbon dioxide (CO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), air temperature, relative humidity, absolute pressure, dew point temperature and impact shock. Data is transmitted over a configurable CAN bus, allowing seamless integration into existing vehicle electronics and industrial control systems.
The key features are:
- Automotive-grade 5-pin Molex Nano-Fit power connector
- Optional triple-axis accelerometer with ±24g measurement range
- Compatible with the Metis Nano Development Kit for evaluation
- Supplied with CAN DBC file for simplified system integration
- Tested to ISO 7637-2:2011 and ISO 16750-2/-4 automotive standards
Developed for demanding operating environments, the sensor targets applications ranging from passenger and commercial vehicles to off-highway equipment, autonomous transport pods, compressed air installations and industrial HVAC systems. As industries face increasingly stringent air quality regulations, the sensor helps engineers and operators monitor environmental conditions, optimise ventilation and improve occupant safety while supporting predictive maintenance strategies.
One of the key capabilities is its intelligent monitoring mode. Instead of continuously transmitting data, the sensor monitors environmental conditions in the background and only becomes fully active when predefined thresholds are exceeded. Once triggered, it automatically switches to active CAN communication and can activate a 500mA low-side drive output to initiate corrective actions such as increasing ventilation or activating other control systems. This event-driven operation reduces unnecessary CAN traffic while enabling rapid response to deteriorating air quality.
The sensor has been engineered to meet automotive reliability requirements, making it suitable for integration into both mobility and industrial platforms where dependable environmental monitoring is essential. Its CAN-based architecture also simplifies deployment across compatible systems, allowing manufacturers and system integrators to incorporate comprehensive air quality intelligence without extensive hardware modifications. By combining multi-parameter sensing, intelligent event-based operation and automotive-grade design, the sensor offers a versatile solution for improving air quality management, system efficiency and environmental compliance across a broad range of connected applications.
