# Smart Healthcare: Exploring the Internet of Medical Things with Ambient Intelligence
## 3 Sensors and Actuators in the IoMT
### Impact of Ambient Sensors in the IoMT  
Ambient sensors play a critical role in monitoring the environment, enhancing safety, and automating processes across various industries. These sensors provide real-time data on environmental factors, enabling better decision-making, optimizing resource utilization, and improving the overall quality of life. For example, light sensors [48] can detect and measure the intensity of ambient light, allowing for automatic adjustments to lighting levels in response to changing daylight conditions. This enhances energy efficiency while contributing to the creation of a more comfortable and productive indoor environment. Temperature sensors can maintain optimal thermal comfort by monitoring indoor and outdoor temperatures, and can be utilized in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to regulate temperature levels for maximum comfort and energy efficiency [48]. To control indoor humidity levels, humidity sensors can measure the moisture content in the air. This is particularly important for preventing mold growth, maintaining indoor air quality, and ensuring the longevity of sensitive equipment and materials [48].  
Motion sensors detect movement within a specified area, triggering actions such as turning on lights or activating security alarms [49]. They are commonly used in security systems, occupancy detection systems, and home automation applications to enhance safety and convenience. The presence or absence of nearby objects can be identified through proximity sensors, facilitating touchless control and automation in various devices and systems [49]. They are employed in applications, ranging from automatic door-opening systems to touchscreen devices and industrial machinery. Smoke sensors and gas sensors are critical for detecting potentially harmful substances in the air, including smoke, carbon monoxide, and other toxic gases. They are essential components of fire detection systems, home security systems, and industrial safety equipment, helping to prevent accidents and protect lives.  
Sound sensors monitor ambient noise levels, generating valuable data for noise pollution monitoring, acoustic environment analysis, and sound-based applications such as voice-controlled devices and smart speakers [50]. Air quality sensors, CO\({}_{2}\) sensors, and water quality sensors [48] measure pollutants and contaminants in the atmosphere and water sources, respectively. These sensors are essential for monitoring environmental pollution, assessing indoor air quality, and ensuring the safety of drinking water. Finally, magnetic switches offer detection capabilities for changes in magnetic fields, enabling diverse applications such as security systems, door/window sensors, and industrial automation. They provide reliable detection of opening and closing events, contributing to enhanced security and efficiency in various environments.  
Figure 3 provides brief information on different ambient sensors used to create smart environments. These smart devices include smart infusion pumps and medicine dispensers, which transform patient dosage delivery systems by minimizing errors; additionally, smart thermostats, lights, locks, cameras, doors, home assistants, smoke detectors, beds, plugs, doorbells, and water flow detectors offer automated control, enhancing energy efficiency and ensuring security in homes, businesses, hospitals, and other settings. Detailed descriptions along with benefits, challenges, and integrations are provided in Table 3.