Improving detection capabilities by Noise Modulation

Several studies have demonstrated the suitability of noise added methodology to improve the performances of bistable or quasi-linear devices. As an example, observations of the Stochastic Resonance phenomenon in the Brownian System reveal the possibility to use exogenous noise to improve the behaviour of several sensing devices or to adapt them to perform adequately in the presence of noise. Moreover, in the field of quasi-linear systems the possibility to use dithering to increase the device operating range was addressed. In this paper, an overview of the methodologies aimed to improve the performances of stochastically modulated systems is presented. In particular the possibility to improve the performance of both bistable or quasi-linear measuring systems is shown by using a number of examples that have been developed in a number of years by researchers working at DIEES of the University of Catania (Italy).