Sensor economy principles and selection procedures

Integrating multiple sensors into manufacturing systems enables adaptive and flexible automation and increases process adaptivity and quality control. The design of an optimum configuration must be based on a systematic analysis relative to operational and economic considerations. This design should include an evaluation of sensor performance, a decision on how many sensors, of which type they should be, and where to locate them, modes of sensor interaction, and the influence on overall performance based on a cost/benefit analysis. In most real-world applications it is impossible to develop an accurate model to predict sensor performance and therefore, performance must be derived empirically but in a systematic manner. This paper presents research and development of integrated sensor economy principles and selection procedures in addition to a performance assessment model. A systems engineering approach is applied for empirical investigations for assessment of alternative guidance systems. The outcome of this research is a set of general design guidelines for integrating multiple sensors into robotic manufacturing systems.