Data Evaluation in Smart Sensor Networks Using Inverse Methods and Artificial Intelligence (AI): Towards Real-Time Capability and Enhanced Flexibility
Stefan Bosse, Armin Lechleiter, Dirk Lehmhus · Advances in science and technology · 2016
Data evaluation is crucial for gaining information from sensor networks. Main challenges include processing speed and adaptivity to system change, both prerequisites for SHM-based weight reduction via relaxed safety factors. Our study looks at soft real time solutions providing feedback within defined but flexible, application-controlled intervals. These can rely on minimizing computation/communication latencies e.g. by parallel computation. Strategies towards this aim can be model-based, including inverse FEM, or model-free, including machine learning, which in practice bases training on a defined system state, too, hence also facing challenges at state changes. We thus introduce hybrid data evaluation combining multi-agent based systems (MAS) with inverse FEM, mainly relying on matrix operations that can be partially distributed: The MAS perform sensor data acquisition, aggregation, pre-computation, and finally application (the LM/SHM itself and higher information processing and visualization layers, i.e., WEB interfaces). System capabilities are evaluated against a virtual test case, demonstrating enhanced stability and reliability. Besides, we analyze system performance under conditions of in-service change and discuss system layouts suited to improve coverage of this issue.