EC3V36 Smart System Automation Unit I Introduction
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Data Processing, Knowledge Storage and Artificial Intelligence:
The reason why we talk about “smart” systems today is because of the way they handle the
information they acquire. This is because the information processing processes are increasingly similar to
those in the human brain. Through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms,
smart systems have the potential to recognize complex facts even faster and better than humans themselves.
To achieve this, the processing of measurement data is a crucial prerequisite. In this context, data
processing encompasses the various processes of data analysis – from data preprocessing, data transmission
and calculation of variables to comparison with threshold and limit values.
In this process, known correlations, algorithms, rules and data for decision-making are used, which
are stored in a knowledge store or database. This database also collects sensor data, historical data, or user
information that can also be accessed in the decision-making process.
Depending on the application, data analysis is increasingly possible using artificial intelligence
methods. AI helps the system to learn, to recognize complex relationships, to make predictions and to
continuously improve its decisions and actions.
Only smart systems are thus able to describe, diagnose and qualify their environment in a given
complex situation, make predictions or decisions and take appropriate actions.
In order for them to be able to do this, other components are essential for the functionality of the
smart system in addition to data acquisition, analysis and decision-making.
Components:
In a smart system there are basic modules without which the system cannot function. These can be
compared to the human body, which simply cannot exist without nourishment (energy = power supply) and
which possesses or produces nerve pathways, receptors, messenger substances, etc. that act as data interfaces
between the eye, brain and hand (data transfer). All of these elements must exist within a body in order to
function together (integration).
Translated into smart systems, this means the following:
Communication: enables the exchange of data and information between different components of the system.
It typically involves multiple layers of technologies and protocols to ensure that data can be exchanged
effectively and securely. At the innermost level, this often happens by wire. In the communication from system
to system or to the environment, various wireless network technologies such as WLAN, Bluetooth or ZigBee
are often used.
There is also a wide variety of protocols in the transmission of data from sensors and actuators. For example,
protocols such as MQTT or CoAP are used for the transmission of data between system components.
The power supply (energy supply): is a critical component of a smart system, since the system cannot
function without energy. Since smart systems are often operated for long periods of time, they must be able
to use energy efficiently to keep operating costs low. An efficient power supply can thus also help reduce the
carbon footprint of the system itself. In addition to a stationary power supply, rechargeable batteries and
energy harvesters are other interesting options.
Integration: describes both the so-called packaging of the various components and modules in a system and
the interaction within the smart system that ultimately makes it effective and efficient. Integration is possible
at the hardware, software and data levels.
Hardware integration: Packaging is an integration on hardware level and addresses topics such as 3D
integration, integration on chip and wafer level, integration of components made of different materials or
integration of optical components. In addition to classical packaging processes, innovative processes are
developed and transferred into use. These include processes for joining wafers near room temperature.
Software integration: This takes place on the one hand in the smart system, but also in the integration of
different smart systems into a system of systems. An example is the cooperation between a smart home and a
security system.
