We have investigated existing transducer system designs and developed a taxonomy for system classification, as well as a model of architecture evolution to help identify key areas for further research. Our efforts are presently directed towards developing a prototype SoftSensor. Analysis of Present Transducer Systems Figure 1 shows a taxonomy we have developed for transducer systems. We divide the systems according to whether they exhibit a centralized or decentralized mode of operation. Centralized systems are typified by a central controller that collects all data and makes all the decisions in a system.
Decentralized systems distribute the decision-making throughout the distributed transducer nodes.
A taxonomy of transducer systems. Furthermore, decentralized systems may be further subdivided into unitasking and multitasking systems. A unitasking system works to accomplish a single goal- for example, a factory automation system. Multitasking systems, on the other hand, may serve to complete many different tasks simultaneously. An example of this would be a network of cameras that sends pictures to any interested parties.