A scalable wireless positioning sensor network for industrial automation

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Automation of modern industrial plants require real-time tracking of object locations and sensing of local parameters of interest for variety of applications such as counting and tracking of objects in assembly line, detection and localization of failures of machines and objects, and invocation of recovery control procedures etc. The existing Real Time Localization System (RTLS) performs identification of objects prior to tracking their locations, but they are not integrated with the sensing and control systems. The localization needs precision of sub-meters to few meters range depending upon the application needs. The distinct Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) is often used to sense and communicate sensing data. The indoor environment of industries pose challenging conditions for radio signal propagation that adversely affect reliability of communication of sensing and location data. In this project, in collaboration with our industrial partner Peytec, we propose to design an integrated solution of Wireless Positioning Sensor Network (WPSN) and develop its key components for accuracy, reliability, scalability and optimal network operation. We approach reliability by incorporating redundancy and making our system reconfigurable through adaptive intelligent learning process. We employ adaptive clustering technique to address the need of scalable deployment for varied industrial scenarios. The WPSN will be applicable in harsh indoor environments, including industrial warehouses, for not only monitoring and control, but also for identification, localization and tracking of assets and inventory. We will leverage our experience of successful tech-transfer to Peytec in every step of the design and development process. A comprehensive intellectual property agreement is in place between Peytec and Ryerson, which will facilitate the commercialization of the intellectual property resulting from this project. It will also ensure that Peytec, as well as Canada, remain leaders in the fast emerging field of industrial IoT solutions. Moreover, the proposed project will also train a number of highly qualified personnel in electrical engineering, telecommunications, and industrial automation related areas that are crucial to Canada and the overall world.