A systems engineering survey of artificial intelligence and smart sensor networks in a network-centric environment

Abstract

The implementation of network-centric warfare (NCW) and network-centric operations (NCO) is of paramount importance to the DoD. Fundamentally, the key to implementing NCW/NCO is the accurate obtainment and analysis of critical information to the warfighter. Additionally, the proliferation of sensors, in both types and numbers, is making it apparent that there will simply not be enough military personnel to monitor, analyze and synthesize all pertinent data. It is apparent that a "smart sensor network," or a network of sensors with data analyzed by artificial intelligence (AI), is needed to better facilitate the attainment of the full realization of network-centric operations. This thesis presents a survey of the information required for individuals who will be involved in the design and acquisition of smart sensor networks, with a focus on systems engineering. The foundations of smart sensor networks are in AI, Distributed AI, multiagent systems, sensor basics, and data fusion. In addition to an examination of the previous topics, this thesis examines what must be done to further the preparedness of systems engineers for better understanding and designing of smart sensor networks.