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5.3. The Artifact-Based Approach
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How can such a system be realized and what are the processing requirements?
In the remainder of this section an architecture will be presented that takes these
observations into account and provides answers to the questions raised.
A Layered Architecture
We base the artifact-based model on a layered architecture for several reasons. The
analysis of applications showed that structuring the perception process allows sepa-
ration of concerns. The separation introduces the need for communication between
entities and layers; however, as in most cases artifacts and devices are physically
distributed in the real world, this does not introduce additional complexity.
By using layers it becomes possible to exchange components (in hardware or soft-
ware) in one layer without a ecting other components. Especially the independence
of perception tasks among di erent layers allows independent testing and evaluation.
By simulation of layers, incomplete systems and implementations can be tested.
The model identifies three layers (see Figure 5.1):
Artifact layer
In the artifact layer, data collection, perception, and recognition for the par-
ticular artifact, is modeled and implemented.
Setting layer
In the setting layer, all perception and recognition tasks are located that are
concerned with a tightly coupled group of artifacts.
Application layer
In the application layer, application-specific perception and recognition can be
found. In this layer context information that is relevant for the application is
brought together and used.
Application-Layer
Settings 1
Setting 2
Setting n
Artifact 1
Artifact k
Artifact 1
Artifact 1
Artifact m
Artifact l
...
...
...
Figure 5.1: The layered architecture
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