Flexibility is crucial to modern production philosophy. What was hitherto chiefly accomplished by man, using his own complex sensor system, is now, with flexible automation, to be achieved by technical devices. Only in this way can the growing demands of the market be met successfully. Given this objective, it is clear that all levels of production must undergo increased computerisation - beginning on the shop floor. Process control, handling, assembly, material flow, measuring, quality control, etc. require technical devices to provide sensory control and support. The fast growing power of microcomputers combined with smaller volume allows the use of intelligent systems on the spot. Real-time and parallel data processing were points for discussion at the conference, as were the ever more important systems based on artificial intelligence (Al and expert systems). This proceedings volume aims to present the current international position as well as the way ahead in research, development and application of advanced sensor technology.
W. Guttropf