Concept hierarchies for sensor data fusion in the cognitive IoT

Sensor data fusion refers to technological solutions aiming at collecting, classifying and complementing data coming from multiple sensors. It has the potential of enabling context awareness which, on the other hand, represents a huge potential to be exploited in the field of IoT applications. Sensor fusion and IoT have to deal with multi-faced issues like heterogeneity, sensor/actuator management, data accuracy and reliability. This paper proposes a multi-tier approach dealing with sensor fusion and IoT aspects in a modular way. The approach relies on the use of the agent metaphor, statecharts and on the Rainbow multi-agent platform. Agents can be dynamically added and removed from an application thus promoting system openness and scalability. Heterogeneity and distribution issues are transparently managed by Rainbow which hides the physical layer on top of which the applications are built. As a significant case study, the approach was exploited for the implementation of a working prototype devoted to improve security of some artworks (statues) of the MAB museum located in the city of Cosenza, Italy.