OMG ratifies simple electronic notation for sensor reporting spec

The international technology standards organization, Object Management Group (OMG), announced that the Simple Electronic Notation for Sensor Reporting (SENSR) specification is now an OMG standard.

SENSR specifies a metamodel for the syntax of streamed data and a mechanism for manufacturers to author guidelines for interpreting the data. SENSR enables manufacturers to specify an Electronic Data Sheet (EDS) that provides a precise model of the data their equipment produces, ensuring unique identifiers for each organization.

"Currently, manufacturers of hardware sensors rely on arcane data sheets to describe the format of data supplied by their sensors, with each manufacturer having their own data sheet format," said Dr. Jason MCc. Smith, OMG VP and Technical Director. "Errors and ambiguities can, and are likely to occur in these situations. With the SENSR specification, manufacturers can provide a precise description of the output of their hardware so devices consuming the data stream can properly interpret it."

SENSR allows devices to report their own capabilities, which enables other devices in their environment to self-configure to take advantage of these capabilities. SENSR also enables smart devices to react to the available sensors in an environment more quickly and intelligently.

The Industrial Internet Consortium (IIC) Track & Trace Testbed generated the requirements that helped define the new IIoT standard that can used for many applications such as in manufacturing and logistics.

"With SENSR in play, a smart factory can recognize every tool, device or safety sensor, interpret the data and know what to do with it," said Kai Hackbarth, Business Owner Industrial, Bosch.IO and co-chair IIC Over-the-Air Special-Interest-Group. "That can filter down to the home and personal level. For example, smart devices, such as phones, can create ad hoc mesh networks, enabling a car to access weather data from sensors or help find a parking spot."

The SENSR specification can be found on the OMG website. It is free of charge and available now.