4.7 The Omnibus Model

The reference [ ^[3]] surveyed the fusion models described above as well as some others and identified that each has limitations. In an effort to design a model which incorporated all the desirable features of the standard fusion models and would overcome all their limitations, the authors drew up the following wish list. The ideal fusion model:

• defines the order of processing;

• makes the cyclic nature of the system explicit;

• admits representation from multiple viewpoints;

• identifies the advantages and limitations of various fusion approaches;

• facilitates the clarification of task-level measures of performance and system-level measures of effectiveness;

• uses a general terminology which is widely accessible;

• does not assume that applications are defence oriented.

The solution proposed in [ ^[3]] is the Omnibus model. The model uses the fine levels of definition of the Waterfall model inside a cyclic structure reminiscent of the OODA loop. The structure is shown diagrammatically in Fig. 4.9.

Figure 4.9: The Omnibus model.

The fact that this provides a unification of the previously discussed models is manifestly clear from the diagram. Because the Omnibus model is freed from the defence orientation of previous models and does not use a terminology specific to military applications; because it incorporates the best features of the influential JDL, OODA and Waterfall models, it is suggested that it is the most appropriate (currently available) framework for discussing applications to smart structures. Because of the explicit inclusion of the control level, the model actually...