Sensor fusion and the application of artificial intelligence to identify tool wear in turning operations

This paper aims to develop an effective sensor fusion model for turning processes for the detection of tool wear. Fusion of sensors’ data combined with novelty detection algorithm and learning vector quantisation (LVQ) neural networks is used to detect tool wear and present diagnostic and prognostic information. To reduce the number of sensors required in the monitoring system and support sensor fusion, the ASPS approach (Automated Sensor and Signal Processing Selection System) is used to select the most appropriate sensors and signal processing methods for the design of the condition monitoring system. The experimental results show that the proposed approach has demonstrated its efficacy in the implementation of an effective solution for the monitoring tool wear in turning. The results prove that the fusion of sensitive sensory characteristic features and the use of AI methods have been successful for the detection and prediction of the tool wear in turning processes and show the capability of the proposed approach to reduce the complexity of the design of condition monitoring systems and the development of a sensor fusion system using a self-learning method.