What is a common advantage of using sensor fusion in automation systems?

Using sensor fusion in automation systems primarily leads to improved accuracy and reliability. This concept involves integrating data from multiple sensors to create a more comprehensive and accurate representation of the environment or system being monitored. By combining inputs from different sensors, inconsistencies and errors can be mitigated, enhancing the overall fidelity of the data.

For instance, if one sensor provides a noisy or less reliable reading due to environmental factors, the information from another sensor can help correct or validate that data point. This synergy allows for better decision-making processes in automation systems, where precise information is crucial for performance and safety.

In contrast, dependence on individual sensors can lead to vulnerabilities in the system, as relying on a single source of data may not provide a full picture. Likewise, limiting data sources goes against the principle of sensor fusion, which aims to aggregate information from a range of sensors to optimize performance. While reduced hardware costs could be a potential benefit in some designs, it is not a primary advantage of the sensor fusion technique itself.