Sensor requirements for control systems with an example of longitudinal headway control of vehicles in automated highway systems

There is a need for developing a methodology for obtaining sensor requirements for control systems. This study is an attempt at developing a methodology for specifying sensor needs as part of the design process of dynamic control systems in general, and Automated Highway System (AHS) in particular. Such approaches have not been advanced to-date. The current practice is to assume sensor parameters from available sensors and devise control strategies. That does not in general produce optimal designs. This paper provides a discussion on the sensor requirements needed for longitudinal headway control of vehicles in an AHS.