What are cyber-physical systems? Cyber-physical systems (CPSs) are the technological basis that makes it possible to seamlessly connect the physical world with the virtual world of information technology.
Brief summary
In the era of digitalization and the fourth industrial revolution, known as Industry 4.0, cyber-physical systems (CPSs) play an absolutely central role. They are the technological basis that makes it possible to seamlessly connect the physical world with the virtual world of information technology. But what exactly is behind this term, and what potentials do these complex systems open up for the future of industry and beyond?
CPS: A definition
Cyber-physical systems, often abbreviated as CPS, are intelligent systems that combine mechanical and electronic components with modern information technology and software. These systems are able to capture data from the physical world, process it digitally, analyze it, and in turn control or influence physical processes on the basis of this information.
These are embedded systems that collect information via sensors and intervene in the physical world via actuators. The ability to self-organize and adapt to changing conditions makes advanced cyber-physical systems a decisive factor in the development of complex applications in various fields.
Connecting the digital and physical worlds
The integration of cyber-physical systems is at the heart of how they work. They overcome the traditional separation between the digital and physical worlds by enabling a continuous flow of information and control. Sensors record physical variables such as temperature, pressure, and position, and convert these into digital data. This data is transmitted to central or decentral computing units via wireless or wired networks.
This is where the information is processed and analyzed, often using artificial intelligence. The knowledge gained is then used to intervene directly in the physical process via actuators (e.g., motors, valves).
CPS vs. IoT: What's the difference?
- Cyber-physical systems (CPSs): CPSs go beyond pure networking and data exchange. They integrate the physical processes deeply into the digital control level. A CPS is not only networked, but also able to react autonomously to the collected data and actively control and optimize physical processes.
- Internet of Things (IoT): In order to collect and exchange data, the IoT focuses primarily on networking everyday objects and devices. The aim is to enable “networked objects” to communicate with each other and provide information. A smart home that controls lighting and heating via an app is a typical example of the IoT.
Fields of application
The fields of application for cyber-physical systems are diverse and range from industrial production to everyday infrastructures.
CPSs in Industry 4.0 (smart factory)
In Industry 4.0, CPSs are the backbone of the smart factory. Here, they enable the complete digitalization and networking of production processes. Machines, products, and logistics systems communicate with each other, exchange status information, and largely control themselves.
- Intelligent production lines: Machines that configure and adapt themselves to manufacture different products.
- Predictive maintenance: Sensors monitor the condition of mechanical components and report impending failures at an early stage.
- Autonomous transport systems: Automated guided vehicle systems that move materials and products within a factory.
Intelligent infrastructures (smart grids, smart homes)
CPSs make a significant contribution to the efficiency and security of critical infrastructures:
- Smart grids (intelligent power grids): CPSs use smart grids to dynamically control and optimize the generation, distribution, and consumption of energy, e.g., by integrating renewable energies.
- Smart homes: Although often categorized as IoT, more complex smart home systems that intelligently and adaptively control heating, ventilation, and security systems, for example, can be considered to be CPSs.
Autonomous systems and mobility
CPSs are indispensable in the field of mobility and robotics:
- Autonomous vehicles: Self-driving cars and trucks that use a variety of sensors to perceive their surroundings and make autonomous decisions to ensure safe navigation.
- Industrial robots: Robots that not only perform programmed tasks, but can also react to changes in their environment and adapt their movements accordingly.
E-health
In the healthcare sector, CPSs enable new forms of patient care and monitoring:
- Intelligent medical devices: Devices that continuously monitor patients’ vital signs and automatically trigger alarms or administer medication in the event of deviations.
- Telemedicine: Systems that enable doctors to monitor and treat patients remotely.
Opportunities and potentials for Industry 4.0
- Efficiency and productivity: Automation and process optimization improve resource utilization and increase production output.
- Flexibility: CPSs enable rapid adaptation to market changes and customer requirements with dynamically reconfigurable systems.
- Business models: Networked products and services create scope for data-based services and new approaches.
- Decisions: Real-time data provides a precise basis for decision-making.
- Less human intervention: Autonomous systems take over dangerous or repetitive tasks.
- Robustness: Self-monitoring, error detection, and troubleshooting increase failsafe performance.
Summary
Cyber-physical systems are the driving force behind the transformation of our industry and society. They enable the seamless connection of physical processes with computer networks, creating a new generation of intelligent, networked, and autonomous systems that have the potential to fundamentally improve our world.
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