Improving cyber–physical systems
CPSs are networks of computational elements that function as one to control a physical process. Examples include wireless sensor networks, autonomous automotive systems and traffic management applications. CPSs are generally designed as networks having physical input and output rather than as stand-alone devices. Thus, the proper design of such systems requires consideration of all computational and physical factors. The EU-funded 'Virtual cyber-physical systems' (VICYPHYSYS) project aimed to develop a guiding theory and methodology for design of CPSs. The single-member project ran for two years, beginning in March 2012. Research focused on holistic design of CPSs. Topics covered included control systems, cloud computing and adaptive resource management. The project yielded four journal papers and seven conference presentations. A further three journal papers have been submitted and are awaiting a response. Furthermore, the project undertook a training programme. This involved participation in courses at Lund University (Sweden), co-leading a multidisciplinary conference and preparing a course for PhD students. VICYPHYSYS extended the field of CPSs, including both guiding theory and applications to design.
