2.4. Cyber-physical Production Systems
In recent years, the term “cyber-physical system” (CPS)
has often been used as a synonym both in research and in
practice. Already a few years ago, these systems were
described by Lee as follows: “Cyber-physical systems (CPS)
are integrations of computation and physical processes.
Embedded computers and networks monitor and control the
physical processes, usually with feedback loops where
physical processes affect computations and vice versa” [20].
Cyber-physical systems include embedded systems such as
equipment, buildings, transportation means, and medical
devices, but also logistic, coordination and management
processes as well as internet services [21]. With the aid of
sensors cyber-physical systems are able to directly collect,
process and evaluate data, while actuators allow them to react
to changes and digital communication facilities allow them to
interact with other cyber-physical systems [22], [23]. There is
thus a direct connection between the physical and digital
world [23]. Within these systems data is independently and
mutually exchanged in real time, thus allowing a mutual
control system. Cyber-physical systems can be implemented
across an extremely broad spectrum e.g., Smart Mobility,
Smart Health, Smart Grid or Smart Factory [21]. In relation to
smart factories, a cyber-physical production system (CPPS)
can be created when multiple cyber-physical systems are
connected and interact with one another [24], [25].