A cyber-physical systems CPS is an advanced scientific term which describes the science of controlling a physical system through the use of information. A cyber-physical device, like a digital computer or a robotic arm for example, is one which operates using stored, programmed information. This information is typically stored on a non-volatile memory such as flash chips, digital optical media, EPROM and other forms of memory. It is then controlled via a direct memory access device (DMA) or by way of a virtual memory access device (VMA). The latter refers to devices which are found inside a digital computer but do not come along with any form of internal memory. The DMA and VMA are used in order to communicate with external memory devices.
A cyber-physical system is one which involves physical laws that are based on classical mechanics. These are then translated into an operating software program by means of an application program interface, or API. As opposed to a classical computers, the systems involved do not have a separate instruction store. Instead, their instructions are implemented directly within a larger, dynamically-interpreterified program language. This means that programs can be written in assembly language or high-level languages such as C++.
These types of systems are also called virtual systems. Virtual systems are also a form of CPS because they implement functions that cannot be found in the physical systems. These include scheduling tasks and events, and they also allow for the operation of multiple applications on a single CPU or group of processors.
Virtual systems make use of software applications in order to provide real-time control over system operations. They have been known to be applied in autonomous vehicles and medical equipment. Such systems have been proven to be highly useful in such areas as vehicle safety, industrial maintenance, and asset tracking. They are also very important in controlling manufacturing plants, financial systems, supply chains, and distribution networks. A wide range of software applications can be used in these systems, including high-level languages and object-oriented programming languages.
Digital information systems, or DIMs, are more compact than physical systems. They do not require chips, microprocessors, or other hardware components. However, they still run on mainframe computers. The advantage of DIMs is that they can be reconfigured very quickly, unlike analog systems that take much longer to reconfigure.
The main disadvantage of DIMs is that they are more difficult to upgrade, making them somewhat more expensive to purchase and update compared to analog systems. Additionally, DIMs are typically located in information centers and information technology departments, making the upgrading process quite complicated. Digital information systems also consume a lot of power, which may hinder the operations of some businesses that need to work with high-energy electric currents.
Control systems are used to allow users to manage physical resources such as capital equipment, plant machinery, and non-software resources. Information systems control processes such as machine shop scheduling, parts ordering, and material inventory. Typically, it is very difficult for non-manufacturing units to access the control systems to perform desired tasks. In addition, because many production processes in the manufacturing industry involve complex communications between various units, controlling system requires specialized training for all employees who use it.
Cyber-Physical systems are rapidly gaining popularity in both the private and public sectors, due to their unique combination of advantages. Cyber-Physical systems must meet stringent safety standards. In addition, the flexibility and modularity of these systems allows for customization to nearly any existing or new physical site. Cyber-Physical systems are cost effective and provide a highly secure, safe environment for both information and physical assets.