Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) fundamentally integrate computing, networking, and physical processes within the industrial environment.
In manufacturing, CPS represents the core technological foundation of Industry 4.0. These systems employ tight feedback loops in which real-time data from physical assets (sensors, machines) is analyzed in the digital domain to immediately optimize and control the physical production floor.
The key value of CPS lies in enabling decentralized decision-making, predictive maintenance, and highly flexible, customized production. The complexity stems from ensuring real-time communication reliability, data security, and seamless integration across operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) networks. Mastering CPS is essential for achieving the next level of operational efficiency and manufacturing agility.