Cyber physical systems in the context of Industry 4.0

Abstract

We are currently experiencing the fourth Industrial Revolution in terms of cyber physical systems. These systems are industrial automation systems that enable many innovative functionalities through their networking and their access to the cyber world, thus changing our everyday lives significantly. In this context, new business models, work processes and development methods that are currently unimaginable will arise. These changes will also strongly influence the society and people. Family life, globalization, markets, etc. will have to be redefined. However, the Industry 4.0 simultaneously shows characteristics that represent the challenges regarding the development of cyber-physical systems, reliability, security and data protection. Following a brief introduction to Industry 4.0, this paper presents a prototypical application that demonstrates the essential aspects.