Cyber-Physical Systems Terms Glossary: Cyber-Physical Systems Terms in 2024

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

A

Actuator

An actuator is a device that converts control signals into physical motion or other physical processes.

Actuators

Actuators are devices that convert control signals into physical action or movement, often used to manipulate the physical environment.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines.

Augmented Reality

Augmented Reality (AR) is an interactive experience that combines real-world environment with computer-generated perceptual information.

Automated Vehicles

Automated Vehicles, also known as self-driving cars or autonomous vehicles, can operate without direct human input or control.

Autonomous System

An autonomous system is a system that can operate and make decisions without human intervention.

Autonomous Vehicles

Autonomous vehicles, also known as self-driving cars, are vehicles capable of navigating and operating without human intervention, using sensors, machine learning, and connectivity.

B

Big Data

Big data refers to extremely large and complex data sets that cannot be easily processed or analyzed using traditional data-processing techniques.

Biometric Systems

Biometric systems identify and authenticate individuals using their unique physiological or behavioral characteristics, such as fingerprints, facial features, or voice patterns.

Blockchain

Blockchain is a decentralized and distributed digital ledger technology that records transactions across multiple computers, providing transparency, security, and immutability.

C

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is the delivery of on-demand computing services, including servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence, over the internet.

Cloud Robotics

Cloud Robotics is a robotics field that incorporates cloud computing resources and capabilities to enhance robot performance, collaboration, and learning.

Constraint Handling

Constraint handling refers to methods and techniques for dealing with constraints or limitations in system design, operation, or optimization.

Control System

A control system is a system that manages, commands, directs, or regulates the behavior of other devices or systems.

Control Systems

Control systems are systems designed to manage, command, direct, or regulate the behavior of other devices or systems.

Control Theory

Control theory is a branch of mathematics and engineering that deals with the behavior of dynamical systems and the design of controllers.

Cyber-Physical Energy Systems

Cyber-Physical Energy Systems integrate energy generation, distribution, and consumption with advanced monitoring and control technologies.

Cyber-Physical Manufacturing Systems

Cyber-Physical Manufacturing Systems (CPMS) use advanced technologies to improve the efficiency and flexibility of manufacturing processes.

Cyber-Physical Production Systems

Cyber-Physical Production Systems (CPPS) combine physical production processes with cyber capabilities for improved efficiency and flexibility.

Cyber-Physical Security

Cyber-Physical Security focuses on protecting the security and integrity of cyber-physical systems from cyber threats.

Cyber-Physical System Of Systems

A Cyber-Physical System of Systems (CPSoS) is a complex system that consists of multiple interconnected cyber-physical systems.

Cyber-Physical Systems

Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) are engineered systems that integrate physical processes with networked computing and communication.

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, theft, damage, or disruption.

D

Data Analytics

Data analytics is the process of examining large and varied data sets to uncover patterns, correlations, insights, and other meaningful information.

Data Fusion

Data fusion is the process of integrating multiple sources of data to derive higher-level knowledge or make more accurate inferences.

Data Mining

Data mining is the process of discovering patterns, relationships, or other useful information from large data sets using various analytical techniques.

Data Privacy

Data privacy concerns the protection of personal data or information, ensuring that individuals have control over how their data is collected, used, and shared.

Data Security

Data security refers to the protection of data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, destruction, or disruption.

Deep Learning

Deep Learning is a subset of machine learning that involves training and deploying artificial neural networks with multiple hidden layers to learn and understand complex patterns in data.

Digital Control

Digital control refers to control systems that use digital computers or processors to execute control algorithms and adjust system behavior based on sensor feedback.

Digital Health Monitoring

Digital Health Monitoring involves using wearable sensors and devices to collect and analyze health-related data for monitoring and diagnosis.

Digital Manufacturing

Digital manufacturing, also known as smart manufacturing or Industry 4.0, involves the use of digital technologies, IoT, and data analytics to optimize and automate manufacturing processes.

Digital Security

Digital security encompasses measures and technologies to protect digital assets, information, and systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, or destruction.

Digital Thread

The Digital Thread is a communication framework that connects and integrates data throughout the product lifecycle, from design to maintenance.

Digital Transformation

Digital transformation is the integration of digital technology into all aspects of an organization, fundamentally changing how it operates and delivers value.

Digital Twin

A digital twin is a virtual replica of a physical object, system, or process, used to simulate, predict, and optimize performance in the physical world.

Distributed Systems

Distributed systems are systems consisting of multiple autonomous computers that communicate and coordinate their actions through a network.

Drone Systems

Drone Systems are unmanned aerial vehicles that can be remotely controlled or fly autonomously for various applications.

E

Edge Computing

Edge computing is a distributed computing paradigm that brings computation and data storage closer to the location where it is needed.

Edge Intelligence

Edge intelligence refers to the ability of edge devices, such as sensors or robots, to perform data processing, analytics, and decision-making locally, without relying solely on centralized cloud resources.

Embedded Security

Embedded security refers to the measures and techniques used to protect the security and integrity of embedded systems and devices.

Embedded System

An embedded system is a combination of computer hardware and software designed for a specific function within a larger system or device.

Embedded Systems

Embedded systems are computer systems designed to perform specific tasks within larger systems, often with dedicated functions and limited resources.

Energy Harvesting

Energy harvesting is the process of capturing and storing energy from ambient sources, such as solar, mechanical, thermal, or electromagnetic energy, and converting it for powering electronic devices.

F

Fault Diagnosis

Fault diagnosis is the process of identifying, isolating, and rectifying faults or failures in a system or device.

Fault Tolerance

Fault tolerance is the property that enables a system or component to continue operating properly in the event of the failure of some of its components.

Firmware

Firmware is a type of software that is permanently stored in a hardware device and provides low-level control over the device's specific functions.

Fog Computing

Fog computing is a decentralized computing infrastructure that extends the cloud's capabilities to the edge of the network, closer to the source of data.

G

Gis

GIS (Geographic Information System) is a system designed to capture, store, analyze, manage, and present spatial or geographic data.

H

Haptic Technology

Haptic technology provides tactile feedback and sensations through touch-based interactions, allowing users to perceive and manipulate virtual or remote objects.

Hmi

HMI (Human-Machine Interface) is the interface or control panel that connects humans to a machine, system, or device.

Human-Computer Interaction

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is the study, design, and interaction between humans and computers, focusing on creating effective and user-friendly computer interfaces.

Human-Machine Interaction

Human-Machine Interaction (HMI) focuses on the design and interaction between humans and machines.

I

Industrial Automation

Industrial automation involves the use of control systems, such as robots or computers, to handle and control different processes in industrial settings, increasing productivity and reducing human intervention.

Industrial Control Systems

Industrial Control Systems (ICS) manage and automate industrial processes using control technologies.

Industrial Internet Of Things

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) refers to the extension of IoT technology to industrial and manufacturing environments, connecting machines, devices, and sensors to gather and analyze data for improving operations.

Industrial Iot

Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) focuses on the application of IoT technologies in industrial settings, connecting machines, devices, and systems to enable data collection, analysis, and optimization.

Industrial Robotics

Industrial robotics involves the use of robots in industrial manufacturing processes to automate tasks, increase efficiency, and improve safety.

Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0 is a term that describes the fourth industrial revolution, characterized by the integration of digital technologies and manufacturing.

Intelligent Transportation Systems

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) are advanced applications that aim to provide innovative services relating to different modes of transportation and traffic management.

Internet Of Things

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the network of physical devices, vehicles, appliances, and other objects embedded with sensors, software, and connectivity to enable the exchange of data.

Internet Protocol Suite

The Internet Protocol Suite (TCP/IP) is the set of protocols enabling communication and data exchange on the internet.

Interoperability

Interoperability is the ability of different systems or components to exchange and use information in a mutually beneficial and seamless manner.

M

Machine Learning

Machine Learning is a field of AI that enables machines to learn and make predictions from data without being explicitly programmed.

Machine Vision

Machine vision involves the use of cameras, sensors, and image processing techniques to enable computers or robots to interpret visual information and perceive the environment.

Machine-To-Machine Communication

Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication refers to the direct communication and interaction between devices or machines without human intervention.

Middleware

Middleware is software that sits between the operating system and applications, providing services and enabling communication between different software components.

Mixed Reality

Mixed Reality (MR) is the merging of real and virtual worlds to produce new environments and visualizations, where physical and digital objects coexist and interact in real-time.

Model Checking

Model checking is an automated technique for verifying the correctness of a system model or design by exhaustively exploring all possible states.

Model Predictive Control

Model Predictive Control (MPC) is a control strategy that uses an explicitly defined model of the system to predict and optimize future behavior, considering constraints and objectives.

Model-Based Design

Model-Based Design is an approach to system development that uses models to describe system behavior and automatically generates software and hardware implementations.

Model-Driven Engineering

Model-Driven Engineering (MDE) is an approach to software and systems development that focuses on creating and manipulating models as the primary artifacts of development.

Modeling And Simulation

Modeling and Simulation involves creating abstract representations of real-world systems to analyze and predict their behavior.

N

Network Protocol

A network protocol is a set of rules and standards that determine how data is transmitted and received over a network.

Networked Control Systems

Networked Control Systems are control systems where the components are connected via a network for communication and coordination.

P

Parallel Computing

Parallel computing is a type of computation in which many calculations or processes are carried out simultaneously.

Power System Automation

Power System Automation involves automating the monitoring, control, and optimization of electric power systems.

Power Systems

Power systems refer to the infrastructure, devices, and techniques used for generation, transmission, distribution, and control of electricity.

Predictive Analytics

Predictive analytics uses historical data, statistical algorithms, and machine learning techniques to predict future outcomes or behavior, enabling proactive decision-making and optimization.

Predictive Maintenance

Predictive maintenance is the use of data analytics and machine learning techniques to determine the condition of equipment or systems and predict when maintenance is needed.

Privacy

Privacy is the right of individuals to control or limit the collection, use, and disclosure of their personal information and data.

Privacy-Preserving Data Mining

Privacy-preserving data mining addresses the challenge of extracting valuable insights and patterns from data while protecting individual privacy by applying anonymization or encryption techniques.

Privacy-Preserving Techniques

Privacy-preserving techniques are methods or mechanisms designed to protect the confidentiality and privacy of data during processing or transmission.

Q

Quality Of Service

Quality of Service (QoS) refers to the performance characteristics of a network or service, such as bandwidth, latency, and reliability.

R

Real-Time Optimization

Real-time optimization refers to optimization algorithms and techniques designed to make decisions and adapt to changing conditions in real-time, considering system dynamics and constraints.

Real-Time Systems

Real-Time Systems are computer systems that must respond to external events within strict time constraints.

Reliability

Reliability is the ability of a system or component to perform its required functions under stated conditions for a specified period of time.

Resilience

Resilience is the ability of a system to withstand and recover from failures, disruptions, or disturbances, and continue to operate effectively.

Robotics

Robotics is the interdisciplinary field that combines mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science to design, build, and operate robots.

Robustness

Robustness refers to the ability of a system or process to function properly under various conditions, including uncertainties and disturbances.

S

Safety Engineering

Safety engineering is the application of engineering techniques and principles to ensure the safety and reliability of systems, products, or processes.

Safety-Critical Systems

Safety-critical systems are systems in which the consequences of failure can result in harm, injury, or loss of life.

Scheduling

Scheduling is the process of allocating resources, determining the order and timing of tasks, or planning and coordinating activities to achieve specific goals.

Security

Security refers to measures taken to protect computer systems and data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction.

Self-Healing Systems

Self-healing systems are systems capable of detecting, diagnosing, and autonomously recovering from failures or faults, ensuring continuous operation and reducing maintenance efforts.

Sensor

A sensor is a device that detects or measures physical properties and converts them into signals that can be processed or transmitted.

Sensor Networks

Sensor Networks consist of spatially distributed sensors that monitor and collect data from the environment.

Sensors

Sensors are devices that detect and respond to physical input from the environment by converting them into electrical signals.

Simulation

Simulation is the process of creating a computer model or representation of a real-world system or process to analyze, predict, or understand its behavior.

Simulation Tools

Simulation Tools are software programs used to model and analyze the behavior of complex systems.

Simulation-Based Optimization

Simulation-based optimization uses simulations and mathematical algorithms to find the best or optimal solution for complex problems, taking into account multiple variables and constraints.

Smart Agriculture

Smart Agriculture utilizes IoT, sensors, and data analytics to optimize and automate farming operations for increased productivity.

Smart Buildings

Smart Buildings use automation and connectivity to optimize energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and overall building performance.

Smart Cities

Smart Cities leverage IoT, AI, and other technologies to improve the quality of life for citizens, enhance sustainability, and optimize the use of resources and infrastructure.

Smart Grid

A smart grid is an electrical grid that uses digital communication and control technologies to gather and act on real-time data for efficient and sustainable energy distribution.

Smart Healthcare Systems

Smart Healthcare Systems leverage digital technologies and data analytics to improve the delivery of healthcare services.

Smart Homes

Smart homes are residences equipped with IoT devices and systems that automate and control various household functions for increased comfort, convenience, and efficiency.

Software Engineering

Software engineering is the application of engineering principles and practices to the development, maintenance, and operation of software systems.

Software Verification

Software verification is the process of evaluating a system or component to determine whether it satisfies the specified requirements or conditions.

Software-Defined Networking

Software-Defined Networking (SDN) is an approach to networking that separates the control plane from the data plane, allowing for centralized network control and programmability.

Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition

Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems monitor and control industrial processes through centralized software.

System Integration

System Integration involves combining different sub-systems into one unified system to achieve specific functionalities.

System-On-Chip

System-on-Chip (SoC) is an integrated circuit that combines all the necessary components of a computer system onto a single chip.

T

Time Synchronization

Time synchronization is the process of coordinating the clocks of multiple devices or systems to ensure they have the same time reference.

Time-Critical Systems

Time-critical systems are systems in which timeliness and predictability of operation are essential.

U

Ubiquitous Computing

Ubiquitous computing, also known as pervasive computing, is a concept in which computing technology becomes seamlessly integrated into the environment and everyday objects.

V

Virtual Reality

Virtual Reality (VR) is a simulated experience that can be similar to or completely different from the real world.

Virtualization

Virtualization is the process of creating a virtual version of a device, operating system, storage, or network resource.

W

Wearable Technology

Wearable technology refers to devices and accessories that can be worn on the body, incorporating sensors, connectivity, and computing power to enhance user experiences and provide personalized information.

Wireless Communication

Wireless communication is the transfer of information or data between two or more points without using any physical connection or wires.

Wireless Power Transfer

Wireless power transfer technology enables the transfer of electrical power without the need for physical connections or wires, using electromagnetic fields or resonant inductive coupling.

Wireless Sensor Actuator Networks

Wireless Sensor-Actuator Networks (WSANs) are networks composed of sensor and actuator nodes that communicate wirelessly, collecting and analyzing data to interact with the physical environment.

Wireless Sensor Network

A wireless sensor network is a network of spatially distributed autonomous sensors that communicate wirelessly and monitor physical or environmental conditions.

Wireless Sensor Networks

Wireless sensor networks are networks of spatially distributed autonomous sensors that communicate wirelessly and collect data from the environment.