Cyber-Physical Systems

The general purpose programmable computer is arguably the most transformative technology of the late twentieth century. With everything from agriculture to zoology relying on computers to reduce costs, improve safety, and improve functionality computing has had a huge impact. There are many reasons for this success, but one of the most important is the computers flexibility: it can easily be programmed (and reprogrammed) to change its functionality. Over time, computers have progressed from being a tool used in a protected environment by scientists to being integrated directly into products out in the world. Embedded computers provide product designers with the ability to provide complex functionality that can adapt to changing needs and requirement. Embedded computers replace dedicated hardware with a general purpose platform which can be programmed to process information (sensed data) and potentially actuate mechanisms in response.