Top 7 Difference Between Cyber Physical System and IoT – CPS vs IoT

The Internet is an easy link between two systems as per its simplest definition. But, with time, computers began joining from all over the world. It helped in the creation of a range of services around this global network. As a result, we get many revolutions influencing the direction of technology. Two of them that are changing the destiny of the entire planet are CPS and the Internet of Things. Here, we will discuss the 7 major differences between cyber physical systems vs IoT that you should know.

What is the Internet of Things?

The Internet of Things (IoT) comprises a network of physical objects that can gather and share electronic information. The IoT combines an array of “smart” devices. Thus, the devices transmit data to sensors that track information and act accordingly.”

Main Features of the Internet of Things

• Endpoint management
• Connectivity
• Scaling & Sensing
• Automation
• Connectivity & Analysing etc.

Now have a quick look at CPS and find the comparison of cyber physical systems vs IoT.

What Cyber-physical Systems?

CPS combines physical, networking, and computational processes. A CPS comprises a group of computing devices that interact with one another and the physical world. Therefore, it also includes sensors and actuators in a feedback loop. CPS has many hardware and software components that network together.

Thus, they are technical systems working on computer-based algorithms. Some of their features match with IoT, however, when you look for CPS vs IoT, they differ a lot. Due to their abilities, they come under the category of Next Generation Computing Systems.

Main Features of Cyber-Physical System

• Reactive Computation
• Feedback Control of the Physical World
• Real-Time Analysis
• Concurrency
• Safety-Critical Application

Next, we will dive into the distinctions between IoT vs CPS with an insightful comparison.

Cyber Physical Systems vs Internet of Things

The two of them differ in many ways but the major difference between IoT and CPS are done on the following basis:

1. Mechanism

When we talk about mechanisms, CPS are smart embedded systems. Hence, they have sensor networks with embedded computing that can monitor the physical environment. Moreover, computer-based algorithms track and control their mechanism. These systems can assess their conditions and then allow decision-making with the help of a human. But, IoT is entirely automated, requiring no human involvement.

2. Technology

Since CPS is an intelligent system, it combines physical, networking, and computation functions. However, the IoT has its base on a system that mixes physics and cyber components. Moreover, it can be networked and highly integrated.  Thus, IoT is an expanding number of physical objects linked to the internet and one another. This is one of the major parameters in cyber physical systems vs IoT.

3. Reliability

Because faults or malfunctions can have severe effects, CPS systems must be highly dependable and safe. Whereas there may not be the same safety regulations for IoT devices. However, accuracy and dependability are still crucial for their proper operation.

4. Focus

CPS is an extension of embedded systems in theory. Thus, such systems focus on using the internet to monitor and control physical systems. Additionally, this integration considers the interaction of the cyber and physical components. This is one of the main differences when discussing cyber physical systems vs IoT.

Whereas, IoT depicts a more advanced state where the physical and digital worlds fuse into a single area. It focuses on the practical applications of connecting real-world items to the internet.

5. Scope

In CPS, actuators or sensors combine with networking technology. Thus, sensors and actuators use Human intervention in the feedback loop. So, one can modify their behavior to meet user needs. This is another main point for cyber physical systems vs IoT.

Whereas, IoT focuses on a common connection in physical space at the level of physical things. This technology allows for the connection of various objects and their communication and data exchange. Therefore, you can process and analyze to provide useful information.

6. Applications

CPS is applicable in sectors like manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, and smart cities. It can automate procedures and boost effectiveness. CPS vs IoT key points are practically experienced in several sectors.

Most consumers need to have access to real-time information and control over their surroundings. Here, IoT assists in applications like home automation, wearable technology, and smart agriculture.

7. Data Requirement

Real-time data processing and analysis are necessary for CPS. It also helps to ensure that physical systems are operating correctly and effectively. Since IoT devices provide enormous volumes of data, one may examine them to learn more about user behavior. It helps in tracking product performance, and other aspects.

These were the key parameters for IoT vs cyber physical systems. However, there are many other considerable features that one should take care of.

Important Takeaways

• The IoT is a technology that enables the connecting of all types of devices through the internet to exchange data. It also optimizes actuators and keeps track of devices to produce results.
• A cyber-physical system comprises a network of computer devices that connect and work in conjunction with sensors and actuators. They also interact with the real environment.
• Sensors, actuators, and computer systems all work in collaboration as part of CPS systems to complete a certain task. But IoT devices are stand-alone gadgets with internet connectivity that can talk to other gadgets or systems. Cyber physical systems vs IoT is a hot topic with many such distinctions.
• Self-driving automobiles, industrial automation systems, and medical equipment are a few examples of CPS systems. Whereas Smart thermostats, activity trackers, and home security systems are a few IoT gadget examples.

Conclusion

The difference between CPS and IoT lies in how much they mix computers with real-world actions, how important their tasks are, and the way they talk to each other. The Internet of Things connects and communicates among people, objects, or computing devices. But, they must have the ability to exchange and transfer data via a communication network without human intervention. Whereas CPS combines physical processes, networking, and computation. These intelligent systems use a network of computational components. It includes actuators and sensors, to connect cyberspace with the real world.

The above blog is all about cyber physical systems vs IoT. To learn more, join The IoT Academy and see the magic of connectivity and communication.

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