Implementing cyber-physical systems in manufacturing

Abstract

Cyber-physical systems (CPS) are a new generation of systems that integrate computation and physical processes interacting with humans in different ways. Integrated networks of computers, sensors and similar technologies monitor and control the physical processes, reporting relevant data to planners and decision-makers, and vice versa. By means of case research, this paper analyzes the implementation of cyber-physical systems aiming at lead-time reduction in two manufacturing contexts, namely footwear and natural cork stoppers. The results of this research contribute to literature and practice with a conceptual framework for the implementation of cyber-physical systems and the discussion of the challenges of implementing this technology.