Cyber Physical Systems in Manufacturing Engineers Education

Abstract

Implementation of Industry 4.0 concept in manufacturing environment requires the education of a new generation of engineers capable to address all the challenges that this industrial (r)evolution brings about. Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) represent technological basis of Industry 4.0 and the education of engineers in this highly interdisciplinary area is a paramount for successful implementation of Industry 4.0. In this paper we analyze expected levels of CPS implementation in manufacturing environment, opportunities that they offer with respect to manufacturing customization and high product variety, as well as the changes, challenges and threats that these systems introduce. Based on this analysis, the paper presents the most important topics that should be covered in manufacturing engineers’ education to provide them with necessary skills and competences, making them capable to effectively design and implement CPS based solutions and Industry 4.0 concept at factory shop-floor.