HUMAN-CENTRED INTELLIGENT CYBER-PHYSICAL SYSTEM FOR INDUSTRY 4.0

Abstract

Cyber-physical system (CPS) is a key enabling technology for Smart Factory, and positions humans differently from the previous industrial revolutions. This thesis proposed an Intelligent CPS (iCPS) by integrating system intelligence in performing analysis, decision making, and planning is essential to accommodate the complexity of human interactions. This thesis regards humans as the core of an iCPS workcell and focuses on investigating the following technologies: (1) CPS Builder for CPS development, (2) Cognitive Engine Process Controller, (3) Gate-based Assistive Technology for Human Error, and (4) Blockchain Quality Controller. These technologies aim to provide high-quality production. The results of this thesis demonstrate the potential of a human-centred iCPS workcell in supporting mass production of high-value personalized products, for example, medical implants. Nevertheless, further experiments on manufacturing production scenarios of a larger scale are necessary to evaluate the scalability and reliability of the frameworks which are essential for deployment in real-world applications.