Cyber-physical systems and context-aware sensing and computing

Cyber-physical systems (CPS) involve the integration of real-world physical systems and processes with the virtual (cyber) world. The interaction between physical processes and the cyber world occurs in a feedback loop, with information flowing back and forth. The embedded devices and networks monitor and control the physical processes and systems, and the physical processes in turn influence the computation. CPS can be applied across many industries such as management and maintenance of critical infrastructure like bridges and roadways; remote patient healthcare systems; intelligent traffic management & automated vehicles in transportation; energy production, distribution & optimization through smart grids and smart buildings; robotic machinery and computer-controlled actuation in manufacturing. CPS applications are expected to deliver various critical services. Being able to sense the physical environment and adapt accordingly will ensure that not just any service is delivered at any time, but the proper services are delivered at the correct time. Through context-aware sensing and computation, the CPS can acquire contextual information and use it intelligently. These systems will thus be able to anticipate needs and situations and react to the environment around them. The purpose of this special issue is to bring together studies proposing novel techniques, algorithms, frameworks, models, and solutions to address challenges such as interoperability, security, and infrastructure associated with CPS and context aware sensing. We accepted seven articles after two review rounds consisting of three reviews from experts in the different areas. The special issue contains seven papers organized in the following categories: (i) Visual Surveillance, (ii) Security in Smart Grid, iii) Energy disaggregation, iv) Context-aware Prediction, v) Clustering in wireless Sensor Networks vi) transportation.