We live in a world with self-driving automobiles, and reusable self-landing rockets. Such complex systems of multiple sensors, computers, and actuators form a Cyber-Physical System (CPS). Some CPSs will operate at scales that will challenge comprehension. From autonomous platooning vehicle convoys communicating with each other and highway infrastructure, to Smart Cities coordinating resources (avoiding traffic congestion, coordinating parking, reducing emissions and power consumption), to Smart national power grids and beyond.
To enable such automation, precisely timed system control must...