What does the term 'network' refer to in the context of Cyber Physical Systems?

In the context of Cyber Physical Systems (CPS), the term 'network' specifically refers to the intricate interconnections among sensors, actuators, and controllers. This definition encompasses the entire spectrum of how these components communicate and interact with each other to perform coordinated tasks within a cyber-physical environment.

Cyber Physical Systems rely on this interconnected framework to integrate physical processes with computational elements. Sensors collect data about the physical environment, actuators facilitate actions based on that data, and controllers manage the decision-making processes that determine the system's responses. This synergy is crucial for the functionality of CPS, as it directly influences their efficiency, responsiveness, and adaptability.

While other options mention aspects that play a role in the broader context of CPS, they do not encapsulate the full meaning of 'network' in this specific scenario. Cyber-physical systems necessitate a deep integration of various components working in tandem, and it's this network of sensors, actuators, and controllers that creates the operational backbone of the system.