ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on the evolution of embedded processors, not as much from a historical perspective as from a perspective of enabling technologies and tools. It discusses the benefits of having Cyber-physical systems (CPSs) and Systems-of-Systems with the capability of adapting and, even more, self-adapting themselves. The book discusses the fact that we live in an era where almost everything is connected, and everyone has several “things” that are considered as edge devices. It introduces an interesting perspective stating that the growth of the CPS should be based on more actively incorporating humans within the design loop. The book presents some challenges for the design of integrated circuits for the “smart society”, where an increasing number of applications provide intelligent services with unprecedented functionality that will make our daily lives more comfortable.
