A literature review on obsolescence management in COTS-centric cyber physical systems

• Commercial off-the-shelf (COTS)-centric cyber physical systems often contain software and hardware elements with life-spans shorter than the systems' intended life-span. Various studies have examined hardware obsolescence, although in most systems, software costs contribute as much, or more, to the total life cycle costs than hardware. The aim of our research effort is to explore, synthesize, and compile past research efforts on obsolescence in the context of COTS-based systems, and propose new ways to overcome related issues. This research effort suggests the need for systematic perspectives to streamline potentially overbearing acquisition processes while focusing on core critical aspects affecting systems sustainment and cost. Significant life cycle costs associated with obsolescence mitigation approaches, therefore, programmatic strategic planning should be adapted to include the context of obsolescence with the objective to improve the efficiency of new COTS-intensive CPS systems with enduring perspectives. The study reveals opportunities and challenges for obsolescence in COTS-based CPSs.

Subject headings

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Elektroteknik och elektronik (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Information Engineering (hsv//eng)

Keyword

commercial off-the-shelf (COTS)

cyber physical system

electronics

hardware

obsolescence

software

system

Computer hardware

Computer software

Costs

Electronic equipment

Embedded systems

Engineering research

Life cycle

Systems engineering

Acquisition process

COTS-based systems

Literature reviews

Obsolescence management

Research efforts

Software and hardwares

Total life cycle costs

Commercial off-the-shelf

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

kon (subject category)