Zero Dynamics Attack Detection and Isolation in Cyber-Physical Systems with Event-triggered Communication

Abstract: This paper investigates the problem of Zero Dynamics (ZD) cyber-attack detection and isolation in Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS). By utilizing the notion of auxiliary systems with event-based communications, we will develop a detection mechanism capable of detecting and isolating the ZD cyber-attack even when the attackers have full knowledge of the dynamics of the auxiliary system and can launch False Data Injection (FDI) attacks on all the communication channels. More specifically, we will utilize a self-triggering rule for the communication channels connecting the auxiliary system with the Command & Control (C&C) center, leveraging its properties to detect the ZD cyber-attack. Finally, the effectiveness and capabilities of our approach are verified and demonstrated through simulation case studies.