IoT

IoT stands for “Internet of Things”. It refers to the collective network of connected devices and the technology that facilitates communication between devices and the cloud, as well as between the devices themselves. IoT devices range from ordinary household objects to sophisticated industrial tools.

Devices and objects with built-in sensors are connected to an Internet of Things platform, which integrates data from the different devices and applies analytics to share the most valuable information with applications built to address specific needs. These powerful IoT platforms can pinpoint exactly what information is useful and what can be ignored. This information can be used to detect patterns, make recommendations, and detect possible problems before they occur.

A typical IoT system works through the real-time collection and exchange of data. An IoT system has three components:

This is a device, like a television, security camera, or exercise equipment that has been given computing capabilities. It collects data from its environment, user inputs, or usage patterns and communicates data over the internet to and from its IoT application.

An IoT application is a collection of services and software that integrates data received from various IoT devices. It uses machine learning or artificial intelligence (AI) technology to analyze this data and make informed decisions. These decisions are communicated back to the IoT device and the IoT device then responds intelligently to inputs.

The IoT device or fleet of devices can be managed through a graphical user interface. Common examples include a mobile application or website that can be used to register and control smart devices.

There are many IoT technologies available today. Some of them include CPUs, MCUs, GPUs, security chips, FPGA, and edge gateways. Technologies used in IoT systems may include:

Cloud technology is used for remote data storage and IoT device management – making the data accessible to multiple devices in the network.

Machine learning refers to the software and algorithms used to process data and make real-time decisions based on that data. These machine learning algorithms can be deployed in the cloud or at the edge.

IoT devices are used across industries to make processes more efficient and precise—from waste reduction to remote monitoring. Some examples of common IoT devices include sensors, smart home devices, payment terminals and smart wearables.

There are many ways vehicles, such as cars, can be connected to the internet. It can be through smart dashcams, infotainment systems, or even the vehicle’s connected gateway. They collect data from the accelerator, brakes, speedometer, odometer, wheels, and fuel tanks to monitor both driver performance and vehicle health. Connected cars have a range of uses:

• Monitoring rental car fleets to increase fuel efficiency and reduce costs.

• Helping parents track the driving behaviour of their children.

• Notifying friends and family automatically in case of a car crash.

• Predicting and preventing vehicle maintenance needs.

Smart home devices are mainly focused on improving the efficiency and safety of the house, as well as improving home networking. Devices like smart outlets monitor electricity usage and smart thermostats provide better temperature control. Hydroponic systems can use IoT sensors to manage the garden while IoT smoke detectors can detect tobacco smoke. Home security systems like door locks, security cameras, and water leak detectors can detect and prevent threats, and send alerts to homeowners.

Connected devices for the home can be used for:

• Automatically turning off devices not being in use.

• Rental property management and maintenance.

• Finding misplaced items like keys or wallets.

• Automating daily tasks like vacuuming, making coffee, etc.

Buildings such as college campuses and commercial buildings use IoT applications to drive greater operational efficiencies. IoT devices can be use in smart buildings for:

• Reducing energy consumption.

• Lowering maintenance costs.

• Utilizing workspaces more efficiently.

IoT applications have made urban planning and infrastructure maintenance more efficient. Governments are using IoT applications to tackle problems in infrastructure, health, and the environment. IoT applications are used in:

• Measuring air quality and radiation levels.

• Reducing energy bills with smart lighting systems.

• Detecting maintenance needs for critical infrastructures such as streets, bridges, and pipelines.

• Increasing profits through efficient parking management.