Making Sense of the Internet of Things
Internet of Things (IoT)
Parking meters, trash cans, and vending machines can all utilize the Internet of Things.
A common term used in computing circles is IoT or Internet of Things. Everyone knows what the internet is but, the Internet of Things less so. The term refers to the interconnection of devices via the internet that are embedded in everyday objects. Vague sure, but it’s the truth. IoT literally means that one device or a series of devices are communicating with each other or with a central server.
Picture a sensor as an internet of things. Connected devices are at the edge of some defined space and from that location, they are collecting data. This data is then brought back to a data center or main computer, at (you guessed it) the center of some defined network. There is no human moving this data around but an AI shifting through it to make meaningful tabulations for humans to then analyze later. The Internet of Things is really computers and devices talking to each other so that things can run automatically; streetlights are a perfect example of this. Not only can their schedules be adjusted remotely, but the connected network also allows them to add other devices such as microphones and cameras for public safety.
Where the IoT becomes meaningful and useful for businesses is when the collected data is distilled and studied so that informed action can be made. Imagine how much information is being collected when there are millions of devices being used and every one of them is compiling meaningful data. This data allows a company to tailor and improve their products based on real-time factual data.
“IoT literally means that one device or a series of devices are communicating with each other or with a central server. ”
One of the first IoT solutions in business was in the vending industry. The connected machine would report its inventory allowing the vending services company to keep machines stocked with the best selling products. The soda being purchased the most was recorded within the machine’s system as well as the soda being purchased the least. Once this data was captured, the vending service company would refill with more of the better selling soda and pull back the unprofitable product. It’s a straightforward process: data is captured, data is examined, and a decision is made manually or through automation.
IoT is everywhere and in more places than you would expect. Some examples include:
1. Agriculture: Sensors are placed in a field to measure pH levels, information is sent to a farmer’s computer, and then he decides how to better fertilize his crops.
2. Ford: Like many auto manufacturers, Ford embeds modems in their vehicles which allow you to access the vehicle remotely and do things like starting the car, unlock the doors, and even turn on the heater before getting in your car.
3. Postmates: A group out of San Francisco has been testing robots on the streets to meet the growing demand for restaurants and grocery deliveries. These robots are more efficient since they don’t have to worry about parking or gridlocked traffic.
4. Parking Meters: Smart parking meters allow a city to adjust prices based on occupancy and time of day; they even allow parkers to add more time to their meters through a mobile app.
The scope of the Internet of Things is becoming more encompassing as our world becomes more interconnected. To learn more about this service’s increasing sophistication and its growing marketability, check out our partners at Appsmart to learn more about their relationship to IoT.