IoT Bringing physical digital together :
Contact, connection, association and communication is what sets us apart from the rest of the animal kingdom. The ability to gather complex information, to process it thoroughly and to communicate it effectively has enabled us to advance in ways undreamt of, even by humans. And with each passing generation, we have become better and better at it.
IoT or the Internet of Things is our latest development in this arena. Simply put, it is our attempt to take “communication” beyond ourselves. To enable inanimate objects (electronics) to communicate with each other and with us. The relationship diagram would look something like this:
So, what is the Internet of Things? It is basically the idea of being able to connect any powerable device to the internet and to each other. Or in more technical terms, it is a network of sensors and actuators (embedded on physical devices) connected together and with a computing system.
See also : What is IoT ? – Simple Explanation of Meaning of Internet of Things with Examples
These sensors gather and exchange data with each other and with an integrated computing device capable of analysing huge volumes of data to come up with meaningful information that can be utilised for increased productivity, automated control, behavioural monitoring and subsequently, economic betterment.
Image credit: geralt/Pixabay
The tremendous volume of information gathered can be used to bring about revolutionary changes in all sectors of civilization, ranging from health and finance to consumerism and technology. Imagine real-time patient monitoring made possible. Patient analysis would no longer be limited to the occasional visits to the physician’s.
Doctors will now be able to have a comprehensive overview of the patient’s everyday physical state. The ability to monitor a patient’s weight changes, his heart rate and blood pressure, throughout the day will enable the healthcare industry to prescribe better treatments targeted at the source of illness.
Imagine continued, all-day, week-round monitoring in critical infrastructure sectors. Any probable product failure will be identified way in advance. Any and all risk factors resulting from product wear and tear and improper functioning will be eliminated without the need for human intervention.
Imagine a smart meter that will notify you when you overuse the resources given to you, be it electricity or water. The result – a greener, more economically stable nation with optimized energy usage and storage.
Imagine a car that automatically routes you through the best possible route, and also automatically detects and avoids any possible collision. It would’ve created safer more controlled roads and traffic for people and their families.
Imagine embedded systems being able to gather and analyse consumer data, preferences and interests to present you with the best marketing option to pitch your product. It would’ve signalled the birth of a more consumer-friendly, profitable and productive business sphere.
Industrial automation will become more efficient with the advent of sensor-based, automated control in industrial processes. This will not only increase productivity but also improve product quality.
All this, and we’ve barely scratched the surface of the true potential of IoT in our society and individual life. And to truly harness the real potential of this amazing technology, there are more than a few hurdles we have to jump – technological, legal and business-oriented. But a technology this valuable will penetrate our lives sooner rather than later.
How does IoT works ? – read this article to know about IoT architecture overview
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
‘Sreevidya Balaraman‘
An Engineering Graduate with experience in technical writing and content development. Sreevidya is a technical writer professionally.
