Zero Lab

The Internet of Things (IoT)

The term IoT, or Internet of Things, 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. Thanks to the advent of inexpensive computer chips and high bandwidth
telecommunication, we now have billions of devices connected to the internet. This means everyday
devices like toothbrushes, vacuums, cars, and machines can use sensors to collect data and respond
intelligently to users.

The Internet of Things integrates everyday “things” with the internet. Computer Engineers have
been adding sensors and processors to everyday objects since the 90s. However, progress was
initially slow because the chips were big and bulky. Low power computer chips called RFID tags
were first used to track expensive equipment. As computing devices shrank in size, these chips also
became smaller, faster, and smarter over time.

Some common day-to-day examples could be:

 Temperatures in refrigeration or food heating units in the food and beverage industry.
 Assistance with the control of temperature and humidity levels.
 Detection of gas and dust levels.
 Monitoring of water levels and herd locations for agricultural purposes.
 Different applications in the automotive, aviation and nautical sectors such as the sensing of tyre
pressures for trucking fleets.

How does IoT work?

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

Smart devices

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.

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 analyse this data
and make informed decisions. These decisions are communicated back to the IoT device and the
IoT device then responds intelligently to inputs.

A graphical user interfaces

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.

What is Industrial IoT?

Industrial IoT (IIoT) refers to smart devices used in manufacturing, retail, health, and other
enterprises to create business efficiencies. Industrial devices, from sensors to equipment, give
business owners detailed, real-time data that can be used to improve business processes. They
provide insights on supply chain management, logistics, human resource, and production –
decreasing costs and increasing revenue streams.

Let’s look at existing smart industrial systems in different verticals:

Manufacturing
Enterprise IoT in manufacturing uses predictive maintenance to reduce unplanned downtime and
wearable technology to improve worker safety. IoT applications can predict machine failure before
it happens, reducing production downtime. Wearables in helmets and wristbands, as well as
computer vision cameras, are used to warn workers about potential hazards.

Automobile
Sensor-driven analytics and robotics increase efficiency in automobile manufacturing and
maintenance. For example, industrial sensors are used to provide 3D real-time images of internal
vehicle components. Diagnostics and troubleshooting can be done much faster while the IoT system
orders replacement parts automatically.

Logistics and transport

Commercial and Industrial IoT devices can help with supply chain management, including
inventory management, vendor relationships, fleet management, and scheduled maintenance.
Shipping companies use Industrial IoT applications to keep track of assets and optimize fuel
consumption on shipping routes. The technology is especially useful for tight temperature control
in refrigerated containers. Supply chain managers make informed predictions through smart routing
and rerouting algorithms.
Retail

Amazon is driving innovation in automation and human-machine collaboration in retail. Amazon

facilities make use of internet-connected robots for tracking, locating, sorting, and moving products.

What are IoT technologies?

Technologies used in IoT systems may include:

Edge computing

Edge computing refers to the technology used to make smart devices do more than just send or
receive data to their IoT platform. It increases the computing power at the edges of an IoT network,
reducing communication latency and improving response time.

Cloud computing

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

Machine learning

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.

Most Popular IoT Devices

1. Google Home Voice Controller

Google Home voice controller is one of the most popular IoT devices out there today. It provides
voice-enabled services like alarms, lights, thermostats, volume control and lots more.

2. Amazon Echo Plus Voice Controller

Amazon Echo Plus voice controller is another popular and reliable IoT device on the market. It
provides voice-enabled services like answering phone calls, setting timers and alarms, checking
the weather, and lots more.
3. August Doorbell Cam

August Doorbell Cam is an IoT device that allows you to answer your door from any remote
location. It constantly captures motion changes and suspicious activity in your doorstep.

4. August Smart Lock

August Smart Lock is a proven and reliable security IoT device that helps users to manage their
doors from any remote location. It helps keep thieves away and provides an extra layer of security
for your home.

5. Foobot

Foobot is an IoT device that can accurately measure indoor pollution. It helps to improve the air
quality in houses, cafes, workplaces, and other indoor public spaces.