Most readers have certainly already read something about the Internet of Things. IoT offers a range of potential for our everyday and professional lives. There are already many examples of applications and devices that build on the networked infrastructure. But to really use the possibilities of the IoT-Sector, you have to know more about its history and functionality.
Like a Bosch (Source: Bosch Global)
The term Internet of Things was coined in 1999 by Kevin Ashton, co-founder of the Auto-ID Lab at MIT. As an expert in the RFID sector, he was intensively involved in bringing analog and digital things closer together. The Internet of Things was therefore initially a generic term for technologies such as sensors, actuators and communication technologies that were to be linked across industries.
The basic idea still shapes our understanding of the IoT concept today. The Internet of Things simply connects all devices to the Internet and lets them communicate with each other over an enormous network. All participating devices in the IoT network collect and share data about their use and the environment in which they operate. In this way, the other devices can learn from the “experiences” of the other network participants and adjust to acute situations. An example:
Using a smart room temperature sensor, data about the current situation of the room is collected and sent to the IoT network. This network also contains other device sensors that automatically adjust their temperatures according to the information from the first device. For example, the refrigerator can adapt better to the outside temperature in order to save energy or optimize performance. The air conditioning systems are also automatically controlled according to the temperature measured in front of the house and can heat or cool, depending on the data transmitted.
The architecture of the Internet of Things
Although there is officially no official structure of the Internet of Things, some components can be identified that a functioning IoT network needs. These are:
- Sensors/actuators
- Data Acquisition Systems/Internet Gateway
- Edge IT
- Computer Center/Cloud
IoT – a network for the future
The Internet of Things merges the physical environment with the digital world. The applications enable many industries to optimize their processes and develop new business areas. IoT technology is constantly driving the automation of factory buildings and industry and is a central component of Industry 4.0. Private individuals can also benefit from a networked Smart Home, optimize their daily routine and save costs.
Currently, we are only scratching the surface of the possibilities that IoT will offer us in the future. The potential of these amazing networks will increase enormously in the coming years and play an important role in almost all areas of our lives.
