Before we can discuss the various emerging IoT trends, it’s important that you have some understanding of exactly what IoT is. Well, to get things rolling, IoT stands for Internet of Things. Internet of Things is simply about connectivity. The connectivity of digital devices or computing devices which are capable of communicating with one another over a network without human input. Essentially, we’re talking about autonomous communication without human interaction.
Below you will find a list of 7 top IoT use cases that should better inform you on how this stuff is being used today. What we can infer from all this is that there will be a lot of changes in the technology field, due primarily to IoT.
Today, the internet is the centrepiece of almost everybody’s life. Whether at home or at the office, people rely on the internet to carry out a great many tasks. However, the internet is not without its faults, as cybercriminals lurk on it. Resulting in this strong desire to protect end users from the many exploits online.
With the implementation of IoT it is possible to plug that gap. Now that you have, at the very least, a vague understanding of IoT, it’s now time to take a look at the top 7 use cases of IoT:
- Smart Logistics and Transportation
When we look at the logistics, we’re talking about vehicles communicating via GPS, while factories are capable of monitoring working equipment via low-power wide-area networks. Additionally, a central headquarters is capable of both monitoring and coordinating all available nodes through an application interface. When we take an overview of the entire transportation network, we see that it leads to significantly better business decisions, and cuts in costs, for those involved. Courier companies now have the opportunity to maximise their cargo and optimise their routes while reducing time of delivery.
With the right amount of sensors, along with a stable and consistent network and an accompanying advanced app, your regular car can now self-drive – something that we’ve always thought about as the future. And while we look at self-driving cars with a sense of optimism, it would seem autonomous truck fleets is something that is likely to fully hit the markets in full force, much sooner. As is the case with most products, collecting performance data for a vehicle is one way to extend its use. Additionally, although it’s likely most cars won’t be self-driving for some time, communication between vehicles is one way to help avoid accidents by providing the appropriate data to car dashboards through the use of automotive embedded software or phones that use specialised software.
Another aspect we want to highlight is IoT in public transportation. Vehicles that are connected to one another provide drivers with a whole host of new benefits, such as the ability to receive specialised and personalised information, in real time, accurate vehicle tracking and communication with staff. Trans-report is a great example that is designed to democratize transport by providing a superior journey and experience to passengers all across the country.
- Healthcare Industry
Health is without a doubt, the most important thing for any person. With the implementation of IoT we’re already seeing a transformation in the healthcare sector. Companies will look to create devices that patients and people alike, will be able to wear 24/7. This means, no longer having to go for constant check-ups which may involve many tests. Additionally, it should also lead to a more health conscious society.
- Solar Power Plant Monitoring
With non-renewable energy and its implications on the environment, many governments are now choosing to switch their attention over to renewable sources of energy. One of these sources is solar energy. Solar panels are being put up everywhere, in order to produce electricity. And with the creation of these new solar plants there is a new found need to monitor them. When we couple that need with IoT based solar panel monitoring systems, controlling these solar plants no longer becomes a task in futility.
- IoT for Plant Performance Optimisation
APM or Asset Performance Management is a term that is used in manufacturing for describing the various methods used for integrating and capturing data, visualising and then analysing it, to improve its availability and reliability of physical plant-floor assets. The modern version of APM is IoT plant performance improvements. It works by integrating the latest data capture and integration tools, such as IoT gateways, and software apps like IoT platforms to analyse how these assets can be maintained and run at optimal levels (i.e. optimised material input settings, optimal asset speed settings or optimal maintenance intervals).
A fairly substantial amount of companies are now deciding to adopt IoT for plant performance optimisation. With an even larger share of those companies opting to invest significantly into IoT purely for this purpose. Of all the use cases, this one is expected to experience the most growth.
- Manufacturing Industry
When we look at the manufacturing industry, one thing that comes to mind is the amount of manpower required. It can be both time-consuming and costly. The positive thing is that things are now being made easier with the implementation of IoT. Companies are investing in new technologies that are capable of monitoring the entire manufacturing process without any human input. Secure remote access for equipment and devices works to help save companies on a lot of manpower and man hours which in turn lowers costs of production. This will, in the long run lead to more products being produced at a fraction of the typical cost.
- Energy Monitoring and Management
Management and monitoring of energy requirements is something that has never been optimal. A need for more transparency has always been there, which has led to the implementation of IoT. This can and should result in expenses saved. Energy consumption is something that can now occur in a more streamlined manner. IoT has its own platform of meter data management and smart metering head end. All of which are designed to assist in managing energy consumption in a more effective manner.
- Remote Device Management
With the help and implementation of IoT, it’s now possible to control both home and office devices no matter where you are from them. Additionally, it’s also possible to control factory equipment, whether you’re on ground or not. IoT is designed to make lives simple and easier. They are doing this by removing the requirement of human interaction, as much as can be. Making it so you can turn on your refrigerator TV, AC or some other connected device from your office space or while in a vehicle, on the move.
–AUTHOR INFO—
Uchenna Ani-Okoye is a former IT Manager who now runs his own computer support website <a href=”https://www.compuchenna.co.uk/“>https://www.compuchenna.co.uk</a>.
