What exactly is the IoT, and why do we feel it holds so many exciting possibilities?
Basically, the IoT is an extension of the familiar digital internet. Under the IoT, physical devices like micro-waves, aerial drones, or wearables can be fitted with sensors which collect data, whether that’s wind speed, tem-perature, or more precise measurements like blood plate-let concentration. Devices connected to the IoT are able to collect this data, and then send it to devices which are part of the conventional internet. They can also receive data remotely, allowing users to customize how they function. You’re probably already familiar with some applications of the Internet of Things. Most new cars feature sensors which record aspects of the vehicle’s performance, sending it to manufacturers’ control centres. Many people have installed smart lighting or heating systems in their homes that feature embedded sensors in bulbs or thermo-stats. If you’re a fitness tracker user, you are definitely participating in the Internet of Things, as your distances trav-elled and calories burned are beamed to social networks and analytical tools.
Making the IoT accessible for Everyone.
However, while the everyday applications for IoT are expanding, most of the current applications are hidden from view in power plants, hospitals and factories. Here and elsewhere, sophisticated sensors operate night and day, ensuring that processes run smoothly and delivering actionable data for engineers or doctors. We believe that the IoT needs to be democratized and made available for everyone.
We’re working to make the potential of the technology more accessible for everyday users. We want to allow creators and makers to invent new applications for the IoT, turning them into devices that revolutionize everyday life. Even because the wireless technologies that could be used with IoT are many (Lo.Ra, Sigfox, Bluetooth, Wifi) and a standard has not beed established, yet. For further technical details, you can refer to our article at the following link.
The potential of all this is huge. For instance, if we think about Bluetooth-enabled, lightweight, wearable IoT devices, creators can explore the power of remote sensing. Motion tracking systems could be incorporated into tools for physiotherapists to use when treating muscular injuries. They could be also integrated into sporting apps to fine tune golf, tennis, or running techniques. They could also be used to create tools which assist physically disabled users. If we couple all that with – for instance – barometric and temperature sensors, the potential becomes now vast.
Turning the Potential of the IoT into Reality.
There’s been quite a lot of hype about the IoT. For years, people have been predicting that every aspect of our lives would feature sensors, data collection, and automation. It hasn’t worked out quite that way. But things are changing. With smartphones, wearables, and tools like ours at Next Industries, the IoT is becoming a playground for technical creativity. So explore what we have to offer. You could create something amazing.