Definition of IoT
The IoT (Internet of Things) refers to the network of physical objects capable of collecting, transmitting, and sometimes analyzing data. These objects can be very diverse: watches, cars, motion sensors, temperature sensors, refrigerators, etc.
They integrate technologies such as sensors, electronic chips, and software to interact with their environment and be remotely controlled.
The major advancement offered by IoT is that connected objects can act in response to information they collect. For example, a motion detector might trigger the opening of a gate, or a thermostat could adjust the temperature based on the time and the presence of inhabitants.
In addition to reacting in real-time, these objects can automate certain actions (such as automatic irrigation in a field), analyze data, send it to a platform or human user, or make decisions based on the information gathered.
Invented in the late 1990s, the term IoT and the concept of the Internet of Things have seen significant growth in the 21st century, driven by the spread of the Internet, the miniaturization of electronic components, and the advent of cloud computing—using remote servers hosted in data centers connected to the Internet to store, manage, and analyze data.
How does the Internet of Things work?
To give a simple definition of IoT, remember that the Internet of Things forms a chain made up of several links. Each link plays an indispensable role in allowing the object to connect, interact with its environment, and transmit usable data.
Sensors and actuators
Sensors measure specific parameters such as ambient temperature, movement, brightness, liquid level, etc. Actuators allow action: they start heating when the temperature drops below a certain threshold, turn on lights when presence is detected, or send a signal when the fuel level in an oil tank is low and a new order is needed.
Connectivity
To send data, objects need a network. This might include Wi-Fi, 3G, 4G, 5G, Bluetooth, NFC, or low-bandwidth networks like LoRaWAN or Sigfox.
Also read: 10 terms explained to better understand IoT
Data processing
The data sent arrives at a cloud platform or local server, which stores, analyzes, and interprets this information. The analysis conclusions may trigger alerts or automatic actions.
User interface
This is a dashboard or mobile application where users can view transmitted information, share data with other users, configure connected objects, and check their statistics.
This chain can be enhanced with additional links like AI (Artificial Intelligence) or machine learning, enabling the system to learn and adapt over time.
Different uses of IoT
The application areas of IoT are numerous, benefiting individuals in their daily lives as well as businesses and industries.
In everyday life
IoT has quickly found its place in our homes with the emergence of numerous connected devices. At home, connected thermostats adjust the temperature according to room occupancy, bulbs can be controlled from a smartphone, and blinds close automatically at sunset. For accessories, smartwatches monitor our physical activity, heart rate, or sleep quality to help us improve our metrics. Appliances also become smart, with connected refrigerators that send an alert when the stock of milk or eggs is low or simply indicate when the door is left ajar. These objects help us stay healthy, with blood glucose sensors and smart pill dispensers that send alerts reminding us to take our medication.
In business
In the professional world, IoT helps improve productivity, traceability, and optimize results. In logistics and transportation, IoT is an effective means to track deliveries in real-time, control temperature in refrigerated trucks, or geolocate vehicles in a fleet. In the service industry, IoT manages lighting, ventilation, and the occupancy of premises to optimize energy costs and team organization.
Also read: IoT, powering the automotive 4.0 industry
In industry
A pillar of the digital transformation of factories, IoT enables the complete automation of production lines and real-time quality controls. IoT also helps reduce accident risks with intelligent systems that detect anomalies and optimize maintenance by identifying signs of wear before a breakdown occurs.
Key issues and challenges of IoT today
Despite its many advantages, IoT presents several challenges. First and foremost is security: the sending and collection of potentially confidential data necessitate strengthening the security of devices and storage platforms. Regular updates, data encryption, and secure access management all contribute to enhancing IoT security. Opting for cellular IoT, based on 4G or 5G networks, also offers reinforced security compared to Wi-Fi. Interoperability is another crucial issue: standardizing protocols allows devices from different manufacturers and countries to work together seamlessly.
Objenious: your partner in realizing IoT projects
Objenious, a brand of Bouygues Telecom, offers tailored support for all your IoT projects. Need advice? Feel free to contact us directly.