Intro to IoT

What is it?

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the extension of network connectivity and computing ability to things that are not normally considered to be computers: a toaster, a chair, or a road. These connected "smart objects" are able to retrieve and transmit information with minimal human intervention. They often feature remote or mobile data collection, analysis, and management capabilities (Rose et al., 2015, p. 12).

IoT is not a futuristic fantasy, it is happening now, in our homes, workplaces, and industries. It promises a hyperconnected "smart world" where the relationships between things, people, and the environment become more identifiable and interconnected.

How small can an IoT object be? As long as an object communicates something using a network, it can be considered a smart object: “Residential IoT devices like light bulbs, light switches, thermostats, and door locks normally send small amounts of information to each other (e.g. a door lock status message or turn on light command) in a home automation scenario,” (Rose et al., 2015, p. 13).

Quick History: The term was first used in 1999 by technology pioneer Kevin Ashton who envisioned and created a system for corporate supply chains to count and track goods. He helped create the global standard system for Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID).

Imagine

A new way to get to work on Monday morning...

All night, your mattress has been regulating your body temperature so you are better rested. Your alarm plays your most listened-to song that week and immediately the blinds are drawn to your desired sunlight level. A fresh pot of coffee starts itself in the kitchen, the amount of caffeine adjusted by the restful nature of your sleep. As you walk through the house, the lights brighten and dim with your movement. The front door unlocks and relocks as you pass through it. Your drive to work is automatic and your new emails are read to you by its sound system. By the time you get to work, you are energized and already ahead.

Objects that respond to you...

“If the projections and trends towards IoT become reality, it may force a shift in thinking about the implications and issues in a world where the most common interaction with the Internet comes from passive engagement with connected objects rather than active engagement with content,” (Rose et al., 2015, p. 1). In this way, IoT will interact with us as we navigate our daily activities.