The Internet of Things is a network of connected digital devices that can transfer information to other devices without the need for human intervention. It’s all about using sensors to create ‘smart’ physical objects.

The first device to be linked was a Coca-Cola vending machine. The internet was used to determine whether the machine was sufficiently cooling and if coke cans were available. In order to accomplish this, micro-switches were incorporated into the machine. This invention paved the way for the growth of the Internet of Things – IoT.
However, the term “internet of things” was coined only in 1999. IoT existed since the 1980s, but the term “IoT” has recently gained popularity among the general public.

Furthermore, it has also become a well known field of study for computer science aspirants. From green house automation & crop management in agricultural sector to monitoring patient’s health, Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized the way we live and work. While, smart homes have raised the bar in terms of home security and convenience.

Internet of things & its applications:

INDUSTRY 4.0:

Besides, it’s also a part of the 4th industrial revolution (4IR) thereby aiding in technological advancement. The ultimate aim is to make manufacturing more productive and efficient.

The goal is to create intelligent, digitally networked industrial machines that communicate with one another. The said illustration isn’t far from science fiction when combined with artificial intelligence which guides processes independently through learning. Sensors not only control mechanisms, but also report any issues with machine parts and facilitate automatic maintenance. The end result is better automation than what people could control.

Internet of things
INDUSTRY 4.0

HEALTH CARE:

Although technology is advancing, we cannot halt the population from getting older or totally eliminate chronic illnesses at once. It can make healthcare more affordable & accessible by providing users with cost-effective medical services.

  • Shortening emergency room wait times
  • Cost Savings: Because IoT allows for real-time patient monitoring, unnecessary doctor visits, hospital stays, and re-admissions are significantly reduced.
  • Improving Drug Management
  • Treatment has been improved: It enables clinicians to make evidence-based decisions and ensures greater transparency.
  • Keeping track of patients, hospital personnel, and stock

Some of the applications include:

SWALLOWABLE SENSORS:

Yes, swallowable sensors! You read that right. By swallowing pill-sized sensors, patients can avoid colonoscopies. In lieu of more surgical interventions, this device can help doctors to diagnose problems associated with ailments such as colon cancer and irritable bowel syndrome.

MOODABLES:

These are mood-enhancing devices that help us feel better throughout the day. It may look like science fiction, but it is very close to reality.

CONNECTED-INHALER:

Although there is no known cure for asthma, it can be managed using an inhaler. A patient may become aware of asthma attack symptoms anywhere from 30 minutes to 8 hours beforehand. Applications of the internet of things in healthcare can offer clever answers in this situation. To stop an asthma attack, a patient can be warned by a sensor-connected inhaler when a triggering element (air pollen, temperature, etc.) is present.

IOT IN AGRICULTURE:

Farmers are utilising smart technology to boost productivity and efficiency as a result of the Internet of Things (IoT). Risk reduction, higher standards, remote drought monitoring, business automation, and enhanced productivity are some of the advantages.

WEATHER FORECASTS:

Farmers use satellite weather forecasts to figure out the best times of the season to cultivate and harvest. A farmer can receive important information from weather stations with sophisticated sensors that collect data.

Internet of things
IOT IN WEATHER FORECAST

GREENHOUSE AUTOMATION:

In order to manage the greenhouse environment, farmers frequently require manual intervention. They can obtain precise real-time information on greenhouse parameters including illumination, temperature, soil quality, and humidity thanks to the usage of IoT sensors.

Examples of IoT agriculture products that offer such features are Growlink and Farmapp.

In conclusion, the idea of the Internet of Things is the connection between the physical world of things and the digital world of information technology.

The Internet of Things keeps human lives simple and fulfilling. It has greatly improved the quality of people’s lives. On the other hand, the situation for safety and security has also improved with the rising use of the Internet of Things.

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