The Internet of Things (IoT) is powered by three emerging technologies: Artificial Intelligence, 5G, and Big Data. When combined, Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things hold the promise of a more connected future. The AI and IoT fusion is increasingly becoming more mainstream, as it continues to transform the fundamental ways in which we live our lives and process data [1].
New technologies are making it possible to run all sorts of applications and machine learning algorithms on tiny, low-power IoT devices [2].
What follows are five emerging IoT technologies one needs to know, from sensors with new power-generating capabilities to fresh methods for running software on tiny devices.
Battery-Free Sensors:
A Santa Clara, Calif.-based startup, called Everactive, is working on such an innovation with its Eversensor, which contains a variety of sensor types and generates power form a mix of sources, including indoor solar, vibration and thermal. The company said its Eversensors can last for 20 years without ever needing routine maintenance. [2]
Containers For MCU (microcontroller units) Devices:
Container technology is becoming increasingly important for running applications in IoT devices, including containers for microcontroller units, or MCUs — tiny, low-power chips that enable tens of millions of IoT devices, from connected washer machines to heat sensors in oil refineries. One vendor called Nubix has developed a solution for deploying application containers to MCU devices that have real-time operating systems. [2]
Mesh Sensors:
A company called Cipher Skin has developed a wireless network of sensors which can be integrated with garments to gather large amounts of data points in real time, which can be used for everything from rehabilitation programs to super-demanding workout regimens. [2]
Network Slicing For IoT Applications:
With 5G networks coming online across the world, a form of network virtualization, called network slicing, can be used to ensure, for instance, that mission-critical IoT deployments have a low-latency, high-bandwidth connection, according to Ericsson, one telecom vendor that has made the technology available for 5G networks using its equipment. This can enable organizations to create new business models among different “slices” of their 5G networks while also improving the efficiency of infrastructure. [2]
TinyML:
TinyML is a concept that is making it possible to run machine learning algorithms on small, low-power devices like microcontrollers. TinyML can enable sensors with predictive maintenance capabilities for manufacturing equipment and super-accurate location tracking for goods on the move. It can also enable health care devices to better protect patient data by keeping the data analysis on device. [2]
References:
4 key areas where AI and IoT are being combined: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/03/ai-is-fusing-with-the-internet-of-things-to-create-new-technology-innovations/
5 Emerging IoT Technologies You Need To Know In 2021: https://www.crn.com/news/internet-of-things/5-emerging-iot-technologies-you-need-to-know-in-2021
Comments