IoT stands for “Internet of Things.” Smart speakers, smart homes, and self-driving cars have become commonplace in recent years. Along with AI and big data, it has become one of the most critical factors in promoting DX (digital transformation).
Although many people know the word “IoT,” few truly understand how it works and what it means. Consequently, this article will explain how the Internet of Things works. Using examples of how it can be applied to DX, this article will explain how the Internet of Things works.
What is IoT (Internet of Things)?
How can we use IoT?
The term IoT must first be understood before we can appreciate the possibilities it will bring in the future.
Meaning of IoT
About 20 years ago, accessing the Internet from a computer at home or work was only possible. Still, with the rapid development of digital and communication technology, it is now possible to connect to the Internet from a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet.
As society has become more digitalized, IoT, the technology that connects household appliances and cars to the Internet, is attracting more attention.
M2M (Machine to Machine) was a method of connecting things even before the term IoT became prevalent. That’s what happened. M2M, on the other hand, is not connected to the Internet but only exchanges information between machines through sensor networks, etc. Alternatively, with IoT, things can communicate with each other so that information can be sent and received.
In various fields and areas, the Internet of Things can be used to measure and control objects remotely and communicate between them.
How IoT works
In addition to home appliances such as air conditioners and refrigerators, cars and buses, and factory equipment, IoT technology is also being used in various other areas.
The IoT targets objects equipped with sensors, cameras, and wireless communication that detect the state and movement of things and collect data about them. Internet-enabled devices transmit data to people and things via the Internet, which is the primary mechanism of IoT.
Which of the following is true of internet-of-things devices
| Internet-of-things devices usage by fields | |
|---|---|
| medical care | Remotely monitoring a patient’s health condition is possible by sharing biometric data with doctors in real-time and supporting home medical care; it also helps resolve the doctor shortage. |
| logistics | Automated transport robots can improve warehouse operations, such as picking operations. RFID characterizes logistics 4.0 for tracking and drones and autonomous vehicles for delivery. |
| manufacturing | Make your production line more cost-effective by implementing IoT. To prevent equipment damage caused by breakdowns, visualize the status of equipment and equipment. |
| agriculture | Sensors determine the optimal timing and amount of watering and fertilizing based on sunlight and soil conditions. Remotely control your house’s temperature and air conditioning. |
| transportation | It is possible to see traffic conditions on expressways and train delays in real-time, which enables you to choose the best route. |
Furthermore, let’s take a closer look at IoT usage examples in each field.
IoT in Healthcare
The logistics industry refers to DX utilizing IoT as “Logistics 4.0.”
Amazon’s rapid rise in the e-commerce market is putting pressure on the logistics industry to deliver a wide range of items in small quantities and frequently, and IoT is rapidly expanding as a solution.
A warehouse work process from receiving to shipping and a delivery process are two examples of IoT usage in the logistics industry.
IoT is commonly used in warehouse work to implement robotics systems for sorting, shelving, inventory taking, and picking. For example, Amazon’s warehouses have automatic shelving systems that move shelves to workers based on orders placed over the Internet, eliminating the need for humans to walk the vast warehouse. The system supports Amazon’s ability to deliver products quickly to customers by efficiently handling large orders.
TMS (transportation management system) uses IoT to visualize the delivery site, optimize human resources, and improve vehicle dispatch routes. Also, unscrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) like drones and self-driving trucks will be used in air transportation shortly.
IoT in Manufacturing
IoT automation is beginning to be introduced in Japan’s manufacturing industry as Industry 4.0 (Fourth Industrial Revolution), a German government project, has attracted attention.
Examples of IoT usage in the manufacturing industry include robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine-to-machine communication. Using labor savings and efficiency measurement on production lines, we aim to create intelligent factories (thinking factories).
In a smart factory, all mechanical equipment and management systems are connected to the Internet and collect data. Analyzing each process by quantifying where and how many workers worked is possible, which is expected to improve factory productivity and equipment utilization.
Sensors and radar also monitor equipment status and detect abnormalities such as vibrations, temperature changes, etc. In addition to the fact that an alert is issued before an equipment failure occurs, prompt maintenance and repairs are possible, and damage caused by equipment failure can be minimized.
IoT in Agriculture
Smart agriculture is a next-generation type that uses cutting-edge technologies, such as robots and ICT, to simplify and improve production. IoT is also being utilized as a critical technology.
Using sensors, the optimal timing and amount of watering and fertilizer application can be calculated and automated for greenhouse cultivation, for instance. The temperature and air conditioning inside the house can also be controlled remotely. High productivity can be achieved while reducing human labor when maintaining an ideal environment.
Also, IoT is expected to solve the problem of the shrinking number of successors faced by Japanese agriculture. IoT will bring significant changes to the labor environment surrounding agriculture, which farmers’ experience and intuition have traditionally supported.
IoT in Transportation
IoT is bringing significant changes in public transportation, such as buses and trains, as well as in taxis.
Using a QR code at a bus stop, you can check the bus’s operating status in real time or hail a taxi using a taxi dispatch app. In addition, users can see real-time highway congestion and train delays, allowing them to choose and travel the most suitable route.
Summary
The Internet of Things (IoT) has made things possible that would have been impossible a few years ago and solved problems we had given up on.
IoT has also created new product value, and the market is buzzing with familiar IoT devices. IoT is a technology that will undoubtedly enrich society even though there are still challenges to overcome.
Digital technologies such as the Internet of Things are becoming more critical now that DX is being promoted. Introduce the technology by referring to the essential functions and examples of IoT presented in this article and comparing them to your company’s needs.
