The term "Internet of things" was first used in 1999 by Kevin Ashton, a British entrepreneur and founder of numerous startups. It is defined by a network of connected objects.
IoT is a concept according to which objects that can be uniquely identified can directly or indirectly communicate with each other and process information and data. This applies especially to everyday electronic items, such as household appliances, lighting, heating, air-conditioning and personal items, e.g. telephone. Thanks to this, they provide the user with additional functions that would be impossible for a single environment.
The systems in which the Internet of Things is implemented are virtually unlimited. These are intelligent homes and buildings, cities, health networks, enterprises and intelligent industry, energy systems and all types of threat, weather and environment monitoring systems. Examples of IoT can be multiplied but there are several that have been known for several years.
Amazon Dash
This is probably the most popular example on the market. Amazon Dash is a small button dedicated to a specific product that orders a specific number of products with one click. For $ 5, customers can buy a physical button that allows, for example, to order a new washing powder or new dog food. There are a lot of options and virtually everything can be ordered this way.
HP Instant Ink
Hewlett Packard service available in Poland - with the purchase of selected HP printer models, you can apply to the program, which will automatically provide us with ink. Not only does it allow you to specify how often you print, but also our printer will send a notification to HP when the ink runs out and we will receive a new cartridge before it happens. Everything happens automatically, money is also charged once a month from our account - so we don't have to worry about running out of ink.
Warehouse automation
A great example is Amazon, which automated its warehouses with robots. They can move at a speed of 8 km / h and can lift about 300 kg parcel. The robots communicate with each other, providing real-time information about their location. Thanks to this, they avoid collisions with each other, and at the same time help in optimizing work, because the nearest robot that can fulfill this specific task goes to its destination.
Smart Mirrors
This solution is already available on the Polish market, including in Timberland stores. It's about mirrors, which are actually cameras, connected to augmented reality systems. They allow you to record yourself in 360 degrees, compare creations, wander clothes without physically putting them on and of course, allow various types of additional fun, such as adding / taking weight / height or changing hair color. The mirror can also display other recommended products or material details.
These are just a few examples of how IoT can be used. In fact, there are many more examples and new ones are created every day. The Internet of Things can be considered the future of full use of electronic and IT systems.