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Internet of Things (IoT)

 1) Introduction to IoT

Hello World!
To say that the internet is a necessity that the world depends upon is probably understated, the fact that this resource at this particular moment and a change in this document will change the document on everyone else’s screen is a live testimony to the huge number of devices we use in our daily lives. From your car to a refrigerator, from a cell phone to mp3 players, most of the digital devices we see are connected to an IoT network.

This is a type of technology in which a network of objects is interfaced to work together as one. The very commonly heard term “Smart home” is also based on this sunrise field. All these together form an “Ecosystem”. Or in a nutshell, it is the exchange of information got through the connections between sensors and other technology over the internet. The first-ever IoT device made back in the early 1980s  was a toaster that had an autonomous lever to pull in / push out the bread. With the wide-ranging evolution in technology, we have now been able to experience the technological marvels of Tesla, Google, etc.

IoT typically consists of analytics, sensors, connectivity (internet), data transmission and ecosystem structuring. Summarising the key concepts of IOT are Hardware, Embedded Programming, Security, Network and Cloud integration, Data Prediction and Analytics, Machine Learning and AI. IoT in the 21st Century brought about the fourth industrial revolution aka Industry 4.0 through emergence of an effective physical-computational and cyber connectivity. By today, IOT nearly consists of 30 billion objects, devices and innovations. Refer to the works of Sciforce for more information on the creation of this new connected world of embedded systems.

 

1.1 Applications

The devices in the ecosystem use wireless sensor networks and automation to make our lives easier. As stated before, in the consumer market these often pertain to the concept of “smart home” where the devices are embedded in an ecosystem with different sensors and devices like cameras, infrared sensors, etc. And through which they take inputs and do the required/expected function.

These artificial smart ventures are often found in:

  1. Home security.
  2. Thermostats.
  3. Cameras.
  4. Smart Speakers (the most common).
  5. And nowadays even in the healthcare industry.

1.2 The Right Usage

Like everything in the world the IoT concept (which is still in its buildout stages) has its pros and cons. Though it may help ‘at the moment’ in making our lives easier, it may turn out to be a bane rather than a boon i.e may cause complications later.

The ‘Pros’ and ‘Cons’ of IoT are given below.

Pros

Cons

Assists in daily tasks.

If in the wrong hands can cause a lot of trouble.

Helps adapt to this world of growing technology.

Can cause a breach of privacy.

Saves our time

Can cause a lot of irreversible damage.

Stores our data carefully

Has access to our devices and cameras.

2) How IoT is changing the world

By now, it's no doubt that the Internet of Things is impacting the way everything functions; from the most trivial concepts to the smartest of technology. It is estimated that by the end of 2021, the number of connected devices is expected to reach an impressive 46 billion. Similarly, by the year 2030, reports state that this number will rise to 123 Billion. The noticeable observation is that these figures are only growing, thus, it is safe to assume that the future will be dominated by this rapidly growing industry.

Moreover, this concept is also adding value to various other sectors of innovation- providing solutions to a lot of problems faced daily. It is also increasing efficiency, accuracy, coherence, regulation, and most importantly, productivity. Some of these sectors are-

(i) Agriculture

If put to good use, this technology has the potential to revolutionize the field of farming and agriculture forever. The various benefits include systematic data collection, mapping, and measuring, using drones to prepare an overview of the land, increase yield, and enforce precision farming. With an ever-growing demand for food and other resources, the inclusion of IoT in this field will only result in unstoppable growth.

(ii) Manufacturing

This sector of the economy is extremely crucial and is subject to expansion.  With the help of automation in the area of the Internet of things, supervision, and optimization in domains like big data analytics, marketing, mass production quality, sustentation,

(iii) Consumer

The customer or consumer is the most critical and integral part of the business or management framework. Therefore, implementation of IoT in this department has proven to be beneficial: it helps nurture trust, provides valuable insights, offers feedback, real-time analytics, inventory lucidity, easier accessibility, and at the same time, also leads to positive marketing.

( iv) Energy

Accessibility, asset management, and tracking and records are being significantly refined.

(v) Healthcare

This sphere is said to be the most affected by the applications of the Internet of Things. Healthcare itself has various sub-divisions and thus there is a need for a detailed contingency plan. This is being accounted for by the utilization of IoT in areas like patient care, cost or affordability, wellness, disease detection, coordination and control, effective treatment, medication administration, and many more.

(vi) Transportation

The outcome of deploying such technologies in the transportation sector is very advantageous. Some benefits include reducing delivery time, predicting heavy traffic, monitoring through end-to-end connectivity, analyzing risks, overseeing the departure, tracking the vehicle, improving the safety, control of operations, ensuring proper order, enhancing the experience, timely updates, and boosting the speed.

  The Internet of Things is also changing the way we do things- the introduction of new strategies and mechanization has helped the energy sector transform hugely. The usage of smart meters enables fast computation and judgment. A crisis like the interruption of service or disruption is avoided, and algorithms’ execution has been made smoother.

2.1 Components

Over here we'll be introducing some of the essential components of IoT.

We use sensors a lot of times making robots using Arduino, EV3, growing the, etc. But have you ever thought about how they are even related to robotics?

It might not be true that one can make an Obstacle Avoidance robot using a bunch of sensors For example HC-05 Bluetooth module, Ultrasonic sensor, and Infrared Sensors. A smartphone has various sensors integrated into the chipset (Motherboard)  like cameras, accelerometer, gyroscope, Bluetooth and Wifi module, GPS receiver, etc. But it is more powerful than a sensor as it can do work that cannot be done by just a sensor.

2.2 IoT Boards

We will be introducing some IoT sensors that you will be using in most of your projects, so sit tight and keep reading!

2.2.1 HC-05 Bluetooth Module

The HC-05 Bluetooth Module is a very useful circuit device that can add two-way wireless functionality to your projects. This module can be used to communicate between a microcontroller like Arduino with any device having  Bluetooth. The module communicates with the help of USART (Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter) at a 9600 baud rate. This Baud Rate signifies the rate at which information is exchanged between two devices usually connected to a serial port.  We can also adjust this baud rate, but while usually BluetoothModule you will be setting it to 9600 Baud Rate i.e it means that the serial port or any other Bluetooth-connected device can send the information up to a speed of 9600 Bits per second. So if you are looking for a Wireless module from which you can control your robot using Aduino and bluetooth connection, then this module can do the needful.

This Bluetooth module is used in many Arduino related projects such as Line follower, Bluetooth robot car, Obstacle Avoidance Robot, etc.

Now we will be looking at a sample project for using the HC-05 with an ultrasonic distance sensor. Electronic Configuration along with its source code is as follows:

Circuit Diagram

 

Source code for HC-05

You can also check out the following blog for a more in-depth understanding of the HC-05 module. If you are not familiar with the basic syntax for the Arduino IDE, you can read our resource for Arduino on the Resources page, which will also aid you in the further induction process.

2.2.2 Wi-Fi Module - ESP8266 (4MB Flash)

The ESP8266 Wifi Module is a very user-friendly and low-cost device used to provide an internet connection to projects. It has an enclosed SOC with an integrated TCP/IP protocol stack that allows it to access any microcontroller. The module can connect to your router and work as a station or work as an AP (access point) and create a hotspot or both.

The pre-installed AT command set firmware that it comes with, allows the user to just connect it to the Arduino project and get the same level of wifi stability as a Wifi shield! It also lets the user create and upload their code making it even more flexible.

The module has strong inbuilt processing and storage capability. This allows it to be connected with additional sensors and application-specific devices via GPIOs with minimum development in advance and loading during execution. It has a self-calibrated RF that allows it to work under any operating condition and doesn't require external RF parts. Also, because of its high level of on-chip integration and very little external circuitry, it is tiny and hence takes up little space on the PCB.

So if you’re looking for a module to provide internet connectivity to your project, then this is the right choice! The ESP8266 makes fetching and uploading data to the internet as easy as possible.

Circuit Diagram

Source Code

3) IoT in Daily Life

What do we see here?

We see two things that will be considered as a part of IoT which are -

  1. Switch - A switch is connected to 2 different circuits. They have 2 poles that can complete an incomplete circuit. There are various applications of switches in daily life, you use them every time these days, to turn on electrical applications, to switch on the charging port, etc.

  1. Laptop - We all know what this is. Laptops are sort of portable computers that can be used in different environments. Laptop includes a screen, keyboard, and a trackpad or trackball, which serves as the mouse. They have a battery to allow them to be used on the go thus allowing them to operate without being plugged into a power outlet. Laptops also include a power adapter to charge the batteries.

3.1 Working

(the render given above has been taken as a sample)

3.1.1 Proximity Sensor: The sensors over here are on the switchboard with the red cursor. When the person goes on and sits on his chair the bulb automatically gets on ( or if the sensitivity is increased then when the door is opened).

3.2.2 Heat Sensor: Simultaneously if the temperature is above 20 degrees celsius the fan gets on(or if it is set according to winters/summers). If the temperature is above 30 degrees celsius then the air conditioner is turned on.

Also, as soon as the user enters the room, the beverage dispenser is commanded to make a pre-loaded beverage choice. When the beverage is made the online priority device of the user is pinged. These are just a handful of functions the IoT system can implement and many more are yet to come as this technological age advances.

3.2 Let's Delve a bit deeper into an ideal World run By IoT

IoT makes your life a whole lot easier. Your smart devices such as Amazon Echo Dot or Alexa wake you up at a scheduled time (at least a much cooler way of starting your than waking up by a digital alarm clock).  Once you wake up, your voice assistant tells you the weather forecast for the day, makes clothing recommendations based on the forecast and previously worn attires, and announces your priority calendar events, giving you reminders for the day (don't forget to call your mother, it's her birthday). Your vacuum cleaner robots have already cleaned every corner of the house even before you wake up.

Let’s say that you have run out of groceries, and you need some vegetables and fruits urgently but you don’t have the time to go to the grocery shop to buy them. To make matters even worse you don’t have your phone to place an order on the app. But don’t worry, Amazon Echo Dot will do this work for you on your command and order the groceries for you. Smart binds are coming up which open automatically when there is sunlight and close when the sun goes down and starts to come out. It is  Cool right and this is a smart home, filled with smart appliances !! You can even turn on the AC when you are about to reach your home using your smartphone so that you can relax when you arrive. After working hard you just want to relax on your smart chair which will give a very nice massage in different forms. Most of the IoT technology that we have described is already in use in modern countries and even more, advanced technologies are expected to come soon.

4) Real-life examples of IoT

4.1 Electric Cars ( Tesla)

IoT through digital technologies has made its way into the automation sector. IoT enables human to machine interactions. IoT-connected vehicles are now equipped with sensors allowing them to pick up information from their surroundings. These sensors and cameras provide the driver with useful information that can be of immense importance to avoid collisions or parking a car etc. Some cars even have automatic brakes which stop the car when something unexpected shows up in the middle of the journey.

Using IoT, the exact location where the car suffered damage and needs immediate repair can be determined in a less time-consuming way. A full report on the car’s working conditions can be generated by increasing the efficiency of mechanical repair. Autonomous cars having drive assist are believed to have reduced road accidents and increased road safety. According to research, more than 90% of car crashes attributed to a human driving error are probably curable. The automated driving program Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) is designed with advanced technology and has been adapted into modern cars for the same use. Some examples of such cars can be Google’s autonomous car, which is a self-driving car having all the above features. Some cars also run on electricity rather than on diesel or petrol such as Tesla’s Model S.

The above pictures show the types of sensors used for various obstacle detection in a car also showing the range which they cover. These various elements combine to make driving more comfortable and safer. They alert the driver at every wrong step. These are powered by AI embedded systems.

Some important and cool features of ADAS are:-

  1. They use Ultrasonic Sensors for assisting in parking the car correctly. It also provides a live video feed of the backside surroundings of the car so that the driver can see what lays behind the car. Also, these make noise when the car gets closer to an object.

  1. Adaptive Cruise Control ( ACC) is a very important feature in modern cars. This can help to maintain the given velocity and distance between cars without the driver having any need to take care of the steering wheel at all. But the driver must remain alert in case of any emergency.

  1. Hill Start Assist prevents a car from moving backward while driving on hills with steep slopes. It holds the brakes when the car is about to slide downwards, in the meantime the driver can accelerate the car forward. The main thing is that drivers don’t have to change their position from clutch to accelerator or brakes and can only focus on moving the car forward.

  1. Moisture Sensors activate the electric wipers present on the windshield of the car to remove the water droplets. These also close all the open windows.

  1. Collision Avoidance System helps to avoid potential collision threats between the car and its immediate surroundings. This is regulated by LiDars ( Light Detection and Ranging) which use laser beams to map the various objects close to the car's vicinity. They are usually installed on the front rearview side and backward rearview side to detect obstacles. These also sound an alarm to warn the driver of a potential collision threat.

Well, these are some of the major features of ADAS. For more information on the ADAS system refer to this article by Wikipedia. Also, watch this amazing video on Automatic Cars which are completely self-driving.

4.2 Smart Home Gadgets:-

Smart homes are made using High tech gadgets. It gives us a very convenient way of living. It does all the work for us. So, here we will be showing you some smart home gadgets and some real-life examples of such moments. Smart devices enable people to control appliances/devices like thermostats, smart lights, etc. remotely using a smartphone or tablet through an internet connection.  Amazon Echo, Amazon Show, FitBit, smartphones and Alexa also come under IOT examples but we are not describing them in detail as these gadgets are pretty much self-explanatory.

 Though, we highly encourage you to go through our BiblioGraphy and search on the Internet if you want to know more about these gadgets. So now, we will be introducing you to some real-life examples of IoT.

4.2.1 Singlecue Gen 1:-

This is a really useful IoT gadget. It helps us to control our home by just lifting our fingers. It was created to provide the main control center to interact with your devices using simple touch-free hand gestures. With singlecue makes many homes smarter. A single motion is all it takes to turn on the entire media environment (tv, cable box, av receiver, and more ). Using advanced sensing technology this device tracks your finger movements in the air letting you change channels, control volume, or mute any device. It also lets you control the smart devices in your homes such as smart lights and Thermostats.

4.2.2 Honeywell RTH9585WF Wi-Fi 7-Day Programmable Touchscreen Thermostat (2nd Generation):-

These smart devices have motion sensors that are used to detect when activity is happening in your house. They use this data to automatically adjust your home's heat or cool your house according to your needs. You can set guide temperatures so your thermostat doesn’t go higher than you’d like. You’ll also be able to control your smart thermostat from the app on the phone. You can set the house to cooling mode before you reach it so that you can rest easy in your cold home after working hard during the day.

4.2.3 Robotic Vacuum Cleaners:-

                                     

Robotic vacuum cleaners or also known as RoboVacs are very popular these days. These robots help to clean your whole house. These are wifi controlled and can be scheduled to clean the house at any time during the day. These have really powerful suction which leaves the floor spotless.

RoboVacs use various components for navigation and communication such as lasers, obstacle avoidance sensors, and cameras. It also has a slam navigation technique to map and learn, by making a blueprint of your house to set the robot to clean only one room or a specific area. Many of these robots also use fall-detection sensors to prevent the RoboVacs from tumbling down the stairs. These vacuums can also be paired with Alexa or Google Assistant to give cleaning commands. After completing the cleaning session, they head back to their base to recharge.

They have rubber roller wheels that prevent the dirt from sticking to the robot and also to pass through big obstacles without losing their balance. These also use BoostIQ Technology to automatically increase suction power when it senses that extra power will be needed for cleaning the dirt or dust particles. They can clean the difficult-to-reach areas of your home such as under the bedroom or sofas etc. These also have 3 large bags to contain dirt.  Some of the best RoboVacs are the iRobot Roomba s9+ and the eufy RoboVac 15C Max.

4.3 Some Major Breakthroughs in IoT:-

In this section, you will be introduced to some major development which has taken place in the world of IoT over the years.

4.3.1 Haemoglobin Measurement:-

In the USA, students have created an app that helps to measure the Haemoglobin in blood only using the light and camera of standard smartphones! The user only has to place his finger on the camera and run the HemaApp which determines hemoglobin by detecting the color intensity of blood and the amount of blood flowing through the finger.

4.3.2 Smart Bridge in Italy:-

There has been a development of a smart bridge by an American Company called Luna Innovations in Italy. This has been achieved by using fiber Optic Sensors which help to analyze the current situation of the bridge. It helps to keep a track of the number of vehicles on the bridge and the weight of the bridge. These also tell us about the physical conditions of the bridge such as the corrosion. It also helps to determine the environment around the bridge.

5) Skills

Want to start creating cool IoT projects? This section will guide you through the various skills required and how you can hone them to perfection to secure your footing in the community of this technology.

5.1 Data Encryption

Data Encryption refers to the encoding of messages so that they can be read only by the sender and the intended recipient (the person you have sent a message to). Encryption is important as it ensures the security of your data. To read an encrypted file, you need to have a password that enables you to decrypt or open that file/message. It mainly deals with the protection of data stored in hardware/digital systems such as laptops or smartphones.

Encryption algorithms play an important role in the protection of data. These have the following key features:-

Now, can you try to answer what WhatsApp’s ‘end-to-end encrypted’ means?

Yes, it means that only you and the intended recipient (receiver) can read the messages. Even Whatsapp cannot read these messages.

For more information on Data Encryption on IoT refer to this article and for Encryption Algorithms read this article.

5.2 App Development

App Development is one of the most important and growing fields in the current scenario. But, why App Dev in IoT? The data through the sensors can be processed and sent to the app through various ISome cars that also run on IoT devices to enable the user to view and access it easily. One common example of this is fitness bands that use the same principle for their functioning. Nowadays, many platforms enable the creation of full-stack apps with an incredibly attractive UI and an equally reliable backend. The most commonly used is Android Studio, an IDE developed by JetBrains exclusively for Android App Development.

It supports the programming languages Java and Flutter inside it. For IOS App Development, Swift can be used. For creating and deploying cross-platform applications, you can also use open-source frameworks like React Native, which is maintained by Facebook, uses JSX (JavaScript XML), and Flutter, maintained by Google and uses the Dart programming language. You can also use platforms like MIT App Inventor to easily create small-scale applications. For more info on App Dev, you can check out the resources maintained by Exun Clan, the computer club of Delhi Public School, RK Puram.

In order to learn more information regarding IoT, we highly recommend that you watch this webinar session of IRIS National Fair.

6) BiblioGraphy:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHp4RnEMnGs&t=333s

https://create.arduino.cc/projecthub/imjeffparedes/add-wifi-to-arduino-uno-663b9e

https://www.instructables.com/Add-WiFi-to-Arduino-UNO/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hIEIGDsbKqY&t=346s

https://surfshark.com/features/vpn-encryption

https://www.nabto.com/iot-data-encryption-algorithm-guide/