The Internet of Things (IoT) has made substantial strides since first being envisioned in 1999, having moved beyond machine-to-machine communications, toward impacting a variety of industries with “smart” devices. Nearly 26 billion devices will be connected to the IoT by 2020, according to technology research firm Gartner, Inc., and the majority of these devices fit into one of five categories:
- Smart wearable
- Smart home
- Smart city
- Smart environment
- Smart enterprise
Each category provides different solutions with unique devices and uses. Brewer Science has done extensive work with sensors and MEMS devices to help these solutions evolve. These categories often break down the types of applications used in different industries such as media, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure management.
Media
Many retailers are placing sensors in stores to gauge how people shop and react to deals and in-store messaging. Advertisers are also using sensors on display ads to create an interactive setting – for instance, Nike’s 2012 storefront in London. Devices within the IoT help measure, collect, and analyze behavioral statistics, affecting how businesses attract their target markets.
Environmental Monitoring
Sensors are often used to assist in environmental-protection efforts, such as monitoring air/water quality, atmospheric/soil conditions, and the movement of wildlife or habitat. Sensors can also provide early detection of earthquakes and tsunamis, and IoT devices are able to communicate this information to early warning systems.
Infrastructure Management
Sensors are used to monitor changes in structural conditions on bridges and railways which can affect public safety, quickly notifying repair and maintenance crews and transportation departments if and when traffic needs to be stopped or redirected.
Brewer Science builds sensors and enables miniaturized mechanical and electromechanical (MEMS) devices that make the IoT benefit our everyday lives. Learn more about Brewer Science by contacting us online or by phone today at 1-573-364-0300.