Theoretically speaking, smart technology is done in accordance with our requirements. This seems obvious in a world where Google Alexa can dim our lights on command, manipulate our thermostat, or connect us with the courier who knocks on the door, and we take these capabilities for granted.
In fact, our Internet of Things (IoT) devices will always function only on the data collected by their sensors. An IoT system usually has countless small embedded sensors that can collect and transmit data through a wide range of devices. This information is given in real time and is highly accurate, allowing companies to clearly see where they may need to make changes and improvements to products and processes.
Therefore, it is worth asking if the sensors that collect data promote the development of the Internet of Things, how good are our sensors?
What is sensor technology doing right?
It can be said that the biggest obstacle facing the sensor technology of the Internet of Things is the system integration and performance over time. In this process, difficulties may arise due to various reasons.
However, the good news is that despite these challenges, sensor technology has proven its firmness. For example, in the face of harsh conditions, the sensor must have flexibility and strength. Technologies that monitor temperature, liquids and gases, vibration and sound, and even light can be potentially physically damaged, leaving a blind spot in the so-called overall system required by the Internet of Things. But with the emergence of powerful sensing materials, especially various nanomaterials, our sensors are more flexible than ever.
The versatility of IoT sensors is another requirement for effective practicality. However, as you might guess, we have used a large number of sensors in various industries and fields. From chemical sensors to proximity or image sensors, the use of this technology has been almost everywhere. The next step is to integrate these sensors into a system.
Perhaps the biggest advantage of sensors currently in implementation is their rapid cost reduction. From 2004 to 2014, the average sensor cost of IoT systems dropped by more than half, from 1.3 US dollars to 60 cents, and is expected to be as low as 38 cents by 2020. Cheaper sensors mean that more sensors can be installed in the Internet of Things system to improve the quality and quantity of big data coming out of the system for analysis.
The number of companies developing sensor technology should increase with the increase in the deployment of IoT devices. The increase in the number of sensor developers will bring higher competition and greater innovation. For example, sensors are getting smaller and smaller and can be more easily embedded in existing systems, which means that the workplace does not need to spend so much money and energy to adapt to these newly added devices.
The obstacles facing sensor technology?
Of course, sensor technology is not without minor troubles. The system that the sensor runs must be protected, so we must seriously consider how to ensure data privacy and security.
For potential IoT infrastructure, such as transportation, a sensor attacked by hackers will have a catastrophic impact on the entire system. Although the diversity of technologies and sensor types is a major advantage of the Internet of Things, it also makes various cyber attacks possible. And most importantly, mass-produced embedded devices will give a single vulnerability the ability to easily replicate on many devices. Sensor networks are likely to need to replicate the functions of other operating systems and have software update capabilities to ensure that patches can be applied to improve functions and to combat increasingly complex cyber attacks.
According to data from the World Economic Forum, the compromise of only one cloud provider may cause economic losses of up to 120 billion U.S. dollars. The huge potential destructive power makes data security and data privacy in the Internet of Things network a top priority.
The sensor network in the Internet of Things will also increase the demand for Internet use. Current Internet providers focus on high-speed streaming media, e-mail and other personal and commercial uses. Sensors and the Internet of Things will require always-on, low-bandwidth solutions. Companies that provide hotspot solutions for always-on devices may provide alternatives and/or prompt existing Internet providers to provide solutions suitable for sensors and the Internet of Things.
How companies should adopt sensor technology?
The performance of the sensor can determine the overall practicality and lifespan of the Internet of Things. Therefore, for companies claiming that the Internet of Things is the most important emerging technology, evaluating the quality of sensors is a fundamental aspect of launching a fully functional system. In 2017, companies’ spending on the Internet of Things reached $964 billion. Although the sensors themselves accounted for only a small part of the cost, any potential problems may mean that new sensors have to be integrated again, or in some cases Next, completely replace the device to work with compatible sensors.
But companies can overcome these challenges with proper planning and due diligence. Best practices are essential for implementing this emerging technology. This approach includes involving CIOs, including external vendors into the IoT team, and using third-party platforms to host IoT businesses. Specifically, the direct participation of external IoT sensor suppliers can represent a more seamless integration process, and if there are implementation, damage, or security issues, it may even save the company time and money.
The challenge of implementing the Internet of Things is entangled in the huge technology stack. Sensor technology is not without flaws, but for the moment, today's sensors are already very advanced and are advancing strongly on the road to the future. Of course, there is still room for development of sensor technology. As cloud computing and other elements of the Internet of Things are also developed, we can bet that our sensors will become the cornerstone of a safe and powerful Internet of Things. It is not far away.
