IoT can be described as a network of things objects or assets which are connected to the internet with sensors and software. This enables them to acquire valuable data from their environment.

‘Things’ that can be connected

The possibilities are endless. Some of the more common applications include:

• Parks and gardens: sensors beneath soil can measure moisture levels and temperature providing real-time information on soil and plant health.
• Agriculture: sensors can track the movements of livestock monitor rainfall and measure plant growth providing farmers with a overall picture of farm and land health.
• Environmental: sensors placed in the environment can monitor air pollution humidity light temperature and noise.
• Buildings and assets: sensors on entrances exits and gathering spaces provide information on usage and occupancy including community centres sporting grounds or toilet blocks. Smart buildings detect if a conference room is full and the air conditioning needs to turn on or if everyone has gone home for the day the lights can switch off. By understanding building usage it also helps us to better manage assets.
• Parking: in-bay sensors show how many spaces are available/occupied and for how long. Over time this provides a detailed picture of parking needs to inform planning. When provided to the community this information helps people to move about the City more easily.
• Waste: sensors in bins monitor volume and temperature to indicate when they need emptying. This can also optimise collection routes and provide insight into public space usage.
• Street lighting: sensors detect light levels and people movement to turn on and off accordingly saving precious resources.
• Flood monitoring: sensors can be placed in flood prone areas to monitor water levels and rising tides which can pre-empt flood episodes.

Common questions