The concept of automation is vast and still remains vastly unexplored. Ideally, automation can be referred as the use of technology and digitization of machines in order to perform operations with minimal human intervention, effectively and efficiently as possible. In this article automation can be referred to as the process of integrating IoT devices and smart devices to streamline and enhance process within systems, such as home systems, industrial systems, energy systems and agricultural systems such as smart irrigation systems.
IoT devices collect and communicate data, enabling systems to make decisions and modifications in real-time. They are outfitted with sensors, actuators, and connection. On the other side, smart gadgets are equipped with remote control, data analysis, and intelligent reactions. IoT, smart devices, and automation are all interconnected in so many ways.To under the impact of these technologies, we need to understand IoT and Smart devices.
What is Internet of things
Basically, the term "Internet of Things" (IoT) refers to a network of interconnected physical items, systems, and devices that have sensors, software, and other technologies integrated in them to collect and share data online. These "smart" items have the ability to communicate with other objects as well as with centralised systems, allowing them to acquire and share information as well as make decisions and take actions based on the data they receive.
In essence, IoT includes the use of smart device, that is by extending the power of the internet beyond the limitations of traditional computing (such as computers and smartphones) to including other simple everyday objects and devices ranging from household appliances and wearable devices to industrial machinery and urban infrastructure.
What are Smart Devices
On the other hand, smart devices refer to everyday items and appliances that are enhanced with technological upgrades, connectivity and often with artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning algorithms to make them smarter, more interactive, and able to carry out tasks on their own or in response to user orders. Smart devices are part of the broader Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem made to increase comfort, effectiveness, and user experiences.
Smart devices are designed to be small interactive gadgets that can understand and execute simple command or perform simple computing, and thus help users in daily tasks. Some of the common smart devices include smartphones, tablets, phablets, smartwatches, smart glasses and other personal electronics.
Although in general smart devices are small in size, gadgets such as microwaves, smart refrigerators and TVs are also considered as smart device due to their capabilities.
How IoT and Smart Devices have impacted Automation
Automation is a concept that has vastly been adopted in many industries and sectors from simple systems to complex industrial systems. One of the most common being home automation and process automation. Automation makes recurring and tiresome tasks automatic and easily executable without the need of human assistance.
Here are some of the various ways in which IoT and smart devices have contributed to the efficiency and effectiveness:
1. Enhancing Data collection and analysis
Smart devices are embedded with sensors as well as the ability to pull data from other IoT enabled devices, thus are able to collect real-time data from various sources. This information collected offers insights on the operation of the system, the environment, user behaviour, and more. The data collected from various places offer more accurate or average results. These data are used by automation systems for real-time monitoring and analysis, allowing for informed decision-making and process optimisation.
2. Real-time Optimization
Given that smart devices are continually collecting new data, updating and processing the received data from the sensors and other devices, the information can be used by the systems to continually adjust and optimize the processes in real-time. This makes it easier to have closed loop feedback systems.
For instance, real-time quality metrics can be used to fine-tune manufacturing processes, increasing productivity and decreasing waste.
3. Remote operations, control and monitoring
Smart devices connected to the Internet of Things (IoT) enable remote monitoring and control of equipment and systems, which is especially useful in circumstances when physical presence is impractical. This is one of the most progressive and most used functions of IoT, revolutionizing how monitoring and control of systems is done.
For example, in multinational and large cooperate companies, it is easy to control, monitor and optimize processes from a central location without the need of physical presence. In home automation as well, this feature is very important for security and control of devices.
4. Improved Safety and Security
Smart devices and IoT enabled devices are very useful in real-time monitoring and alert systems. These systems are able to collect data, process it and provide alerts in real-time. Thus, enhancing security and real-time monitoring. For instance, in smart surveillance systems, such as smart cameras that are equipped with the ability to perform smart analysis with AI enhancements can identify and alert about unusual activities in real time.
5. Integration Across Systems
Internet of Things (IoT) allows for integration and communication across diverse systems and smart devices. This ability to communicate, allows devices to share information and coordinate across different devices and platforms leading to more seamless and synchronized processes.
In home automation for example, Google Home devices and Apple Home devices can to some level communicate and share information. Although optimized for different ecosystems, they can share data and communicate to provide a seamless experience for the users.
6. Personalizing Experiences
Based on user preferences and previous data, smart devices can offer customised experiences. Smart home systems, for instance, can modify the lighting, temperature, and entertainment settings in accordance with personal preferences.
One of the most important part of using smart devices is their ability to process data collected from sensors. With the help of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning can optimize experiences based on existing condition, current data and predicting expected outcome.
7. Reducing Human Intervention and Human Error
Automation powered by IoT and smart devices lessens the need for constant human involvement in mundane chores. As a result, human resources can concentrate on tasks that are more intricate and strategic.
Humans are susceptible to error when performing repetitive jobs, and recurrent error lowers efficiency. These mistakes can be minimised by using automated or intelligent systems.
8. Preventive Maintenance
IoT devices use sensor data to keep an eye on the health of machinery and equipment. Automated systems can forecast when maintenance is necessary before a failure happens by analysing this data. This proactive method lessens disturbances, cuts downtime, and enhances asset management.
Implementing Simple Automation Projects
With the emergence of embedded controllers, microprocessors and microcontrollers , it has never been easier to implement simple projects to implement simple tasks around the household or around simple production processes. Some of the most common projects include:
- Simple room temperature controller with Arduino
- Automatic Light Control system
- Intruder Alert System with SMS/App notification system
- Smart smoke detector with alarm and SMS notification
- Smart ECO farm with Arduino/ Raspberry pi
- Simple DC motor control system with Arduino
- Automatic House Plant Watering system with Arduino
- Arduino smart curtains daylight and night adjusted
To be able to implement these projects or automate personal tasks, you can choose to use some of the common microcontroller boards such as Raspberry pi, Banana Pi, Arduino, ESP32 and STM32 among other. For more please check out this article Top Microcontroller choices for you.
What Next for IoT, Smart Devices and Automation
Automation, IoT, and smart gadgets have the potential to completely change how businesses are run and how people engage with technology in the future. Greater intelligence, connectivity, and integration will characterise the next stage of automation, IoT, and smart devices. These technologies will transform industries, enhance quality of life, and spur creativity, but to fully utilise them while addressing associated difficulties, careful planning and prudent implementation are required.
Some of the prospective future trends are:
- Convergence of Automation, robotics, IoT and AI
- Complete autonomous systems and robots
- Remote healthcare services
- Industry 4.0
- AI designed personalization
In conclusion, real-time data, remote control capabilities, predictive analytics, and personalised experiences brought by smart devices and IoT have radically changed automation. Through the usage of these technologies, businesses and industries can run more cost-effectively, increase quality, and improve the entire user and customer experience. As these technologies advance, it's crucial to address issues like data security, interoperability, and ethical considerations.
