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Fifth meeting of the MAtchUP project (Skopje, December 2019)

Posted by: admin Posted on: December 26, 2019

This time the steering meeting of the MAtchUP project has been organized in one of the project’s follower cities, Skopje, capital of North Macedonia.

The organization was a success and the locals welcomed the MAtchUP family warmly, despite the cold weather.

In the plenary sessions, we reviewed the status of the demonstrators of the lighthouse cities: Valencia, Dresden and Antalya. In addition, the people in charge of the Skopje City Council showed us the urban platform they are working on, a mixture of innovative technologies and applications and practical services for citizens.

The parallel sessions addressed specific issues in energy, mobility, ICTs and social actions. The project indicators (KPIs) and how to calculate them were the central theme of the discussion at each of the MAtchUP pillar meetings.

In order to show us the current state of urban services in Skopje, our hosts organized a city tour. We saw the traffic control center, where multiple video cameras constantly monitor intersections and roads, and from where traffic lights can be managed in real time to prioritize firefighters, ambulances and VIPs.

Another of the interesting visits was the Urban Living Lab of Skopje, an endearing place in the Historic City Center, which serves as the basis for urban regeneration, a space for the co-creation of initiatives with and for the citizen.

Later, we also visited a “Green Roof”, a garden on the roof of a building, in this case a shopping center. A thermographic study had been carried out in the city months ago, and it was discovered that there were points with high temperatures, either due to the concentration of pollution or the lack of air circulation. Therefore, they decided to give life to this type of initiatives. The “Green Roofs” are gardens built with the aim of softening the temperature and oxygenate these hot spots of the city, as well as serving as a recreation place for citizens.

We continued with work sessions to identify possible improvements in the procedures, in the generation of business models and in the description of the Technology Packages for Smart Cities (SCTP).

The final note was sung by Mother Teresa, a native of Skopje, reminding us that the most important thing is to enjoy the path:

And for the next plenary meeting in 2020… we will come back to Antalya!

If you want to know more about the project, you can visit the website of MAtchUP.

Valencia MAtchUP: Energy consumption

Posted by: admin Posted on: December 9, 2019

In Valencia, Spain, researchers have developed an information system to help households to better manage their energy consumption and to use renewable energy sources with the aim of reducing CO2 emissions.

European citizens often have no guidance about good practices to reduce energy consumption in their homes. Researchers from the Instituto Tecnológico de la Energía in Valencia, are working on a system called SHEMS (Smart Home Energy Management System).

It is based on a smartphone app that enables users to monitor their consumption and receive guidance on how to improve energy performance based on good practices.

Caterina Tormo Doménech, one of the researchers involved, explains:

“People also have a scoring system whereby they can compare their consumption habits with other application users on a day-by-day or month-by-month basis. The aim is to raise their awareness about efficient energy use and to get them to change their behaviour.”

Several studies have found that competitive comparison may be a strong incentive besides, of course, the eventuality of reducing the bills.
The app is being developed under the EU smart city project MAtchUP, aimed at fostering a more liveable urban environment.

Watch the video interview with Caterina Tormo Doménech from the MAtchUP partner Instituto Tecnológico de la Energía (ITE).

What AI and machine learning can do for Smart Cities?

Posted by: admin Posted on: December 9, 2019

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning algorithms have increasingly become an integral part of several industries. Now they are making their way to smart city initiatives, intending to automate and advance municipal activities and operations at large. Typically, a city when recognized as a smart city means that it is leveraging some kind of internet of things (IoT) and machine learning machinery to glean data from various points.

A smart city has various use cases for AI-driven and IoT-enabled technology, from maintaining a healthier environment to advancing public transport and safety. By leveraging AI and machine learning algorithms, along with IoT, a city can plan for better smart traffic solutions making sure that inhabitants get from one point to another as safely and efficiently as possible. Machine Learning collects data from numerous points and conveys it all to a central server for further implementation and once data is collected, it has to be utilized in making a city smarter.

Solving Urban Issues with AI and Machine Learning

Machine learning generally takes the data generated by several apps such as Health MD applications, internet-enabled cars, etc. and leverages it to identify patterns and learn how to optimize the given set of services. Its tools are able to personalize the smart city experience by aggregating information about the most used roads in a city and then apply it to a transportation system.

On the other hand, machine learning and AI can be helpful in waste collection and its proper management and disposal which is a vital municipal activity in a city. Thus, the technology for smart recycling and waste management provides a sustainable waste management system. AI has the ability to understand how cities are being used and how they are functioning. It assists city planners in comprehending how the city is responding to various changes and initiatives.

In this way, AI-powered computer vision systems, for instance, could enable computers to spot millions of elements of urban life in a chorus, including people, public workers, cars, accidents, fires, disasters, trash and much more. The system allows not only for autonomous monitoring but to make decisions based on the performance of each of these elements, changing behaviors over the course of each day or time, and responses to city systems by each element.

As AI and machine learning are transforming the way cities operate, deliver and maintain public amenities, the technologies come with some drawbacks. Thus, there is a need to consider about retrofitted solutions that can hold the smart city initiatives continuing. So, the current smart city programs using AI and ML seems to advance city services and lives, including transportation, lighting, safety, connectivity, health services, among others.

3 tips to use ISA-95 for IIoT

Posted by: admin Posted on: December 3, 2019

The rapid growth of IoT technology has led to a common complaint about the lack of standards across IoT, but organizations can use the ISA-95 standard for IIoT.

1. No need to reinvent the wheel.

ISA-95 is already widespread in manufacturing and industrial organizations. Even though IIoT is in some respects new, it doesn’t require rethinking the software, database and information structure from the ground up. That work has already been done and organizations considering IIoT adoption have likely already implemented the structure. IIoT architects should think in terms of integrating into ISA-95, not supplanting it.

2. ISA-95 is silent on hardware and lower-level infrastructure, including network, security, compute and storage.

A fundamental divide splits IT between software and infrastructure people. Even though organizations can implement infrastructure through software, the logistics of getting data from point A to point B, then processing and storing it effectively still comprises infrastructure. Similarly, virtual machines and containerized applications have replaced servers, and software-defined networks and software-defined WANs replace traditional appliance-based networking.

3. IoT architects and engineers should focus on infrastructure and cybersecurity requirements.

Given the established framework of ISA-95, architects can best spend their efforts on network, compute, storage and cybersecurity for IoT and IIoT. The ISA has developed cybersecurity framework IEC 62443 that aligns with ISA-95, but it focuses more on the information and modeling or conceptual level and requires enhancement and extension to cover the entire IIOT.

IoT In 2020: 5 Things You Need To Know

Posted by: admin Posted on: November 21, 2019

As the technology continues to advance, it’s important for individuals and organizations to utilize IoT devices to increase productivity and profitability. Here are 5 IoT trends you can expect to see in 2020.

Humans are in the middle of one of the most revolutionary moments in communication since the invention of the telephone — the “internet of things” or IoT. By connecting all the things in the world, IoT is the logical culmination of the internet itself. We can already see its effects on our lives and businesses.

Smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices do more than let us communicate with others. They track our location, monitor our health, learn our preferences and connect us to other devices. It’s a phenomenon that will impact how all businesses produce, market and grow. Something this complex needs some forethought and data. So, here are five things you need to know about IoT in 2020. Use them to make smarter decisions about your business.

1. Smart Home Devices Move to The Office

Smart home IoT devices are gaining in popularity. The number of smart homes in the U.S. is expected to hit 28% of total households by 2021. Part of the upward trend stems from the fall of device prices. But, market preferences are changing too. Millennials love home tech. It’s their adoration that’s prompting property owners to integrate smart thermostats and security systems into new homes and remodels. Not to mention, smart home technologies are eco-friendly and help save on energy costs. But, these benefits are no longer exclusive to the home. Businesses can benefit from office automation too. In 2020, more firms will adopt the technology for the office for the same reasons.

Business owners can shrink monthly power consumption with smart lighting and sensors. Smart video doorbell cameras and locks let you give remote access for deliveries or employees. It keeps your business safer too. Smart thermostats reduce energy waste by learning your staff’s temperature preferences and the cheapest times to heat and cool.

2. Major Growth in IoT in Healthcare

The healthcare industry is perfect for IoT. It’s a growing, highly regulated and tech-dependent market. Today, many “smart” hospitals are using IoT devices for remote patient monitoring through wearables and health sensors. Integrated monitoring systems can now track patients, staff and equipment like an “indoor GPS.” This maximizes resources and saves money. Healthcare providers are also using small ingestible devices (i.e., “smart pills”) that transmit data about medication effectiveness, leading to better decision-making about patient care.

Look for the healthcare industry to adopt more IoT devices to streamline processes, cut costs and raise patient care. Increased investment will also push associated markets (e.g. physical therapy and nursing homes) to adopt similar technology to stay integrated with hospitals.

To read the full article click here.

source: iotforall.com

Smart Home

Posted by: admin Posted on: October 25, 2019

Home Automation, often referred to as “Smart Home Technology”, is the use of technology to automate your home. Home automation allows you to control almost every aspect of your home through the Internet of Things (IoT).

Home Automation started with the invention of the Thermostat and has developed into one of the biggest and fastest growing markets in technology. Home Automation’s potential continues to grow. You can use it for home security, controlling appliances, monitoring energy use, as a personal assistant, for looking after the elderly or disabled and more.

The first industry standard for home Automation was X10. X10 helps devices connect to each other primarily through power line wiring, radio frequency, and wireless-based protocols. Today Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Insteon are also leading protocols for Home Automation. These new industry standards rely more heavily on modern wireless technology, like mesh-networking.

Smart Home Basics

Let’s start with the basics. The following are the most commonly used Smart Home options on the market right now. They are easy to use, install, and tend to be the most affordable Smart Home tech. Some of these basics are: Smart Speakers, Smart TVs, Smart Thermostats, Smart Plugs, Light Automation, Video Door Bells, Robot Vacuums.

Smart Kitchens

Though technology has yet to provide us with a robot chef, these smart kitchen appliances make cooking and cleaning that much easier. You can even connect many of them with your smart speakers!

Smart Bathrooms

Even the most basic necessities can be enhanced in a Smart Home. Smart-Bathroom technology will make your bathroom more than a room you have to use.

Smart Nurseries

Having a newborn is one of the most rewarding, and stressful experience in life. Thanks to Smart-Nurseries, babies are safer than ever, and parents can relax just a little.

Smart Pet Care

Taking care of your fur-babies is easier than ever with smart pet-tech. The best part about these gadgets is that they make life easier for you and your pets. Feel less guilty about leaving them home alone during the day, and enjoy the time you do spend with them that much more.

Is Home Automation Safe?

No technology is a 100% foolproof, and Home-Automation is no different. Here are some things to keep in mind when investing in Home Automation. When it comes to Smart Homes, you really have to consider the fact that being so connected gives companies the chance to collect data about you. The number one culprit is going to be your smart speaker. Many people leave their smart speakers on all the time, which means they are listening all the time.

Cybersecurity is another very important issue that many people do not take seriously enough. The Internet of Things (IoT) device market just keeps growing and developing, and as it does security for these devices sometimes falls through the cracks. As a consumer, you need to know how to protect yourself, in case developers cannot.

Now that you have all the information you need on Home Automation, and Smart Home technology, the next step is finding the best products for you.

Edge computing

Posted by: admin Posted on: October 3, 2019

The cloud prepares for the next phase. We will move from today’s large centralized data centers to more local computing and storage. This is nothing less than edge computing, the new generation of the cloud.

Edge Computing

The possibilities of edge computing

Edge computing allows us to offer less latency, more efficient communication and greater security, critical aspects for new applications. Lower latency means faster communication, in a few milliseconds, which will allow new applications beyond what is technically possible at this time in areas such as virtual reality or autonomous driving.

Improving the efficiency of communications will make it easier to manage the large amounts of data generated by video and the Internet of Things (IoT), and especially everything related to artificial vision.

Finally, data security and privacy will allow us to face one of today’s most complex problems: instead of depending on a global cloud that we don’t know where it is or who controls it, we will have the possibility of storing the data in nearby and secure locations under our control.

These new capacities will have an impact on the devices: edge computing will allow some of them to be unloaded with processing capacity, as this can be produced on the network, closer to the user and in real time. This will result in a reduction in its cost (simpler devices) and energy consumption (less process), so that the number of connected devices will increase, which will also generate new opportunities for growth in the business of connectivity.

Edge computing in companies

But these new capabilities and less consuming devices already have concrete uses at this point in the day-to-day life of businesses. Let’s look at some examples: Data storage, Artificial vision, Industrial Internet, Video and virtual reality, Data network or Autonomous driving.

Impact on consumers

It will also change our lives as consumers, since edge computing will make possible things unthinkable until now. The magnitude of the leap from fiber and 4G to edge computing will be similar to the shift from ADSL to fiber.

In short, a world of low latency, high capacity and millions of connected devices is an experience that combines edge computing, 5G and fiber: the combination of these technologies represents a virtuous circle. Undoubtedly edge computing has come to change our lives and our way of working.

To read the full article click here

Mingling of IoT with AI

Posted by: admin Posted on: September 26, 2019

All we need to do to create an accurate and working Machine Learning models is a huge amount of high quality and relevant data. Internet of Things (IoT) devices have the potential to generate a vast amount of data which can be then used with AI. Imagine facial recognition systems using cameras to replace ordinary payments, or recall the current hype for autonomous cars gathering data about surroundings using built-in sensors. Those solutions use both AI and IoT, yet little has been written on how to easily integrate them together. Fortunately, existing IoT platforms provides the interface to gather the data from various devices and can offer a relatively easy way to utilize the IoT data into AI/ML systems. This article will provide you with a few state-of-the-art AI+IoT examples, an overview of the most popular IoT platforms and how they can be integrated with your AI/ML systems.

Just to give you a better feel of how AI can be utilized with IoT, here present two business cases which use both technologies, and a list of some of the most popular IoT platforms with AI capabilities.

ET City Brain

Source : www.alibabacloud.com

ET City Brain, created by Alibaba Cloud, is a complex AI platform solution which optimizes usage of urban public resources. It has been successfully implemented in Hangzhou, China leading to a decrease in car traffics by 15%. The solution also helps to detect road accidents, illegal parking and supports ambulances to reach their target faster by changing the traffic lights to help it reach the patient faster. It is an outstanding software system which utilizes traffic light cameras from the whole city and based on the output of machine learning models it can determine how traffic lights should be changed.

Tesla's Autopilot

Source: Tesla

Tesla autopilot system incorporates GPS, cameras, sonars and forward-looking radars together with specialized hardware to fully utilize the usage of the data coupled into Neural Networks architecture. It works as a self-enclosed system which gathers the data from sensors and then uses a Neural Network model to help determine what should be the next change in the movement of the car .

IoT Platforms with AI capabilities

IoT platforms are getting increasingly popular as they offer a variety of useful tools and cloud storage options for the data streamed from IoT devices. What does each platform offer?

Microsoft Azure IoT Platform

Azure IoT has a Github repository which was created to help you integrate AI and IoT easily. This code repository provides different code examples on how to use Machine Learning and Azure IoT Edge together. Deep Learning models can be packaged in Azure IoT Edge-compatible Docker containers and then exposed to the data using REST APIs. Alternatively, it can be deployed on the cloud and then used for predictions with REST APIs. Azure IoT has a lot of useful tutorials and case examples which are available on their website.

Google Cloud IoT

Google Cloud IoT is an impressive IoT platform which enables you to connect the data to the machine learning model in many different ways. It offers a complete set of tools for edge/on-premises computing with machine learning capabilities, similarly to Azure IoT. Google has also created a separate AI Platform so you can train the model there, together with a cloud storage option for the IoT data. There are few useful tutorials out there: this one, for example, explains how to deploy the ML model to the IoT device which updates itself on the new upcoming data.

AWS IoT

The well-known AWS also offers AI+IoT solutions. AWS IoT Analytics is especially interesting, as it offers data preparation, visualization, and machine learning tools. Machine learning model can be trained using Amazon Sagemaker and then containerized so it can be used with the data stream from IoT devices. ML models can also be uploaded to devices directly where they run much faster and they can also be automatically updated based on the new incoming data.

In conclusion, IoT is making machine connected and communicates with the entire network. IoT also generates Big Data, but AI is only the technology that makes those Big Data useful and meaningful for an industry. A reciprocally beneficial coexistence occurs between IoT and AI technologies. There are tons of domains and business niches, which can reap the advantages of the coexistence of both technologies.

Source: towardsdatascience

What is the Fourth Industrial Revolution?

Posted by: admin Posted on: September 20, 2019

Described as a range of new technologies that are fusing the physical, digital and biological worlds, the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is certain to alter the way the human race lives, works, and relates to one another.

A number of technological fields will see major advances over the next few years that will affect all disciplines, economies and industries. These fields include robotics, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, quantum computing, biotechnology, the Internet of Things, 3D printing, autonomous vehicles, and more.

Experts predict a number of changes to come with 4IR. Over 7 million jobs will be affected over the next five years in the world’s largest economies, as technological progress in 3D printing and robotics starts to disrupt manufacturing and other industries.

Preparing for 4IR Begins with Education

Education is key for adapting to the changes 4IR technologies will bring. The employment landscape will undergo a massive shift, making advanced skills increasingly important. IEEE is helping to educate future leaders on their role in fostering innovation and shaping technological breakthroughs.

As the importance of understanding 4IR grows, IEEE publications have become a valuable resource for students and teachers to learn about emerging technologies. Every year IEEE publishes new journals, conference papers and standards with knowledge and insights that are helping to shape this revolution. A recent evaluation of the top ranked engineering and technology universities worldwide found that all top 100 schools subscribe to IEEE content and depend on IEEE information to educate future innovators (Times Higher Education).

To read the full article click here and to see the IEEE publications across all 4IR technologies, visit the IEEE Xplore digital library.

Top IoT Development Tools

Posted by: admin Posted on: September 16, 2019

The Internet of Things is penetrating every aspect of our daily life. With this humongous interest, numerous organizations are battling a war against one another and are attempting to create products that are superior to their partners. A wave of IoT Tools has emerged over the past years. Here a list of the most Popular IoT development Tools are listed.

ARDUINO (IDE)

Arduino is an open-source prototyping and simple-to-use IoT platform. The Arduino uses microcontrollers programmed using any of the supported languages, C and C++.

RASPBIAN

This IoT IDE is created for Raspberry Pi board by IoT tech enthusiasts. With over 35,000 packages and numerous examples along rapid installation with the use of pre-compiled software makes it an essential IoT development tools.

NODE-RED

Node-RED is a simple visual tool which is built on Node.js, a server-side JavaScript platform which is widely used in IoT projects. It is an open-source tool mainly used to connect devices, services and APIs together with an integrated browser-based flow editor.

TESSEL2

This is a hardware provider that can be used to build basic IoT solutions and prototypes. Tessel 2 lends a helping hand through its numerous sensors and modules. This is a board which can hold up to a dozen modules including the RFID, camera, GPS and the accelerometer.

PLATFORMIO

This platform comes with a build system, supported by a library manager and IDE. It comes pre-equipped with more than 10 frameworks, more than 20 development platforms, and more than 400 embedded boards. It has support for C and C++ Intelligent Code Completion and Smart Code Linter for Professional Development. It also has support for multiple projects workflow in multiple panes.