Why Cloud Integration Is the Key to Unlocking IoT’s True Value
The enormous value delivered by the Internet of Things can only truly be realised if IoT devices are effectively integrated into the cloud. While the concept of the Internet of Things has been around for some time, it has recently begun expanding rapidly, with forecasts indicating that the number of IoT devices globally will reach more than 29 billion by 2030.
The rising popularity of IoT devices is based on their ability to gather data, communicate with each other and provide real-time feedback. These deployments should lead to enormous efficiency gains and significant growth in innovation, but only if seamless integration is achieved.
Cloud as the Foundation
Such integration is necessary to ensure that smart devices, applications and databases work together. It enables data flow, automates workflows and unlocks actionable insights.
“The cloud is a vital pillar that will enable you to undertake real-time analysis, implement remote monitoring, and ensure scalability.” This is according to Ross Hickey, CEO and Founder of Trinity:
He adds that cloud platforms are flexible and have the needed resources for storage and processing that enable IoT devices to function effectively.
“The cloud platform delivers a central hub for device communication and data management, while additionally delivering advanced analytics, in the form of artificial intelligence and machine learning.”
How Cloud Integration Works
Cloud integration enables IoT devices to:
- send data to a central cloud
- receive commands
- interact with other devices communicate in real time
This creates a vast ecosystem where users, devices and software applications can share data seamlessly.
It makes possible:
- real-time updates
- remote monitoring automated responses
- increased efficiencies
- innovation
Three Layers of IoT Cloud Architecture
There are three layers within an IoT cloud architecture that enable effective integration.
- Device Layer The first of these includes physical devices such as wearable technologies, smart sensors and automation devices. This is where data is collected by these various devices and sent to the second layer, known as the Cloud Layer.
- Cloud Layer This layer is at the heart of IoT cloud technology, as this is where the data from the device layer is stored and processed. At this level, data analytics and advanced computations are performed, before the processed data is sent back to the original device, or is shared with other connected devices.
- Application Layer The third layer is called the Application Layer, and is the arena in which the users are able to interact with the processed and analysed data generated by the connected devices. It is within this layer that insights are received, data can be visualised, and various devices managed. And this can be done through virtually any Internet-enabled interface, utilising a range of advanced functionalities.
Without these three layers, a device would be significantly limited, functioning only with its own local storage and processing power.
Key Benefits of Cloud Integration
A critical benefit of good cloud integration is the ability to process data in real time, offering:
- immediate feedback
- real-time analytics
- value in industrial automation
- proactive maintenance
- traffic management systems
- healthcare monitoring solutions
Access to the cloud also enables:
- continuous updates
- seamless firmware updates
- seamless software updates
Cloud integration supports remote monitoring and control, allowing users to access devices from anywhere, whether turning on garden sprinklers from another province or checking a work security camera while on holiday.
Supporting Multi-Device Ecosystems
Cloud integration supports multi-device environments such as:
- smart homes
- e-health environments
- proactive maintenance systems
- industrial IoT
It enables all connected devices to:
- collaborate
- synchronise
- build automated workflows
All from a centralised hub.
The Bottom Line
As Ross Hickey notes:
“While achieving a connected and integrated cloud can be complex… once you have succeeded, you will quickly see the difference as you gain valuable insights, obtain real-time feedback and benefit from enhanced automation.” By integrating cloud and IoT effectively, businesses stand to maximise their ability to operate, innovate and deliver.
