The Internet of Things Body of Knowledge (BOKIOT)

Introduction:

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a range of technologies that connect "things" via the internet and enables users to monitor, analyse and/or control them. To get your head around this it's probably best to start by browsing our list of case studies and micro-examples to understand how the technology can be applied in practice. 

 Things are objects with smart devices attached, or embedded, and connected using a variety of communication technologies. These devices usually incorporate sensors and embedded electronics, that take measurements and may (or may not) connect to actuators that allow the things to be remotely controlled. The data captured is usually transferred to the cloud, where data analytics are used to gain insights and assist in decision making.

Critical to the success of IoT applications is good business planning to ensure the IoT system delivers significant improvements in productivity or enables new business models. Good engineering is required to deliver an appropriate system architecture, addressing some critical design considerations including  power management of battery operated IoT devices and ensuring data is securely shared and the devices themselves are protected from hacking.

The IoT has come to prominence now because ICT technologies have reached a tipping point of affordability and capability, enabling a range of new applications illustrated by the growing number of case studies in all industries. While the number of IoT applications are rapidly growing, there remain a number of key challenges constraining the uptake.  For example, devices and IOT systems created by different parties are easily interoperable. There is also a steep learning curve to acquire the technical skill sets required to implement all the different components of an IoT system. IOT engineering practitioners can be broadly categorised as users or providers of services and technology. 

Frequently Asked Questions about IOT include:

• Why is the IOT prominent now?
• What is the difference between IOT, SCADA and M2M?
• How can engineers make a difference with IoT?

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Technologies

• Architecture
• Data Analytics
• Cloud
• Communication Technologies
• Sensor and embedded electronics
• Interoperability
• Power Management
• Security

Chapter 2: Common functions:

• Asset management
• Control and Supervision
• Tracking
• Supply chain management

Chapter 3: Industry specific application

• Agriculture
• Building
• Defence
• Consumer (Home)
• Health
• Infrastructure
• Manufacturing
• Mining and Energy
• Smart Cities
• Utilities

Chapter 4: IOT Practices: 

• Business planning and innovation
• Compliance
• Design
• Intellectual Property
• Legal
• Project management
• Quality management
• Risk engineering
• Systems thinking

About this Body of Knowledge

This body of knowledge (BOK)  is being developed over time in the course of operating the Applied IoT Engineering Community of Engineers Australia. Materials primarily come from presentations given to the community. It is recognised that parts of the BOK are missing or rudimentary. The aim is to fill in the gaps over time as we organise speakers to address the gaps or to revisit important subjects. For more information regarding the creation of the BOK please contact iotengineering@engineersaustralia.org.au