A Guide to IoT Architecture

What Is Internet of Things (IoT) Architecture?

Internet of Things (IoT) architecture is a hardware and software system that allows data exchange and visibility. The information comes from IoT-enabled devices connected to the public internet or a local network.

As IoT matures, always-connected systems are becoming critical for various applications in industries to remain competitive, including:

• Manufacturing (e.g., machine-to-machine communication in factories)
• Health care (e.g., wearables and home health care monitoring)
• Telecommunications
• Smart cities
• Transportation (e.g., asset tracking)
• Agriculture
• Automotive

What Are the IoT Architecture Hardware Components?

Hardware elements of an IoT architecture include:

• Sensors
• Gateways
• Modems
• Modules
• Servers
• Switches
• Batteries
• Computers, smartphones

What Are the IoT Architecture Software Components?

The software is reflected in IoT platforms and dashboards. These interfaces allow visualization and drilling down into the data that the devices capture and report at the asset level.

This data is transferred and made available to the cloud via cellular networks. The software also enables the dashboard platform to pull that data from the cloud at specific intervals and in real time.

Customizing for Business Challenges and Pain Points

The most successful IoT solutions are built on architectures that are fully customized or modified to integrate with existing systems and technologies. Therefore, it is essential first to understand the pain points and business challenges.

Imagine a supply chain or a cold chain use case. The critical component for the customer is visibility as assets move through a process or a series of operations. These processes can happen within an existing warehouse or facility. They can also extend across a geographical area through intermodal transport and various supply logistics stages.

Examples include the transportation of:

• Produce
• Flammable liquids
• Medicines

Customers are looking for an IoT architecture that is relatively simple to deploy and extensively scalable. The system must work with existing internal infrastructure and technologies, like onboard trackers and sensors that monitor temperature and humidity. It must also work with external systems, such as cellular networks and other solution components that impact outcomes and performance.

For a cold chain logistics tracking and monitoring use case, real-time alerts and notifications are critical. With customized IoT architecture, operations can set parameters for sensors and trackers, including:

• Asset temperature
• Vehicle location and condition
• Driver speed

If an alert is triggered, swift action can be taken to avoid costly equipment failure and asset losses.

Embedding IoT Modules and Connectivity into Assets

For a use case with different set requirements, consider a fleet of rental scooters or electric bikes (e-bikes). We work with manufacturers and provide an IoT architecture embedded into the asset for tracking and monitoring the e-bike or scooter fleet.

IoT modules and connectivity are an integral part of the system. They empower fleet owners to manage hundreds or thousands of scooters or e-bikes across large regions without external add-on trackers.

The complete solution will require a platform and dashboard, which we also provide. The platform and dashboard enable access to information regarding the scooter’s location, from the origin of rental to destination.

The data also includes battery life and the overall condition of the scooter. Accessing this data simplifies operations and optimizes pick-up and recharging while reducing losses due to theft.

Enhance Efficiency and Security with the Right IoT Architecture Provider

Organizations can improve operations and keep assets and people safe with the right IoT architecture. We provide customers with customized IoT architecture that offers visibility, security and connectivity in one solution.

Speak with our IoT experts to learn more about our IoT modules, connectivity plans and platforms.