The term "Internet of Things" (IoT) was first introduced by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). It refers to a vast network that connects various information-sensing devices, such as radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, infrared sensors, global positioning systems (GPS), and laser scanners, through the internet. This concept represents a new technological revolution, marking the fourth major shift following the development of personal computers, the internet, and wireless communication. The IoT holds significant scientific value and practical applications, and it is closely related to the internet. It is built using ubiquitous networking technology, combining internet infrastructure, broadband access, and wireless communication to create a mobile broadband internet, which then links physical objects together, forming the Internet of Things.
First, the technical foundation of the Internet of Things:
(1) Realizing the environment and conditions for the Internet of Things
Some people simplify the IoT as "RFID + sensor + internet," which is an illustrative metaphor but not entirely accurate. The essential conditions for building the IoT include: the internet as the foundational network; wireless sensor networks as the core technology; computer applications as internal requirements; standardization as a critical factor; and a supportive social environment to ensure smooth operation. Sensors are crucial in connecting physical objects. They store information from item labels and transfer it to other items or users, enabling automatic, real-time identification, location, tracking, monitoring, and event triggering via the network. This process relies heavily on sensors, which is why some refer to the IoT as a "sensor network."
Like the internet, IoT technology must follow the principle of openness. Its architecture, management, naming, interfaces, open services, and spectrum all emphasize this openness. Without it, global connectivity would be impossible.
Sensor nodes act as the bridge between the physical world and the internet.
(2) Six fundamental technical elements of the IoT
The six key technical components of the IoT include the internet, RFID, readers, IoT middleware, IoT name resolution system, and IoT information service system. These are among the most important technologies driving the IoT.
First, the Name Resolution Service (ONS). Similar to DNS on the internet, the ONS must be authorized and structured. Just as the internet requires domain name servers, the IoT needs an ONS to decode product identifiers and retrieve relevant information via URLs. Without a domain name, the internet wouldn't function, and similarly, without ONS, the IoT would lack structure.
Second, middleware technology. Middleware serves two main purposes: platform support and communication. It provides services to upper layers while ensuring the system runs smoothly. It supports multiple protocols and interfaces, such as RFID data exchange and device management, while hiding front-end complexity. Unlike general middleware that simplifies software, IoT middleware focuses on hardware complexity, especially RFID readers. Key features of middleware include architecture independence, support for data flow control and processing.
Third, the information service system. This includes the EPC system, where PML language is used to label entities and items, and RFID tags classify physical objects. A database is created to store data, develop application systems, and provide query services. The IoT is managed similarly to network management on the internet, often using SNMP-based systems.
(3) Other key technologies
The growth of the internet and e-commerce has led to the rise of the IoT. Its basic technologies also include EDI (Electronic Data Interchange), GIS (Geographic Information System), GPS, and RFID. The IoT originated from EDI, particularly in international shipping, where standardized electronic data exchange is essential. While China’s containers have achieved electronic labeling in maritime transport, the transition to rail and road remains inconsistent. Shanghai Port is leading in this area, but only 1.8% of its containers can connect automatically to the railway system.
A geographic information system (GIS) is also vital for the IoT. Understanding the location of items globally depends on GIS, which plays a key role in location tracking, route planning, service coverage, and logistics network design.
The IoT is also deeply tied to GPS. The global positioning system enables modern logistics and IoT integration. Currently, China mainly uses the U.S.-developed GPS, but it is also developing its own system, such as the Beidou navigation system, which is continuously advancing.
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