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Layered Architecture of IoT (Internet of Things)

Layered Architecture of IoT: In this tutorial, we will learn about the different layers of IoT architecture in detail with the help of their examples. By Shahnail Khan Last updated : August 12, 2023

Internet of Things (IoT) refers to transferring data from one device to another via the Internet. Before planning and executing IoT solutions, we need to have a thorough knowledge of IoT architecture. This tutorial has got you covered on IoT architecture.

Different Layers of IoT Architecture

The standard IoT solutions architecture consists of several unique layers that interact to offer enterprises and end consumers the best services possible. This architecture provides future scalability and functionality while enabling the effective transmission of data and services across IoT networks. The stages or levels of IoT architecture are as follows:

1. Sensors/Actuator

The core components of the IoT are sensors and actuators. These are Low-End IoT devices. They are in charge of gathering, sending, and processing data. Both wired and wireless connections are available for these devices. Sensors or actuators can connect to the network through LAN or personal area networks.

Examples include GPS, RFID, MAX30100, and more. Each of these sensors serves a specific purpose. For example- the MAX30100 sensor is used for measuring the Oxygen saturation (SPO2) of haemoglobin in blood.

2. Data Aggregation & Gateway

Once the data sensing is done via a sensor, efficient gateways and networks are required to facilitate the transfer of stored data. These networks can be local (such as LANs like WiFi or Ethernet) or global (such as 5G).

3. Edge It (Edge Computing)

In IoT architecture, edge computing is an important layer. Data analysis and pre-processing are done by hardware and software gateways before being sent to the cloud. To save data traffic and preserve resources, data that has not changed since its prior reading is frequently not transferred to the cloud.

4. Cloud It/Data Center

The management services subcategory includes the data centre or cloud component. Here, data is handled, processed, and examined. Deep Data Analytics is done for inspecting, cleansing, transforming and modulating data to discover useful information. The cloud also handles security measures and device management. In addition to these tasks, the cloud acts as a delivery channel for data to end-user applications, including those used in retail, healthcare, emergency services, environmental monitoring, and energy management.

This IoT architecture functions as a well-organized system that facilitates smooth data transfer from sensors and devices to the apps we use. Ensuring that the data is handled efficiently at every step, IoT architecture provides businesses and end consumers with relevant information and services.

Example of IoT Architecture

We can better understand IoT architecture by taking an IoT solution. Okay, let's use the example of a pulse oximeter, a medical tool that measures a person's heart rate and oxygen saturation levels. This will help to illustrate how the IoT architecture works.

• The components of a pulse oximeter that clip onto your finger or earlobe are the sensors. These sensors gather information about your heart rate and blood oxygen saturation level. Vital health data may be obtained from the sensor by having it emit light through your skin and measuring how much of it is absorbed by your blood.
• A device or network must receive the data the sensors have collected and process it. In many instances, a pulse oximeter may establish a direct Bluetooth connection with a smartphone or tablet. We can also use the ESP32 board for this purpose.
• Some pulse oximeters have computing power built right into the device. They may determine if your oxygen levels are within a healthy range by analysing the data they get locally. It might not be necessary to transmit any further data if everything is normal. The requirement for frequent data transfer can be lessened and battery life can be extended by this local processing.
• The pulse oximeter can send information to a cloud-based service or a central data centre for more in-depth monitoring and historical data analysis. Healthcare professionals who wish to monitor a patient's long-term health patterns will find this to be extremely helpful. Data is securely processed and stored in the cloud.

Conclusion

IoT architecture may be thought of as a kind of blueprint for ensuring seamless interoperability amongst smart devices. It enables communication, effective data processing, and data security. Numerous devices may be used with it, and it was designed to expand to meet changing demands. Additionally, it can analyse data, conserve energy, and facilitate the operation of these smart devices by users.