The 4 Device Types in the Internet of Things, from a Data Perspective

The simplest IoT devices have a highest IoT function of making one-way service requests while monitoring themselves. These range from home appliances and propane tanks, to commercial vending machines, to urban devices like porta-potties and garbage cans. The data flows only outward

The next type of device also involves one-way export of monitored data, but functions as a real-time reporter of more complex data in a much more ramped-up fashion. This often includes medical data (like heart rate, glucose level, or blood pressure) and/or GPS/motion tracking. GPS/motion tracking may include: athletic analyzers (often reporting speed or swing data), fitness trackers, and vehicle trackers (which may include OBD-II non-GPS data).

The next step up the evolutionary ladder is interactive devices.  We have now achieved two-way communication of data! This allows a level of programmability, although we may no longer need to transmit a constant flood of data to be monitored. These smart devices include pet feeders, DVR’s, home security, watering systems, lighting, smart appliance, toys, game systems and of course tablets and cellphones.  With two-way data flow, there may now be greater security concerns over unauthorized access to the device and its data.

Lastly, we have devices that do everything listed above plus possess a high degree of artificial intelligence, an intelligence that must be tested, especially where safety is concerned. This includes drones, smart vehicles, and smart factories. Real-time incoming data monitoring via sensors is used to make subtle adjustments or abrupt alteration, safely reacting and maneuvering to avoid potential hazards while monitoring the success or failure of the device’s actions.