IoT stands for the Internet of Things. It is a term that is applied to any type of device that can be connected to the Internet and mostly does not require any human intervention. It is similar in many way to what used to be called M2M (Machine 2 Machine) communication but IoT is based on Internet communication specifically. It might be something that monitors temperature or control lighting levels, for example.

NB-IoT stands for Narrow Band IoT—this really refers to a mobile communication mechanism that is designed to enable the anticipated vast numbers of IoT devices that send very small amounts of data with a limited data rate, using lower cost and lower power modems than 3G / 4G and uses only a small sub-section of the mobile phone bandwidth.

This depends on the type of communication, the sensor or actuator attached and the battery size required (if not mains powered). For example, we can build small (20mm x 20mm) devices that transmit acceleration, angular motion and magnetic field information, using low power Bluetooth (BlueNRG). These can run for many months without needing to have any intervention if there is only a need to transmit information evey hour. However range will be limited to circa 100M.

If it was to be a device that was required to have Global Reach then it could possibly use WiFi (if it was available) to the Internet or Mobile Comms to the Internet. These would tend to need larger batteries than a Bluetooth version or send the information much less frequently.

The sensors and actuator we can use are almost limitless and the type and size are not really relevant to the wireless technology utilised, as the issue then becomes an interface problem. We use Analogue, Digital, SPI and I2C based transducers regularly.

We have made products that integrate with both Google and Alexa voice activation systems.

We are regularly asked about fitting Smart (Iot) Technologies on to legacy devices so that non-networked products that still have a significant useful life can be upgraded to be IoT (networked) devices. This is something we have extensive experience in doing and we have numerous technical solutions in our toolbox to enable efficient, cost effective outcomes.

Not necessarily. We take a design approach that MAY use the Internet but, depending on the application, it may use other methodologies, such as SMS messaging. The choice is application specific.

Yes, it is ideal for that as it will provide vibration information in real time to your application without the need for any physical connection.

The main thing that you will need to consider is the amount of electrical noise generated by the machine that could potentially interfere with the Bluetooth radio, but there are numerous practical means to minimise any potential effects.

In general (without knowing the specifics of the application) it should give very good results on measuring body motion of all sorts. We have already worked with research groups on a number of such applications.

The device is battery powered, lightweight and small and as such can be attached to people undertaking all sorts of activities. We have already been involved in projects to assess athletes in both individual and team events. Of course the meaning and implication of the data will be down to the application itself.