In an era where IoT connects various things to the internet, " IoE " is expected as a further evolution. Here, we summarize the concept of IoE and introduce the societal changes it brings.
What is IoE?
IoE (Internet of Everything) is an abbreviation for " Internet of Everything ", meaning that everything is connected to the internet. It encompasses not only physical things but also people, data, processes, and various other elements.
While IoT " Internet of Things ", which has been implemented earlier, connects things such as devices, appliances, medical equipment, and automobiles to the internet for information exchange, IoE, which targets everything, is an even larger concept that includes IoT itself.
As more things such as objects, people, and data connect to the internet, it becomes possible to utilize the collected information to create more convenient and valuable services for society. IoE is already producing results in various areas and is expected to expand further, transforming people's lives and businesses.
Concepts Related to IoE: What are IoC, IoH, IoA, and IoD?
IoE is a large concept that encompasses everything, including not only IoT for things but also the following:
- IoC
IoC stands for " Internet of Customers ". It is a concept that utilizes IoT with customer problem-solving in mind, aiming to provide value to customers who are the actual users. The vast data obtained through IoT is analyzed and connected to optimal actions for customers. - IoH
IoH stands for " Internet of Human ". It refers to the concept of people connecting to the internet, including not only direct methods such as embedding IC chips in the body but also situations where people are connected via wearable devices like smartphones, watches, glasses, and clothing. Biometric information, as well as location, behavior, and emotions, are constantly converted to data and can be utilized for health management and marketing. - IoA
IoA " Internet of Ability " represents humans connecting to the internet and having their abilities enhanced. It is a technology at the next stage beyond IoT and IoH. Assist suits (powered suits) worn on the body have already been realized as a type of IoA, and in the future, it is expected that thinking abilities can be enhanced through combination with AI. - IoD
IoD stands for " Internet of Digital ", referring to connecting digital devices to the internet. It includes not only terminals such as computers, smartphones, and tablets but also connecting servers and core systems to the network.
How Will Society Change with IoE?
When all things, people, and events are connected to the internet through IoE, diverse and vast amounts of data will be collected, and through analysis, this can lead to new mechanisms and services useful to society. Let's look at the societal changes that IoE brings.
Administrative Services
The introduction of IoE in administrative services began around 2000, mainly in Europe, and is spreading including to Japan. For example, in • Barcelona, Spain, parking sensors installed on streets manage roadway parking spaces, and citizens can check availability via apps. Many public facilities such as street lighting times and brightness, park and street tree irrigation, and fountains are automatically controlled by IoT/IoE technology, contributing to cost reduction. In Japan, the adoption of smart trash bins with built-in sensors enabling efficient waste collection is also expanding.
Business
In Sites construction, manufacturing, warehouses, and other operations, technology adoption is urgently needed from the perspective of efficiency and work environment improvement. The use of assist suits that enhance safety and reduce physical burden, and robots that reduce manual work has begun, and industrial IoE where all functions of Sites are interconnected is also attracting attention.
In retail, more appropriate customer service becomes possible based on customer attributes and purchase history, leading to increased sales. In other industries as well, better services and products can be provided along with operational efficiency and cost reduction.
Medical Care
In the medical Sites, online consultations and new forms of medical care using the internet are expected to spread. Automation of tests and measurements traditionally performed manually can also be expected. Additionally, data about patients can be aggregated from various terminals and used as a database, and information on medications and medical devices can be grasped in real time, enabling operational efficiency. It will also be utilized in formulating optimal treatment plans.
Transportation
As an already realized example, Australia utilizes IoE to help prevent traffic accidents and congestion. By installing numerous sensors and cameras on highways and connecting them to a network, the latest information is provided to drivers. Information on traffic accidents, congestion predictions, and weather impacts on traffic is disseminated to support safe and comfortable driving.
Summary
IoE lies beyond IoT. While it tends to be perceived as future technology, examples of IoE results leading to improvements in citizen services have already emerged. The vast data obtained by connecting everything to the internet expands the possibilities for problem-solving through centralized management and becomes a force for changing society. The trends in IoE will undoubtedly receive increasing attention going forward.
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