The Locksmith Journal Nov/Dec 2019 - Issue 65 | Page 8

Industry News Internet of things and the hardware and security industry » THE INTERNET OF THINGS (IOT) IS becoming more and more prevalent worldwide. This article outlines some practical applications of IoT such as Smart Homes and Smart Buildings and discusses new product areas and future trends for IoT within the hardware and construction industry. Definition and background IoT is a system of “things” or interrelated computing devices, mechanical and digital machines, objects, animals or people that can transfer data over a network without requiring human-to-human or human-to- computer interaction. Increasingly, organisations are using IoT to operate more efficiently, better understand customers, improve decision- making and increase the value of the business. Smart Homes The Smart Home (also known as the Connected Home), uses modern automation systems to provide a practical way of controlling electronic devices in the home. Smart Home technology can include all smart appliances (washers, dryers, refrigerators, etc), safety and security systems (internet-connected sensors, monitors, cameras, and alarm systems), and energy equipment such as smart thermostats and smart lighting. Manufacturers within the hardware industry are now providing a number of new product solutions for the Smart Home including: • Smart Door Locks, which enable a home to be secured without the need to carry keys. The door can be opened with a PIN code, remote fob, or a smartphone. • Home View cameras, which link wirelessly to an Internet connection, allowing homeowners to check their home when they’re out using a smartphone, tablet or PC. • Smart Home Alarms, which allow the system to be armed or disarmed from anywhere using a smartphone. 8 Smart Buildings Smart Buildings are sometimes referred to as ‘automated buildings’, ‘intelligent buildings’ or buildings that incorporate smart technology. They centre on the use of interconnected technologies to make buildings more intelligent and responsive. Again, the hardware industry has responded with new products which integrate seamlessly into the Smart Building including: • Smart digital locking. This generates time-sensitive codes which can allow temporary access through digital locks. Short, medium or long-term codes for a specific date, time and duration can be set and generated via an app or online and codes can be sent via email or SMS. • Smart Locking and access control. Smartphone-controlled access control systems use an intelligent combination of electronics, mechanics and wireless technology and provide unique identification for every opening through encrypted communication. • Building Automation Systems. Examples include management systems that can intelligently integrate emergency exit systems, smoke and heat extraction systems, hold open door systems and automatic doors. They can be used as an independent building automation system (stand- alone solution) or integrated into a higher-ranking building management system. • Virtual Reality. New Virtual Reality technologies allow the customer to digitally experience the usability of ironmongery products within a virtual world. Future Trends IoT will continue to influence the way the world works and operates, and the construction industry is embracing the opportunities it brings. • New standards. New products require new sets of industry standards to be drafted and published. One example is mechatronic devices which have a set of BS EN standards developed specifically for this product area. These standards include BS EN 14846 for Electromechanically operated locks; BS EN 15684 for Mechatronic Cylinders and BS EN 16864 for Mechatronic padlocks. There is also a new standard for mechatronic door furniture prEN 16867 which has been drafted and is due for publication in 2020. In addition, BSI has now introduced a Kitemark Scheme which is designed to help consumers confidently and easily identify the IoT devices they can trust to be safe, secure and functional. • Increased development of existing technologies will continue. This includes Virtual Reality which will allow for employee training in real- life scenarios such as life safety and will also allow e-commerce to be a much more interactive experience for the consumer. Artificial Intelligence will also increase as home hubs and equipment collect data on consumer habits and usage patterns. This will allow machines to “learn” human behaviour and adjust themselves accordingly for a better user experience. Internet of Things is no longer science fiction, it is science fact. Its emergence and development will continue to have a marked impact on us in the hardware industry, both now and in the future Douglas Masterson GAI Technical Manager NOV/DEC 2019 locksmithjournal.co.uk Issue Takeover Magazine Sponsor