Internet of Things - Technology focus

The mobile app he proposed seeks to help users manage the IoT devices in their home. It would enable users with limited technical expertise to scan their home wifi and bluetooth networks to identify and inventory connected devices. It would flag devices with out-of-date software and other common vulnerabilities and provide instructions on how to update each device’s software and fix other vulnerabilities.

So what does this mean for the Internet of Things (IoT)? The Bluetooth SIG certainly expects the new capability to make big waves, predicting Bluetooth mesh networks will “eventually become a common technology in the larger Internet of Things ecosystem.”   Semiconductor company Silicon Labs is also betting on the technology, given that they recently released a suite of software and hardware tools for BLE mesh developers. The tools include a variety of Bluetooth mesh modules, system-on-chip (SoC) and system-in-package (SiP) developer kits, and software development kits (SDKs). According to Silicon Labs, these tools will enable IoT developers to cut their time to market by six months (which, as we all know, is an eternity in the tech world).  "We expect to see a wave of new devices hit the market quickly by leveraging ubiquitous Bluetooth connectivity to create hub-less mesh networks that extend the range and reliability of Bluetooth systems," said Silicon Labs’ Daniel Cooley. "No matter which mesh technology developers choose to power their next IoT designs, we offer a complete portfolio of silicon, software and solutions that gives device makers everything they need to accelerate time to market while designing secure, robust mesh networks."  While Bluetooth isn’t the only technology for mesh networks, it certainly has its share of advantages. Chief among these is the ubiquity and familiarity of Bluetooth devices. Consumers favor brands they recognize, and by now, just about everyone on Earth recognizes the runic Bluetooth logo. Aside from that, Bluetooth has the proven security and low-power requirements that are necessary for IoT applications.

Omron Electronic Components Europe has developed an environmental sensor that allows designers to monitor seven parameters from a single module measuring 46 x 39 x 15mm and weighing 16g.  The 2JCIE-BL01 is specifically designed for the growing number of autonomous IoT systems, monitoring temperature, humidity, light, UVI, barometric pressure, noise and acceleration. 

Lastly, manufacturing sensors and devices are a common threat, as they are unmanaged. As seen with  Petya,  NotPetya  and WannaCry, unmanaged devices have been the target for spreading ransomware across networks. The attackers are looking for the easiest entry point and the sensors of unmanaged IoT devices, which have become active targets. Manufacturing under government contracts has been a key target and supply chain SMBs now have required guidance for compliance. Some of the most critical aerospace designs have been stolen through cyberattacks that have a significant effect on our national security, as well as the economy for lost programs from these smaller manufacturers, whereas in food safety, the monitoring and prevention of agroterrorism is paramount to protect our national food supply.  What should we do? The list of actions remains very similar. Make sure all devices are not set to default (i.e., change passwords) — this is a typical flaw in the devices of SMBs as well as consumer devices. Verify all devices and sensors are managed and monitored. Properly segment your network — create an internal, guest and IoT network at a minimum. Some other helpful considerations around a cybersecurity program include updating firewalls, securing remote access, reviewing security configurations, operating system updates and patches, training staff members, improving security policies and changing control procedures.

But once you shake off the initial giggles of seeing someone wearing a robot suit and squatting by their workstation, the applications of the device become clear. For people who work with heavy machinery or on production lines or do other jobs that require long periods of standing, The Chairless Chair could be a lifesaver.  Sitting is not always feasible in those kinds of environments, due to the clutter chairs could create. And standing in non-ergonomic positions for long periods of time can lead to joint issues. The company claims its product could lead to fewer employee absences caused by injuries.