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[pczekalski][✓ pczekalski, 2023-11-29]IoT layered architecture diagram comes here
This chapter focuses on the architectural design of IoT networks and systems. It leverages the well-known four-layered IoT reference architecture shown in figure 1 to discuss the methodologies and tools for the design of IoT networks and systems. An IoT reference architecture acts as a strategic blueprint, detailing the key components and their interactions within an IoT ecosystem. It offers a robust framework to guide the design, development, and deployment of effective IoT solutions, ensuring a cohesive and scalable system architecture. The IoT reference architecture outlines the foundational layers and components required for the seamless operation of IoT systems. Each layer plays a critical role in ensuring the efficient collection, transmission, processing, and utilization of data in an IoT ecosystem.
The perception layer forms the foundation of the IoT ecosystem by interacting directly with the physical world. It consists of various IoT-enabled devices, sensors, and actuators that gather data or influence the environment.
Components
Functionality
This layer serves as the “eyes and hands” of the IoT system, enabling it to sense and influence its surroundings.
The network layer facilitates connectivity between IoT devices and the broader system, ensuring that data captured at the perception layer is reliably transmitted to data processing units. This layer also supports device-to-device and device-to-cloud communication.
Components
Functionality
This layer is the “nervous system” of the IoT architecture, enabling the flow of information across the ecosystem.
The data processing layer is responsible for aggregating, filtering, analyzing, and deriving actionable insights from the data collected by IoT devices. This layer can operate at the edge (closer to the devices) or in the cloud, depending on the application’s requirements.
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Functionality
This layer acts as the “brain” of the IoT system, transforming raw data into meaningful intelligence.
The User Interaction and Value Creation Layer The application layer is where processed data is transformed into end-user functionalities and value-driven solutions. It consists of software applications, services, and user interfaces that allow users to interact with and benefit from the IoT system.
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Functionality
This layer represents the “face” of the IoT system, delivering tangible benefits and user-centric solutions.
Key Insights and Integration of Layers
By leveraging a well-structured IoT reference architecture, organizations can build resilient and efficient IoT ecosystems tailored to their specific needs. This layered approach ensures that every component, from sensors to user applications, contributes to a cohesive and value-driven system. The discussion on IoT architectures presented in the remaining parts of this chapter is based on the IoT reference architecture presented above.