Description: Urban IoT refers to the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in urban environments with the aim of optimizing and improving city services and infrastructure. This trend seeks to connect devices and systems via the internet, allowing for real-time data collection and analysis. Through sensors, mobile devices, and management platforms, Urban IoT facilitates interaction between citizens, public services, and urban infrastructure. The main characteristics of this approach include process automation, improved energy efficiency, traffic management, and public safety. Additionally, it promotes sustainability and quality of life in cities by enabling better planning and response to urban needs. In an increasingly interconnected world, Urban IoT becomes an essential tool for creating smart cities, where technology is used to solve everyday problems and enhance the experience of residents.
History: The concept of Urban IoT began to take shape in the late 1990s when technologies that allowed devices to connect to the internet started to develop. However, it was in the 2010s that the term ‘smart cities’ became popular, driven by the growth of connectivity and the need for more efficient urban solutions. Projects like those in Barcelona and Singapore have been pioneers in implementing IoT technologies to improve urban management, establishing a model for other cities to follow.
Uses: Urban IoT has multiple applications, including traffic management through smart traffic lights, air quality monitoring, waste management with containers that report their fill level, and public lighting systems that adjust based on human presence. It is also used in water and energy management, optimizing consumption and reducing costs.
Examples: A notable example of Urban IoT is Barcelona’s traffic management system, which uses sensors to monitor vehicle flow and adjust traffic lights in real-time. Another case is Singapore, which has implemented a waste management system that uses sensors in containers to optimize collection routes. Additionally, cities like Amsterdam have developed applications that allow citizens to report issues in urban infrastructure through their mobile devices.
