https://www.geneca.com/iot-in-manufacturing-guide/Smart Cities are cropping up all over the world, but what exactly is a ‘smart’ city? Smart cities use technology to enhance everyday life through streamlining and connecting services and amenities through technology.
Smart city technologies all work together to help curb the issues that arise with urbanization and to create the most comfortable experience for you.
Smart city solutions rely on sensors and actuators largely from tech like IoT to help collect data that is used to improve quality of life of its citizens. IoT and smart cities work together to improve traffic, reduce energy costs, improve air quality, help with waste management, and so much more.
What Is IoT?
What is the Internet of Things (IoT)? IoT refers to technologies that connect together over a vast network and work together to impact our daily lives. As more and more devices connect using IoT, we get an insight into how products and services are working and can help to improve our lives.
Do you use a Google Home, smart lock security, or a Ring Doorbell? If so, you are utilizing IoT in your home. Each of these signals contributes to the vast network of devices that connect and interact to aggregate information. All the information gathered by the IoT is how smart cities are able to adjust to and create more efficient and quality services.
Also check: IOT IN MANUFACTURING ULTIMATE GUIDE
Why Is It Important for Smart Cities?
IoT offers cities a lot of potential when navigating some of their biggest concerns: urbanization, structural deterioration, traffic congestion, managing crime rates, and so much more.
Generally speaking, IoT allows cities to create a healthier and happier community. Some of the key improvements for smart cities include: transportation enhancements from public transit to smarter traffic control, smart utilities, smart waste management, environmental control, and public safety.
IoT Use Cases for Smart Cities
IoT Analytics published a recent report that evaluated Smart City initiatives in London, Beijing, Berlin, Barcelona, and Dubai.
The top use cases for smart cities across the survey were: connected transportation, traffic monitoring, water level and flood monitoring, video surveillance and analytics, and connective strategies.
Connected Public Transit
IoT enabled cities to use real-time monitoring to send accurate notifications and smooth transit. These cities saw reduced traffic congestion and a streamlined transit system.
Oftentimes, smart cities rely on technology that is already in use, such as smart phones, to collect and distribute data. Smart traffic signals, for example, use AI to react to live traffic and reduce traffic congestion and cut down on vehicle emissions.
Smart street lights aren’t the only way smart cities are helping with public transit. Connected cars allow users to find parking more easily by using mapping data.
Waste Management
Waste management companies benefit in smart cities, too. Pre-determined routes are a massive drain on budget and increase consumption. Using the IoT allows waste management companies to optimize their routes and cut costs for everyone involved!
Utilities
Smart city projects also help citizens by reducing waste and helping cut costs. Smart city utilities are connected through an IoT system to create efficient systems. The systems use tools like smart meters which allow utility companies keep accurate billing and help users recognize consumption patterns to help cut costs.
A smart energy grid is yet another way to help cut costs and, more importantly, reduce energy consumption. Smart energy also cuts down on overuse and helps to save grids from collapse.
Water and Flood Management
Water management and flood risks are a huge concern for many communities. The smart cities studied used IoT to monitor and manage water levels to mitigate flood and water concerns and risks.
Video Surveillance and Analytics
Smart cameras are becoming increasingly popular to help detect all sorts of situations from traffic accidents to crime. Not only does this cut down on costs, but there was a reported 65% drop in crime.
Smart lighting helps with surveillance by increasing lighting levels when people are in the area and helps to reduce light pollution and consumption.
What Does the Future Hold for IoT & Smart Cities?
With smart city applications on the rise, it’s clear the tech will continue to grow. Urbanization is on the rise, and smart cities may just be part of the answer to creating better living situations.
IoT has unlimited potential, and as cities continue to grow, IoT will be present to help provide solutions to some of the most challenging parts of continued growth.
Learn More with Geneca
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FAQs
What is IoT in smart cities?
IoT refers to connected technologies that aggregate data and use the information to enhance city life.
Is smart city an example of IoT?
Yes, smart cities utilize IoT to cut down on operational costs and curb some of the effects of growing urbanization.
What are examples of smart cities?
Smart cities use things like connected traffic lights and cars to help with traffic flow and reduce drive time. Smart cities also use things like waste management, enhanced public safety, and utilities to make daily life better for citizens.
What are the 4 smart city domains?
The four smart city domains are people, governance, economy, and lifestyle.