The Sensing Internet—A Discussion on Its Impact on Rural Areas

• Published in: Future Internet
• Main Author: Alfred Heller
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2015
• Subjects: Internet of Things; sensing internet; wireless sensor networks; internet of sensors; robust IT; rural areas; remote areas; building sector; Information technology; T58.5-58.64; Greenland
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.3390/fi7040363; https://doaj.org/article/882fb235fbae44e886c13d2f99850b78

This paper is based on the experience of introducing wireless sensor networks (WSNs) into the building industry in Denmark and in a rural area of Greenland. There are very real advantages in the application of the technology and its consequences for the life cycle operation of the building sector. Sensor networks can be seen as an important part of the Internet of Things and may even constitute an Internet of Sensors, since the communication layers can differ from the Internet standards. The current paper describes the case for application, followed by a discussion of the observed adaptive advantages and consequences of the technology. Essentially, WSNs constitute a highly sophisticated technology that is more robust in a rural context due to its extremely simple installation procedures (plug and play) allowing the use of local less-skilled labour, and the possibility of reconfiguring and repurposing its use remotely.