Connected Objects: How do they work ?

Definition of Connected Objects

Connected objects, often grouped under the term IoT (Internet of Things), refer to a multitude of smart devices capable of connecting to the Internet and sharing data with other terminals. These objects range from smartwatches like the Apple Watch to home assistants like Alexa or Google Home, as well as industrial sensors and medical devices.

Importance of Connected Objects in the Professional and Consumer Worlds

The connectivity offered by these objects has transformed numerous sectors, from high-tech to start-ups, including the textile industry and the medical field. Thanks to AI (Artificial Intelligence) and the exploitation of Big Data, connected objects automate tasks, facilitate our daily lives, and generate valuable insights to improve performance.

Examples of Applications in Different Fields

• Textile: Monitoring production conditions and product quality.
• Medical: Remote monitoring of patient vital signs for personalized medical follow-up.
• High-Tech: Creating smart ecosystems, increasing efficiency and comfort. (Detailed examples lower in the article)

Key Technologies of Connected Objects

Smart Sensors and Detectors

At the heart of every connected object are sensors and detectors that collect data from the environment (temperature, humidity, movement, etc.). This data is then analyzed to provide a better understanding of the situation or trigger specific actions.

Embedded Systems and Microcontrollers

Connected objects generally function thanks to embedded systems and microcontrollers that manage sensor operation, data processing, and communication with other devices (smartphone, hub, other connected objects) or with the Cloud.

Wireless Communication Networks (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 5G, and others)

Most connected objects communicate via wireless networks, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Sigfox, or even cellular networks, facilitating their integration into different environments. These networks are based on communication with terrestrial antennas, which offer their share of surprises in terms of network coverage or roaming management. But we are entering a small revolution: BLUEGRioT is closely following enterprise solutions like Kineis, which launch nano-satellites into orbit to offer seamless connectivity to our future connected objects.

Communication Protocols (HTTP, MQTT, COAP, and others)

We know the HTTP communication protocol, which is widely used, but the choice widens a bit for connected objects for consumption reasons, for example.

• CoAP: BLUEGRioT uses CoAP in some of its network architectures. Similar to HTTP but much lighter, it is adapted to environments where bandwidth and energy are limited and offers an interesting multicast option.
• MQTT: Also very well known, MQTT is a protocol based on publish/subscribe, meaning devices can publish data that will then be sent to all other devices subscribed to this data stream.

Use Cases of Connected Objects

Connected Objects in the Textile Sector

BLUEGRioT has demonstrated innovation in the textile sector with the "Choose" connected shoe developed for Eram. This smart shoe can change color via a mobile app, offering customers a new form of personalization and redefining the shopping experience. Discover the project.

Medical Applications of Connected Objects

In the medical field 🧑🏻‍⚕️, connected objects have the potential to significantly improve the quality of care. Take the example of BLUEGRioT, which developed the Somno-Art device for PPRS. This device uses sensors to monitor patients with sleep apnea, allowing them to benefit from more precise medical follow-up and improve their quality of life. Découvrez le projet

Use of Smart Objects in the High-Tech Domain

In the high-tech sector, BLUEGRioT transformed the in-store shopping experience with a connected hanger for Galeries Lafayette. This smart hanger offers real-time information on clothing to customers and sales staff, making the shopping experience more interactive and improving stock management. Découvrez le projet

Smart Objects and Industry

In industry, connected objects can play a crucial role in improving production processes. A good example is the connected yeast sensor that BLUEGRioT developed for the Lesaffre group. This sensor allows real-time monitoring of the filling rate (%), geo-position 📍, and temperature 🌡️ of a container, guaranteeing constant product quality and optimizing logistics flows. Découvrez le projet

Challenges and Perspectives of Connected Objects

Evolution of Technologies and Functionalities

With the rapid evolution of technology, connected objects are becoming increasingly compact and sophisticated, integrating artificial intelligence capabilities and offering ever more useful functionalities, faster connection means, and lower energy consumption.

Potential Impact of Connected Objects on Industries and Society

The Internet of Things, despite its revolutionary potential, presents significant risks. Data security, privacy, accelerated device obsolescence, increasing electronic waste, dependence on technology, and job losses due to automation are major challenges. The BLUEGRioT team is aware of and sensitive to these subjects. Appropriate regulation and responsible implementation are crucial to minimize these negative impacts and ensure ethical and sustainable use of IoT.

Security and Data Protection

With the multiplication of connected objects, the question of cybersecurity and data protection becomes increasingly critical, requiring constant efforts to ensure user safety.

"In a world where even the most banal device can become a weapon, imagine a connected thermostat becoming the silent instigator of national chaos. When an invisible intruder triggers unbearable heat in millions of homes, it does more than disrupt their comfort—it shakes the foundations of a nation, plunging France into darkness. A simple click, and life as we know it tips over... Welcome to the next episode of Black Mirror."

Interoperability and Standardization

Interoperability and standardization represent major challenges for connected objects. Indeed, it is crucial that these devices can interact transparently and efficiently. However, a significant advance in this area is happening: the GAFAM giants recently agreed to make 'Matter' the common protocol for connected objects based on the 'Thread' network. This breakthrough, once unthinkable, highlights the importance of close collaboration for the sector's evolution. A new era is opening: devices from different manufacturers, such as Philips Hue bulbs, Ikea products, or Somfy electric blinds, can be controlled via Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, or Google Home. This paradigm shift opens exciting perspectives for the future of home automation.

"The team at BLUEGRioT, a young innovative company, found themselves at the heart of discussions of capital importance, mingling with industry giants during meetings of the 'Matter' alliance, led by Google. Despite their outsider status, their avant-garde project deploying a Thread network with 2200 connected hangers in Galeries Lafayette on the Champs-Élysées did not go unnoticed. Their noted presence in this elite circle earned them global recognition and the record for the largest number of connected objects on a single Thread network."

Social Acceptance and Ethical Questions

The widespread adoption of connected objects raises important social and ethical questions. While these devices offer considerable advantages in terms of convenience and efficiency, they also raise concerns regarding privacy and data security. Users are increasingly aware that their personal information may be vulnerable to data breaches and hacks. Furthermore, the question of equitable access to these technologies emerges, as a digital divide persists. It is therefore essential that these issues be taken into account to guarantee ethical and equitable adoption of these technologies.