In a recent announcement, Sensoro, a sensor device and network technology company, and Semtech, a supplier of high performance analog and mixed-signal semiconductors and advanced algorithms, have outlined the results of the recent Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT (News - Alert)) Bootcamp dedicated to the Internet of Things (IoT), which the two companies sponsored. The aim of the bootcamp was to expose teams of students to the potential uses of IoT by allowing them to experiment with the LoRaWAN protocol provided by the LoRa Alliance.
The event had around 40 participants who were divided into small working teams to generate ideas on how to make a positive impact on communities across the world. A leading example was the development of a wireless sensor system to monitor water levels in drainage systems. The purpose of the system was to prevent natural floods in Turkey, where flash floods account for millions of dollars in damage, as well as many injuries and deaths.
The team's solution was to use a LoRaWAN network to power water level sensors, each connecting to a LoRaWAN-enabled gateway. The data gathered on water levels then allowed alerts to be sent via email or SMS. The students also set up a traffic control scheme for greenlighting evacuation routes. This system would allow Turkey's citizens and government the extra time needed to protect property and save lives.
"The bootcamp was a fantastic example of how IoT solutions could make an incredible impact on society," said Vivian Li, Co-Founder, CSO, Sensoro. "In this particular case, it could save countless lives and injuries and help avoid or mitigate property damage."
The water-level detection system developed by students is an example of the potentially life-changing impact that the IoT and LoRaWAN-based technology could achieve.
"IoT connects our world and Semtech's LoRa devices and wireless RF technology (LoRa Technology) can help solve real-world challenges by build a smarter planet," said Mike Wong (News - Alert), VP, Wireless and Sensing Products Group, Semtech. "With its rapid growth and solid foundation with LoRaWAN, LoRa Technology makes it possible to connect to the Cloud, enabling sound decisions in multiple industries, including smart cities, smart buildings, supply chain and logistics, metering, and agriculture."