2023 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

An ongoing convergence of technologies has given rise to the rapid implementation of the next generation of uses of the Internet. These Internet applications/systems are commonly known as the Internet of Things (IoT). These IoT functions incorporate networks of advanced sensors and actuators, embedded intelligence, and present-day networking technologies to provide the exchange of data over the Internet with other network connected devices and systems in what is now called machine-to-machine (M2M) communications. In many cases, this technology gives rise to novel and innovative cyber-physical control systems that were not previously possible. In fact, IoT technology has the potential to affect nearly every aspect of human endeavor and commerce by increasing system efficiency and reducing energy consumption of almost all types of industrial activities. Furthermore, IoT can provide real-time monitoring of the nation's infrastructure and environment and has the real potential to improve public health, safety, and national security.
Today, society is on the cusp of Industry 4.0 and, at the same time, the rapid electrification of the world in the attempt to stem climate change by adopting alternative energy sources (solar, wind, etc.) and reducing fossil fuel usage. The transition to Industry 4.0 is in great part facilitated by IoT applications that enable many supportive and essential industrial functions. The steady integration of IoT applications into industrial environments results in increasing automation, the improvement of timely communications and self-monitoring and increasing the use of smart machines that can analyze and diagnose process issues without the need for humane intervention. Likewise, the integration of alternative energy sources and the transition to electric and autonomous vehicles, advanced batteries, power storage, microgrids and smart grids, and carbon removal initiatives will all be enabled and made more efficient through the use of IoT applications.
This NSF ATE project has developed IoT curriculum and a one-year Certificate of Completion in IoT technology. It is believed that these curricula materials may be readily adopted by the various advanced manufacturing support technologies (e.g. Mechatronics, Robotics, Automation, Electrical/Electronics, Photonics, Nano, Metrology, etc.) taught at the two-year college level. This poster session presentation will highlight the significant outcomes of this ongoing ATE project.