ROBOTICS CLUSTER

6.8.1. The IoT and Industrial Internet Architectures and Services
The IoT, the technologies, architectures, and services that allow massive numbers of sensor-enabled,
uniquely addressable “things” to communicate with each other and transfer data over pervasive networks
using Internet protocols, is expected to be the next great technological innovation and business opportunity,
exceeding in size and importance both the PC and mobile communications markets, and even the development
of the Internet itself.
6.8.1.1. Connected Things
The number of connected “things” is expected to increase dramatically (Figure 17, below). Indeed, the number
of device endpoints is so large that IPv6, the latest version of the Internet Protocol, is required. With IPv6,
the number of Internet protocol (IP) addresses balloons from IPv4’s approximately 4.3 billion addresses to
3.4x1038 addresses. This ensures that there will be enough unique Internet addresses for an unimaginable
number of devices of every conceivable type far into the future.
As IoT implementations and initiatives progress, a large number of technologies, standards, and other enablers
will be enhanced or newly developed from scratch. Moore’s Law (transistors per microprocessor)
IoT business drivers will spur
technological innovation, and in
doing so significantly advance the
robotics market.
and Metcalf’s Law (the network effect), of course, will contribute hugely to the growth of the IoT, as will the
technological tailwinds generated by rapidly expanding consumer and B2B IoT markets. For example, sensors
will surely be reduced in size and power consumption, while resolution, signal quality, and robustness
are increased.
Figure 17: IoT Connected Objects
(Source: ABI Research)
50,000
45.5B
40,000
Devices* x10 6
30,000
20,000
21.5B
112%
10,000
0
2015 2020
* Includes wireless, fixed and satellite connectivity.
Year
www.abiresearch.com
THE MASSACHUSETTS ROBOTICS CLUSTER
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