1 IoT Fundamentals: Definitions, Architectures, Challenges, and Promises
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1.2 Architectures and Reference Models of IoT:
A Layard View
1.2.1 IoTWF Reference Model of IoT
There are several standardizations in the IoT ecosystem. The IoT World Forum
(IoTWF) is an exclusive annual industry event hosted by Cisco. As an outcome
of their collaboration, they published a Standardized Architecture in 2014. The
committee was comprised of Cisco, IBM, Rockwell Automation, and others. The
proposed IoT Architecture is a seven-layer reference model, with control originating
from the center (e.g., cloud) to the endpoint devices. Generally, data is gathered at
the endpoint devices and is sent toward the center. The central processing can, in
fact, be decentralized and implemented as a cloud service. The purpose of such
a model is to give a common understanding of how the problem of creating IoT
can be divided. With the different goals of each layer identified, and the interfaces
specified, different companies can contribute pieces that will interoperate. Security
can also be enforced at each layer of the model. These seven layers include (see
Fig. 1.3) [11]:
1. Physical devices and controllers (things) – These are the physical devices,
sensors, actuators, and controllers that form the Internet of Things. Their primary
function is to collect data to transmit upstream, but they should also be capable
of receiving commands, e.g., power down, etc.
2. Connectivity (networking) – This is the layer that serves as the medium to bring
the sensor data from the devices to the upper layers where that data is cleaned
and analyzed. The chief responsibility here is for reliable, secure, and timely
delivery of data. This includes any switching or routing that is necessary as well
as translation between protocols if necessary.
Fig. 1.3 IoT reference model by IoTWF
19
1.2 Architectures and Reference Models of IoT:
A Layard View
1.2.1 IoTWF Reference Model of IoT
There are several standardizations in the IoT ecosystem. The IoT World Forum
(IoTWF) is an exclusive annual industry event hosted by Cisco. As an outcome
of their collaboration, they published a Standardized Architecture in 2014. The
committee was comprised of Cisco, IBM, Rockwell Automation, and others. The
proposed IoT Architecture is a seven-layer reference model, with control originating
from the center (e.g., cloud) to the endpoint devices. Generally, data is gathered at
the endpoint devices and is sent toward the center. The central processing can, in
fact, be decentralized and implemented as a cloud service. The purpose of such
a model is to give a common understanding of how the problem of creating IoT
can be divided. With the different goals of each layer identified, and the interfaces
specified, different companies can contribute pieces that will interoperate. Security
can also be enforced at each layer of the model. These seven layers include (see
Fig. 1.3) [11]:
1. Physical devices and controllers (things) – These are the physical devices,
sensors, actuators, and controllers that form the Internet of Things. Their primary
function is to collect data to transmit upstream, but they should also be capable
of receiving commands, e.g., power down, etc.
2. Connectivity (networking) – This is the layer that serves as the medium to bring
the sensor data from the devices to the upper layers where that data is cleaned
and analyzed. The chief responsibility here is for reliable, secure, and timely
delivery of data. This includes any switching or routing that is necessary as well
as translation between protocols if necessary.
Fig. 1.3 IoT reference model by IoTWF