- Edge computing refers to a method of processing data close to users and devices.
- Examples of edge computing include autonomous vehicles, traffic management systems and industrial automation and control.
This article will introduce the definition and examples of edge computing.
Definition of edge computing
Edge computing refers to a method of processing data close to users and devices. This approach minimises latency and bandwidth costs, ensuring fast, scalable digital experiences. The infrastructure for edge computing includes dedicated servers, server networks, and IoT devices, with locations varying widely as the technology continues to develop.
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Major examples of edge computing
Edge computing is widely applied in all areas. Here are some of the examples.
1. Autonomous vehicles
Rugged edge computers are crucial for autonomous vehicles as they can gather, process, analyse, and decide on data from vehicle sensors and cameras within milliseconds. This rapid decision-making capability is essential to prevent collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, or objects. Using the cloud for data analysis introduces latency issues that can only be resolved by processing data locally at the edge where it is generated. This approach eliminates the need for data to travel long distances to centralised data centers for analysis and decision-making.
Moreover, the ruggedness of these edge computers allows them to endure the harsh conditions of vehicle deployments, including frequent shock and vibration, dust, debris, and extreme temperatures. Their robust design ensures reliable and uninterrupted operation. For instance, fanless designs prevent dust and particles from entering the system, as there is no air circulation needed for cooling. Heat is dissipated through heatsinks, transferring it to the system’s outer enclosure.
2. Traffic management systems
Another area of an edge computing example is traffic management systems. A prime example is the New York City traffic management system, which employs edge computing devices. These devices facilitate tasks such as optimising traffic signal timings and dynamically opening or closing additional lanes as needed. This approach ensures intelligent, real-time management of traffic to prevent congestion effectively.
3. Industrial automation and control
Rugged industrial computers are commonly used in factories and manufacturing facilities for automation and control purposes. They facilitate communication among factory machinery, sensors, equipment, and other devices, as well as provide connectivity to the internet for transmitting critical data to the cloud for remote monitoring and control.
Additionally, rugged computers excel in workload consolidation by integrating multiple operations onto a single system. This capability replaces separate purpose-built hardware machines with rugged edge computing devices. For instance, in industrial environments, programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and human-machine interfaces (HMIs) often run specialised applications, contributing to a decentralised system that heightens complexity and maintenance expenses. Consolidating workloads onto a single platform, such as a rugged edge computer, addresses these challenges and streamlines the system.
4. Health care
In the healthcare sector, patient data and records are continuously gathered from diverse devices like sensors, monitors, wearables, and other medical equipment. This practice enables healthcare professionals to access timely information about patient conditions.
