The Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized the way we interact with our environment by connecting various devices and allowing them to communicate and share valuable data. But this also brings its challenges and headaches for IoT system integrators as there is no a universal standard or technology used by IoT platforms and devices. Therefore, to implement an IoT system, in many cases developers must study, configure, and integrating different architectures and technologies, which can lead to a difficult and time-consuming process. However, in the middle of these challenges, Node-RED emerges as a powerful tool that can alleviate various of our worries. So, understanding how this technology works with our KIWI boards is essential to take advantage of its full potential.

What is an IoT Architecture?

IoT architecture refers to the many ways that IoT devices such as sensors, actuators, cloud services, protocols, and layers that are structured to meet our needs. In general, it is divided into layers for allow administrators to assess, monitor, and maintain the integrity of the entire system.

What do the layers mean in an IoT architecture?

There are many stages that are involved on the IoT architecture. Broadly, the process consists of the following stages:

In the below IoT architecture picture, we find at the foundation lies the sensing layer, where a multitude of sensors and actuators are deployed. In the case of the KIWI310, I2C and SPI sensors can be connected to its 40 pins for collecting data from the physical environment and convert it into digital signals for further processing.

Then, we have the protocol layer that basically is a bridge that ensures efficient and standardized communication between the devices and the systems. In IoT applications, common protocols such as MQTT, CoAP or HTTP  are employed to facilitate lightweight and secure data transmission.

IoT Architecture layers

Going up we have, in the next layer, our precious KIWI310 who comes into action playing the role of an IoT edge device since it can collect, process, analyse and transmit data locally, without necessarily depending on a constant connection to the cloud.

But hold on, because the KIWI boards also can perform as a gateway facilitating the secure and reliable communication between the edge devices from the local network and the remote cloud infrastructure.

The final layeres of cloud services and visualization offers scalability, reliability, and accessibility for the data collected, enabling advanced analytics, machine learning, and integration with other enterprise systems.

What are the challenges of an IoT system integrator?

Generally speaking,  choosing the right programming language is a constant concern since it will not only depend on the programmer's skills, the complexity of the project or the time constraints, but also depends on the support community associated with the programming language that give us a hint to help to solve any code error.

The problem appears when having to write the entire programing code for the device’s integration, cloud data upload and data visualization because all of this it may be time consuming. But What if we had a tool that helps us to solve all these concerns and offer us an easy and intuitive way for programming?  Sure, there is! And its name is Node-RED.

IoT Architecture including Node-RED

What is Node-RED?

Node-RED is a remarkable simple and versatile open-source programming tool. It is suitable for IoT applications due to its flexibility and scalability and enjoys a large and supportive community where you can easily find assistance when needed.

How does Node-RED contribute to the KIWI boards for an IoT application?

Node-RED offers numerous benefits, starting with the fact that it is an open-source programming tool which is other words means it is totally Free!

It provides a visual flow-based programming environment for connecting hardware devices, APIs (application programming interfaces), and online services. So, it's no wonder why this tool is ideal for IoT applications.

But Node-RED offers you this and much more due to its unique features and capabilities. Its visual programming interface simplifies the development process, allowing you to visually connect built-in nodes and create IoT workflows without extensive coding knowledge - this will sound great for newbies that are just taking their first steps in the world of the IoT because it will save their time and effort.

Node-RED also offers you an enormous library of pre-built nodes covering various IoT protocols, data processing, and device control, making it easy for you to seamlessly integrate with minimal overhead when adding new devices or migrating to an existing system.

In addition, Node-RED has an event-based architecture which means that events are processed as they occur, enabling immediate reactions and allowing the system to quickly respond to changes or triggers.

And last but not least, you have to know that you are not alone, Node-RED has a large and active community of developers and users who contribute to its growth, providing a large number of resources, tutorials and support.

Benefits of Node-RED in KIWI boards

How does Node-RED help maximize KIWI boards scalability?

KIWI boards are equipped with Node-RED which is a powerful tool that cries out to be exploited to its full potential. Starting because this tool is designed to respond to events or triggers in real time, which makes our KIWI boards ideal for scenarios where responsiveness, scalability and adaptability are crucial.

Comparison of Sequential and Event-driven architectures

Thanks to Node-RED, the KIWI boards enjoy horizontal scalability by processing events asynchronously and independently (Event-driven Architecture), where workload distribution among multiple nodes or processes becomes seamless. This scalability is invaluable when dealing with large volumes of concurrent events. In other words, its architecture ensures that the system can handle high loads without sacrificing its precious performance.

Can you customize a built-in node of Node-RED for my application?

Certainly! It should be noted that the KIWI boards, when equipped with Node-RED, becomes a powerful and highly customizable combination.

Whether in the field of software like built-in nodes or hardware like heat sinks or housings, Axiomtek takes care of any of these customizations to help you achieve your project goals.

Leveraging its extensive industry experience, integration expertise, and strong R&D resources, Axiomtek has the ability to transform your ideas into practical solutions, effectively bridging the gap between concepts and reality.

Through these strengths, Axiomtek facilitates the successful execution of design, manufacturing service (DMS) processes, and projects, enabling you to achieve your goals with confidence.

For more product information, any technical support or quotation, please refer to the Axiomtek Taiwan website www.axiomtek.com.tw. You can write to twmarketing@axiomtek.com.tw and contact AIXON regional business to obtain exclusive and efficient services. Axiomtek also provides comprehensive customization services, welcome manufacturers who are interested in ODM/OEM to contact us.

 About Axiomtek

Axiomtek Co.Ltd. is an international industrial computer (Industrial PC; IPC) series of products leading designer and manufacturer, specializing  in data acquisition and control system research start, has a strong R & D and manufacturing team, based on advanced embedded R & D technology, as well as PC-based industrial automation solutions, to develop diversified and modular application computer platforms and systems, intelligent rail transit special platforms, touch tablet computers, communication products and Internet of Things related application platforms, etc., becoming the most trusted long-term supplier partner in diversified industries.