Meet the College Students Transforming Our World with Internet-of-Things Technology
Photos courtesy of Sandra BradleyBefore University of Wisconsin computer science student Songzi Wen started working in the university’s Internet of Things Lab, she was all about programming, the technical skills. But when it comes to Internet of Things (IoT) technology—which creates devices that make it easier to accomplish tasks with less human effort—big ideas are the most important fuel. That’s what allowed Wen and her team to invent a drone that could track objects using RFID technology (radio frequency identification). And it won them the Most Innovative Technology Award during a show in December.
“I used to think that, as a programmer, the only thing you need to master is all kinds of programming skills,” Wen said. “But now I think programming is just for use—the soul of a project is the idea. No matter how beautiful your user interface is, it’s useless if you do not have a great idea. It’s just a vase without flowers.”
UW’s Internet of Things Lab was launched in early 2014, and it’s part of a movement to, essentially, bring everyday objects to life. Business Insider described the IoT movement; as having the capability to “make many of the familiar devices and objects in our lives — from door locks to toll booths to refrigerators — suddenly Internet-connected, smartphone-accessible, and responsive.” And at UW’s lab, Research Director Sandra Bradley said it’s meant to be a place that emphasizes a “spirit of innovation.” “Our focus is to find out if there’s an idea that can solve a real problem,” she said.
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