AT&T is reaching further both inside and outside the organization to leverage innovative IoT technology and develop Smart City solutions. Alliances have been formed with Cisco, Deloitte, Ericsson, GE, IBM, Intel and Qualcomm Technologies to support its smart city framework and build more connected communities, AT&T elaborated in a January 5 blog post.
AT&T is showcasing ways in which its smart city framework solutions can be employed in spotlight cities of Atlanta, Chicago and Dallas. Installations at the Georgia Institute of Technology will also serve as a showcase.
AT&T Smart City Framework
In addition to networking power meters, water systems and street lights, AT&T says it’s incorporating several new categories of IoT-driven solutions to its Smart City framework. These include:
- Infrastructure – Cities are able to remotely monitor the condition of roads, bridges, buildings, parks and other venues. Maintenance crews can identify slick roadways during freezing weather or detect bridges that may need repairs.
- Citizen Engagement – Mobile apps give people information to stay better prepared. For example, you can be notified in near real-time if a traffic light isn’t working on your route. You can also remotely view parking meters and reserve spaces ahead of time.
- Transportation – Digital signage lets commuters know in near real-time when the next bus or train will arrive. People can rent electric bikes at stations across the city to reduce traffic.
- Public Safety – Cities can better manage traffic patterns of pedestrians at stadiums, parks, and busy intersections. Gun fire detection technology helps law enforcement know where a shooting occurred. It also helps them determine the number of people involved and rounds fired.
AT&T is also developing a new digital dashboard that provides a comprehensive overview of public infrastructure and conditions. The so-called Smart City Network Operation Center (SC-NOC) gives a dashboard view of how assets are performing in near-real time, giving city officials the ability to keep tabs on power outages, water leaks, and traffic issues, among others, from one location.
In addition, AT&T recently joined Envision America, a new smart cities program under Envision Charlotte. Program initiatives make use of a wide range of technologies aimed at enhancing the management of energy, water, waste, and air quality.
This past June, AT&T, IBM and Mueller Water Products launched a trial version of an IoT-driven Smart City water systems management application in Atlanta, Las Vegas and Los Angeles.
Image courtesy of flickr user Michael Seljos.
The Smart Water Application seems like it would benefit whole communities where water rates are rising rapidly. Given the current climate change outlook, the cost of water could increase significantly in areas that are already impacted by drought conditions.