As the world becomes more urbanized and as more pastures, more cities are experiencing enormous problems regarding infrastructure, resource management, and the general quality of life. In order to tackle such problems, more and more researchers and engineers are turning to technologies and half-baked ideas to make the cities of the future “smarter.” In this article, we analyze how science in general, and technology integration in particular, shape the creation of more intelligent cities.
What Makes a city “Smart”?
Smart city is defined as a city that uses utmost efficiency, the highest quality of life to its citizens, and maximizes all available resources and uses information and communication technology. In such places, the following features can be distinguished:
Integrated Technology: Use of various IoT (Internet of Things) sensors and devices.
Data-Driven Decision Making: Collecting data and especially good analytics about the services, and also about the target audience and the markets served.
Sustainability: Through green technologies and effective practices.
| Feature | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated Technology | Utilizes connected devices and sensors | Smart traffic lights, Wi-Fi hotspots |
| Data-Driven Decision Making | Analyzes data to optimize services | Traffic management systems |
| Sustainability | Implements green practices | Renewable energy sources |
Smart Cities in Their Technological Integration
1. Internet of Things (IoT)
IoT is a technology that enables interlinking of different devices and networks to enable information gathering and information sharing. In smart city applications, IoT includes:
Smart Transportation: Active traffic monitoring and management.
Public Safety: Malicious surveillance and emergency aid mechanisms.
Environmental Monitoring: Detection equipment for pollution and meteorological phenomenon.
| Application | Purpose | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Transportation | Manages traffic flow and reduces congestion | Improved travel times and reduced emissions |
| Public Safety | Enhances surveillance and emergency response | Increased safety and quicker response times |
| Environmental Monitoring | Tracks environmental conditions | better air quality management |
Big Data and Analytics
Cities’ big data tools derive useful insights from vast amounts of data. The key uses include:
Traffic Management: Managing traffic flow efficiently based on analysis of data collected.
Energy Management: Making efforts to use energy efficiently and avoid any wastage.
Urban Planning: Collection and analysis of data for subsequent design and installation of infrastructure.
| Application | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Traffic Management | Uses data to control and optimize traffic flow | Reduced traffic congestion |
| Energy Management | Analyzes energy consumption patterns | Lower energy costs and improved efficiency |
| Urban Planning | Incorporates data for infrastructure development | More effective city planning |
Advanced Techniques for Water Reclamation and Water Reuse.
Reclaimed water is treated wastewater that can be used for one or more purposes.
Dominant treatment:
Greywater recycling: Treatment and recovery of water from sinks, shower and washing machines.
Rainwater harvesting: Gathers and stores water falling from the sky for uses that do not require that it be potable.
Advanced treatment technologies: Incorporates technologies such as membrane bioreactors and processes for advanced oxidation.
Confrontation of Water Shortages
1. Desalination
Desalination refers to the removal of salt from water. The key methods are as follows:
Multi-Stage Flash Distillation: A thermal evaporative saltwater conversion process making use of an evaporator and a condenser.
Reverse Osmosis: This processes desalination by applying a pressure to force the seawater through selective membranes.
2. Multiple Water Level Management – A Method of considerable Wastage Prevention.
Sustainable water management aims at maximizing water benefits and minimizing water risks.
Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM)
Centers on the LCA of water provided that encompasses all principal branches of economy.
Water conservation strategies: These includes use of pressurized irrigation and water saving devices.
There is an increase in the integration of science and technology in the built environment. Cities are becoming better by integrating IoT, big data, and renewable energy to overcome critical problems that affect the bearable conditions of the cities. With the utilization of these technologies, it is possible to create not only smart cities but also flexible ones which can accommodate any present or future needs.
When we look at what is left to achieve in this regard, it can easily be observed that the possibilities of further enhancement of such intelligent cities are infinite. Developing both ideas as well as practices will be essential for achieving the desired energetic urban development.
Questions in relation to Smarter Cities
What is a smart city?
Smart cities rely upon technologies and information to upgrade urban services, increase the quality of life and advance healthy growth of urbanization. It encompasses all technological interventions to manage resources optimally as well as addressing urban issues.
How does IoT add value to smart cities?
IoT adds value by enabling devices and sensors to connect with networks for data collection and interpretation. It also assists in regulating traffic, security needs, and environmental surveillance.
According to you, how important is big data in urban planning?
Big data offers information on traffic flows, consumption of energy and demographics. This data helps in guiding the urban planners concerning infrastructure and services.
What options are there to help cities become more eco-friendly?
There are several ways such as incorporating renewable resources, using eco-friendly modes of transport and using eco-friendly policies in the operations of the corporation.
Give examples of some of smart city’s technologies?
These technologies include smart traffic signal control and environmental sensor networks, smart grid, and wireless city infrastructure. They assist in enhancing the services of the city and the living conditions of its inhabitants.