IoT Cloud Sense On-Premises Respond

Cloud-based processing of device generated data and alerts with on-premises response.

Pattern Definition

Problem How do I use Cloud resources to process incoming data and alerts from devices, sense a need to respond, and respond via on-premises systems?
Context This pattern is applicable when there is a desire to leverage Cloud computing to process device generated messages while responding to the messages with on-premises systems. While it is possible to have a point-to-point connection to a single on-premises application for response, using an on-premises Application Integration Platform or Messaging Platform provides a more flexible response capability.
Forces
  • Devices may be on premises or Cloud based.
  • Near real time response desired for incoming data and alerts.
  • An on-premises IoT Platform is not available or is not desirable.
  • The number of incoming messages is significantly greater that the number of responses required.
  • Response capability is difficult to move to the Cloud.
  • On-premises Application Integration Platform or Messaging Platform exists
Solution This pattern employs an IoT Platform only in the Cloud. The IoT Platform receives incoming messages and then filters, aggregates, correlates and enhances the messages to determine when a response is required. If a response is required, a message is sent to an on-premises application, Application Integration Platform, or Messaging Platform. The response could be automated or could require human action.
ConsequencesPros:
  • Provides the quickest way to add device generated data and alert processing capability.
  • Only one IoT Platform to manage.
  • Leverages existing on-premises response capability.
Cons:
  • For devices that are on premises, there could be a lot of network traffic from on premises to the Cloud.
  • Not a good solution if incoming events generate nearly as many needs to respond.

Interaction View

Cloud Platform

Messages from devices processed in the Cloud with response on premises.

Interaction

  1. The system that will be the responder activates with the Internet of Things platform and registers a callback URL. 
  2. Devices activate with the Internet of Things platform. Devices can be anything that can run the Client Library or that can be connected to the Gateway.
  3. Devices send messages (alerts or data) to the Internet of Things platform.
  4. The Internet of Things platform filters, correlates, aggregates, and enhances the messages and creates outgoing messages which are sent on premises via the callback URL to be handled.

Notes

  1. Both the responder and the devices must be registered with the Internet of Things platform before they may be activated.
  2. The outbound event from the Internet of Things platform could be sent directly to an on-premises application or systems, however, sending the event to an application platform or messaging platform allows for a more flexible event response.