10 Surprising Things Connected to the Internet

A new report published by the Center for Data Innovation showcases just how diverse the “things” connected to the Internet can be.

1. Trash Cans -- a solar-powered trash can and compactor that uses its online connection to alert sanitation crews when it is full
2. Bridges -- in order to improve safety, researchers and engineers in the U.S. and around the world are using bridge sensors that can detect structural changes.
3. Parking Lots -- self-powered, wireless parking sensors to collect real-time data on the occupancy of individual parking spaces.
4. Buses -- In St. Louis, the public bus service MetroBus is using electronic sensors to collect information on bus speed, engine temperature and oil pressure.
5. Hand-Washing Stations -- HyGreen is currently using their hand-washing reminder and recording system in hospitals to prevent the spread of diseases.
6. Helmets -- the sensor hails from Shockbox, a company that pitches the helmet sensor as a way to eliminate the guesswork on possible concussions and to improve injury notifications to parents.
7. Egg Cartons -- A line of LED lights in the tray display which eggs are oldest and need to be used first.
8. Pill Bottles -- trigger a series of escalating notifications that include flashing lights, text messages, audio reminders and phone calls.
9. Water Monitors -- to identify a leak, be more conservative, or just check the accuracy of a utility bill
10. Air Quality Monitors -- a device that senses and collects data in real-time about air quality in a home or office.