From the cloud to Edge Computing and vice versa

Some application scenarios for Edge Computing are in no way connected with centralized computing models; some analysts believe that this technology can be used in a range of computing that has distributed and centralized aspects. Instead of being a pendulum deviation from centralized data centers, Edge Computing offers a compromise. Most of the time, the data flow between the periphery and the cloud will be bi-directional. While the cloud can track broad trends and second-order effects, such as changes in energy consumption or air quality, Edge Computing provides local answers to local questions.

An example of a data circuit is Volvo Trucks' practice, which implements telematics and remote diagnostic systems in the latest car brands. They work in conjunction with the on-board computer, which detects abnormal parameters and, when required, runs fault codes. The telematics system then transfers the collected operational data to the Volvo Trucks Uptime Center, which coordinates the actions of repair services, dealers and customer service agents. While on-board computing helps diagnose problems on trucks, the centralized deployment aspect allows repair services and dealers to prepare for their repairs before the car arrives.

The next sensible step would be to enable the peripheral computing capabilities of the trucks to determine which fault data has the most practical meaning. Such a shift will free up bandwidth to collect additional telematic data, which will lead to deeper conclusions drawn in the cloud.

Interest in Edge Computing is not least connected with the connectivity capabilities that 5G has, including those that allow you to perform calculations outside traditional data centers. There are several companies on the market that have deployed their 5G-enabled Edge projects, and as technology matured, they could change.