An edge computing architecture integrating virtual IoT devices

The current IoT ecosystem is Cloud centric which can not handle a diverse set of IoT applications and services, especially those demanding real time response. This paper proposes an Edge Computing (EC) architecture that provides an intermediate computing layer for IoT data. The proposed architecture utilizes Virtual IoT Devices (VID) for local data processing, management of physical IoT devices and quick reaction using actuators. A prototype of the EC system is developed and early performance results are reported. Applications of the EC system for roadside assistance services and emerging autonomous vehicles are outlined.