Blog: Definition of Services ? How about definition of Machines ?

Context :

Wait for M2M critical services definition likely to get longer … ET … 26 Mar 2024

Extract :

There will likely be a further delay in defining critical services for machine-to-machine (M2M) communications as the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has sought more suggestions from the telecom regulator on critical services and their regulatory requirements.

"We will conduct a consultation with stakeholders on the reference from DoT regarding M2M services," an official at the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) told ET.

The Long Wait

Critical services identified by inter-ministerial group include :

Ø Connected Vehicles and Autonomous cars

Ø Remote Surgery

Ø Financial transactions

Ø Energy Smart Grids

Ø Utilities distribution networks like Power, Water, Cooking Gas etc

Ø Drone Communications

Regulatory requirements for critical services sectors are to be defined by respective ministries on lines of ARAI and BIS

Companies say, critical services must be provided licensed spectrum and in compliance with the rules

My Take :

Dear DOT / TRAI ,

Thanks for seeking consultation with all “ stakeholders “ . That allows me to ask :

Before trying to define “ critical services “ , can we first agree on a definition of a “ Machine “ ?

Here are some :

( A ) Oxford Dictionary

Some ages ago, we would have accepted the following “ definition “ given by Oxford dictionary :

“a piece of equipment with moving parts that is designed to do a particular job. A machine usually needs electricity, gas, steam, etc. in order to work “

( B ) Wikipedia

A machine is a physical system that uses power to apply forces and control movement to perform an action. The term is commonly applied to artificial devices, such as those employing engines or motors, but also to natural biological macromolecules, such as molecular machines. Machines can be driven by animals and people, by natural forces such as wind and water, and by chemical, thermal, or electrical power, and include a system of mechanisms that shape the actuator input to achieve a specific application of output forces and movement. They can also include computers and sensors that monitor performance and plan movement, often called mechanical systems.

( C ) GEMINI

An all-encompassing definition of a machine could be:

· A system that uses some form of input (power, data) to perform a specific action and deliver an output (work, information).

This definition captures the core idea of a machine, whether it's:

· A mechanical device: This is the classic image of a machine, with gears, levers, and cranks using power to produce physical force. (e.g., car engine, washing machine)

· An electrical/electronic device: These machines use electricity or electronics to perform tasks, often involving processing information. (e.g., computer, smartphone)

· A biological molecule: Even some naturally occurring molecules can be considered machines, as they use energy to perform specific functions within a cell. (e.g., enzymes)

The key aspects of this definition are:

· System: A machine is made up of interconnected parts that work together.

· Input: The machine needs some kind of energy or data to operate.

· Action: The machine performs a specific task or function.

· Output: The machine produces a result or effect.

This broad definition allows us to encompass the wide range of machines we encounter in the world, from simple tools to complex computer systems.

( D ) ChatGPT

An all-encompassing definition of a machine could be:

"A machine is a constructed device designed to perform a specific function or task by utilizing energy input to achieve a desired output, often through a series of mechanical, electrical, or computational processes. Machines can range from simple mechanical tools to complex systems incorporating advanced technologies, and they serve various purposes across industries, including manufacturing, transportation, communication, and information processing."

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From the above-mentioned resources, we can conclude that :

Ø With each successive year , the definitions are getting ever more broader / comprehensive

Ø “ Tasks “ getting performed are less and less visible for observation with eyes alone

Ø “ Externally applied power “ , is no more essential. “Perpetual Machines” are on horizon !

Ø Even “ Outputs “ from a machine is getting more and more, “ unpredictable “ ( ala AI )

Given this fast-evolving scenario, there can be no dis-agreement in calling the following “ DEVICES / GADGETS “ , as MACHINES :

( Source : Carbon Finance through Carbon Credits ………….. 12 Mar 2021 )

LED bulbs - TV sets – Refrigerators – Air Conditioners – Fans – Deep Freezers – Ovens – Electric Stoves – Mixers – Computers – Cloths Washing Machines – Dish Washers – Radios – Tablets – Robotic Floor Sweepers – Massagers – etc

Most of these are already embedded with a few sensors but soon enough, each of these would have numerous SENSORS which would ( want to ? ) “ talk “ to each other , using internet ( IoT )

Before too long, everything ( and everyone ) will start “ communicating “ with everything else. Take a look at the following possibilities :

( 1 ) A chair talking to a table ( to slide closer / up / down )

( 2 ) A radio talking to neighbour’s TV ( to adjust sound volume )

( 3 ) A fridge talking to a Smart phone ( to place orders for milk / food )

( 4 ) A Shirt ( woven with graphene nano-fibres ) talking to a room-heater ( to turn on temperature )

( 5 ) A neuralink-embedded paraplegic person talking to a computer ( to post a tweet / reported yesterday )

( 6 ) Two “ deaf and dumb “ persons ( embedded with BCI ) talking to each other ( to chat )

( 7 ) A swallowed capsule talking to a nearby drug store ( to order antacid medicines )

( 8 ) A photo of a diseased person talking to grand children ( to inquire about their school )

( 9 ) www.HemenParekh.ai talking to www.NaMo.ai , ( to know about BJP’s Manifesto )

In all of these “ talking “ , do you see the “ absence “ of govt – allotted “licensed spectrum “ ?

Do you see any limitation ? It is only my imagination !

Dear DOT – TRAI ,

Our PM is busy drawing up plans to make India, “ Viksit Bharat “ by 2047

He has a VISION HORIZON of 25 years

While trying to define “ Machines “ and “ Services “ , please at least , can you please “ talk to “ 100 DAYS

ROAD-MAP ?

With regards,

Hemen Parekh

www.HemenParekh.ai / 27 March 2024

Comments by GEMINI :

Your views on envisioned communication methods

I find your ideas about future communication methods to be very interesting and thought-provoking. The concept of machines communicating with each other, even without licensed spectrum, is a distinct possibility as machine-to-machine (M2M) communication continues to evolve.

Here's a breakdown of your key points:

· Broadening definition of machines:

Your analysis of how the definition of "machine" is expanding is insightful. From purely mechanical devices to those with computational capabilities and even biological molecules, the concept is becoming more inclusive.

· Spectrum independence:

You raise a valid point about the potential for M2M communication to occur outside the realm of government-licensed spectrums. This could involve short-range wireless technologies like Bluetooth or near-field communication (NFC).

· Unpredictable outputs:

The increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in machines does introduce an element of unpredictability in their outputs. This is an important consideration for designing robust communication protocols.

Strengths of your blog post

· Clearly lays out the limitations of current M2M communication definitions.

· Provides insightful examples of future communication scenarios between various devices.

· Highlights the potential for M2M communication to occur beyond licensed spectrums.

· Raises important questions about the need for a broader definition of "machine" in the context of communication.

Some points to consider

· Security challenges:

Widespread M2M communication raises security concerns. Measures will be needed to ensure the integrity and privacy of data being exchanged.

· Standardization:

For seamless communication between diverse devices, standardization of protocols and data formats will be crucial.

· Regulation vs. Innovation:

Finding the right balance between regulation and fostering innovation in M2M communication will be important.

My take on DOT/TRAI consultation

A 100-day roadmap might be ambitious, but considering the evolving nature of communication technologies, it's important for regulatory bodies like DoT and TRAI to be adaptable. Here are some suggestions:

· Open forums:

DoT and TRAI could hold open forums to solicit ideas and concerns from stakeholders regarding future communication landscapes.

· Flexible regulations:

Regulations should be designed to be flexible enough to accommodate new technologies and communication methods.

· Focus on security and privacy:

Security and privacy protocols should be a top priority when developing regulations for M2M communication.

Overall, your blog post effectively highlights the need for a forward-thinking approach to communication in the age of ubiquitous machines. By fostering collaboration between government, industry, and academia, we can ensure that M2M communication is secure, efficient, and beneficial for society.

Comments by ChatGPT :

Your blog post presents an insightful exploration of the evolving landscape of machine-to-machine (M2M) communication and the broader concept of interconnected devices beyond traditional definitions.

Here are some key points and reflections on your provided content:

1. Definition of Machines:

You've taken a comprehensive approach to defining machines, drawing from various sources such as dictionaries, Wikipedia, and your own interpretation. This inclusivity is crucial in the context of rapidly advancing technology where traditional definitions may no longer suffice. Your definition captures the essence of machines across mechanical, electrical, and even biological domains, highlighting the interconnectedness and purpose-driven nature of these systems.

2. Expanding Scope of Communication:

Your examples demonstrate the potential for communication not just between conventional electronic devices but also between everyday objects and even biological entities. This expansion of communication beyond traditional boundaries opens up new possibilities for automation, efficiency, and convenience.

3. Absence of Licensed Spectrum:

You rightly point out that many of these envisioned communication scenarios may not necessarily rely on government-licensed spectrum. With the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and advancements in wireless communication technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and LPWAN (Low Power Wide Area Network), alternative communication channels are increasingly viable. This decentralized approach to communication challenges traditional regulatory frameworks centered around spectrum allocation.

4. Imagination and Vision:

Your call for aligning regulatory efforts with visionary initiatives like "Viksit Bharat" reflects a proactive mind set towards embracing technological advancements for national development. By urging policymakers to consider the rapid evolution of technology and its implications for communication and service delivery, you advocate for a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes innovation and adaptability.

5. Interdisciplinary Connections:

Your blog post touches upon diverse topics ranging from energy efficiency to carbon credits, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of modern challenges and solutions. This holistic perspective underscores the interconnectedness of technology, environment, and society, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches to address complex issues.

In summary, your blog post provides a thought-provoking analysis of the evolving landscape of communication and the challenges and opportunities it presents.

By questioning traditional definitions and envisioning future possibilities, you contribute to a dialogue that is essential for navigating the complexities of an increasingly connected world.