NTT Research and Development 2010 Review of Activities

Overview

We have been developing ubiquitous node technologies that will enable a paradigm shift in connecting various things or events to the networks. Our ultimate target is to collect the huge amount of information in the real world via the network by distributing a huge number of ultra-small sensor nodes. To attach the sensor node to 10,000 objects (1,000 times the population), the node needs to be small and maintenance-free (i.e., not requiring battery replacement).

Features

• Integration of CMOS LSIs (complementary metal oxide semiconductor large-scale integrated circuits) for wireless circuits and micro-electro mechanical system (MEMS) for power generation is suitable for sensor node miniaturization.
• MEMS process that forms a thick film at low temperature enables MEMS power generator to be stacked on an LSI.
• All-digital wireless circuits operate with ultra-low power consumption because analog circuits are not needed.

Application scenarios

• Ultra-small nodes embedded in under-wear or socks could monitor human activities and vital signs without the user being conscious of the attached node, providing effective for health checks and disease prevention.
• All components of machines, such as automobiles, airplanes, and elevators, could be monitored by ultra-small nodes, providing valuable information for failure detection and accident prediction.
• Numerous sensor nodes distributed in the living environment could act as ambient intelligence, leading to new services that provide help on demand without conscious action by the user.