Two-dimensional communication as the third method of electric power and signal transmission

Associate Professor Hiroyuki Shinoda
(Department of Information Physics and Computing)

Associate Professor Shinoda aims to commercialize a new communication technology, “Two-Dimensional Communication.” One-dimensional communication connects electronic appliances with cables at home and office, three-dimensional communication transmits signals over the radio without wiring, and two-dimensional communication is precisely between the two. This communication method leverages the nature of signals that transmit along conductive material surfaces such as a fabric sheet or a film.

For example, the sheet has trilaminar structure comprised of a conductive layer, an insulation layer, and a conductive layer. When 2.4GHz signals (microwave) used in wireless LAN and microwave oven are applied from one end of the sheet, signals are confined within the sheet surface. When an electronic appliance with a special connector is placed on the sheet surface in this state, signals are absorbed from the sheet surface and supplied to the appliance. If many sensors are attached to the sheet with one end connected to a power source, power is supplied for sensors to run and signals are transmitted as an appliance comes near a part of the sheet.

Broad application of this technology is expected as in connection of LAN, RFID tag, information appliances, and computer peripheral equipments. It can certainly detect intruders, control temperature in a room more accurately than before with temperature sensors on the wallpaper, and prevent information leakage, which is an issue associated with wireless LAN.

This technology was used in experimental development of a wristband myoelectric measurement device, which can be called a myoelectric supporter, to enable easy measurement of myoelectric signals on the body surface as you comfortably wear it all day as if it is underwear. It can also be used as information interface. Since myoelectric signals are generated from muscles corresponding to movements when humans move fingers, it is possible to dramatically transform the shape of mobile phones. If LSI is placed within the sheet surface, it can transmit power and process information without electrical connection and wiring. Associate Professor Shinoda challenges to make revolution in people's life and society through this communication technology.