March 2010 Vol. 8 No. 3

Special Feature: Trends and Business Prospects for Human-area Networking Technology––Connecting People, Objects, and Networks

• RedTacton Near-body Electric-field Communications Technology and Its Applications

  

  Abstract
  We discuss the background and principles for the development of near-human-body electric-field communications technology and describe two key techniques for establishing stable communications: efficient electric-field induction and ambient noise reduction. We also describe the features of this communications technology, clarify differences from conventional short-range wireless technologies, and discuss its application areas.

• LSIs for an Advanced Compact Electric-field Communication Module

  

  Abstract
  In this article, we describe a digital LSI (large-scale integrated circuit) and an analog LSI designed for an advanced compact communication module based on near-field communication using the human body as the transmission path. The two key techniques that ensure stable communications are high-efficiency AC (alternating current) electric-field induction and ambient noise reduction. Applications of the technology are also described.

• Modeling of Human-body Near-field Communication and Evaluation of Communication Quality

  

  Abstract
  In this article, we describe the modeling of electric-field communication and the use of optical technology in the evaluation of an electric-field communication system. Using the model, we explain a basic principle of electric-field communication that uses the human body. The communication is susceptible to the effects of various types of noise from the environment, and the communication quality depends heavily on how it is used and on the installation environment. Since conventional measurement technology is unsuitable for precise evaluation of the quality, we introduced a novel optical measurement technique that enables precise evaluation because it does not affect the communication system.

• Firmware Technology for Human-body Near-field Communication

  

  Abstract
  We describe firmware technology for services, such as entry gate management and business card exchange, based on modules with a bidirectional communication function. In particular, target services, required functions, and the firmware structure are described.

Letters

• Research and Development of Wireless Network Coding to Achieve High-efficiency Multihop Wireless Systems

  

  Abstract
  We are developing multihop wireless systems that achieve high spectrum utilization efficiency by using network coding, which has mainly been studied to mitigate congestion in wired networks. In this article, we explain diversity and wireless hybrid network coding techniques that can improve the communication quality of multihop wireless systems.

• Development of Underground Optical Closure with Improved Assembly and Water-tightness

  

  Abstract
  A new underground optical closure provides easier assembly and better water-tightness for cable connections. It will reduce both the operating and construction costs for fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) service.

• Business Process Optimization Support Tool for Visualizing Operating Procedures by Using Execution Logs of Enterprise Information Systems

  

  Abstract
  We have developed a tool that can automatically reconstruct and visualize actual business processes solely by using execution logs stored in various types of enterprise information systems.

Global Standardization Activities

• Internet Resource Management at ICANN and Regional Internet Registries

  

  Abstract
  This article describes recent activities related to Internet resource management. An important aspect of safe and stable Internet operation is the management of Internet resources, such as IP (Internet protocol) addresses, AS (autonomous system) numbers, and domain names. These resources are uniformly managed by some organizations centered around ICANN.

Papers Published in Technical Journals and Conferences

• Papers Published in Technical Journals and Conferences