IoT involves spreading sensor networks to different locations, where measurements are registered for subsequent data aggregation via such networks. In homes this will lead to energy-savings. At plants it will help improve crisis management and production efficiency. When applied to vehicles, it will help achieve automatic control and ultimately automated driving. Some of these monitoring systems have depended on wired connections, and they are now being replaced by wireless communication solutions. Wireless technology will increase the need to use more sensors, accelerating the integration between sensor and communication technologies. I believe that is how needs for IoT solutions will arise.
Murata is a hardware manufacturer, but as communication devices are combined with sensors, there is an increasing need for integrated systems. I believe that one of our roles is to provide not only hardware, but also hardware products that combine software for easier use. The idea is to provide solution packages integrating communication software, networking, and Cloud technologies—everything that controls the hardware.
Gateways are needed to connect different networks with each other. While some communication networks establish wired connection via Ethernet, for example, other networks depend on wireless protocols such as Wi-Fi®. There is also ZigBee®, a near field communication protocol for sensor networks. Furthermore, we may be required to cover Bluetooth® and BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) , and depending on the user, even communications via subgiga and millimeter-wave bands. Since it is more desirable to use a single relay device instead of two or more, we will design a platform integrating multiple communication protocols. That will require expertise in both communication and software technologies.