DoCoMo and HP Announce Sensor Platform

NTT DoCoMo and Hewlett-Packard just announced they have been conducting joint research with the goals of developing a new application platform to interconnect cellular telephone systems and sensor networks and the development of a prototype of new middleware platform. Designed to work with networks found in homes and businesses that utilize sensors relying on a variety of transmission methods the Sensor Network Middleware Platform enables interactive communication between those networks and mobile phones.

The middleware is equipped with the interface which works with various transmission methods and enables exchanging data between mobile phones and the sensor networks. Software using this middleware is installed on both the sensor networks and the mobile phones, enabling the phones to access the sensor networks directly, across a variety of transmission methods.

The phones can then be used to pull data, or even control devices connected to it. The middleware also makes it possible to develop applications and devices compatible with any sensor network, regardless of the type of transmission method it employs. This technology is expected to be useful for a wide range of services, enabling seamless connections between mobile phones and crime-prevention equipment, home appliances, IC tag readers, and other devices.

An experimental implementation has been constructed. This was built on DoCoMo’s testbed platform and DoCoMo and HP will continue to move ahead with technology testing and product validation. DoCoMo also looks at further standardization of that platform in cooperation with the PUCC2. Via: DoCoMo Press Release.