Trillion-Node Engine loT Platform Hinges on No-Solder Connectors

摘要

Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corporation has developed two connector technologies that allow easy, solder-free assembly of internet of things (IoT) nodes, which are essential to realize the Trillion-Node Engine, an open-source IoT platform. Positive evaluations resulted from the tests conducted of the connector. Toshiba will continue the development and will use the connectors in a demonstration unit for the company's motor control drivers.The future of IoT is expected to be driven not only by expert engineers developing IoT devices for industry, but also by non-engineers creating IoT devices to handle all kinds of tasks. Realizing this will require an IoT development platform that allows individuals to quickly and easily embody their ideas and to create IoT prototypes. The platform should also support the development of small, lower power IoT sensor nodes that can be customized to handle various functions and applications. Toshiba and the University of Tokyo are presently evaluating the Trillion-Node Engine as an open IoT platform, and have found it to offer strengths in terms of ease of use.One notable challenge to be overcome is further miniaturization of IoT nodes,particularly their connectors, which are comparatively large and require precise soldering by a professional. If an IoT system connects printed circuit boards (PCBs) and motors, a wire harness is needed between the PCBs and motors. The connection between the wire harness and PCBs will result in a terminal block 8mm high, which is too large for an IoT platform.