Ubiquitous Information Service Networks and Technology Based on the Convergence of Communications, Computing and Control

The rapid development of the IoT (Internet of Things) is bringing about a functional change of communication networks from "information transmission" to "information service". First, the conception and characteristics of the IoT are introduced, i.e., an Internet of humans, machines, and things meant to achieve smart information services. Then, the technology requirements for realizing ubiquitous and smart information services are described. The corresponding key technologies are also discussed, including the integration of communications, computing and control technology (3C), heterogeneous network fusion theory and technology, intelligent sensor technology and short-distance networking theory, large-scale network transmission theory and technology, the network virtualization and intelligent computing technology geared toward information service, and the collaborative network system and service model geared to the application of the IoT. Finally, the development trends of information technologies and information networks in the next five to ten years are analyzed, and give some suggestions for main research areas to be explored and key issues to be resolved.