Ball Wave

Presented by Yusuke Tsukahara Nominated by Tohoku University   Ball Wave exploits the physical concept of ball surface acoustic waves (SAW) to develop a range of industrial applications based on this technology. Researchers from Tohoku University discovered a phenomenon that seems to defy the laws of physics: They found that a wave propagating on the surface of a spherical object has an extremely long propagation time if the wavelength, the wave width and the spherical curvature are in a special relationship.

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YUSUKE TSUKAHARA, BALL WAVE

Hiroshi Yoshimura, TOHOKU UNIVERSITY

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The company’s first application of this discovery is a sensor for analysing trace moisture. These Ball-SAW sensors are high-sensitivity gas sensors with an unprecedented high reaction-speed. They are capable of detecting moisture content at a dew point of –100°C and are small enough to be installed on manufacturing lines. Ball Wave’s invention has been attracting attention in the semiconductor industry as well as the oil and gas industries. The technology has got many other potential applications. With the patent portfolio covering the discovery, applications, and manufacturing technology, Ball Wave wants to explore these potentials. Their most ambitious goal is to develop a ball wave component for quantum communication, using a ball wave of gbits. Currently, no such technology exists. With this project, the company aims at exceeding the horizon of current technologies.