Wireless battery-free body sensor networks using near-field-enabled clothing

Nat Commun. 2020 Jan 23;11(1):444. doi: 10.1038/s41467-020-14311-2.

Abstract

Networks of sensors placed on the skin can provide continuous measurement of human physiological signals for applications in clinical diagnostics, athletics and human-machine interfaces. Wireless and battery-free sensors are particularly desirable for reliable long-term monitoring, but current approaches for achieving this mode of operation rely on near-field technologies that require close proximity (at most a few centimetres) between each sensor and a wireless readout device. Here, we report near-field-enabled clothing capable of establishing wireless power and data connectivity between multiple distant points around the body to create a network of battery-free sensors interconnected by proximity to functional textile patterns. Using computer-controlled embroidery of conductive threads, we integrate clothing with near-field-responsive patterns that are completely fabric-based and free of fragile silicon components. We demonstrate the utility of the networked system for real-time, multi-node measurement of spinal posture as well as continuous sensing of temperature and gait during exercise.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Clothing*
  • Electric Power Supplies
  • Electromagnetic Phenomena
  • Equipment Design
  • Exercise / physiology
  • Humans
  • Knee
  • Monitoring, Ambulatory / instrumentation*
  • Monitoring, Ambulatory / methods*
  • Posture / physiology
  • Spine / physiology
  • Temperature
  • Walking / physiology
  • Wireless Technology* / instrumentation