Propagation Between On-Body Antennas

Abstract

The theory of propagating waves near a surface is reviewed with an eye to gain insight into the mechanisms involved, and to provide analytical-based models, for power-efficient on-body propagation. The Zenneck wave, and in particular the Norton wave, are appraised as candidate mechanisms for the propagation. For flush-mounted ("band aid") antennas, desired for on-body sensors, the Norton wave is the only direct propagation mechanism between the sensors. The Norton wave fits very well to simulation results presented here, and comparisons are also made with available published physical experiments, although these measurements typically feature the optical paths of elevated, or non-flush, antennas.

Origin of the Norton-type wave scattered by a subwavelength metallic slit

“…For example, such Norton waves are expected to be the best candidate to transmit microwave signals on the (conducting) human skin, because Zenneck-surface modes are loosely excited [18].…”

Quantitative Estimation of Scattering Waves in Cylinder-Body Model for Body Area Networks: Comparison of Analyses With Unifrom Cylinder- And Slab-Body Models

“…The fields on this observation plane as a criterion plane were evaluated for the investigation of propagation characteristics in BANs [14][15][16]. On this common plane, the specifically propagating waves (CWs, CLWs, and CGWs) created only in cylinder structure can be extracted by the subtraction of scattering waves calculated with cylinder and slab.…”

“…The analysis with three-layered half-space geometry substituted for the half-space of the human body was examined [14], and the propagation on the model, especially about surface wave modes, was investigated [15]. In order to approach the finite body, circular-cylinder geometry similar to sectional parts of the human body, such as arms, legs, and torso, was employed and the propagation characteristics including scattering waves were evaluated in relation to the transverse section of the human body [16].…”

A Novel Reconfigurable Spiral-Shaped Monopole Antenna for Biomedical Applications

“…The most critical part of the biotelemetry systems is the structure of the antenna which is implanted in or attached to the body [14][15][16][17][18]. By means of the reconfigurable antennas, a single antenna can be used for different biomedical applications [19]. The compact size and ability to operate at the standard frequency bands of biomedical applications are the major advantages of these antennas.…”