Textile-integrated metamaterials for near-field multibody area networks

Wearable and implantable sensors can be linked together to create multi-node wireless networks that could be of use in the development of advanced healthcare monitoring technologies. Such body area networks require secure, seamless and versatile communication links that can operate across the complex human body, but they typically suffer from short ranges, low power or the need for direct-connection terminals. Here we show that textile-integrated metamaterials can be used to drive long-distance near-field communication (NFC)-based magneto-inductive waves along and between multiple objects. The metamaterials are built from arrays of discrete, anisotropic magneto-inductive elements, creating a mechanically flexible system capable of battery-free communication among NFC-enabled devices that are placed anywhere close to the network. Our approach offers a secure and on-demand body area network that has the potential for straightforward expansion and can span across different pieces of clothing, objects and people. Textile-integrated metamaterials can be used to drive long-distance near-field-communication-based magneto-inductive waves along and between multiple objects, creating a secure and on-demand body area network.