Single-fibre-enabled, self-powered wireless body area networks

Textile-based wireless body area networks (WBANs) show great potential in clinical diagnosis, human–computer interaction and posture monitoring. However, existing textile-based WBANs rely on silicon-based processors and modular electronic components, which fail to meet the requirements of comfortable and practical human wear. Here, we have developed single-fibre-enabled, self-powered WBANs (Fibre-WBANs), which seamlessly integrate electronic fibres into clothing without the need for electronic components. Utilising a tribo-electromagnetic induction coupling mechanism, the fibres achieve three key functions, namely, self-powering, multi-node sensing and wireless transmission, all while ensuring wearer comfort and compatibility with daily washing. We demonstrate multiple applications of this network, including wireless fabric keyboards, wireless human body sensing networks and sweat detection. This work represents a prototype of wireless electronic clothing, offering an innovative approach to wearable technology. • Single fiber enabled self-powered wireless body area networks which seamlessly integrating into clothing without extra electronic components. • Electronic fibers with energy harvesting and wireless sensing capabilities were patterned via digital embroidery technology. • Demonstrate single-fiber-based wireless gaming interaction, gesture sensing, and sweat sensing applications.