Development of Flexible, Wearable Antennas

Conference: EuCAP 2009 - 3rd European Conference on Antennas and Propagation
03/23/2009 - 03/27/2009 at Berlin, Germany

Proceedings: EuCAP 2009

Pages: 5Language: englishTyp: PDF

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Authors:
Matthews, J. C. G. (Sensor Systems Department, BAE Systems Advanced Technology Centre, West Hanningfield Road, Great Baddow, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 8HN, UK)
Pettitt, G. (Electronics Department, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Fort Halstead, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN14 7BP, UK)

Abstract:
There is an increasing interest in wearable antennas and electronics in both the civil and military domains. In the civil domain there is a move towards pervasive computing which utilises various electronic devices placed around the body. Electronic devices typically involve a communications element for transfer of entertainment media, information sources and social interaction. Communication may occur between devices through an on-body channel or to external devices. Flexible, conformal antennas are essential to provide an unobtrusive solution. In the military domain the current emphasis on network centric warfare and more complex body worn sensors contrasts with a desire to reduce the burden on the soldier. Flexible, conformal, wearable electronics and antennas provide technology to satisfy these conflicting requirements. This paper presents the development and assessment of wearable antennas which are integrated into clothing. This work considers antennas operating from 100MHz to 1GHz. Advantages and disadvantages of several construction methods and materials are discussed. Measured radiation patterns and input impedances are presented for the integrated antennas worn on the body.