Channel Characterization of Implantable Intrabody Communication through Experimental Measurements

TL;DR

This paper investigates the galvanic coupled intra-body communication channel for implantable devices through both simulations and experiments, revealing frequency effects and noise considerations for improved data transmission.

Contribution

It provides the first combined theoretical and experimental analysis of implantable IBC channels in the 0-2.5 MHz range using realistic tissue models.

Findings

Frequency impacts signal propagation in tissue.

Common-mode noise cancellation improves communication quality.

Experimental results validate simulation models.

Abstract

Intrabody communication (IBC), is a promising technology that can be utilized for data transmission across the human body. In this study, a galvanic coupled (GC)-based IBC channel has been investigated for implantable configuration both theoretically and experimentally in the frequency range of 0 to 2.5 MHz. Theoretical studies were performed by using finite element method (FEM) based simulation software, called Comsol Multiphysics. A cylindrical human arm was modeled with realistic values. Experimental studies were carried out with chicken breast tissue as a substitute for human tissue. The pseudorandom noise (PN) sequences were transmitted to investigate the correlative channel sounder of tissue model. Results showed that the frequency affects signal propagation through the tissue model. Additionally, it is crucial to cancel common-mode noise in the IBC channel to enhance communication quality.