Intra- and Inter-Body Wireless Communication and Modular-Payload Capsules

Current "capsule cam" type technologies typically use electromagnetic radiation with limited payloads and provide one-way communication. The JHU/APL "Intra- and Inter-Body Wireless Communication and Modular-Payload Capsules" technology eliminates the exposure to electromagnetic radiation, provides flexibility in the payload options, and offers two-way communication.

The JHU/APL invention provides a means for "wireless" communications within the human body and from inside the body to external networks. The concept calls for a "capsule" to be swallowed (or otherwise consumed) and communicates with one or more transceivers attached external to the body. The external transceiver also interfaces with other wireless tranceivers, such as conventional cellular phones, to distant locations. The technology concept allows, for example, measured medical data to be transmitted from the capsule for monitoring and analysis at a remote medical facility. Some key features of the JHU/APL technology include: 1) The capsule is omni-directional for transmission and reception so that orientation in the digestive system is not a factor. 2) External acoustic array transceiver locations provide diversity reception so that propagation paths through low attenuation portions of the body are available. 3) Option to allow commands to be issued to take samples/measurements or release chemicals/medicines at specific locations.


Patent Status: U.S. patent(s) 7118531 issued.

Type of Offer: Licensing



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