A groundbreaking development in wearable technology has emerged with the creation of a tiny, flexible antenna capable of supporting both 5G and Wi-Fi connectivity. This innovative 2-port multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) antenna, designed for integration into textiles, opens up exciting possibilities for true smart clothing. Measuring a mere 24 x 24mm, this compact antenna can be seamlessly incorporated into garments, such as within a shirt pocket, without compromising comfort or aesthetics.
Dual-Band Connectivity and Flexible Design
The research published in Nature highlights the antenna’s compatibility with various fabrics, including denim, cotton, felt, and silk. The denim-based prototype demonstrated resilience to flexing both horizontally and vertically, maintaining consistent performance. Its dual-band capabilities, supporting both 3.5GHz 5G and 5.2GHz Wi-Fi, distinguish it from existing single-band wearable antennas. This dual-band functionality, coupled with MIMO connectivity, provides superior communication reliability, higher data rates, and increased range. As 5G and future 6G networks become increasingly prevalent, MIMO technology will be crucial for efficient data transmission. The paper emphasizes this importance:
“With the growth of 5G and 6G networks, the entire nature of communication will be based on MIMO antennas which provide reliable communication due to their low path losses, high channel capacities, high data rate, and increased communication range without extra input power requirements.”
Applications Beyond Fashion
The potential applications of this technology extend far beyond the realm of fashion. While military and space exploration applications are being considered, the most immediate benefits lie in health and sports monitoring. Integrated sensors within smart clothing, coupled with this antenna, can transmit vital health data without relying on external devices like smartphones or smartwatches. This streamlines data collection and enhances user convenience. Furthermore, the antenna could facilitate connectivity with other wearable devices, paving the way for truly integrated smart clothing experiences, including flexible displays and interactive functionalities.
Safety and Future Developments
The researchers also addressed safety concerns by assessing the antenna’s Specific Absorption Rate (SAR). The results indicate that the antenna operates well below acceptable SAR limits, posing no health risks. While the power source for the antenna remains undisclosed in the current research, it is a critical aspect for future development. Although still in the research phase, this innovative antenna represents a significant step towards realizing the full potential of smart clothing.
The Future of Smart Clothing
Despite the buzz surrounding smart clothing, mainstream adoption remains limited. Examples like Google’s Project Jacquard, Levi’s connected denim jackets, and Saint Laurent’s connected backpack demonstrate the potential of this technology. This new antenna technology, with its enhanced connectivity and seamless integration, could be the catalyst that propels smart clothing into the mainstream, ushering in a new era of wearable technology.
