Wireless body area network node localization using small-scale spatial information.

We present a new scheme to automatically identify the locations of wearable sensor nodes in a wireless body area network (WBAN). Instantaneous atmospheric air pressure readings are compared to map nodes in physical space. This enhancement enables unassisted sensor node placement, providing a practical solution to obtain and continuously monitor node locations without anchor nodes or beacons.

Mobility support for health monitoring at home using wearable sensors.

We present a simple but effective handoff protocol that enables continuous monitoring of ambulatory patients at home by means of resource-limited sensors. Our proposed system implements a 2-tier network: one created by wearable sensors used for vital signs collection, and another by a point-to-point link established between the body sensor network coordinator device and a fixed access point (AP). Upon experiencing poor signal reception in the latter network tier when the patient moves, the AP may instruct the sensor network coordinator to forward vital signs data through one of the wearable sensor nodes acting as a temporary relay if the sensor-AP link has a stronger signal.