Wi-R Chip Revolutionizing Near-Field Communication

The Wi-R chip, developed by Ixana under the leadership of Professor Shreyas Sen, an Elmore Associate Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) and Biomedical Engineering (BME) at Purdue University, represents a groundbreaking advancement in non-radiative near-field communication technology. Originally from India, Professor Sen has a rich academic background and a deep commitment to advancing the fields of mixed-signal circuits, electromagnetics, and their applications in the Internet of Bodies.

Electro-Quasistatic (EQS) Fields

Wi-R-equipped devices generate weak electrical fields around the human body, enabling data encoding through subtle changes in the field's properties. This process allows for seamless communication without causing harm.

Enhanced Security

Unlike traditional electromagnetic wireless technologies such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, which broadcast signals in all directions, Wi-R confines its communication to the immediate vicinity of the user's body. This localized approach not only improves energy efficiency but also enhances physical security, ensuring that only authorized devices can connect.

Intuitive Pairing

Connecting devices is as simple as being in proximity. For instance, putting on Wi-R-equipped headphones will automatically pair them with your phone as soon as they enter the EQS field, eliminating the need for manual pairing processes.

File Sharing and Interaction

With Wi-R, users can effortlessly share files or contact information by merely touching another device or surface that is also Wi-R equipped, leveraging the EQS field for a frictionless interaction.

Performance and Efficiency

The YR22 Wi-R chip boasts impressive capabilities . Current prototypes work up to 1Mb/s (good enough for music and images) and up to 20 Mbps prototypes (for video) are under development.

Low Energy Consumption

Over 100 times more energy-efficient than Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and more than 10 times lower than Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technologies. This is achieved through the innovative use of EQS fields and proprietary techniques developed by Ixana.

Private Communication Network

By coupling directly with the human body, Wi-R creates a secure channel where only devices within the body's "bubble" can communicate, leaving external signals virtually blind to the communication happening within.

The concept of Wi-R originated in 2016, with its first detailed demonstration occurring in 2019. Ixana is the pioneering company bringing this transformative technology to market, marking a significant advancement in personal and body area networks.

About Professor Shreyas Sen

Professor Shreyas Sen holds a prominent position at Purdue University, where he integrates his expertise in mixed-signal circuits and electromagnetics to explore innovative solutions for the Internet of Bodies. His research not only emphasizes technological advancements but also considers practical applications in health monitoring and communication. With a strong educational background from India and extensive experience in the field, Professor Sen is dedicated to fostering innovation that improves everyday life through technology.

https://engineering.purdue.edu/~shreyas/SparcLab/home.html

The potential applications for the Wi-R chip are vast, particularly in fields such as:

Body-Worn Health Monitoring Enabling real-time health data transmission with minimal energy use and high security.

Extended Reality Experiences Enhancing immersive experiences by allowing devices to communicate seamlessly without cumbersome setup.

Intuitive Human-Computer Interactions Streamlining the way we interact with technology, making it more natural and efficient.

The Wi-R chip, developed by Ixana and spearheaded by Professor Shreyas Sen, is not just a technological advancement; it is a pivotal moment for Body Area Networks (BAN) and Personal Area Networks (PAN). With its superior energy efficiency, enhanced security, and intuitive operation, the Wi-R chip is set to transform the landscape of wireless communication, making everyday interactions with technology smoother and more secure than ever before.