Zenneck effect at the material's surface, concept (via Roke Manor Research Ltd)
One thing is certain about new tech that has recently been introduced and is soon to be released: it’s all about communication. Whether we’re talking about an autonomous flying drone that captures video from far overhead through WiFI, or a small peripheral that allows you to seamlessly manipulate your computer’s desktop with a flick of the wrist, these devices all have some way of communicating with their host. It has also become apparent that wires are becoming outdated - so what’s next on the wireless front?
The Zenneck surface wave phenomena is a form of electromagnetic wave propagation that happens between the boundary of a surface and the open space above it. Discovered by J. Zenneck in 1907, this form of wave has generally been used for radar transmission and low-frequency long wave communication. In order for surface propagation to occur, a material with a specific conductivity and dielectric constant must be used as the interface between the wave and the air.
With the recent onslaught of wearable technology - such as smart watches for checking email, bracelets that tell you when it’s time to eat, and a device reminiscent of your mother that lets you know when you’re slouching - a question comes to mind: is there a way for these gadgets to communicate with one another?
To tackle this problem, Janice Turner and fellow collaborators from the Roke Manor Research in Romney, UK have demonstrated the use of Zenneck waves across the surface of a short length fabric. The material, coated with a dielectric layer, was able to transmit a high-def video over a few centimeters at a bandwidth of 1.5 gbps - three times faster than WiFi. That is quite impressive for such a novel approach to the time-tested communication technique.
By simply strapping on a jacket using this material, it may be possible to transmit data across the surface of your body between a watch on your wrist and a phone in your pocket. If this technology takes off, it is sure to cause a stir not only in the tech world but in the fashion industry as well.
Just imagine a futuristic space jumpsuit, made of Zenneck-ready fabric that links a series of devices all around your body that communicate with one another and monitor your every move, offering up suggestions and reminders. Think Iron Man without all the metal. This might just be the beginnings of an evolutionary leap for the human body by use of self-monitoring, self-communicating, and integrated bio-tech.
It might be a while before all that may happen, though Turner believes Zenneck enabled devices can begin to reach consumers in a little as two years.
Coming back down to earth, Zenneck devices are currently being explored for use on aircraft wireless wing sensors. It may also be interesting to look into Zenneck waves for direct device-to-device communication if the technology demonstrates feasibility. For example, a surface wave compatible office table where smartphones can be placed to quickly channel data to one another.
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