SAND: a modular application development platform for miniature wireless sensors

A modular application development platform for miniature wireless sensor/actuator devices called small autonomous network devices (SANDs) is described. As an application example a system power breakdown of a real-time ECG analysis is presented. The application development SANDs have a volume of about one cubic centimeter. Based upon testing and optimization the schematics and specifications are obtained for the mass-production SANDs. Utilizing system in package (SiP) technology the volume can be reduced up to five times. These devices can be used in a truly unnoticeable and unobtrusive way to serve as the smallest components of a personal health care monitoring system or an ambient intelligence system.