Radio communication method and device with antennae arranged close to a body

摘要

A radio communication method or device comprises signal generating means 4 located close to a human body which is connectable to at least two antennae 10- 15 where each of the said antennae is located at different positions close to the body. The signal generating means 4 may include antenna selection means used to select at least one of the antennae as the communication antenna. An individual antenna or a particular combination of phase adjusted antennae may be used. The antennae may be tested cyclically to identify, by standing wave ratio or received signal strength, the antenna arrangement which is likely to be the most efficient signal transmitter. The power supplied to the selected antenna may be reduced to minimise the irradiation level being applied to the body. The antennae 10 - 15 and signal generating means 4 and possibly vital parameter sensors (e.g. temperature and /or pulse) may be built into a multi-layered textile used to form clothing. This clothing may be used by firefighters. Connection between the signal generator and the antennae may be provided via overlapping regions of their support means where inductive coupling could be employed. During an emergency situation frill transmission power may be applied to all the antennae.