Galvanic Coupling For Intra-Body Communication: A Comprehensive Review Of Principles, Modeling, And Applications

Abstract

The emergence of implantable and wearable medical devices has created an urgent need for reliable, energy-efficient communication techniques that can operate within the human body. Galvanic coupling, which utilizes weak electrical currents through body tissues as a transmission medium, has gained significant attention as a promising approach for intra-body communication (IBC). We explore fundamental principles, theoretical models, channel characterization methods, experimental validations, and implementation techniques. Special emphasis is placed on analyzing tissue-dependent channel properties, noise characteristics, and performance metrics compared to traditional wireless communication methods. The article also discusses various circuit models and simulation frameworks developed to characterize human tissue as a communication channel. We investigate several application scenarios, particularly focusing on medical implants and body area networks. Finally, we identify current challenges, technological constraints, and promising research directions in this field. This review provides a solid foundation for researchers and engineers working on body-centric communication systems using galvanic coupling technology.