Insight SiP, a developer of Radio-Frequency (RF)-based ultra-miniature wireless modules for integration into microchips, has announced that its RF ISP130301 module went into space as a key component of the BodyCap e-Tact wearable device used by the European Space Agency (ESA) as part of its health monitoring programme.
Insight SiP’s RF module acted as a miniature radio transmitter in the BodyCap e-Tact wearable device to wirelessly connect the e-Tact smart sensor worn by French astronaut Thomas Pesquet to the e-Tact device as he performed his duties on-board the International Space Station (ISS). The e-Tact device continuously measured Pesquet’s movements, his body temperature and orientation.
“We’re thrilled to hear about our modules going into orbit” says Nick Wood, Insight SiP President “This is a perfect illustration of how our modules set the benchmark for quality in what must be the most demanding environment one can imagine”.
Based on Nordic Semiconductor’s nRF51 chip, it is one of the smallest BLE / Bluetooth smart modules on the market, at a size of 8mm x 11mm x 1.2 mm. Power consumption is excellent, and with integrated crystals and DC-DC converter, this product offers the ideal choice for customers wanting to balance cost and sophistication.
BodyCap recently launched the e-Tact wearable device, a solution for monitoring human activity and providing diagnostic information on diseases. This miniature patch continuously monitors human activity, body tilt and temperature and can have a strong added value for patient suffering cancer, diabetes, obesity, sleep disorders …
This type of application is part of wave of “Medicine 2.0” applications, which combine continuous monitoring, and leverage the power of big data to provide early warning of health issues whilst offering the patient access and control over their own data. The e-Tact’s functions go beyond medical care. It can be used in a broader range of applications such as fitness and sport, ergonomics, military and many more.