Physical Layer Algorithms for Intrabody Nano-Communications

Abstract: In this thesis we develop a mathematical model of the physical layer for an in-body nano-machine (NM) communication. The purpose is finding what modulation and detection schemes are suitable for application in the body and discovering what factors limit the feasible communication distance. Inside the body, the NMs use small antennas operating in the THz frequency spectrum. They have limited energy resources and low computational power and must fulfill their task in a challenging environment with large absorption losses. By employing on-off-keying pulse modulation and small integrating receiver circuits, it is possible to consume minimal energy while being able communicate over small distances of a few mms. This is shown through a simulation of a point to point nano-communication link. We also demonstrate how connecting several NMs in a network and employing amplify-and-forward relaying can facilitate communication over larger distances. The final analysis shows that communication inside the body is possible over short distances, a few mms at most, but transmitting a signal strong enough to connect aNMnetwork to an external terminal may prove challenging.