An ad-hoc network based framework for monitoring brain function

Ad-hoc networks and mobile devices have become a crucial part of our daily lives. The low cost of wireless devices and free use of ad-hoc networks open an unlimited horizon to create new applications. Moreover, integrating several technologies can achieve almost unthinkable solutions. This paper presents a mobile solution framework to monitor human brain functions during real-life activities. The framework utilizes the internet, GSM wireless networks, Bluetooth technology and a number of data protocols, and consists of three main parts: a Bluetooth portable near-infrared light sensor; a personal digital assistant (PDA) and a personal computer (PC). The real-time data acquisition is performed by the sensor while mobility is provided by the GSM PDA. The data is sent over a various-protocol stack until it reaches the final destination (the host PC). The system provides a powerful light-weight human-brain-function monitoring system in real-life situations outside a lab environment. Several software components have been developed to achieve the integration of all these technologies and devices.