Design and realization of stretchable sewn chipless RFID tags and sensors for wearable applications

This paper presents the design of a sewed chipless RFID tag and sensor, on a fabric for wearable applications. The proposed design is based on three sewn scatterers on cotton textile. The tag is realized using a computer-aided sewing machine and electro-thread plated with silver. The simulation and frequency-domain measurement results validate the design from 3 to 6 GHz. The tag's static backscattered response can be identified in free space and on the human body. Some preliminary results from a sewn stretchable sensor are also given to demonstrate the potential for biomedical applications. Finally, we discuss the main challenges concerning the practical implementation of this technology.