Abstract:
Tiny, wireless sensor devices (Motes or Smart Dust) have the potential for transforming the
bio-medical/healthcare industry sector. Researchers consider motes as prototypes for nano-devices (built
from off- the-shelf technology), which will become a reality in 10 years time. The bio-medical and
healthcare market is among the fastest growing markets for WiFi and other Wireless LAN Technologies.
Motes are being trialled for emergency triaging, patient profiling and monitoring and education. This
paper presents cases where motes are being used in the bio-medical and health care space. An overview of
motes and sensor technology is presented after which the advantages and limitations of the devices are
addressed. The authors then examine the use of motes in bio-medical and healthcare environments from a
jurisprudence viewpoint. The paper concludes by pointing the way tofurther research as well as the
implications for practice.
