Distributed pervasive services using group service communication supporting body area networks

Body Area Network (BAN) provide critical data in healthcare monitoring environments, where such monitoring can be performed in a ubiquitous manner using various miniature device technologies. However, a key requirement in supporting the full capacity of a BAN is an efficient distribution, processing and application of the acquired data. The architecture and applications which capitalize on the huge potential of this data, provide significant added value to BANs. This paper proposes an architecture which is service oriented and integrates the data produced by BANs into a healthcare environment, supporting remote interactions between medical officers to maximise patient care. The dynamic interaction of distributed services in this diverse environment is a key ingredient in the way technology can enhance healthcare. The architecture defines group services which facilitate the control of the dynamic behaviour of services within this heterogeneous environment.