Passive Physiological monitoring apparatus and method have a sensor for sensing
physiological phenomenon. A converter converts sensed data into electrical signals
and a computer receives and computes the signals, and outputs computed data for
real-time interactive display. The sensor is a piezoelectric film of polyvinylidene
fluoride. A band-pass filter filters out noise and isolates the signals to reflect
data from the body. A pre-amplifier amplifies signals. Signals detected include
mechanical, thermal and acoustic signatures reflecting cardiac output, cardiac
function, internal bleeding, respiratory, pulse, apnea, and temperature. A pad
may incorporate the PVDF film and may be fluid-filled. The film converts mechanical
energy into analog voltage signals. Analog signals are fed through the band-pass
filter and the amplifier. A converter converts the analog signals to digital signals.
A Fourier transform routine is used to transform into the frequency domain. A microcomputer
is used for recording, analyzing and displaying data for on-line assessment and
for providing realtime response. A radio-frequency filter may be connected to a
cable and the film for transferring signals from the film through the cable. The
sensor may be an array provided in a MEDEVAC litter or other device for measuring
acoustic and hydraulic signals from the body of a patient for field monitoring,
hospital monitoring, transport monitoring, home, remote monitoring.