PRESSURE SENSORS AND MEASUREMENT METHODS

摘要

A sensor for measuring pressure within anatomical structures has an impulse mechanism for delivering a mechanical impulse to the anatomical structure and a sensing mechanism for monitoring a mechanical response of the anatomical structure to the impulse. The sensor has application in measuring Intra-Ocular Pressure (IOP). The sensor may also be applied for measuring pressures within other anatomical structures such as the heart or blood vessels. In one embodiment the impulse mechanism comprises a voice coil and the sensing mechanism comprises a piezoelectric film that generates a signal when it is distorted by motion of the anatomical structure.