Biomedical apparatus

Abstract

A biomedical apparatus for monitoring and evaluating physical properties associated with a biologic or biomedical system is provided. When adapted to monitor and evaluate pressure at any interface between two abutting surfaces, the biomedical apparatus includes a sensor pad including at least one pressure sensor that is adapted to be disposed between the two surfaces to measure pressures exerted on one surface by the other surface, and generate data representative of measured pressures. At least one transducer is provided, with one transducer being in communication with each sensor for generating output signals representative of pressures measured by the sensor. Electronic circuitry further is provided that includes data processing circuitry for processing output signals generated by the transducer and generating pressure data based upon pressures measured by the sensor. A display is electrically connected to the data processing circuitry for visually displaying information representative of pressure data generated by the data processing circuitry. The electronic circuitry and transducers are disposed in a hand-held housing, and the display is mounted on the housing. Tubing extending between the sensor pad and the housing connects each sensor to one transducer. A power source disposed inside the housing for supplying power to the electronic circuitry. In the preferred embodiment, three hydraulic pressure sensors having quadfoliate configurations are arranged on the sensor pad to provide sufficient surface area to cover a bony prominence of an individual resting against a surface.