Acoustic Sensor for Health Status Monitoring

ARL is developing sensor technology to monitor a soldiers health and activity by gathering and analyzing acoustic data. The sensor consists of a fluid or gel contained within a small conformable rubber bladder or pad that also includes a hydrophone. This enables the collection of high signal-to-noise ratio heartbeat, breath, voice, and other physiology. The pad also minimizes interference from ambient noise due to its poor coupling with airborne noise. When the sensor pad is in contact with a patients thorax neck or temple region sounds can be immediately and continuously monitored.