Alternative fiber optic sensor based on Bragg grating for heart rate monitoring

Abstract

This paper deals on the alternative fiber optic sensor based on fiber Bragg grating (FBG) for use in biomedical applications. FBG measurement probe mounted on the human chest provides respiratory and heart activity monitoring. The big advantage of these sensors are immunity to electromagnetic interference and therefore they are able to be employed in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) environment. The FBG encapsulation plays an important role in sensor protection against external effects and damages. This article focuses on the various types of FBG encapsulation and implementation on the human body for vital sign monitoring. Presented results of fiber optic sensors show a very interesting alternative to conventional respiratory and heart rate monitors.