13-11-2012, 06:06 PM
Biomedical Instrumentation
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Section Objectives
• Understand the canonical structure of biomedical instrumentation systems.
• Learn the qualitative functions of the four primary system components (sensors, actuators,
electronics interface, computation unit)
• Learn the technical vocabulary associated with instrumentation and design and basic signal
analysis (italicized words and phrases).
• Learn / review the static and dynamic performance characteristics for instrumentation systems.
Introduction to Biomedical Instruments
“Biomedical instruments” refer to a very broad class of devices and systems. A biomedical instrument is
an ECG machine to many people. To others, it’s a chemical biosensor, and to some it’s a medical
imaging system. Current estimates place the worldwide market for biomedical instruments at over $200
billion. Biomedical instruments are ubiquitous; they are significant to the broader technology and
biotechnology sectors; and, finally, they are vital to many medical and scientific fields. Bottom line:
This course is worthwhile!!
Sensors and Actuators
A sensor must:
• detect biochemical, bioelectrical, or biophysical parameters
• reproduce the physiologic time response of these parameters
• provide a safe interface with biological materials
An actuator must:
• deliver external agents via direct or indirect contact
• control biochemical, bioelectrical, or biophysical parameters
• provide a safe interface with biologic materials