Abstract: An ultrasound transducer and method of producing same takes advantage of the properties of two differing materials to optimize the transducer. More specifically, the transducer has one or more emitters made of lead zirconate titanate PZT) crystals that are affixed to a wearable material made of polyvinylildene fluoride (PVDF). As such, the PZT crystals are an effective emitter of ultrasound energy into an object and/or area of interest, such as a patient for maternal and/or fetal care monitoring, while the PVDF material has a low impedance and therefore effectively receives the ultrasound energy returned from the object and/or area of interest. The PVDF material comprises a wearable form factor, whereby the transducer utilizes different properties of different materials and combines them into a common transducer.

Abstract: A combinational fetal heart rate monitor and uterine activity measuring device for use on a pregnant patient. The fetal heart rate and uterine activity monitor comprising a plurality of electrodes disposed to be attached on the abdomen of the patient and an ultrasound transducers disposed to be attached on the abdomen of the patient. An energy source is operable to generate an excitation signal and the energy source is connected to a multiplexer which is connected between the plurality of electrodes and the ultrasound transducer, the multiplexer being selectively positioned to direct the excitation signal from the energy source to either the electrode or the ultrasound transducer. An amplifier connected to the energy source compares the excitation signal to the excitation signal after it passes through the abdomen of the patient. The signal from the amplifier is demodulated and processed to calculate physiological parameter based on the change in the excitation signal.

Abstract: A combinational fetal heart rate monitor and uterine activity measuring device for use on a pregnant patient. The fetal heart rate and uterine activity monitor comprising a plurality of electrodes disposed to be attached on the abdomen of the patient and an ultrasound transducers disposed to be attached on the abdomen of the patient. An energy source is operable to generate an excitation signal and the energy source is connected to a multiplexer which is connected between the plurality of electrodes and the ultrasound transducer, the multiplexer being selectively positioned to direct the excitation signal from the energy source to either the electrode or the ultrasound transducer. An amplifier connected to the energy source compares the excitation signal to the excitation signal after it passes through the abdomen of the patient. The signal from the amplifier is demodulated and processed to calculate physiological parameter based on the change in the excitation signal.