Abstract: A low profile acoustic array (10) is configured to selectively respond to shear waves while rejecting compression wave energy in the frequency range of interest. One sensor array is configured as a linear strip with a frame segment having at least one longitudinally extending rail and a plurality of sensor elements (20) extending therefrom. These sensor elements have a resilient core and opposing PDVF outer layers configured with opposing polarities onto the core. The linear strip array also includes a pair of separate electrical signal transmission paths. The transmission lines can include a series of undulations formed thereon to help minimize undesired mechanical crossover between sensors. A carrier member can be configured to be detachably releasable carries the discrete sensors to maintain the positional alignment until they are secured to a patient.

Abstract: A thin film piezoelectric polymer acoustic sensor for the passive detection of heart and blood flow sounds is described. Sensors may have initially slack film components which are tented by the mass of a housing when a sensor is positioned on acoustic medium. Enhanced sensor performance is provided by accommodation of the sensor spring constant to the spring constant of human flesh. Sensor performance may be enhanced by a combination of physical parameter ranges. A plurality of sensors may compose a linear array or an array aperture.