Advances in all-optical sensors for biomedical monitoring

Advancements in optical technology have led to the development of a number of different sensor systems suitable for use in the biomedical industry, such as cardiovascular system monitors, lung/bladder pressure sensors and radiation dosimeters. Recent efforts in the Optical Fibre Sensors Research Centre at the University of Limerick have seen the application of all-optical sensors to these areas. This paper gives an overview to these activities and highlights the unique advantages optical sensors bring to this arena.