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Abstract

A specially grounded sensor for improving signal-to-noise ratios in clinical spectrometric procedures includes a sensor body carrying electrically actuated spectrometric signal-producing and receiving components, e.g., electro-optical components, for transmittal and reception of particular examination energy wavelengths, in which the sensor body has an electrically conductive portion or element associated therewith for contacting the patient. This electrically conductive, member is coupled to the signal ground potential of associated signal-processing apparatus to thereby equalize the electrical potential of the patient surface area to which the sensor is applied with the aforementioned signal ground potential. Preferably, an isolation preamplifier is utilized between the sensor and a microprocessor wherein the examination signals are analyzed, to provide the aforementioned signal ground, but in any event this signal ground is maintained separate from and preferably isolated from the primary ground conductor and potential of the processor and/or of the driver circuitry which provides excitation for the electro-optical components. In a particular preferred embodiment, conductive shielding is used in the sensor for reducing electrical noise from ambient sources, and the aforementioned conductive sensor member is electrically connected to such shielding, for improved results. Also, in a preferred embodiment, this shielding substantially encloses an inner portion of the sensor carrying the electro-optical components, in particular, the light-detector, except for openings in the shielding of a size and shape to fit relatively closely around the detector and thereby provide maximal shielding effects for the detector and their associated electrical conductors.

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First Claim