Extrinsic Optical Fiber Sensor for Medical Audiometric Applications

The paper presents optical fiber sensor designed for medical audiometric measurements. Currently, highly precise audiometric examinations require attachment of reflective element inside the ear. We propose alternative contactless optical and non-invasive method for audiometric applications. Presented sensor utilizes extrinsic intensity modulation combined with interferometric method to measure low amplitude vibrations with flat frequency response curve and no resonance effects. Experiment was performed with tympanic membrane model stimulated by external loudspeaker. Experimental results show usage possibility of presented sensor for laryngological and audiometric tests of ear membrane response, which is important for both diagnosis and implants sensitivity fitting for people with hearing deficits.