Multipoint detection of structural deformation of pulsating 3D heart model using flexible organic piezoelectric-sensor array

Multipoint detection of the structural deformation of a pulsating 3D heart model was conducted using a flexible piezoelectric sensor array with a poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) [P(VDF-TrFE)] thin film sealed with biocompatible parylene C. The piezoelectric signals detected from the sensor array attached to the 3D heart model were correlated with an electrocardiogram signal. These piezoelectric signals can be converted into the compressive stress applied to the flexible sensors by the pulsating motion of the 3D heart model. The experimental results mean that the contraction force, generated by the heart muscle (i.e., myocardium), can be directly evaluated. The different output voltages depending on the location were obtained from each sensor, indicating the possibility of a real-time detection of the irregular motion of the heart and the early detection of ischemic heart disease, which leads to the loss of local contractile force in myocardial tissue.