CN101203175B - Methods and devices for relieving stress - Google Patents

Abstract

Easy to use, cost-effective methods and devices for evaluating and treating stress and thereby disorders caused or exacerbated by stress are provided. More particularly methods and devices for identifying RSA waves during respiration which provide a subject with realtime RSA wave information are provided. These methods and devices also can be used to identify drop points in RSA waves. Such methods and devices provide subjects with the ability to maintain parasympathetic outflow and thereby prevent and/or reduce levels of stress.

Description

The method and apparatus that is used for relieving stress

Related application

The application is the U. S. application No.11/084 that submitted on March 18th, 2005,456 part continuation application, and require its priority and rights and interests.The application also requires priority and the rights and interests of following application: the U.S. Provisional Application No.60/673 that on April 20th, 2005 submitted to, the U.S. Provisional Application No.60/673 that on April 21st, 148,2005 submitted to, 627, and the U.S. Provisional Application No.60/705 of submission on August 4th, 2005,883.The content of above-cited each application is incorporated in this in full with for referencial use.

Technical field

The present invention relates to for assessment of and treat the imbalance of pressure and pressure correlation.More particularly, the present invention relates to for by providing the information about the not normal pattern of respiratory sinus rate to strengthen parasympathetic neururgic biofeedback apparatus and method.

Background technology

Although there are many pressure relieve products ﹠ services, the imbalance of pressure and pressure correlation still causes astonishing economy and non-economy cost.According to estimates, only in the U.S., aspect the productivity, absence from work without reason and error, operating pressure just causes every year near 3,000 hundred million dollars cost.Except the relevant cost of direct work, caused surpassing 17,000,000,000 dollars antidepressant and anxiolytic drugs in 2002 in the trial aspect the imbalance for the treatment of pressure and pressure correlation.The ascendant trend of the annual cost of this pharmacological treatment is still continuing.

In addition, because the incident health problem that directly or indirectly causes from potential pressure imbalance, but pressure also causes significant incalculable cost.For example, studies show that, the people under the pressure more easily infect viral and the non-viral disease.A common known example of this fermentation is the relation between pressure and the respiratory infections.In addition, if also be under the pressure, then ill people's recovery time is longer.

Long-term pressure may damage the balance of autonomic nervous system (ANS) and the effect of ANS, thereby causes the imbalance of multiple pressure correlation.The damage of ANS causes degenerative disorders and dead too early.For example, clinical research ANS of two minutes of single of having investigated 14,025 the healthy men and women of age between 45 to 64 years old measures.After 8 years, disease and dead incidence rate with people that lower parasympathetic nervous measures are much higher.Aspect the relation of itself and " full the cause of the death dead (allcause mortality) ", the ANS function has also been investigated in three other researchs (U.S., Denmark and Finland).In every research, low parasympathetic nervous ANS has indicated disease and death.Aspect the relation of itself and various independent disease (such as heart disease, diabetes and apoplexy), hundreds of other research have in fact been arranged ANS function.For example, British government has entrusted one about ANS function and cardiopathic research.Has the people of minimum parasympathetic nervous ANS function in the increase that has aspect the mortality rate that causes owing to heart attack above 1,000%.The pressure cost of non-economy aspect also is very significant, and comprise for the adverse effect of household, friend, neighbours and colleague's relation.

Stress reaction comprises two fundamental systems: the autonomic nervous system hormonal system of unifying.Described ANS usually so that internal's smooth muscle innervates, and comprises that sympathetic nerve and parasympathetic nervous divide and is.In simple terms, it is be responsible for to transfer energy in order to emergency is made a response (" struggle against or escape "), given expression to one's sentiment or carries out aggravating activities that sympathetic nerve divides, thereby to divide be then to apply calm impact and balance sympathetic nervous system to parasympathetic nervous.Along with sympathetic nerve becomes more and more active, it can improve heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, mental activity (thereby exciting brain) and other physical functions.Therefore, pressure is kept by orthosympathetic high activity.

In the process of described pressure correlation, also relate to hormonal system.Especially, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axle is played a leading role in the middle of the stress reaction of hormonal system.Hypothalamus secretion peptide hormone is with the Stimulation of Pituitary Gland gland, and described pituitary gland is secreted again the hormone of himself to stimulate other endocrine gland.The acth secretion hydrocortisone, described hydrocortisone is regulated the generation of metabolism and energy, and regulates the reaction in autonomic sympathetic nerve branch and the parasympathetic branches.Cortisol levels is directly related with the degree of the stress reaction of individuality.

Early stage in the 1970's, Dr.Herbert Benson has put down in writing the nerve opposite with " stress reaction " and the existence of physiological status.This state is known as " relaxation response ", and it is verified by other clinical researches.From autonomic viewpoint, stress reaction is characterized by the high activity of sympathetic nerve branch, and relaxation response is then characterized by the high activity of parasympathetic branches.By definition, cause the stress reaction that relaxation response can interrupt enlivening.Therefore, activate continually described relaxation response and can prevent that stressor (stressor) from producing (the being long-term) pressure that continues.In addition, verified, activate continually relaxation response and can reverse the injury (comprising hypertension) that is caused by the long-term pressure that had before run into.

The little change of the time that the interaction of autonomic two branches (sympathetic nerve and parasympathetic nervous) can occur between the heart beating by inquiry at every turn in succession characterizes.When individual rest, heart beating is caused by parasympathetic branches to the variation of heart time.This variation will increase according to the breathing pattern of individuality and reduce.In breathing process, parasympathetic branches is suppressed, and heart rate will begin to accelerate.In exhalation process, parasympathetic branches begins to work and reduce heart rate.This relation between the heart rate that changes and the breathing is known as respiratory sinus rate not normal (RSA).The RSA measurement is the mathematical calculation to the degree of heart rate raising and decline.When the degree of described raising and decline was higher, the activity of parasympathetic nervous system was also higher.In other words, higher RSA represents higher parasympathetic activity.As previously mentioned, the abundant raising of parasympathetic activity moves on to health in the relaxation response, thereby interrupts the stress reaction of any preexist.

Carry out many trials and activated relaxation response, so that treatment or controlled pressure, comprising technology and the process of invasive and Noninvasive.For example, acupuncture, prescription and the treatment of OTC (over-the-counter) pharmacology and psychotherapy in the process of attempting alleviation or controlled pressure, have been used.Yet each described therapy all relates to very high money and time cost.In addition, the effectiveness of these treatments is usually so incomplete, and sometimes exists hardly.Described effectiveness usually is difficult to assessment, and many times all only is temporary transient.In addition, pharmacological treatment usually has side effect, and some in addition may have habit-forming danger.In addition, although all these available alternatives are arranged, pressure is still responsible to seek medical advice (directly or indirectly) above 80%.

Therefore, clearly need to for assessment of with the method and apparatus for the treatment of pressure, wherein this method and apparatus is effectively, Noninvasive, is easy to use and cheap.In addition, the method and apparatus that clearly needs there is not undesirable side effect and can not bring habit-forming danger.Especially, clearly need such method and apparatus, it is by providing high-caliber unbroken parasympathetic activity to promote pressure relieve and can stopping immediately stress reaction.

Summary of the invention

The invention provides a kind of wieldy, cost effective method and equipment, thus for assessment of and the assessment for the treatment of pressure and the treatment imbalance that causes or aggravate by pressure.More particularly, the invention provides be used to identifying single RSA ripple and the method and apparatus of RSA ripple information being provided to object.This information for example can be used in biofeedback and reduce stress level and obtain rhythmical breathing with helpful object in arranging.

Thereby the present invention also provides and allows to stop immediately the method and apparatus that the physical stress reaction prevents stress reaction injury body ﹠ mind.Use the physiology injury that allows reverse to cause owing to being under pressure before for the rule of method and apparatus according to the invention, comprising the cumulative effect of long-term pressure.

Correspondingly, one exemplary embodiment of the present invention are provided for preventing, alleviate or eliminate portable, the hand-held biofeedback apparatus of the pressure of human subjects.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided for the method and apparatus of the high active state of parasympathetic nervous that maintenance continues basically in a persistent period section.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides portable, hand-held biofeedback apparatus, and it comprises light plethysmography (photoplethysmograph, " PPG ") sensor and is used for providing display screen about the information of its RSA ripple to object.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided for training objects reduces stress level by reaching the respiratory frequency of breathing for 6 times near per minute method and apparatus.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides the method and apparatus that promotes pressure relieve, and described method and apparatus is by providing high-caliber uninterrupted parasympathetic activity to promote pressure relieve together with the Real-time Feedback about this activity.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides to the user and provides method and apparatus about the information of the transition from the rising point to the drop point in the RSA waveform, and wherein this information can be used to consumer-oriented breathing.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided for detecting and the method for the wrong data that correction is relevant with the RSA ripple and the equipment that utilizes this method.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is provided at the method for the display screen adjusted scaling (scaling) of portable biometric feedback device and the equipment that utilizes this method.

An alternative embodiment of the invention is by analyzing the RSA ripple and come identification of breathing pattern (comprising the degree of depth, speed and volume) and provide demonstration to it.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 shows typical heart rate variability (HRV) pattern that is caused by respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA).

Fig. 2 shows exemplary a series of RSA ripples and identifies several pulses peak.

Fig. 3 shows exemplary a series of RSA ripples and calculates IBI time (interbeat interval times, IBI) between in succession the pulse peak value.

Fig. 4 a-d identifies respectively representative summit, end point, rising transition point and decline transition point.

Fig. 5 shows representational continuous rising and decline transition point.

Fig. 6 shows the illustrative methods for the identification summit.

Fig. 7 shows the illustrative methods for identification end point.

Fig. 8 (a)-(b) shows the exemplary process flow for the exemplary process that finds the RSA ripple in the data set according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 9 shows the exemplary process for the RSA ripple in the set of identification data.

Figure 10 shows exemplary Double Tops ripple.

Figure 11 shows for the illustrative methods of proofreading and correct from the data of representative Double Tops ripple.

Figure 12 shows manometric exemplary demonstration.

Figure 13 shows the illustrative methods for the long-term direction of determining the RSA ripple.

Figure 14 shows the exemplary process flow for the exemplary process of determining the ripple stage.

Figure 15 shows the exemplary process flow for the exemplary process of determining ripple side (wave side).

Figure 16 (a)-(b) shows for the illustrative methods of determining that ripple finishes.

Figure 17 shows be used to the illustrative methods of describing the ripple border.

Figure 18 shows the illustrative methods for assessment of the persistence of parasympathetic activity.

Figure 19 shows the illustrative methods for assessment of the persistence of parasympathetic activity.

Figure 20 shows an exemplary embodiment according to equipment of the present invention, and it has identified the potential site of on and off switch.

Figure 21 shows the representative locations of PPG sensor, and it can collect data from the finger of object.

Figure 22 (a)-(b) show make object hold example devices simultaneously the finger of this object be in alternative approach in the PPG sensor.

Figure 23 shows the exemplary demonstration of meter reciprocal.

Figure 24 shows representational average pulse rate and pulse rate along with the exemplary demonstration of the variation of time.

Figure 25 shows the exemplary demonstration of error message.

Figure 26 shows an exemplary embodiment of intervalometer reciprocal.

Figure 27 provides it to breathe the representative illustration of the RSA ripple of the object that slows down along with the time.

Figure 28 provides the representative illustration of RSA ripple of having carried out the object of darker breathing along with the time.

Figure 29 shows the representative RSA pattern consistent with rhythmical breathing.

It is that the representativeness of 6 object shows that Figure 30 provides wave frequency.

It is another kind of representative demonstration of 6 object that Figure 31 provides wave frequency.

Figure 32 shows the exemplary demonstration of the RSA ripple history of object.

Figure 33 shows the exemplary demonstration of object that its respiratory depth has increased and generated the relatively large ripple of the persistent period that has respectively about 10 seconds.

Figure 34 shows and activate the representative locations of breathing switch that guided that is guided respiratory function in example devices of the present invention.

Figure 35 (a)-(b) shows and utilizes the exemplary demonstration that is guided breathing of breathing bar, and this breathing bar increases to guide air-breathing, and reduces to guide expiration.

Figure 36 shows the exemplary demonstration of session phase profile screen.

Figure 37 shows the exemplary demonstration of various types of RSA information that can be shown by typical equipments according to the present invention.

Figure 38 shows the alternative shape factor of example devices of the present invention.

Figure 39 (a)-(b) shows respectively has the less portable set that enough sizes had not only shown just data but also shown the display of wrong data and wherein be merely able to pick out wrong data.

Figure 40 shows a series of representative pulses peak.

Figure 41 (a)-(b) shows respectively representational false positive pulse peak and representational false negative pulse peak.

Figure 42 shows the exemplary process flow of the exemplary error correction method that adopts during representative error correction mode.

Figure 43 shows and can be used to determine when object has reached the representative wave characteristic of rhythmical breathing.

Figure 44 shows the example system that wherein can realize software processes according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 45-46 shows the exemplary process flow that is used for carrying out with the user mutual exemplary top level program according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 47-51 shows the exemplary process flow for the treatment of the exemplary process of detected pulse according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 52-54 shows the exemplary process flow that is used for detected pulse sequence is carried out the exemplary process of error correction according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 55-56 shows the exemplary process flow that is used for detected pulse sequence is carried out the exemplary process of error detection according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 57 shows the exemplary process flow that initializes the exemplary process of scope according to the detected pulse of being used to of one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 58-59 shows the exemplary process flow for the treatment of the exemplary process of the RSA ripple in the detected pulse sequence according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 60-62 show according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention for the treatment of the RSA wavelength in the detected pulse sequence in order to determine the exemplary process flow of exemplary process of user's stress level.

Figure 63 shows according to the RSA wavelength-division that is used to of one exemplary embodiment of the present invention and joins the exemplary process flow of the exemplary process of wavelength.

Figure 64-74 shows for stage, the operational phase of definite RSA ripple change to detect setting point (drop point) in real time, operational phase changes to detect the end of ripple and determines that newly the exemplary flow of the exemplary process of the parasympathetic nervous intensity of the ripple of formation is processed.

Figure 75-83 shows for determining the ripple stage and processing in the another kind of exemplary flow of the exemplary process of describing ripple by the basis of pulse.

Figure 84-87 shows for the exemplary flow of the exemplary process of the end of determining in real time setting point and ripple and processes.

The specific embodiment

Research shows, in check breathing can mobile sympathetic nerve branch and parasympathetic branches between balance.Three kinds of specific respiratory components are alternatively determined the quantity of parasympathetic innervation (innervation).These three kinds of components comprise frequency, respiratory capacity (tidal volume) and exhalation/inhalation ratio.In general, can recently improve parasympathetic activity by reducing respiratory frequency, increase respiratory capacity and/or increasing exhalation/inhalation.Therefore, change these three variablees and might improve parasympathetic activity, thereby be enough to effectively in the mode of Noninvasive, simple cheap and have negative side-effects ground to cause relaxation response.

In general, biological feedback method and equipment relate to training process, and described training process is so that object can promote behavior or movable change, in order to improve or keep one or more physiological function.Along with the past of time, can utilize biological feedback method and equipment that object is trained to can be to the control of these Function implementation higher degrees.Opposite with other forms of therapy from treatment to object that force, biological feedback method and equipment allow object little by little described training process to be dissolved into almost in the middle of the automatically reaction.

The present invention relates to the method and apparatus that second signals and training can be provided for the object of the imbalance that suffers pressure and pressure correlation.This second signals and training can be based on respiratory sinus arrhythmia pattern and the analyses that can affect the breathing of this pattern.

There is not known method during spontaneous respiration, only to utilize the RSA data set to identify single RSA ripple.For relevant with breathing the RSA ripple, usually collect individually and draw heart rate and breathing rate information.One aspect of the present invention is included in the single ripple of identification in the RSA data set.Other aspects of the present invention comprise uses the RSA wave mode to provide real-time breathing feedback information based on heart rate data as object.Also based on the wave mode analysis and breathe feedback provide for reducing or the device of controlled pressure level suitably.

In addition, there is not known method during spontaneous respiration, only to utilize the RSA data set to identify in real time single RSA ripple.Another aspect of the present invention allows to carry out this Real time identification, and promotes to produce high level unbroken parasympathetic activity with this information.

Exemplary wave mode recognition methods

In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the pulse rate by at the ground of heart beating one by one measuring object begins identification and analysis to the respiratory sinus arrhythmia wave mode.Clearly record in medical literature, heart rate (thereby pulse rate) is according to the constantly up and down fluctuation (Fig. 1) of wavy mode.These ripples are known as heart rate variability (HRV) ripple.As a people physically during static and rest, described HRV ripple is relevant with a people's breathing.The HRV ripple of these rests medically is being known as respiratory sinus arrhythmia or RSA ripple, because the size and shape of these ripples is relevant with speed, rhythm and the degree of depth of a people's breathing.Very important person's per minute is breathed 4 to 15 times, and described wave frequency just will be complementary with respiratory frequency basically.Most people is all in this scope internal respiration, even but when a people breathed outside this scope, described wave frequency was still closely approaching with respiratory frequency.

Although in medical literature, clearly set up ripple by visual analysis and breathe between dependency, also do not have in the heartbeat data collection, to identify the automatic mode of single ripple.One exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprise a kind of each independent ripple of novel method identify to(for) the heartbeat data collection.

For example.Two peak-to-peak time quantums of continuous pulse (the peak-peak time is with millisecond meter) are known as pp interval (pp) (Fig. 2).In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an equipment records pp interval in succession.Description to the pp spaced points also is applicable to any derivant (such as the pulse rate point) at rr interval (interval between the continuous R ripple among electrocardiogram or the ECG), pp interval and any derivant (such as heart rate) at rr interval.On the whole, these intervals can be known as " interval that heart rate is relevant ".In addition, the same procedure from pp interval extraction RSA ripple also can be applied directly to these other points.Yet some preferred embodiment of the present invention is resolved the ripple in the pp interval data collection.

When running into new pulse peak at every turn, can screen show each pp interval of recording pulse rate (60,000/pp).Absolute time between the pp interval poor (absolute (pp[n]-pp[n-1])) is known as the IBI time (IBI) (Fig. 3) in succession.One aspect of the present invention is identified single RSA ripple blanking time with described pp.Method described herein can be used to spontaneous and breathing that guided.

Can by checking each p-p and being right after the p-p (previous pp) before it and being right after the relation of the p-p (next p-p) after it, come each p-p is sorted out.If the previous p-p of a p-p is equal to or less than this p-p and its next p-p also is equal to or less than this p-p, then this p-p can be regarded as a summit (tp) (Fig. 4 a).If the previous p-p of a p-p is equal to or greater than this p-p and its next p-p also is equal to or greater than this p-p, point (bp) (Fig. 4 b) at the bottom of then this p-p can be regarded as.If greater than this p-p, then this p-p can be regarded as a rising transition point (at) (Fig. 4 c) to the previous p-p of a p-p less than this p-p and its next p-p.If less than this p-p, then this p-p can be regarded as a decline transition point (dt) (Fig. 4 d) to the previous p-p of a p-p greater than this p-p and its next p-p.Therefore, a p-p can be classified as summit (tp), end point (bp), rising transition point (at) or decline transition point (dt).Term " transition point " can be used to refer to rising transition point and decline transition point when it does not meet " rising " or " decline " two word.Continuous transition point refers to a series of continuous rising transition points or decline transition point (Fig. 5).

Term " top not (top level) " can be used to refer to the relative altitude on summit.The rank on summit can be by following calculating.L=is right after the number at the continuity point that is less than or equal to this summit in this left side, summit.R=is right after the number at the continuity point that is less than or equal to this summit on this right side, summit.If L＜R does not then describedly toply equal L, otherwise the described top R that do not equal.Fig. 6 utilizes three examples to illustrate how can the summit rank to be sorted out.

Term " end rank (bottom level) " can be used to refer to the relative altitude of end point.The end rank of point can be by following calculating.L=is right after the number more than or equal to the continuity point of this end point in some left side, this end.R=is right after the number more than or equal to the continuity point of this end point on some right side, this end.If L＜R, then rank equals L the described end, otherwise rank of the described end equals R.Fig. 7 utilizes three examples to illustrate how can rank to be put at the end and sorts out.

Fig. 8 (a)-(b) provides the exemplary process diagram of explanation for the exemplary process that finds the RSA ripple in data set, and how Fig. 9 can use this program if then showing.In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, first step is the maximum number of the continuous transition point (ctp) in the described data set in location.In Fig. 9, the maximum number of continuous transition point starts from a little 1.There are 2 continuous transition points.Depth of convolution degree equals the number of these transition points.Therefore, depth of convolution degree is 2 in this embodiment.In a preferred embodiment, if described depth of convolution degree then is adjusted to 4 to the ripple depth value downwards greater than 4.

Next step is the end point on described continuous transition point right side, location, and the end rank of this end point is equal to or greater than described depth of convolution degree.This is the right valley point (v2) of RSA ripple.In the example of Fig. 9, the end rank of point no.8 is 3, thereby greater than described depth of convolution degree.Next step is the end point that the end rank on described continuous transition point right side, location is equal to or greater than described depth of convolution degree.This is the left valley point (v1) of RSA ripple.In the example that provides in Fig. 9, the end rank of point no.0 is 4, thereby greater than described depth of convolution degree.Next step is the peak that finds between left valley point and the right valley point.This is the peak (p) of RSA ripple.In the example of Fig. 9, point 6 is two peaks between the valley point.Data after all data from left valley point (v1) to right valley point (v2) all are considered to process.For the identical program of remaining untreated Data duplication, until identified all possible ripple.

There is multiple modification in above-described method, its should the place of being regarded as within the scope of the invention.For example, similar method can be used to find the peak of each side that is in a transition point series.Therefore, the paddy between two peak dots will be these two peak-to-peak minimum points.In addition, depth of convolution degree can be based on the absolute number of transition point or based on the derivation number (for example number of transition point * 75%) of the number of transition point.In addition, the v1 point can be identified before the v2 point.

In a preferred embodiment, when being 4 point, the end rank that identification makes new advances uses ripple analytic method discussed above at every turn.Therefore, be RSA ripple between 4 the point according to equipment " searching " end rank of exemplary embodiment of the present invention.In other exemplary embodiments, equipment can be configured to the RSA ripple after " searching " each point, perhaps at process special time period (for example per 30 seconds) RSA ripple afterwards etc.Exemplary embodiment use end rank is 4 point, and this is because the probability that they describe the RSA ripple is very high.That is to say, they are that the probability of valley point (v1, v2) of RSA ripple is very high.

The situation that above-described basic RSA ripple analytic method may be described the RSA ripple improperly has two kinds.A kind of may when running into the Double Tops ripple, the generation.When waiting for for a long time, a people may form the Double Tops ripple when just air-breathing after exhaling.Another kind of situation may occur when forming the Double bottom ripple.When holding the breath for a long time, a people may form the Double bottom ripple after air-breathing.Can identify at an easy rate Double Tops (Figure 10) by the Length Ratio that checks two ripples.As (p1-v2) during much smaller than (p1-v1) and (p2-v2) much smaller than (p2-v3) and (p1-v2) very near (p2-v3), Double Tops have then appearred.In a preferred embodiment, Double Tops can be defined as following situation: ((p1-v2)/(p1-v2))＜0.50 and ((p2-v2)/(p2-v3))＜0.50 and ((p1-v1)/(p2-v3))＞0.75.Double bottom can be defined as the reverse situation of Double Tops.

When producing Double Tops or Double bottom from described basic analytical method, two ripples that form described pattern can be merged into a ripple.Point v1 is the v1 of new ripple.Point v3 is the v2 of new ripple.Peak between v1 and the v3 is the peak point of new ripple.This is illustrated by Figure 11.

Exemplary embodiment of the present invention can be assessed with above-described RSA ripple information user's stress level.Can in as manometric equipment, provide this stress tolerance (Figure 12 (5)).For example, relative with pressure-less state, when a people is under pressure, breathes and usually become quick and irregular.This quick, irregular breathing may cause forming short, incoherent RSA ripple.Method and apparatus according to the invention can be used to determine user's stress level, and this is to realize by the degree that the mean wavelength of determining the user departs from the level that represents relaxed state.This method and apparatus can also calculate irregular (arrhythmia) degree of user's ripple.These two kinds of assessments can be used alone or be combined into single value to show the total pressure level.

Studies show that, when people are fully lax (such as being under the degree of depth meditation state), they tend to approximately breathe for 6 times with stable rhythm breathing according to per minute.This rhythmical breathing causes the RSA wavelength to become traction on (entrained on) respiratory frequency.Therefore, the rhythmical breathing of 6 breathings of per minute will cause having a series of RSA ripples of 10 seconds wavelength.Therefore, when assessment user's stress level, exemplary embodiment of the present invention uses 10 seconds wavelength as loosening threshold value.Exemplary embodiment also comprises the mean wavelength of calculating nearest five ripples in order to determine how described meansigma methods departs from 10 seconds method and apparatus pro rata.This is an example of " wavelength mark (wavelength score) ".

Can quantize the arrhythmia ripple with a plurality of standard variance formula.Exemplary embodiment of the present invention with the difference of each continuous wavelength in nearest five ripples and calculate " variance mark (variance score) ".Exemplary embodiment can also use the difference between the wavelength in succession and, and can the weighting of service rating order average, thereby so that the variance of nearest ripple has more importance.In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, " the variance mark " of " wavelength mark "+30% of described stress level use 70%.Can when the RSA ripple that each identification makes new advances, recomputate user's stress level.

Pressure can cause the behavior of multiple RSA ripple: the variation that the peak to peak time of shortening, the peak to peak frequency of increase, the wavelength that reduces, the wave frequency of raising, the amplitude that reduces, irregular wavelength, irregular wave frequency, irregular amplitude, irregular peak to peak time, irregular peak to peak frequency, irregular peak value are arranged or reduced.The variable of any one front or its combination in any can be applied to the RSA ripple, and can be used as the index of stress level.Can identify within the scope of the invention single RSA ripple and individually, assess pressure with any aforementioned variable in combination with each other and/or with its dependent variable, this did not also describe in the prior art combinedly.

Except using the RSA ripple that identifies to determine the stress level, can also determine and show average heart rate and wave frequency with RSA ripple information according to the equipment of exemplary embodiment of the present invention and method.The meansigma methods of all pulse raties in nearest ripple can be used to assess average heart rate.For example, when identifying a new RSA ripple at every turn, can calculate the meansigma methods of described pulse rate and can upgrade heart rate.Can also upgrade described wave frequency when identifying a new RSA ripple shows at every turn.Exemplary embodiment can be expressed the frequency relevant with the ripple (breathing) of per minute.In the exemplary embodiment, can be rounded to nearest integer to wave frequency and heart rate.

Exemplary enforcement wave mode recognition methods

The present invention also provides the recognition methods of real-time RSA wave mode.In certain embodiments, this method comprises the processing of two main drives interrupts.

First processes and can trigger when detecting new pulse by the PPG sensor at every turn.This processing can be used for: (1) converts the pulse that receives to pulse rate values (prv); (2) utilizing this new prv to upgrade ripple shows; (3) confirm the beginning (showing that previous ripple just finishes) of the new prv ripple whether labelling is new; (4) describe the border (identifying paddy-peak-valley point) of a nearest ripple; (5) assess the parasympathetic activity of this ripple; (6) under this ripple, show suitable symbol; (7) upgrade ripple history; And (8) upgrade mark.

The second processing can be responsible for detecting in real time and the labelling setting point.This processing can be interrupted driving by clock.In a preferred embodiment, this for example process can per 250 milliseconds of generations once.When this processing detects the appearance in setting point, can come this setting point of labelling with setting point designator (such as triangle).

In the middle of these two processing any can realize with standard poll (polling) method.Perhaps, second process when detecting pulse, to occur at every turn.Exemplary embodiment uses clock to interrupt, thereby detects more rapidly the setting point.Yet, by coming the labelling setting point also can provide rational result based on the beat pulse that receives.

The preferred embodiments of the present invention also provide multiple method in real time the RSA wave mode being carried out accurate Characterization.This method is included in those methods that can be known as traditionally " ripple stage " method and " ripple side " method.

Determine the method in ripple stage

The present invention also provides the method for determining the ripple stage and the equipment that utilizes this method.In exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when each new pulse arrives, can assess long-term ripple direction.Figure 13 illustrates this processing.For example, can use the slope of nearest six (6) individual pulse rate points.Resulting value for example can be known as " long slope ".Perhaps, for example can use the slope (for example nearest 12 seconds, nearest 5 seconds etc.) of time-based some sliding window, perhaps for example can use another kind of general direction thing.

Next, for example can calculate subsequently the absolute quantity of long-term change.Make like this degree that the change value is provided.In exemplary embodiment of the present invention, can use the absolute value of described long slope, it for example can be known as " definitely long slope ".Perhaps, for example can use absolute value or the similar conversion of any long-term ripple assessment.

Next, for example can determine the short-term direction of ripple.In exemplary embodiment of the present invention, for example can use the slope of nearest three (3) individual pulse rate points.This for example can be known as " short slope ".Perhaps, for example can use compared with any direction indicator on the some subset less for the selected point of long-term Direction estimation.

Subsequently, for example can assess with described short-term direction indicator and described absolute long-term indicator the actual direction of ripple itself.In exemplary embodiment of the present invention, for example can compare described short slope and described absolute long slope.If for example this short slope is greater than 30% of this absolute long slope, then for example can be considered as upwards (UP) to the ripple direction.If this short slope is less than (1) * 30% of this absolute long slope, then for example described direction can be regarded as downwards (DOWN).If these two tests are not satisfied, then for example can be considered as smooth (FLAT) to described direction.

In alternate exemplary embodiment of the present invention, can determine to select different percentage ratio for these.Described percentage ratio can be based on the degree of desired parasympathetic nervous sensitivity.Higher percentage ratio interrupts more insensitive for parasympathetic nervous, lower percentage ratio then may be sensitiveer.About 30% for detecting main the interruption common enough sensitivity, and for enough roomy under the control that behavior is placed the user.

In addition, in exemplary embodiment of the present invention, be used for determining that the percentage ratio of upward direction can be different from the percentage ratio of determining downward direction.Perhaps, for example can relatively come with other mathematics of short slope and absolute long slope to determine the relativeness between the two, thus definite ripple direction.Perhaps, can replace short slope with other mathematical functions and for example assess short-term direction and long-term change degree with absolute long slope.

Next, for example can determine with described ripple direction and long-term direction the stage of ripple.In exemplary embodiment of the present invention, can check described ripple direction and described long slope in order to carry out this assessment, this for example is described in the exemplary process flow figure of Figure 14.Handling process starts from 301, the assessment of this place " is long slope for just? " this inquiry.If for example at 301 director's slopes for just, then handling process moves to 310, this place's assessment " direction makes progress? " this inquiry.If to being to make progress, then handling process proceeds to 311 at 310 prescriptions, and the stage is confirmed as rising.If for example at 301 director's slopes for just, but at 310 prescriptions to not being that upwards then handling process proceeds to 312, and the stage is confirmed as top (cresting).If for example 301 director's slopes for negative (namely at 301 places to inquiry " is long slope for just? " return "No"), its handling process moves to 320, if and subsequently at 320 places to the inquiry " direction makes progress? " return "Yes", then handling process proceeds to 330.If to being downward, then handling process moves to 331 at 330 prescriptions, and the stage is confirmed as descending.Perhaps, if at 320 director's slopes for negative, but at 330 prescriptions to not being that then handling process moves to 332, and the stage is confirmed as paddy (troughing) downwards.Each place in the middle of 312,311,332,331, the result is passed to 350, can turn back to another processing to the determined stage in order to be further processed or export 350.

Determine the method for ripple side

The equipment that the present invention also provides the method for definite ripple side and utilized this method.Therefore, in exemplary embodiment of the present invention, can realize a kind of alternative of determining all four-stages of described ripple.This replacement method for example can utilize the combination of scope and direction only to detect rising and the decline stage of ripple.Figure 15 illustrates the exemplary process flow corresponding to the method.This handling process starts from 401, the minimum prv-" low " between the highest prv-" height " in this place for example can obtain between the given area, given area and the value of from high to low " scope ".Described " height ", " low " and " scope " refer to assess the prv value in the sliding window (for example nearest 12 points, nearest 12 seconds etc.).In exemplary embodiment of the present invention, can use nearest 12 seconds prv scope.As mentioned above, can be at 410 place's direction of assessments.

In case calculate after scope and the direction, just can evaluation stage.This can realize by check ripple direction and current prv about described scope.If the ripple direction is that upwards then the ripple stage has changed to rising in the bottom of described scope.Perhaps, if the ripple direction is that then the ripple stage has changed to decline downwards at the top of this scope.Ripple is in the top of its scope or bottom and for example can recently determines by part or the percentage of selecting total size, as shown in Figure 15, wherein be in described scope upper 25% within be regarded as near the top, be regarded as approaching the bottom and be no more than on the bottom of described scope 25%.In the exemplary embodiment of replacing, can use other threshold value.

With reference to Figure 15, for example 420 places can test current prv whether described scope upper 25% within.If any is "Yes" at 420 places namely near the top of described scope recently at 420 places, then described handling process can proceed to 430, analyzes the ripple direction at this place.If be downwards in 430 place's ripple directions, then described handling process moves to 431, and determines that the described ripple stage changed to decline, and withdraws from described processing at 460 places.

Yet, if the current prv in 420 places be not in described scope upper 25% in, described handling process moves to 440.At 440 places, test described ripple whether be in described scope lower 25% in.If then described handling process moves to 450, for example can be in this place's assessment ripple direction.If be that upwards then described handling process moves to 451 in 450 place's ripple directions for example, determine that at this place the ripple direction has changed to rising, and withdraw from described processing at 460 places.

If 420 places state ripple be not in its scope upper 25% within, and this ripple of 440 places be not in its scope lower 25% within, then described handling process moves to 460, and withdraws from described processing.If stating the ripple direction in 450 places and be not upwards or stating the ripple direction in 430 places is not downwards, then also withdraw from described processing.

Therefore, in exemplary embodiment of the present invention, can use any method, namely ripple stage method (Figure 15) or ripple side method (Figure 14) are determined the current generation.In many situations, for example can use the ripple side, because use described scope can improve degree of accuracy.Yet, in other embodiment of all four-stages of expectation tracking, for example can use the ripple stage, because it also identifies on earth and arrive the top.

Determine the method that ripple finishes

The present invention also provides and determines the method that ripple finishes and the equipment that utilizes this method.In exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when finish in order to determine new ripple, can for example use the above-described stage to determine that method pursues heart beating ground and follow the tracks of the current generation.As shown in Figure 16 a, when the current generation changes to rising, know that a ripple finishes recently.Perhaps, for example can follow the tracks of the ripple side by heart beating ground.As shown in Figure 16 b, when the ripple side changes to when left, know that then a new ripple finishes.

Describe the method on ripple border

The present invention also provides the method for describing the ripple border and the equipment that utilizes this method.Therefore, in case after having determined that new ripple has finished, then as shown in Figure 17, can obtain the point between the point that the beginning of last trough and new ripple rising.Minimum point in the last trough can be known as left valley point.Minimum point between described Zuo Gu and the new rising point can be known as right valley point.Peak between described left valley point and described right valley point can be known as the peak.

Perhaps, for example can utilize from the right side of last ripple until the point at the end on the right side of the new ripple that forms is carried out the analysis of ripple side.Minimum point in the right side of last ripple can be known as left valley point.Minimum point between the right side of described left valley point and new ripple can be known as right valley point.Peak between described left valley point and right valley point can be known as the peak.

The method of assessment parasympathetic activity

The present invention also provides the method for assessment parasympathetic activity and the equipment that utilizes this method.In the exemplary embodiment, can in the process of assessment parasympathetic activity, use the ripple border.In certain embodiments of the present invention, can be for two parasympathetic nervous parameters of resulting wave measurement: the intensity of parasympathetic nervous reaction and the seriality of parasympathetic activity.

In one embodiment, for example can determine by wavelength (timestamp of right valley point deducts the timestamp of left valley point) intensity of parasympathetic nervous reaction.If described wavelength is for example less than 6 seconds, then intensity can be regarded as low.If wavelength was greater than for example 6 seconds and less than for example 9.5 seconds, then intensity can be regarded as medium.If this wavelength is for example more than or equal to 9.5 seconds, then this wavelength can be regarded as height.

In alternative embodiment, can also utilize traditional RSA to measure, such as continuous heart cycle, standard deviation, average deviation etc., assess the parasympathetic activity level.

Can be divided into two parts and assess the seriality of parasympathetic nervous reaction.At first, for example can be by begin to calculate to the peak slope of per three continuity points from left valley point.If for example any described slope approaches zero or become negatively, then parasympathetic nervous spread out of and be interrupted (Figure 18) between the rising stage of described ripple.Similarly, for example can be by begin to calculate to right valley point the slope of per three continuity points from the peak.If for example any described slope approaches zero or become negatively, then parasympathetic nervous spreads out of between the decrement phase of described ripple and is interrupted.If for example the short-term slope in the left side of described ripple keeps high and for just, and the short-term slope on the right side of described ripple keeps high and for negative, think that then it is continuous and not interruption (Figure 19) that parasympathetic nervous spreads out of.

In the exemplary embodiment, the threshold value of described short-term slope can be variable.For example, example devices can be followed the tracks of at nearest 5 seconds the highest positive slope.This equipment for example can be followed the tracks of the nearest 5 seconds absolute value of high negative slope.If for example this absolute value of high negative slope is greater than this highest positive slope, then this value can be used to represent " changing the soonest ".Otherwise this highest positive slope can be used to represent " changing the soonest ".

In certain embodiments, when checking the rising of ripple, if for example any 3 slopes are less than 30% of described the soonest change, think that then parasympathetic nervous interrupts.Similarly, during lower general of ripple, if for example any 3 slopes are greater than 30% of (1) * (changing the soonest), think that then parasympathetic nervous interrupts.

Will be appreciated that, can assess described short-term slope with other algorithms according to the present invention and between the rising of ripple or decrement phase, whether be interrupted.

Determine the method in setting point

The present invention also provides the method that detects the setting point and the equipment that utilizes this method.In the exemplary embodiment, for example can detect routine in every 250ms operation setting point.For example during each described 250ms clock down trigger, described equipment can be inserted into a mirage phantom value (phantom value) in one group of pulsation that receives.In example devices, the mirage phantom value for example is perceived as at the described interruption stylish pulse that receives that is triggered.Described routine can utilize the mirage phantom value of data centralization to come the application stage to determine method subsequently.If this stage determines method and assesses out the stage along with this mirage phantom value changes to decline, then detected the setting point, this is because next actual pulse will occur after this setting point.When detecting this setting point, can show immediately a symbol by described interruption routine, such as triangle.If described test is false, displaying symbol not then.Utilize the method for this interruption routine to allow to detect in real time and the labelling setting point.

Example devices

Following description relates to the exemplary embodiment of apparatus-form of the present invention, and this equipment can be used to assess and treat people's pressure.In these embodiments, can identify and characterize the RSA ripple according to any aforesaid way, and can provide biofeedback to the user with described RSA ripple.This example devices comprises such equipment, and it provides information to the user in real time, to promote producing unbroken high parasympathetic nervous output in the section for a long time.Except the specific embodiment that the following describes, will be appreciated that also additive method and equipment should be arranged within the scope of the invention.In the situation that clearly do not describe alternative embodiment, the applicant is not intended to limit the invention to the specific descriptions that provide in these chapters and sections.Especially, will be appreciated that, the various characteristics combination that the following describes can be integrated in the single equipment, and this equipment will drop in the scope of the present invention disclosed herein.Very naturally, complete scope of the present invention is based on the disclosure in as a whole the description.

The inventive example is as providing battery-powered handhold portable formula equipment, and it can comprise PPG sensor, display screen, control knob and power knob (Figure 20).The user can open this equipment by pressing power knob.If described equipment is used in the darkroom, then the user can press several seconds and connects backlight by pressing for the second time described power knob and maintenance.Soon, it can be inserted into (Figure 21) in the finger sensor by the prompting user finger after this equipment energising.The user can hold this equipment subsequently lightly, and its finger rested on this sensor within the whole session phase.This equipment can vertically be held comfily very much, and (Figure 22 a), perhaps this equipment can hold at an angle, thereby rests on the finger of bending of the hands that holds this equipment (Figure 22 b) thereby rest on the thumb.

In case after finger was inserted in the finger sensor, this equipment can be calibrated described PPG sensor subsequently.Meter reciprocal can the needed time quantum of the described calibration of labelling (Figure 23).After described PPG sensor was calibrated, described equipment can detect with this PPG sensor each pulsation of the blood in the described finger.The curve (Figure 24 (2)) of drawing resulting pulse rate (60,000/ two the peak-to-peak millisecond of continuous pulse numbers) on the basis of pulse at screen can pursued subsequently.This display also demonstrates its average pulse rate (Figure 24 (1)) to the user.

The PPG sensor may be very responsive for finger pressure.That is to say, if the user pushes described equipment, the finger pressure that then produces may be so that this equipment can't be collected accurate pulse rate information.When the user applied too much pressure, this equipment can show error message, and the warning user stops to push this equipment and begins to loosen his or her finger (Figure 25).In case the user has successfully loosened his finger, he or she can turn back to attention the pulse rate display screen subsequently.

When RSA ripple that described recognition of devices makes new advances, it can be determined and show one or more in the middle of the following with this ripple information: the degree of the average pulse rate of all the pulse points in nearest wave frequency, this ripple, session (session) mark, remaining Session Time and the current stress that stands of pressure index one user.

After identifying each RSA ripple, described equipment is new session clock reciprocal more.Described equipment can comprise the session clock reciprocal that rule successively decreases (for example per second once, per 15 seconds once etc.).In such an embodiment, described equipment can upgrade after each RSA ripple, with avoid carry out between clock and the desired behavior unconscious related.In other words, if described clock is reciprocal on the basis of per second, then the user may be consciously or is unconsciously used second as the guidance of breathing under the speed of breathing for 6 times at per minute.This association may so that the user can't how under the speed that per minute is breathed for 6 times, breathe when becoming pressure, unconsciously learning.If user consciously (perhaps even unconsciously) uses described clock, then he or she may always depend on this equipment.Yet, by upgrading described clock based on each ripple, not only can avoid this possible situation, and described clock can be strengthened described study.The user will see by the quantity that clock successively decreases the definite number of seconds of each breathing.If described clock will successively decrease more lentamente (for example per 30 seconds once), then will avoid the unconscious related probability between time and the desired behavior.Yet in this replacement implementation, described clock will can intensified learning.

In the exemplary embodiment, in case identify after first ripple, session intervalometer reciprocal can begin to successively decrease, and video data (Figure 26).Yet, other embodiment can begin to begin to successively decrease when breathing rhythmically described enumerator the user, perhaps (for example frequency is lower than six ripple) described enumerator that just begins to successively decrease when obtaining good ripple only perhaps only just begins the described enumerator that successively decreases when the user is practising rhythmical breathing.Another alternative is to use described breathing button and the described enumerator that do not successively decrease when instructing is provided.

The user can change by changing its breathing pattern the behavior of described ripple, thereby and changes their stress level calculate.Along with the user reduces his or her breathing rate, wavelength increases, and the amplitude of ripple also increases (Figure 27).When a personal breathing gets when darker, the amplitude of described ripple becomes even larger (Figure 28).When a people breathed under stable speed rhythmically, the wavelength traction is (Figure 29) on breathing rate.

In order to initiate to relax, the user can be by dark air-breathing and deflate lentamente subsequently and prolong to exhale and begin.This will cause described wavelength to become longer, thereby cause described wave frequency to reduce.The user can continue the dark air-breathing and expiration of further slowing down, and is approximately 6 (Figure 30) until described wave frequency drops to.Be lower than six if wave frequency drops to, then the user can breathe quickerly, that is to say that expiration is so not long next time.

In certain embodiments, in case that the user is reduced to described wave frequency is about 6, he or she just can continue to be approximately under the same speed of 6 frequency and the rhythm in generation and breathes.If user's breathing rate improves, then described frequency will improve, thereby show that next breathing should have longer expiration.If it is slow that user's breathing rate became, then described frequency will drop to and is lower than approximately 6, shows that the expiration of next time breathing should be quicker.By noting described wave frequency number, the user can be soon is that the rhythmical ripple of about 10 seconds (corresponding to the about frequency of 6 breath cycle of per minute) is filled described screen (Figure 31) with length.

Can after identifying each RSA ripple, calculate and the display session mark.Described mark can approach based on the user degree of the behavior that reaches desired.The user can the running summary of the points scored point, and can use multiple method for described session marking.In certain embodiments, if described wave frequency is 6 or lower, then the user for example can receive 3 points.Wave frequency user for 7 or 8 can receive 2 points, receives a bit for 9 or 10 wave frequency, for being higher than not acceptance point of 10 frequency.Can show the session scores of accumulating in numerical value ground.Perhaps, can show the mark that each is independent.Another alternative is to show that current mark is together with one group of previous mark (numerical value ground or figure ground).Some preferred embodiment can show current mark and one group of previous mark (Figure 32) in figure ground.In this manner, when the user can distinguish his or she rhythmically breathing.When described mark shows when even, the user breathes rhythmically.

In case the user has filled with rhythmical ripple after the described screen, he or she can concentrate on darkly more air-breathing, exhales more completely.That is to say, the user can attempt sucking and the more air capacity of breathing out (being known as " respiratory capacity ").Along with the user little by little increases his or her respiratory depth, the size of described ripple will increase (Figure 33).The user can continue to fill described screen with the larger ripple that has respectively about 10 seconds wavelength, until described Session Timer is covered.The user can find that subsequently he or she has reached very dark completely relaxed state.

In certain embodiments, if the user is difficult to deeply breathe rhythmically under the speed that approximately per minute is breathed for 6 times, then he or she can obtain to instruct (Figure 34) by activating the respiration direction function.In such an embodiment, in case the user presses the breathing button, respiration direction just can appear on the display.Can indicating user along with breathing that bar rises and air-breathing (Figure 35 a), and along with breathing bar decline and exhale (Figure 35 b).In the exemplary embodiment, described respiration direction surely arrives about per minute 6 times to user's breathing step and breathes, for example air-breathing to the quota of exhaling with 1: 2.In alternative embodiment, described respiration direction can be programmed to that (for example 4-8/ minute) provides other ratios (for example 1: 3) under the speed that about per minute is breathed for 6 times.Described respiration direction for example can keep activating about one minute, and autoshutdown after this.By having interim rather than constant respiration direction, can encourage the user to reach the breathing pattern that about per minute is breathed for 6 times with the biofeedback agreement.If the user only depends on described respiration direction, then may more find it difficult to learn to practise how to reach voluntarily described pattern.Therefore, break away from described respiration direction by making the user, the user can produce unconscious study with biofeedback.The embodiment prompting user of replacing is closed described breathing pattern after through the certain hour section.Also can use other breathing rates and rhythm.

Can after finishing described respiration direction, turn back to conventional the demonstration to the user according to equipment of the present invention.The user can regulate his or her breathing according to previously described mode subsequently, so as described wave frequency be reduced to about 6, keep rhythmical breathing and by deeper breathing the size that increases ripple.The user can continue this process, until described Session Timer reaches 0:00, constantly can sum up screen (Figure 36) by display session at this.

Exemplary embodiment also comprises and allows the user to select him or she to want the equipment of the number of the large ripple that produces during session with the up/down arrow.For example, the user can be chosen in and generate 10 large ripples in the session.Credit district (credit area) can increase or reduce in order to hold selected session wave number.

Can identify continuously one at a time single RSA ripple according to equipment of the present invention.Can for example it be classified as " little ", " medium " or " greatly " in make new advances moment of ripple of identification.If this ripple is little, then for example can show single point, so that it is labeled as small echo.If this ripple has medium size, then for example can show two points, it is labeled as middle-sized ripple.If this ripple is large, then for example can show three points, it is labeled as large ripple.When identifying a large ripple, for example credit of user can be in described credit district, given at every turn, and when identifying a middle-sized ripple, half credit of user can be in described credit district, given at every turn.Certainly, can join other values for the wavelength-division of different size, as long as the information of the character of the ripple that is producing about him or she is provided to the user.

In some exemplary embodiment, the beginning on the top (peak) of each ripple can show with buzzer the size of first prewave.If last ripple is little, then for example can generate the high-pitched tone buzzing.If last ripple has medium size, then for example can generate the sound of medium pitch.Otherwise, for example can generate the sound of low pitch.Can be by controlling described sound such as the switch of " (o) " button.This button can for example switch described sound at amount of bass, louder volume and between cutting out.Respiratory characteristic can temporarily activate one and breathe metronome, can breathe to generate a kind of mode of large ripple to show him or she to the user.

In certain embodiments, in case the user has accumulated after enough credit, then session just can be regarded as finishing, and can sum up screen by display session.In addition, can in tracking system, add new tracking clauses and subclauses.

Among some embodiment of the present invention that is described below, biofeedback credit is based on the target that realizes two no less importants: high-caliber parasympathetic nervous intensity and the parasympathetic nervous that continues spread out of.The present invention can detect each ripple of parasympathetic activity in real time.When new ripple finished, described equipment can be assessed intensity and the seriality of the parasympathetic nervous output that produces this ripple.As shown in Figure 37, if described ripple is produced by the parasympathetic activity of continuous moderate strength level, (Figure 37 a) then for example can to place two point symbols under this ripple.If described ripple is produced by the parasympathetic activity of continuous very strong level, then for example can under this ripple, place 3 symbol (Figure 37 b).If this ripple is interrupted and/or a little less than, then for example can under this ripple, place the symbol (Figure 37 c) of a bit.Two squares side by side for example can represent disconnected ripple (Figure 37 d).These symbols can reflect the activeness of people's parasympathetic nervous system (Pressure Recovery System) when described ripple produces: enliven very much (long wave), active (medium ripple), inactive (shortwave) and be interrupted (disconnected ripple).These expressions can show in real time, and provide about nearest several information at prewave (Figure 37 e).For example, described demonstration can illustrate the expression of nearest 20 (perhaps much bigger number or much smaller number) ripples.Exemplary embodiment also call and show this breathing session earlier or the expression of the ripple in the previous session.

Described demonstration also illustrates the accumulation gross score (Figure 37 f) corresponding to special time amount (for example 24 hours).For example can be by distributing a bit, join the least bit and do not generate the accumulation gross score for the shortwave distributing point for medium wavelength-division for long wave.This demonstration can continue to upgrade cumulative total, until for example make it, be reset through Preset Time section or described accumulation gross score.An object for example can be attempted reaching such as realizing 100 target every day.

Certain preferred embodiment of the present invention also provides the second signals of novel form, and it can be used to cause desired physiological status by the respiration exercise of uniqueness.This embodiment has avoided the defective in the technology of one or more interruptions of each basis generation parasympathetic branches of breathing.For example, this breathing technique related to the very long time of prolonged expiration.In general, longer expiration is useful; But when it is extended the long period during section, long expiration may be right after and interrupt parasympathetic nervous react trough after.Wait for that the air-breathing long time may cause just interrupting before wave crest.Similarly, hold the breath the long time or oversize or too short air-breathing, for example all may so that parasympathetic nervous system is nervous, spread out of thereby cause temporarily suppressing parasympathetic nervous.

Embodiments of the invention have overcome above-mentioned shortcoming, and this for example is to realize by breathing rate and rhythm that guides user finds the lasting parasympathetic nervous of the stronger level of generation to spread out of.The feedback that is provided by method and apparatus according to the invention allows the user to keep basically continuous parasympathetic nervous to spread out of state, thereby suppresses sympathetic activity.

The preferred embodiments of the present invention can also show that the RSA ripple is from being transitioned into the point of decline to the top to the user.For example can come by the labelling that is easy to see with the user this setting point of labelling, identify this setting point.This visible indicator for example can have leg-of-mutton form (Figure 37 g).Described visible indicator can also have other shapes.Described setting point is the ideal time of the expiration that begins to prolong.Described designator or can listen.

Feedback and compound parasympathetic nervous by the combination setting point are measured, and the user can learn prolonged expiration soon to suitable length, in order to produce the highest ripple (for example 3 ripple) of marking.The user can also receive guidance, and this guidance shows when expiration prolongs longly, thereby because ripple will interrupt causing giving a mark low ripple (ripple more for example).Therefore, according to the method and apparatus of some embodiment of the present invention allow the user find the expiration length window of its uniqueness, the expiration length window of described uniqueness produce strong parasympathetic activity continue spread out of.In use the user can exhale when new designator (such as visible triangle) occurring simply at every turn, and air-breathing subsequently, until next designator occurs.By regulating the length of exhaling, user association is created on the perfect ripple that occurs during the lasting strong parasympathetic activity physiological status.

In another exemplary embodiment, described demonstration can provide the expiration number, the numeral that it can be counted when exhaling corresponding to the user.In case breathe after session begins, object can be air-breathing, until for example indicated the setting point, and exhale in the expiration number at counting (preferably imperturbably and reticent ground) subsequently.Intervalometer bar can in the expiration ordered series of numbers, descend in the set time amount (for example 30 seconds, 60 seconds etc.).This expiration ordered series of numbers for example can show from 1 to 9 mark, the effect that it is breathed under this expiration number in described set time length corresponding to this object.The shortwave of comparing, the long bright more effective breathing of wave table, thus long ripple can receive higher mark.Described mark can be based on single ripple, from all ripples or from the subset of described ripple.Described demonstration also allows to select expiration number as an alternative, thereby allows the different expiration number of described object test, in order to find one or more expiration numbers that best score is provided.As discussed above, in one exemplary embodiment, the longest ripple produces best score.

In certain embodiments, can be by following use according to handhold portable formula equipment of the present invention: object comes opening device by pressing power knob; When obtaining pointing out, object for example is inserted into his or her left forefinger in the pulse detection part of this equipment; This object feel comfortable in (for example object is directly sat, and its both feet lie on the floor), sensor adjustment is to this user's pulse rate; This object choice target long wave number (depending on the stress level that this object is felt, for example is 5 to 100); When this object was breathed with natural and effortless step, he or she observed the pulse rate ripple at the display of this equipment; In deep breathing while (preferably passing through nose) lentamente, this object can be observed respiratory depth and frequency to the impact of wave mode; This object produces long wave by exhaling (persistent period approximately doubles air-breathing) lentamente; On the display of this equipment, long wave is scored (tally), then do not score for not long ripple; The abecedarian can press the breathing button on this equipment, so that step that help to adjust this object is to produce long wave (for example for the breathing of given number (can be scored or do not score), a pacemaker (pacer) can occur); Moderate user can watch the setting point designator in monitor, and exhales at the place, setting point, and air-breathing between the rising stage of next ripple; Advanced level user can press audio button and use this equipment in the situation that close one's eyes, and exhales when the place, setting point sends specific sound at this equipment at every turn, and the tone of this sound shows further whether previous ripple is scored and be added to described scoring.

Can combine several aspects of the present invention in order to produce a plurality of replacement exemplary embodiments.For example, described equipment can be equipped with and can be used as amplitude feedback meter rather than manometric instrument.This instrument can also have the target bar.Therefore, this equipment can figure ground shows a people's respiratory depth, thereby he can learn to carry out darker breathing.If use the target bar, then the user can attempt enough breathing when each the breathing deeply, is higher than this target bar so that this instrument rises to.Any numerical value of amplitude or graphical feedback (vision or other modes) all will drop in the scope of this alternative embodiment.

Other alternative embodiments can be used ripple information (for example wavelength, amplitude and peak position) to determine and the feedback of degree of following the breathing agreement (for example per minute is breathed for 6 times, and is air-breathing: exhale than be 1: 3) of regulation about the user is provided.Perhaps, can provide respiration direction to the user, provide audition or the visual feedback that meets the degree of the breathing pattern that instructs about it to the user simultaneously.In addition, can show a target level, if the user is higher than this target level, then he will be regarded as obeying described breathing agreement, and if he or she is lower than this level, then will be regarded as disobeying this breathing agreement.

Alternative embodiment can also detect with the variance of one or more wave parameters rhythmical breathing.Subsequently, can come vision ground to show the degree of rhythmical breathing by numerical value mode, graphics mode or certain other modes.Alternatively, can provide and to listen feedback.For example, in one exemplary embodiment, tone can raise without rhythm more along with breathing becomes, and more is added with rhythm and reduces along with breathing becomes.Perhaps, single buzzing can represent rhythmical breathing, and two buzzings can represent near rhythmical breathing, and three buzzings can represent arrhythmic breathing.Very naturally, can use independently the derivant of any above-mentioned feedback technique or these technology, perhaps it can be used in combination with each other, perhaps itself and other technologies can be used in combination, perhaps can with its both combination with one another also use in combination with other technologies.This implementation for example can be used to practise the rhythmical breathing pattern of yoga style.For example, if yoga student air-breathing with 1: 1: 1 just: hold one's breath: when exhaling than the exercise rhythmical breathing, he or she can guarantee that rhythmical breathing is maintained with described equipment.

In other embodiments of the invention, can provide the in advance respiration direction of programming at described equipment, thereby the user can follow this respiration direction, receives simultaneously vision and/or auditory feedback about its expiration rhythm.In addition, described respiration direction can be programmable.Alternatively, not only can provide the feedback about breath rhythm, but also the feedback about speed can be provided.For example, if the user wants to practise the breathing of 1: 1: 1 ratio under the speed that per second is breathed for 5 times, then vision and/or auditory feedback can show the degree that the user breathes rhythmically with the speed of five breathings of per minute.Under another frequency and/or without rhythm ground, breathe and to reduce mark.

Another exemplary embodiment provides the feedback about respiratory depth.During rhythmical breathing, a phenomenon can using said method to measure, namely the Main Differences of wave amplitude is respiratory capacity (respiratory depth).Therefore, amplitude measurement can be used to vision and/or auditory feedback to show a people's respiratory depth.As previously mentioned, deep breathing is a kind of useful mode that eases off the pressure.Exemplary embodiment can provide the feedback about user's respiratory depth, thereby in order to helps the instruction user how to deeply breathe and ease off the pressure.

In brief, exemplary embodiment of the present invention can provide audition and/or the visual feedback of the following: the concordance of the speed/rhythm of breathing rate, breath rhythm, respiratory depth, breathing and regulation, to the top to transition point (for example setting point) that descends etc.Can be individually or according to combination in any in the middle of these contents each is assessed.Can provide about the one or more feedback in the middle of these assessments.Anyly identify two or more RSA ripples and derive speed, rhythm, the degree of depth and/or conforming implementation all to fall within the scope of the invention.

Exemplary shape factor (form factor)

Exemplary embodiment of the present invention has merged a plurality of features except above-mentioned feature.A this feature is the design of device shaped factor.Before the present invention, the biofeedback program is used finger PPG sensor, ear PPG sensor and/or the heart rate ECG sensor that is attached to computer by wire.Although the PPG sensor is for mobile and finger pressure is very sensitive, previous equipment does not need to process the many artifactual epochs that produced by mobile or excessive pressure, and this is because their use common placement on the table or the finger PPG sensor on the platform.In this case, the user can park its hands and finger on the table, and this can make hands and finger stablize, thereby prevents too much movement and finger pressure.

Since outer lead usually aspect social (and in other respects) be unacceptable, therefore exemplary embodiment of the present invention directly is integrated into the PPG sensor in the portable set, and has eliminated outer lead.As a result, can middlely be used comfily public the setting according to exemplary embodiment equipment of the present invention.Yet, the PPG sensor is integrated into the shape factor that needs novelty in the portable set.For example, because the scope of Session Time may be from 5 to 15 minutes, perhaps the user of described equipment will hold this equipment and not such as the rock-steady structure of desk in the long period section.Correspondingly, the invention provides the equipment that can be grasped comfily, allow simultaneously the user lightly its finger to be parked on this finger sensor.

The present invention also provides such shape factor, the artifactual epochs that it causes at the movement that provides comfortable simultaneous minimization in long period section (for example 10-15 minute) and pressure.Two kinds of exemplary shape factors have realized these purposes.In the first, finger sensor can be positioned at the equipment top near an edge.On human engineering, can be about 1.5 inches to about 3.5 inches to the height at top from the bottom of described equipment, and preferably about 2.5 inches.This allows to support this equipment with thumb when vertically holding this equipment, and (Figure 22 a) perhaps supports this equipment (Figure 22 b) with crooked finger when tilting this equipment.In the second, finger sensor is positioned at the round back of this equipment, and display is positioned at the front, thereby for example allows this equipment in use to rest on (Figure 38) in the palm.Particularly preferred shape factor is above-mentioned the first, and it allows to come deisgn product with the look and feel of science and medical treatment.

Error detection and bearing calibration

The present invention also is provided for the equipment that detects and proofread and correct the method for the mistake in the said equipment and utilize this method.Although any above-mentioned shape factor all can minimize the artifactual epochs, described hardware shape factor possibly can't be removed each possible artifactual epochs.Because the not supporting construction such as estrade or desk, so hands and finger move the different time during whole session.In exemplary embodiment of the present invention, remaining artifactual epochs will be solved by software, and described software not only can detect and when make a mistake, and can error recovery.

In general, the display on the little portable set wants much responsive for mistake, and this is because this display is compared very little with the display of for example desk computer.When occurring at desk computer when wrong, described display has enough resolution and shows simultaneously correct data and mistake (Figure 39 a).Yet on less portable set, because its low resolution, a mistake may cause all correct data all to become can not distinguish (Figure 39 b).

There is in the prior art multiple statistical method for detection of the mistake in the data flow.Yet these methods needed a large amount of data samplings before high accuracy is provided.As mentioned above, even single error also may have a negative impact to the equipment with small displays.Therefore, should detect rapidly and accurately mistake and with post-equalization it.Realized a kind of error detection and bearing calibration of novelty according to the equipment of one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, it only needed low volume data (about 10 seconds) before becoming highly accurately.

For the ease of further understanding error detection of the present invention and bearing calibration, provide about how using the PPG sensor under desirable inerrancy condition, to obtain the brief explanation of pulse information.The PPG sensor detects the blood pressure amount in the finger continuously.When heart is beated at every turn, the quick rising of the blood pressure during corresponding blood pulse causes pointing, it is calmed down subsequently fast.Described PPG sensor attempts identifying blood pressure continuously to the time (Figure 40) of peaking.This is the pulse peak value.As previously discussed, the time quantum (with millisecond meter) between two continuous pulse peak values is known as pp interval (pp).Can record each pp interval in succession according to equipment of the present invention.Can be when running into new pulse peak value at every turn described screen show each pp interval of recording pulse rate (60,000/pp).Absolute time between the pp interval in succession poor (absolute (pp[n]-pp[n-1])) is known as heart beating time interval or IBI.

Two types mistake (Figure 41) when attempting correctly identifying next pulse peak value, the PPG sensor can occur.One type mistake may occur when PPG sensor error ground is identified as the pulse peak value to the artifactual epochs.That is to say, (Figure 41 a) to determine to occur the pulse peak value when there is not the pulse peak value in described PPG sensor actually.Such mistake is known as the false positive mistake.(Figure 41 b) occurs in the mistake of the second type when the PPG sensor does not identify in esse pulse peak value.This is known as False negative error.False negative and false positive all cause large IBI.Error-free received data may cause or may not cause large IBI.Yet wrong data always produces large IBI.Therefore, when existence does not comprise the data of large IBI in a large number continuously, can suppose safely that these data do not have mistake.When large IBI occurring, this may be owing to mistake or may be good data; Described equipment will need to determine to be any situation.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first step in the error detection strategy is the relevant interval (for example 10 pp intervals) of heart rate of waiting for given number, and wherein each IBI time is less than 200ms.These data points are considered to be faultless.The number of consecutive intervals can be less than 10, but need to be 2 at least, and preferably at least 3, and more preferably at least 5.Another alternative is to wait for one group of consecutive numbers strong point, and wherein each IBI time is less than 1/3 of minimal heart rate related interval (such as the pp interval) in this consecutive data set (for example 5 continuous pp intervals).Can calculate the scope of these data points." scope " used herein can refer to the derivant (for example (minimum pp-10%)-(maximum pp+10%)) of absolute range (being that minimum pp is to maximum pp), this scope or the variation (for example average deviation, standard deviation etc.) that conduct is calculated.Can use any suitable mathematical description to described scope.Use according to a preferred embodiment of the invention minimum pp-((maximum pp-minimum pp)) * 25%) as the bottom of described scope.Preferred embodiment uses maximum pp+ ((maximum pp-minimum pp)) * 25%) as the top of described scope.This scope can derive or derive from the subset of described data set from whole data set.

In case establish after the described scope, just test each new p-p, in order to determine its whether " in scope ".In the exemplary embodiment, if new pp value then is considered as it " in scope " greater than described bottom value and less than described top value.Yet " in scope " can also refer to current p-p and closely approaches by any mathematics of the definite scope of selected range computation definite.For example, if the described scope of having utilized standard deviation calculation, then " in scope " can refer to current p-p have 80% or the statistics that is within the variation of calculating of higher probability determine.

When new pp interval arrives, can also calculate new IBI (the absolute new previous pp of pp-).This new IBI can be tested, in order to determine whether it is " greatly ".In a preferred embodiment, whether this IBI of described testing of equipment is greater than half of the bottom value of described scope.If then IBI is regarded as greatly.In other exemplary embodiments, can calculate the IBI time that this new pp interval deducts last interval.Can alternatively use other IBI time, such as the IBI of new p-p is compared with the average p-p at nearest n pp interval.In addition, different implementations can be distinguished large IBI and non-large IBI with different threshold values.According to embodiments of the invention, can use the difference of derived quantity (such as meansigma methods) at the difference at any use pp interval or pp interval in order to detect wrong implementation.

As the summary to foregoing, when the equipment according to exemplary embodiment of the present invention began, it can not enter the error detection pattern, all was less than 10 continuous pp intervals of 200ms until located all IBI times.Subsequently, this equipment can calculate the scope at these pp intervals, and starts the error detection pattern.In described error detection pattern, this equipment can be tested each new pp in order to determine its whether " in scope ", and each new IBI time of this testing of equipment is in order to determine whether it is " greatly ".In error detection, be used for to determine in the middle of these two attributes any or the two any other proper method all within the scope of the invention.

If next p-p " in scope ", and IBI is not " greatly ", and then this new p-p can be regarded as inerrancy.If this p-p is " in scope " not, and IBI is not " greatly ", and then this new p-p can be regarded as faultlessly, and can recomputate described scope in order to comprise this new-found pp value.If this new p-p " in scope ", but IBI is " greatly ", and then this new p-p can be regarded as inerrancy.Yet when this new p-p " outside scope " and IBI were " greatly ", this new p-p can be considered to be wrong result.In case the mistake of detecting just should be proofreaied and correct this mistake.Therefore, when detecting mistake under the error detection pattern, described equipment just changes to the error correction pattern at every turn.This equipment can remain in the error correction pattern, until solving error situation.

Figure 42 provides the flow chart that is illustrated in the exemplary error bearing calibration of adopting during the error correction pattern.Error correction comprises each continuous pp interval is added together when it is identified, until the summation at these pp intervals " in scope ", thereby perhaps until this summation can be by integer division so that the result of described division " in scope ".When this summation itself " in scope ", all pp intervals that form this summation can be combined into the single value that equals this summation together.When divided by the summation behind the integer in scope the time, can utilize the result's who equals described division n value (the wherein described integer denominator of n=) to replace the value of described mistake.

Below discussion provide can be according to the example of exemplary embodiment error recovery of the present invention about how.For example, if described scope is 600ms to 1,000ms, described wrong pp blanking time is 200ms.Next pp interval is 100ms.Now, summation is 300ms.It is " in scope " not.Next pp interval is 400ms.Therefore, summation is 700ms now.Its " in scope ", therefore, 700ms is the value after proofreading and correct.These three pp intervals (200ms, 100ms, and 400ms) will be combined into the value of a 700ms.Described equipment turns back to the error detection pattern subsequently.

As another example, if described scope is 700ms to 1,000ms, mistake pp interval is 1,300ms.Do not have to divide exactly 1, thereby 300 obtain the integer of the value of " in scope ".Therefore, next pp interval (300ms) is added in together, in order to produce 1,600ms.At this moment, existence can be used in the division in order to produce the integer of the value of " in scope ".Integer 2 causes the value (1600/2=800ms) of " in scope ".Therefore, will replace described two improper values (1,300ms and 300ms) with the value (result of described division) of two (this integer) 800ms.

In the exemplary embodiment, can in one or two additional pp interval, generate value after proofreading and correct according to equipment of the present invention.Yet equipment might enter the error correction pattern indefinitely.Therefore, the present invention can comprise that a kind of security mechanism is to solve this situation when this thing happens.For example, if described equipment remains on the overlong time in the error correction pattern, then this equipment is by recomputating described scope to all raw data points applied statistical methods that run into.That is to say, use each the undressed pp interval that is received from described PPG sensor.Utilize subsequently based on the range computation (for example standard deviation formula) of statistics and calculate described scope.In the exemplary embodiment, determine intermediate value pp interval from all the undressed pp intervals (no matter being real or wrong) that run into.Described scope is defined by in 15 heart beatings of the following per minute of this intermediate value, until 15 heart beatings of the above per minute of this intermediate value.According to this new range the pp interval in the error queue is processed again.Should be noted that the subset (for example 50 nearest data points) that can also utilize described undressed data point calculates described scope.The present invention can also comprise and recomputates described scope so that any method of the erroneous condition that solve to continue.

As previously mentioned, the PPG sensor is very sensitive for movement and finger pressure.They are also very sensitive for light and cold finger.Therefore, the factor that much may cause a plurality of mistakes is arranged.In certain embodiments of the present invention, the signal to noise ratio whenever ten seconds drops to when being lower than 25%, and described equipment can circulate and show error message (shown in Figure 18), until this equipment withdraws from from the error correction pattern.Therefore, will provide about making a change to help the information of the correct pulse information of this equipment collection to the user.

The present invention also comprises for detection of and proofreaies and correct the alternative approach of the mistake of heart beat interval data centralization.For example, multiple permission is arranged along with the implementation that detects new heart beat interval value and dynamically change described scope and/or IBI threshold value.This implementation can provide the limit of precision to increase (marginal increase) in some cases.

For example, can utilize rolling window to assess continuously described scope.Can be before receiving initialize described scope after 10 seconds the pp interval, thereby so that each continuous IBI is less than 200ms.After this, can utilize the rolling window of the nearest 10 seconds infallible data described scope of constantly reappraising.Described nearest 10 seconds infallible data can be or can not be continuous.For example, the top of described scope (r_top) can be the highest p-p in the nearest 10 seconds infallible data, and the bottom of described scope (r_bottom) can be the minimum p-p in the nearest 10 seconds infallible data.

Another alternative is to slow down the speed that described scope can dynamically be expanded and shrink.For example, when detecting new pp value, can in three steps, upgrade described scope at every turn.At first, from nearest 10 seconds infallible data, identify data set top (ds_top) and data set bottom (ds_bottom).Secondly, regulate described ds_top and ds_bottom, thereby so that significantly change can not occur with previous ds_top (p_ds_top) and previous ds_bottom (p_ds_bottom) in them.For example, if p_ds_top greater than ds_top, then can be reset to p_ds_top-((p_ds_top-ds_top)/25+1) to ds_top.If p_ds_top less than ds_top, then can be reset to p_ds_top+ ((ds_top-p_ds_top)/4+1) to ds_top.If p_ds_bottom greater than ds_bottom, then can be reset to p_ds_bottom-((p_ds_bottom-ds_bottom)/2+1) to ds_bottom.If p_ds_bottom less than ds_bottom, then can be reset to ds_bottom ((ds_bottom-p_ds_bottom)/25+1).Therefore, the ds_top after r_top will equal to regulate, and the ds_bottom of r_bottom after will equaling to regulate.If p-p is between r_bottom and the r_top, then it will be regarded as " in scope ".

Said method can be realized three targets.At first, it allows dynamically to increase or reduce described scope.Secondly, the expansion of described scope can be shunk faster than it.The 3rd, the expansion of the bottom of described scope can be faster than the top of this scope.There is the implementation of multiple these methods of realization, and realizes that any one implementation in the middle of these three targets all should fall within the scope of the invention.

Another alternative comprises the pp scope of calculating is transformed into pulse rate values (prv) scope, and each prv that newly detects (60,000/pp) compare with this pulse rate scope.To whether determine whether " in scope " less than maximum prv (max_prv) and greater than minimum prv (min_prv) by this new prv.Perhaps " in scope " can refer to whether the scope of prv that this is new and described prv value enough approaches.For example, can expand scope top and scope bottom (be max_prv=max_prv+9, and min_prv=min_prv-9) by the heart beating that ascertains the number.Therefore, any new prv that is in the 9bpm of described data set scope can be regarded as " in scope ".

The same with the pp scope, the prv range computation also can be dynamic.That is to say, along with new prv arrives, if this new prv is regarded as reliably (for example IBI is not too large), then can recomputate described scope.

The another kind of method that is used for the raising error detection capability is to determine the degree of closeness of new IBI and previous IBI with two threshold values.For example, if this new IBI less than lower threshold, then it can be regarded as " little jump ".If this new IBI is between two threshold values, then it can be regarded as " significantly jumping ".And if this new IBI is higher than Second Threshold, then it can be regarded as " the large jump ".Therefore, along with new value arrives, can newly be worth " in scope " or " outside scope ", and new IBI is little jump, significantly jumps or jump greatly they are assessed.About whether show described value, whether use this value to upgrade described scope and/or whether proofread and correct the decision of this value can be based on this assessment.

The interval that any heart rate is relevant may be used to determine the importance of IBI level.For example, when the degree of closeness of the new pulse value of assessment and previous pulse value, can use the IBI of two prv poor (prv IBI).Therefore, can calculate IBI for pp interval, prv value, rr interval, hr value etc.

Another alternative comprises with the direction of IBI change determines that described jump is little, remarkable or large.When a people was physically static, pulse rate may rise or descend according to different speed.Therefore, can use different threshold values according to changing direction.For example, if greater than the prv IBI of previous prv IBI less than 8bpm, then it can be regarded as the little jump that makes progress, if it is between 8-15bpm, then it can be regarded as upwards significantly jumping, and if its greater than 15bpm, then it can be regarded as upwards large the jump.If less than 8bpm, then it can be regarded as little jump less than the prv IBI of previous prv IBI, if its between 8-12bpm, then it can be regarded as remarkable jump, and if it is greater than 12bpm then it can be regarded as large jump.

Another exemplary embodiment comprises prv IBI threshold value based on the position of previous prv in described scope.If it is less that this last prv towards the top of this scope, then can get described threshold value setting, this is too far away because do not wish that next prv jumps to outside this scope in theory.Similarly, if this last prv, then can reduce the prv threshold value for downward jump towards the bottom of this scope.Therefore, example based on previous prv prv IBI threshold value of position in described scope can comprise: corresponding to ((r_top-prev_prv) (1/3))+10 of the little jump that makes progress, corresponding to ((r_top-prev_pr) (2/3))+15 that rebound greatly, corresponding to ((prev_prv-r_bottom) (1/2))+10 of little downward jump, and corresponding to large ((prev_prv-r_bottom) * (2/3))+15 of jumping downwards.

Another exemplary embodiment is the 3rd test of adding when determining whether to need to proofread and correct new heart beat interval point such as direction.For example, if this is not by described IBI and range test, but compared with the more close described scope of previous heart beat interval point, then it can be regarded as acceptable.

In some cases with implementation in, can obtain improvement (marginal improvement) by the two IBI threshold methods and the described heart beat interval direction method that make up described dynamic range method, have based on the different threshold values of direction.The below is an example of this combination.When calculating each new prv (60,000/pp), can at first whether assess it " displayable immediately ".If this prv is little rebounding or little downward jump (using suitable threshold value), then it is " displayable immediately ", is therefore shown immediately.If it is significantly jump still " in scope ", then it is " displayable immediately ", is therefore shown immediately.Otherwise, can again assess it by direction, see whether displayable it is.If more near described scope, then it is still shown compared with previous prv for current prv.Otherwise it is not shown, and must be corrected.

Can also determine that when a value is " reliably " or be not " reliably " with the combination of said method.That is to say, these methods can be used to determine whether should use new prv in recomputating the process of described dynamic range.For example, if this new prv is little jump, then it can be regarded as " reliably ".If this new prv is remarkable jump, still " in scope ", then it can be regarded as " reliably ".If this new prv significantly jumps and " scope outside ", still compared with previous prv more near described scope, then it can be regarded as " reliably ".

Determine to adopt which method to detect and correction data is concentrated when wrong, should consider that hardware stability, environment for use and other factors determine whether the potential Statistical Superiority degree of complex combination method provides the more high practicability that is better than basic I BI/ scope method.In most of the cases, described basic I BI/ scope strategy is just enough.Yet, if expection exists significantly movement, sunlight, pressure and similar factor, can implement above-described additional statistical method and detect and correction data is concentrated provides higher precision aspect wrong.

The identification of calibration (scaling) solution of problem and rhythmical breathing

Above-described method and apparatus can also creatively be calibrated with RSA ripple information the zone that ripple is shown of display.

The amplitude of RSA ripple may have significant variation between different people.As previously mentioned, the RSA amplitude depends on individual age, sex, health level, breathing pattern etc.Large display screen can hold large ripple or small echo, and the small display on the portable set needs complicated calibration.Therefore, if the scale on the small display (scale) is too little, then large ripple will not be suitable on this display.If described scale is too large, then will become can not identification for the shape and size of small echo.If described scale is too dynamic and regulate too frequently, then large ripple seems and will have identical size with small echo, and whether the user can't change or timing changing by its breathing pattern of identification.

Equipment according to exemplary embodiment of the present invention can solve described Scaling Problem by differently regulate the display calibration during two stages.The phase I slave unit lasts till that the user begins to breathe rhythmically when switching on.The second stage slave unit lasts till when detecting rhythmical breathing that equipment is turned off.During the stage 1, can implement very basic calibration technology.During the stage 2, can adopt a kind of new way of innovation, thereby can accurately assessing it, the user breathes when become more shallow (so not dark).

For example, when described equipment is switched on for the first time, preferably described scaling is zoomed to a less preset value.Subsequently, when running into one greater than the peak that utilizes current zoom level to draw or less than the pulse rate point of the minimum that utilizes current zoom level to draw, described equipment just dwindles demonstration (zoom out).Described scale is reduced, thereby draws out this new pulse point in the edge of the viewing area of this equipment.In order to provide the scale concept to the user, described equipment only dwindles (rather than amplification) when beginning.After large ripple withdrawed from screen, original state was amplified back in described demonstration, thereby used the complete height from the top to the bottom of display.Described demonstration is constantly amplified, is dwindled, thereby so that shown data point all take if having time the complete scope of described display, until the user begins rhythmical breathing.

In case after the user began to breathe rhythmically, described equipment attempted encouraging the user to deeply breathe.If this equipment continues automatically to amplify when small echo occurs, the small echo that is then produced by shallow breathing seems to have identical size with the large ripple that is produced by deep breathing.This will not allow the user from its respiratory depth of size vision ground identification of ripple.

Equipment according to exemplary embodiment of the present invention detects rhythmical breathing with described ripple information.The ripple that rhythmical breathing produces has uniform wavelength, frequency, amplitude, peak-to-peak time and peak position time (Figure 43).By measuring central one or more variance of these wave characteristic parameters, can identify rhythmical breathing.Exemplary embodiment is calculated the wavelength of nearest three ripples and the variation of amplitude.When these two variations are all low, think that then rhythmical breathing begins.

Thereby a kind of definite variance determines that the when less method of variance can be based on the percentage ratio relative deviation.When comparing the variation of two or more values (for example peak-to-peak time, wavelength, frequency etc.), the method is useful.This can carry out as described below.At first can determine the average (meansigma methods) of described value.Can calculate subsequently the summation (sum_dif) of the difference of each value and this meansigma methods.Can be with this summation divided by described meansigma methods * value number.For example, consider four wavelength: 10,8,10,8 seconds.Meansigma methods is 9, be 4 with the summation of the difference of this average (the 10th, differ from 1, add that 8 is to differ from 1, add that 10 is to differ from 1, add that 8 is to differ from 1).Therefore, with 4 divided by average * value number (4/ (9 * 4)).Therefore, the percentage ratio relative average debiation is 11.1%.30,28,30,28bpm consider four amplitudes:.Although the same in described deviation and the previous example also is 4, described percentage ratio relative average debiation only is 3.4%.Therefore, the percentage ratio relative average debiation is scaled to himself the value scope of positive analysis automatically.

Can use several different methods to analyze either alone or in combination the variance of any described wave characteristic.Preferred embodiment adopts the percentage ratio relative average debiation.Resulting percentage ratio is larger, and described variance is larger.One variance threshold values can be set, in order to determine whether rhythmical breathing begins.For example, if the variation of a wave characteristic of three or more ripple, can infer then that rhythmical breathing begins less than 20%.In a preferred embodiment, when the variation of the wavelength of nearest three ripples and amplitude respectively less than 10% the time, can be considered as rhythmical breathing and begin.

In case after rhythmical breathing has begun, just can follow the tracks of the amplitude (amplitude peak) of the maximum that is formed by resulting rhythmical ripple.Described equipment continues example such as each ripple determines whether the user is still breathing rhythmically.As long as the user continues to breathe rhythmically, described equipment just will be sought maximum amplitude (amplitude peak).If the new rhythmical ripple that forms has the amplitude that is higher than current amplitude peak, then can readjust described amplitude peak, so that it equals this new amplitude.In general, described demonstration can not amplified above this amplitude peak.That is to say, described demonstration yardstick can be configured such that the ripple that amplitude equals described amplitude peak will occupy described screen fully from the top to the bottom.Can be arranged to be no more than this set-point to zoom level.As a result, described equipment can dwindle demonstration (zoom out), but it can not amplify the set-point that surpasses by described amplitude peak decision.Like this, the user will notice when they relatively shallowly breathe, and this is because they will see at screen the ripple (with respect to described amplitude peak) of less.

Wrong ripple (ripple with the mistake after the correction of being rebuild mistakenly) may have maximum amplitude sometimes.This significant possible errors ground is higher.In addition, a people's maximum possible amplitude may reduce along with the time, until their lung gets into the way of rhythmical breathing.That is to say, along with its lung becomes tired, their again generation amplitude equals the ripple of described amplitude peak.Because described equipment should not make the user feel setback, but should encourage it in the situation that comfortablely produce maximum ripple, if therefore in succession series of waves and described amplitude peak are near not, then described equipment can reduce described amplitude peak value along with the time.In a preferred embodiment, if the amplitude of three continuous rhythmical ripples less than 80% of described amplitude peak, then can utilize following formula to readjust described amplitude peak: (amplitude of the maximum of nearest three ripples) * (100/85).Another kind of alternative is to reduce continuously described amplitude peak, occupies the top of described display to the bottom until described ripple enough approaches.For example, whenever the amplitude of the rhythmical ripple of new formation less than current amplitude peak 80% the time, just can subtract 5% to described amplitude peak.The mode of another kind of use amplitude will be to get the highest average amplitude.Can calculate the average amplitude of nearest three ripples when for example, running into new ripple at every turn.The highest described average amplitude can be used as minimum set-point.

Use the high-amplitude that in rhythmical breathing, occurs to set up a novelty and the useful ingredient that the set-point is disclosed invention.Any calibration based on amplitude, scope, variance or deviation all should fall within the scope of the invention.For example, can the specified data collection or the standard deviation of data subset.The maximum zoom level can be configured such that the value that has particular probability with respect to described deviation occupies described screen.For example, have all values that 80% probability is in the described standard deviation and all will from the top to the bottom, fill up described screen.

Other example system and software processes

Above-described method and apparatus for example may be implemented as the processing in the memorizer that is stored in data handling equipment (for example computer).This processing for example can have the form of software, and for example can be carried out by data processor or CPU, and the result is displayed on the display, such as CRT as known in the art, plasma or other computer displays.Therefore, for example this software can be implemented in the system, and this system comprises CPU, memorizer and display, and they all couple together by one or more bus or data path.Figure 44 has described this example system.

With reference to this figure, I/O or input/output interface 5501, CPU 5505 and memorizer 5510 are provided.Three parts of this example system can connect communicatedly by system bus 5520.As shown in the figure, system bus 5520 is logical blocks, and it can comprise a plurality of interconnection between each system element in any given embodiment.Given this example system can be loaded into software processes in the memorizer 5510 and execution in CPU 5505.In addition, the user can provide input to described processing by I/O 5501, and provides output by mode vision, audition, sense of touch to the user, perhaps can also utilize described I/O to provide other devices to the user.This I/O can comprise physical interface equipment (it comprises one or more sensors), perhaps for example can comprise one or more mikes and one or more speaker, keyboard, mouse and visual displays and sense of touch input and output mechanism.

In addition, for example can utilize known technology, use any suitable computer language or this software processes of the incompatible expression of group of languages, and for example can utilize known technology to implement these as the instruction repertorie of embedded system or conventional store.This software processes for example can be implemented on such equipment, and this equipment can be used to the as described above pressure of evaluator.

This example software is processed for example can have the top layer processing, it is by to user's display message and for example continue to seek various user actions and it is made response to carry out alternately with the user, and described user action for example is the pulse that the user presses the respiration direction button or sends from user's finger.In Figure 45-63, described this example software and processed, such as will be described below.It should be noted that, above-described Fig. 8 (a)-(b) processes with this example software and combines, thus " obtaining ripple (get_waves) " subroutine of in Fig. 8 (a)-(b), describing below in conjunction with " processing ripple (process_waves) " subroutine call that Figure 58 describes.

Figure 45-46 has described exemplary top layer and has processed, and it can control the content that is displayed to the user, and for example can make response to user action.This top layer is processed basically initializing variable, and waits for the interruption that will make response subsequently.With reference to Figure 45, can be at 3601 place's initializing variables.This initialization for example can comprise is arranged to equipment mode " spontaneous ", and the value of following variable is set to 0: the number of the time step that is untreated, the number of time step, the number at pp interval, the number of IBI, mistake summation (error_sum), wave number, the number that the number at pp interval and pp go on foot blanking time, and the variable state is set to RAW.This initialization for example can be according to following Implementation of pseudocode: n_rt=0; N_ts=0; N_pp=0; N_ibi=0; State=RAW; Err_sum=0; N_waves=0; N_val4=0; N_ppts=0.

Continuation, for example can show to the user " inserting finger " this message at 3602 places with reference to Figure 45.At 3603 places, interruption is waited in described processing, and does not take any action, until an interruption occurs.At 3604 places, if the user inserts finger, then described equipment for example begins calibration at 3610 places, upgrades described display message, and removes interruption, turns back to 3602.

The handling process of processing corresponding to this exemplary top layer continues as shown in figure 37.With reference to Figure 46, at 3710 places, if the user presses the breathing button, then as mentioned above, this may trigger breathes the button press interruption.Handling process moves to 3720 subsequently, and for example, equipment mode is set to " Guided (guidance) " at this place, and variable Start is set to the current time, and removes interruption.Handling process can move to 3721 subsequently, for example can interrupt clock to be set to 100 milliseconds at this place.Handling process can move to 3730 subsequently, can present to the user at this place shown by instructional model.Handling process turns back to 3603 of Figure 45 by the breakpoint 2 among Figure 37 subsequently, states top layer in this place and processes the generation of again waiting for another interruption.This described handling process brings back to Figure 46 by breakpoint 1, wherein, for example at 3711 places, if clock occurs to interrupt, then handling process moves to 3703, and whether test is pressed described breathing button and entered the time that is subjected to instructional model 3710 from the user and begin to have pass by to be less than two minutes.If still be less than two minutes, then handling process can move to 3730 by 3731, for example can upgrade shown by instructional model at this place.For example, if after the user has pressed the breathing button, pass by to be longer than two minutes at 3703 places, then handling process can move to 3702, state Mode (pattern) variable in this place and be reset to " Spontaneous (spontaneous) ", and handling process moves to 3701, for example recovers spontaneous pattern at this place and shows.

At last, with reference to Figure 46, if detect pulse at 3721 places, the interruption of pulse detection occurs then, and handling process for example moves to 3713, call at this place and process the pulse subroutine.This exemplary top layer of describing in Figure 45 and 46 that is through with is processed.Figure 47-51 has described the handling process according to the exemplary main routine of one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, and it is known as the processing pulse.Process pulse and call following subroutine: error correction (error_correction) (Figure 52-54), error detection (error_detection) (Figure 55-56), initialization scope (initialize_range) are (Figure 57) and process ripple (process_waves) (Figure 58-59).Subsequently, process ripple and call again following subroutine: obtain ripple (get_waves) (Fig. 8 (a)-(b)) and definite pressure (determine_stress) (Figure 60-62).Therefore, all subroutines all processed pulse directly or indirectly call.

With reference to Figure 47, at 3802 places, provide the initialized time step rt[n_rt that is untreated as 3601 places at Figure 45] (be rt[0]) be set to the current time (with millisecond meter), and n_rt (number of the time step that perhaps is untreated) is increased progressively in advance.Subsequently, for example at 3803,3804 and 3805 places, can the test variable state be RAW (being untreated), DETECTION (detection) or CORRECTION (correction), in order to determine to think that described data are faultless, suspicious or wrong, and determine that correspondingly handling process will continue along that paths.If state=CORRECTION then will take to start from 3805 data path, thereby in 3805 places call error syndrome routine.If state=DETECTION then will take to start from 3804 data path, thereby finally detect subroutine in the call error of 3910 places of Figure 48.This two data paths finally arrives 4011 of Figure 49.If state=RAW, then handling process can directly proceed to Figure 48 3901 and by 3902, at 3901 places initialization timing variable, comprising increasing progressively in advance n_ts, whether it is the variable of the number in tracking time step, check n_ts greater than one at 3902 places.If then for example can be arranged to equal 1 to the number n_val at the pp interval that will be assigned with at 3903 places, and handling process can proceed to 4010 of Figure 49 by breakpoint 9, and proceed to 4011.When handling process arrives 4011, there are one or more pp values to be assigned with.Therefore, at 4011 places, each pp value is assigned with a value, if and have more than a pp value (being n_val＞1), then can generate actual time step, and show instantaneous pulse rate, it is the frequency of determining current pp interval (60000/pp[n_pp-1]).Handling process proceeds to 4110 from 4011, if having more than a pp value at this place, it is possible then calculating IBI (IBI).At 4110 places, this condition is tested in described processing, if then for example can calculate at 4111 places the IBI value.If not, then handling process can be circulated back to 4010.At 4111 places, in case calculated after the IBI value, handling process moves to 4201, so that how many pp values test has.Surpass 8 if having, namely at least 9, then having enough data to identify rank is 4 paddy.In case it is 4 valley point that at least two ranks are arranged, and namely at 4212 places num_val4＞1 is arranged, then described exemplary process can be sought the RSA ripple as described above.Therefore, the "Yes" at 4212 places for example can cause handling process to call processing marble routine at 4213 places.

Figure 52-54 has described to be used for the exemplary process flow of error correction subroutine.As described in conjunction with exemplary process pulse routine in the above, at 3805 places of Figure 38, call error syndrome routine.With reference to Figure 52, handling process starts from 4301, and described subroutine is in this place's beginning.At 4302 places, the variable err_sum that for example accumulates current pp blanking time adds nearest pp interval wherein to.In addition, variable n_val is set to 0.Handling process continues at 4303 places, in the new value of this place test err_sum whether in scope.If it is in scope, then handling process for example can move to 4310, and variable n_val is set to 1 at this place, thereby expression identifies correct pp interval, and the value at this pp interval is configured to equal the millisecond number among the err_sum, and handling process turns back to the processing pulse at 4320 places.On the other hand, if at 4303 places this experimental pp then handling process can move to 4304 not in scope blanking time, for example described subroutine is tested current pp blanking time whether below described scope at this place.If then handling process turns back to 4302, and add additional pp blanking time to variable err_sum.If not, then current summation is regarded as too highly, and can find suitable integer, utilizes this integer to remove current summation, in order to produce the pp interval of two or more " in scopes ".Handling process proceeds to 4401 of Figure 53 from 4304 by breakpoint 20 subsequently.At this place, test_integer=2 is configured to test divisor, and handling process for example can move to 4402, and a temporary variable tmp_val is set at this place, in order to preserve the merchant of err_sum/test_integer, the pp interval after possible actual correction of its expression.Handling process can move to 4403 subsequently, for example tests tmp_val at this place and whether is higher than described scope.If then for example increase this test_integer variable at 4410 places, and the division that proposes occurs once at 4402 places again.On the other hand, if at 4403 tmp_val of place not on described scope, then for example can again test tmp_val at 4404 places whether in described scope, if then handling process can (by breakpoint 2) move to 4501 of Figure 54.

4501 places at Figure 54 can be set to 1 to counting variable, and for example at 4502 places, described subroutine can query counts whether less than the currency of test_integer.If not, then handling process for example can move to 4510, and for example can be set to test_integer to variable n_val at 4520 places, and turns back to the processing pulse at breakpoint 6 places of Figure 47.On the other hand, if count less than test_integer at 4502 places, then handling process for example can be by 4503,4504 and 4502 circulations, wherein each circulation all increases the value (at 4504 places) of described counting, until this counting equals test_integer, at this moment, handling process can turn back to the processing pulse.The below describes exemplary error with reference to Figure 55-56 and detects subroutine.

With reference to Figure 55, handling process starts from 4601, and proceeds to 4602, current pp interval is loaded into temporarily among (under tentative correct meaning) pp interval tmp_pp at this place.At 4603 places, whether test tmp_pp is in scope.If then at 4610 places n_val is set to 1, and val[0] be arranged to equal tmp_pp, and handling process turns back to the program of calling of sending at 4620 places, namely process pulse, particularly turns back to 3911 of Figure 48.Yet, if find that at 4603 places tmp_pp outside scope, generates interim IBI variable tmp_ibi at 4604 places, for use in detecting as described above any mistake.Handling process can (by breakpoint 22) proceed to 4701 of Figure 56 subsequently, and whether greater than the low side of described scope half, as mentioned above, this is to realize for excessive test at this place test tmp_ibi.If words, then think and have mistake, and handling process proceeds to 4702, at this place variable err_sum is arranged to equal tmp_pp (err_sum is the input to above-mentioned error correction subroutine), " state " is configured to CORRECTION, and handling process for example can move to 4703, n_val is set to 0 at this place, and handling process turns back to the processing pulse, and can turn back to based on n_val=0 and state=CORRECTION and at 3911 places of Figure 48 3820 of Figure 47 subsequently, and finally arrive the error correction subroutine at 3805 places.

If be not more than half of low side of described scope at 4701 tmp_ibi of place, in this case, it is not regarded as greatly, does not therefore have mistake in described pp interval data, handling process can proceed to 4710, and for example tests tmp_pp whether greater than the top of described scope.Owing to finding that at 4701 places tmp_ibi is little, therefore think and do not have mistake, if at tmp_pp interval, 4710 place still greater than the existing top of described scope, then need to utilize new pp interval to recomputate described scope as max_pp, max_pp preserves the result's be not the mistake in the described data the value at maximum possible pp interval.For example, can be arranged to equal tmp_pp to max_pp at 4711 places, and utilize and newly to be worth, for example recomputate the high-end and low side of described scope at 4712 places.Handling process for example can proceed to 4713 subsequently, at this place n_val is arranged to equal 1, and with val[0] be arranged to equal current pp interval tmp_pp.For example at 4714 places, handling process can turn back to sends the routine of calling, and processes pulse.If be not more than the existing high-end of described scope at current pp interval, 4710 places, then for example may be arranged to equal current pp interval in the pp interval at 4720 places minimum.Handling process continues by 4712,4713 and 4714 as described above subsequently, turns back to the program of calling of sending in these local handling processes.

With reference to Figure 57, next describe corresponding to subroutine-initialization scope-handling process.This subroutine can be used in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, in order to calculate the scope corresponding to the pp interval, in described scope, thinks that data are faultless, in order to be used in error detection and the correction routine.Start from the subroutine call at 4801 places, handling process for example moves to 4802, and the false code below this place utilizes arranges the minimum pp of variable min_pp and max_pp:min_pp=data centralization; The highest pp of max_pp=data centralization.Subsequently, for example at 4803 places, the high-end and low side of the scope of described data point is used to aforesaid error detection and correction.This for example can utilize following false code to realize: range_high=max_pp+ ((max_pp-min_pp) * 0.25); Range_low=min_pp-((max_pp-min_pp) * 0.25).Use these example values, described scope is set up now, and at 4804 places, handling process turns back to sends the routine of calling, and namely processes pulse.Especially, handling process turns back to 4102 among Figure 50.

Figure 58-59 has described to process corresponding to ripple the exemplary process flow of subroutine.In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, this subroutine for example can be by processing routine call such as the pulse collection of processing pulse, as described above.After this subroutine was called at 4901 places, for example handling process can continue 4902, can call above-described acquisition marble routine at this place, so that the ripple that input identifies from pulse data.Handling process for example proceeds to 4903, can in the situation of the given ripple that gathers, utilize an exemplary definite pressure (determine_stress) subroutine to distribute a mark, the user's that this fraction representation reflects stress level in the ripple that identifies at this place.Handling process can for example proceed to 4904 subsequently, at this place described ripple is classified, and utilize expression formula frequency=60000/ (ppts[v2[n_waves-1]]-ppts[v1[n_waves-1]]) calculate instantaneous frequency based on current pp interval, ppts[v wherein] be the pulse point timestamp at data point v place.Handling process for example can proceed to 5001 on Figure 59 from this, can be based on current wave frequency to the mark of user assignment between 0-3 at this place, and wherein high score represents lower stress level.For example at 5002 places, this subroutine for example can show in the middle of the following each to the user: (i) stress level (from 4903 to determining the acquisitions of calling of pressure subroutine); (ii) frequency (from 4904); And (iii) mark (from 5001).At this moment, for example at 5003 places, handling process can turn back to sends the routine of calling, and namely processes pulse.

Figure 60-62 has described to be used for determining the exemplary subroutine of pressure mark.Measured is the degree that given user does not loosen, and this is to operate by the wavelength to his or her RSA ripple to realize.With reference to Figure 60, at 5104 places, the wavelength (assigned_wavelengths) that described definite pressure subroutine call distributes, it is joined one to each wavelength-division and is in wl_lo to the wavelength between the wl_high (arranging at 5102 places).Use these wavelength and how many ripples (being the value of n_waves) are arranged, Figure 60-61 has described the handling process corresponding to each value of the n_waves between 1 to 4.Each place in the middle of 5110,5201,5202 and 5203 determines score1, and it is the weighted sum of the difference between each wavelength and the wl_lo, and it measures this certain wave away from the degree of baseline.Therefore, perfectly loosening mark will have a_w[n}=w_lo corresponding to all n, and each score1 will equal 0.In replacement exemplary embodiment of the present invention, can in not to described difference and situation that be weighted, calculate score1, and this is aforesaid method.Score1 is described to " wavelength " mark.Can see at each place in the middle of 5110,5201,5202 and 5203, also calculate " variance " mark score2.Can utilize 70/30 Relative Contribution factor at the combination score1 of 5302 places and score2, in order to obtain score3.In the situation that may find usefully, in replacement exemplary embodiment according to the present invention, can use other relative weightings.Score3 can be used to utilize equation stress_level=(score3-21) * (100/ (100-21)) to come calculating pressure level (stress_level).Stress level is returned to the processing ripple at 4903 places.

With reference to Figure 63, wherein described to be used for joining to the wavelength-division that gathers the exemplary subroutine of wavelength.This subroutine for example can be used in exemplary definite pressure routine of describing among Figure 60-62, and it gets wavelength as input.In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, handling process can utilize 5401 places that are invoked to this subroutine to begin.At 5402 places, counter variable n is arranged to equal 0, and for example calculates current wavelength wl at 5403 places by the timestamp that from the timestamp of current v1, deducts current v2, wherein utilize expression formula wl=ts[v2[n]]-ts[v1[n]].At 5404 and 5405 places, for example the value of the value of wl and wl_lo and wl_high is compared, the value of described wl_lo and wl_high can sent as seeing in 5102 places of Figure 60 (wherein, they for example are set to respectively 3 and 10) is being set in the subroutine of calling.If wl is less than wl_lo or be higher than wl_high, then block a_wl[n at wl_lo or wl_high place], and handling process continues at 5407 places, increased in advance in the value of the n of this place.Yet, if the value of wl is between wl_low and the wl_high, for example at 5406 places a_wl[n] be set to wl, and handling process proceeds to 5407.At 5408 places, the value of the value of n and n_waves is compared, be assigned with wavelength in order to guarantee each ripple that gathers.If they equate, then handling process for example finishes this subroutine at 5410 places, and turns back to 5105 among Figure 60.If they are unequal, then handling process cycles through 5403 for the ripple that each gathers, until the ripple of all collections all has been assigned with wavelength.

Exemplary embodiment of the present invention for example also provides the method and apparatus that can determine in real time the stage of RSA ripple, wherein utilize phasic change to detect the setting point, utilize phasic change to detect the end of ripple, and determine the newly parasympathetic nervous intensity of the ripple of formation.

Figure 64 to 74 has described the exemplary process flow for the exemplary process in the stage of determining the RSA ripple on the basis of pursuing pulse, wherein utilize phasic change to detect the setting point, utilize phasic change to detect the end of ripple, and determine the newly parasympathetic nervous intensity of the ripple of formation.This exemplary embodiment has been described the processing of the single drives interrupts of carrying out when at every turn receiving new pulse.

For illustrative purpose, provided in described exemplary process and the handling process shown in Figure 64 to 74, and any exemplary functions that realizes this processing, comprising processed any auxiliary function and/or the processing of calling or utilizing by this exemplary flow.Those skilled in the art will recognize that, each exemplary process or function, no matter it is to be in function or the processing layer that calls, still be in the overall layer of processing corresponding to whole top layer, it can be realized with the mode of equivalence on the several functions, and the below should not be understood as that the multiformity of the possible implementation in restriction real system or the equipment to the description of Figure 64 to 74, perhaps requires to follow fully described illustrative exemplary handling process.

Should remember, for the brief property of expressing and the accuracy of explanation, next handling process in the middle of Figure 64 to 74 each will be described in the situation of the exemplary in nature that does not continue to mention each stage in the handling process or step, be to be understood that, in exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the implementation of equivalence for example can use different processing and different processing sequence and handling process tissues (as shown in Figure 64 to 74) to realize equivalent function on the function.Should be appreciated that all this alternative embodiments and equivalent function implementation all drop within the scope of method of the present invention and technology.

This exemplary process starts from 6000 (Figure 64).The first step 6001 in this processing is all enumerators of zero clearing: num_points (they follow the tracks of the Pulse Rate that receives), num_valley (it follows the tracks of the trough number that identifies), num_peaks (it follows the tracks of the crest number that identifies), prev_phase (it follows the tracks of the previous ripple stage), prev_direction (it follows the tracks of previous ripple direction), prev_side (it follows the tracks of previous ripple side), and wave_size (it follows the tracks of the length of a nearest ripple).

This handling process proceeds to 6002 subsequently, locates it at this and waits for that next pulse arrives.When detecting new pulse, this handling process proceeds to 6003, manages pulse everywhere at this.After described pulse was processed, handling process turned back to 6002, located it at this and waited for that another pulse arrives.

Figure 65 has described the exemplary process for the treatment of pulse.This processing starts from 6004.The first step in this processing is to obtain at 6005 places and record the timestamp (in ms) of each new pulse, and it is stored as point[num_points] .ts.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6006, locates it at this and is evaluated at whether at least two points are arranged in the described record.If not, then handling process turns back to 6007, increases the num_points enumerator at this place.This processing further proceeds to 6012, and returns.Yet if at least two points are arranged in described record, handling process proceeds to 6008.

At 6008 places, calculate peak-to-peak (pp) time of nearest two points, and it be recorded as point[num_points] .pp.In addition, also calculate the pulse rate values by pp time representation, and it be recorded as point[num_points] .prv.Handling process proceeds to 6010 subsequently.

At 6010 places, this processing is evaluated at whether at least 8 points are arranged in the described record.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6011, and increases the num_points enumerator.This processing further proceeds to 6012 and return.Yet if having 8 points at least in described record, handling process proceeds to 6009, and it calls processes the ripple processing.Described processing ripple process return after, the handling process among Figure 65 proceeds to 6012 and return.

Figure 66 has described the processing for the treatment of ripple information.This processing starts from 6013.The first step at 6014 places comprises to be calculated and storage long_slope, abs_long_slope and short_slope.Handling process proceeds to 6015 subsequently, processes directions at this place by obtaining direction (GetDirection).After this acquisition direction processing was returned, handling process proceeded to 6016, processed the stage of determining ripple at this place by the acquisition stage (Get phase).After this acquisition phase process had been returned, handling process proceeded to 6017, determined the ripple side at this place by obtaining side (Get Side) processing.After this acquisition side processing was returned, handling process proceeded to 6018.

At 6018 places, described processing determines whether to have side to change.If described ripple not yet changes side, then handling process proceeds to 6020.Otherwise handling process proceeds to 6019, assesses peak and paddy at this place by obtaining peak and paddy processing (Get Peaks and Valleys).After this processing was returned, handling process proceeded to 6020.

At 6020 places, described processing arranges a sign, its by check ripple whether end process indicate ripple whether just to finish.After this processing was returned, flow process proceeded to 6021, checked the ripple end mark at this place.If a ripple just finishes, then flow process proceeds to 6023.Otherwise flow process proceeds to 6022.At 6022 places, the new ripple that forms is described in the processing of the parasympathetic nervous intensity of marking wave, assesses its parasympathetic activity, and utilizes visual symbol to be marked at activeness under this ripple.After this processing was returned, flow process proceeded to 6023.

At 6023 places, a sign is set, whether its expression has just passed through the setting point.Check that whether setting point (Check to See if Drop Point is Occurring) is occuring is processed and make this and determine, and this sign correspondingly is set.After this processing was returned, flow process proceeded to 6024, analyzed described sign at this place.If this setting point sign not yet is set up, then flow process proceeds to 6026.Otherwise handling process proceeds to 6025.At 6025 places, labelling setting point (Mark DropPoint) processes at the place, setting point a visual symbol is placed on the ripple, and the auditory cues in this setting point is provided.After this processing was returned, flow process proceeded to 6026.

At 6026 places, distribute prev_phase, prev_side and prev_direction labelling.Handling process proceeds to 6027 subsequently, at this place, processes wave function and returns.

Figure 67 has described described acquisition direction and has processed.The first step at 6029 places checks that whether the short-term slope is greater than 30% of absolute long slope.If then handling process proceeds to 6030.Otherwise handling process proceeds to 6032.

At 6030 places, direction is registered as upwards.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6034.

At 6032 places, this process to check short slope whether less than the-definitely long slope of 1x 30% times.If then handling process proceeds to 6033.If not, handling process proceeds to 6031.

At 6033 places, direction is registered as downwards.Handling process proceeds to 6034 subsequently.

At 6031 places, direction is registered as smooth.Handling process proceeds to 6034 subsequently.

At 6034 places, this processing checks whether prev_direction never is set up.If it not yet is set up, then handling process proceeds to 6035.Otherwise handling process proceeds to 6036, and at this place, described processing is returned.

At 6035 places, prev_direction is registered as current direction (direction).Handling process proceeds to 6036, and at this place, described processing is returned.

Figure 68 has described exemplary acquisition phase process.At first step control general's slope at 6038 places whether for just.If then handling process proceeds to 6040.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6044.

At 6040 places, this processing checks whether direction is upwards.If handling process proceeds to 6039.If not, handling process proceeds to 6041.

At 6039 places, the stage is registered as rising.Handling process proceeds to 6045 subsequently.

At 6041 places, the stage is registered as the top.Handling process proceeds to 6045 subsequently.

At 6044 places, this processing checks whether direction is downward.If handling process proceeds to 6042.Otherwise handling process proceeds to 6043.

At 6042 places, the stage is registered as the whereabouts.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6045.

At 6043 places, the stage is registered as paddy.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6045.

At 6045 places, this processing checks whether prev_phase not yet is recorded.If unwritten words also, then handling process proceeds to 6046.If record, then handling process proceeds to 6047.

At 6046 places, prev_phase is registered as the current generation (stage).Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6047.

At 6047 places, this acquisition phase process is returned.

Figure 69 has described described acquisition side and has processed.At 6049 places, whether this processing examination phase is decline.If then handling process proceeds to 6050.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6052.

At 6050 places, described side is registered as the right side.Handling process proceeds to 6053.

At 6052 places, whether this processing examination phase is rising.If then handling process proceeds to 6051.Otherwise handling process proceeds to 6053.

At 6051 places, described side is registered as a left side.Handling process proceeds to 6053.

At 6053 places, this processing checks whether prev_side not yet is recorded.If record not yet, then handling process proceeds to 6054.Otherwise handling process proceeds to 6055.

At 6054 places, prev_side is registered as when front side (side).Handling process proceeds to 6055 subsequently.At 6055 places, this acquisition side is processed and is returned.

Figure 70 has described exemplary acquisition peak and paddy is processed.In the first step at 6058 places, this processing checks the current right side that whether forming of ripple.If handling process proceeds to 6059.If not, handling process proceeds to 6057.

At 6057 places, peak value be identified as formerly rising and the highest prv value during the stage of top.This value is registered as peak[num_peaks].Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6060.At 6060 places, increase the num_peaks enumerator.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6062.

At 6059 places, the minimum prv value during paddy is identified as whereabouts formerly and arrives the paddy stage.This value is registered as valley[num_valleys].Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6061.At 6061 places, increase the num_valleys enumerator.Then, flow process proceeds to 6062.At 6062 places, this acquisition peak and paddy are processed and return.

Figure 71 has described the inspection ripple and whether has finished this processing.In the first step at 6064 places, this processing checks whether the current generation is rising.If handling process proceeds to 6066.Otherwise handling process proceeds to 6065.

At 6065 places, the ripple end mark is set to vacation.Handling process proceeds to 6069.

At 6066 places, this processing checks whether the previous stage (previous_phase) is to paddy.If then handling process proceeds to 6067.Otherwise handling process proceeds to 6068.

At 6067 places, the ripple end mark is set to very.Handling process proceeds to 6069 subsequently.

At 6068 places, this processing checks whether the previous stage is decline.If handling process proceeds to 6067.Otherwise handling process proceeds to 6069.At 6069 places, whether this inspection ripple end process returns.

Figure 72 has described this processing of parasympathetic nervous intensity of exemplary indicia ripple.In the first step at 6071 places, whether this processing inspection has at least two paddy in record.If not, handling process proceeds to 6077.If handling process proceeds to 6072.

At 6072 places, calculate wavelength, and it is recorded as wave_length.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6074.At 6074 places, this is processed and checks that whether wavelength is less than 6 seconds.If handling process turns back to 6073.If not, handling process proceeds to 8000.

At 6073 places, the ripple size is confirmed as little.This shows very little parasympathetic activity when forming this ripple.This processing subsequent can be used suitable this ripple of symbol vision ground mark of vice sympathetic activity.In a preferred embodiment, a point symbol is placed on this ripple below.Handling process proceeds to 6077 subsequently.

At 8000 places, check that wavelength is whether less than 9 seconds length.If handling process proceeds to 6075.Otherwise handling process proceeds to 6076.

At 6075 places, the ripple size is marked as medium.The parasympathetic activity of medium level has probably formed this ripple.This processing subsequent can be used suitable this ripple of symbol vision ground mark of vice sympathetic activity.In a preferred embodiment, two point symbols are placed on this ripple below.Handling process proceeds to 6077 subsequently.

At 6076 places, the ripple size is marked as greatly.This wave table shows high parasympathetic activity.This processing subsequent can be used suitable this ripple of symbol vision ground mark of vice sympathetic activity.In a preferred embodiment, three point symbols are placed on this ripple below.Handling process proceeds to 6077 subsequently.

At 6077 places, the parasympathetic nervous intensity of this marking wave is processed and is returned.

Figure 73 has described exemplary inspection whether setting point (Check to See ifDrop Point is Occurring) processing is occuring.In the first step at 6080 places, this processing checks whether the current generation is to the top.If then handling process proceeds to 6082.Otherwise handling process proceeds to 6079.

At 6079 places, the setting point sign is set to vacation.Handling process proceeds to 6083 subsequently.

At 6082 places, this processing checks whether the previous stage is rising.If handling process proceeds to 6081.Otherwise handling process proceeds to 6079.

At 6081 places, the setting point sign is set to true.Handling process proceeds to 6083 subsequently.At 6083 places, whether this inspection the setting point processing is occuring is returned.

Figure 74 has described exemplary labelling setting point (Mark Drop Point) and has processed.The first step at 6085 places is placed a triangle above this ripple.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6086, and at this place, this processing checks that whether sound is for opening.If then handling process proceeds to 6087.If not, handling process proceeds to 6092.

At 6087 places, this processing checks whether the ripple size is little.If handling process proceeds to 6088.If not, handling process proceeds to 6090.

At 6088 places, described equipment generates the high-pitched tone buzzing.Show to its audition to run into the setting point, and audition ground shows that previous ripple is formed by low-level parasympathetic activity.Handling process proceeds to 6092 subsequently.

At 6090 places, this processing checks whether the ripple size is medium.If handling process proceeds to 6089.If not, handling process proceeds to 6091.

At 6089 places, this equipment generates the medium pitch buzzing.Show to its audition to run into the setting point, and audition ground shows that previous ripple is formed by the parasympathetic activity of medium level.Handling process proceeds to 6092 subsequently.

At 6091 places, this equipment generates the low pitch buzzing.Show to its audition to run into the setting point, and audition ground shows that previous ripple is formed by high-caliber parasympathetic activity.Handling process proceeds to 6092 subsequently.At 6092 places, this labelling setting point is processed and is returned.

Can also utilize following Implementation of pseudocode to be used for for example determining in real time the exemplary process in the stage of RSA ripple, utilize phasic change to detect the setting point, utilize phasic change to detect the end of ripple and the parasympathetic nervous intensity of determining the new ripple that forms, described false code corresponds essentially to the handling process of describing among Figure 64 to 74.

num_points=0;

num_valley=0;

num_peaks=0;

prev_phase=NULL;

prev_direction=NULL;

prev_side=NULL;

wave_size=NULL;

Function_Process_Pulse

point[num_points].ts=current?time?in?mc

if(num_points＜1)then

{

++num_points;

return;

}

point[num_points].pp=point[num_points].ts-point[num_points-1].ts

point[num_points].prv=60000/point[num_points].pp

if(num_points＜7)then

{

++num_points;

return;

}

long_slope=slope?of?the?last?6?point.prv's

abs_long_slope=absolute(long_slope)

short_slope=slope?of?the?last?3?point.prv'sif(short_slope＞(0.30)*(abs_long_slope))then?direction=UPelse?if(short_slope＜(-0.30)*(abs_long_slope))then?direction=DOWNelse?direction=FLAT;if(prev_direction==NULL)then?prev_direction=direction?if(long_slope＞0)then?{

if(direction==UP)then?phase=RISING

else?phase=CRESTING;?}?else?}

if(direction==DOWN)then?phase=FALLING

else?phase=TROUGHING;?}?if(prev_phase==NULL)then?prev_phase=phase;?if(phase==FALLING)then?side=RIGHT;?else?if(phase==RISING)then?side=LEFT;?if(prev_side=NULL)then?prev_side=side;?If(prev_side◇side)?{

if(side==RIGHT)then

{

valley[num_valleys]=index?of?lowest?point.prv?during?the?previous?FALLING/TROUGHING?phases

++num_valleys;

}

else

{

peak[num_peaks]=index?of?highest?point.prv?during?the?previous?RISING/CRESTING?phases

++num_peaks;

}?}?if((phase==RISING)&&((previous_phase==TROUGHING)||(previous_phase=?FALLING))then?{

if(num_valleys＞=2)then

{

wave_length=point[valley[num_valleys-1]].ts-point[valley[num_valleys-?2]].ts;

if(wave_length＜6000)then?wave_size=SMALL

else?if(wave_length＜9000)then?wave_size=MEDIUM

else?wave_size=LARGE;

display?wave?points?underneath?previous?wave

}

}

if((phase==CRESTING)&&(previous_phase==RISING))

{

if(sound==ON)

{

if(wave_size==SMALL)then?generate?HIGH?PITCH?beep

else?if(wave_size=MEDIUM)then?generate?MIDDLE?PITCH?beep

else?generate?LOW?PITCH?beep

}

}

prev_phase=phase;

prev_side=side;

prev_direction=direction;

Return from Function (returning from function)

Exemplary embodiment of the present invention also is provided in the situation that need not at first to identify the TD4 section and identifies in real time peak and paddy.Therefore, can sequentially process to value (for example one by one).

Figure 75-83 has described and has been used for determining ripple stage and the exemplary process of describing ripple by the basis of pulse.This exemplary embodiment for example provides the more high accuracy that the stage is determined and ripple is described with overall direction symbol and the position of each point in scope.

For illustrative purpose, provided in described exemplary process and the handling process shown in Figure 75 to 83, and any exemplary functions that realizes this processing, comprising processed any auxiliary function and/or the processing of calling or utilizing by this exemplary flow.Those skilled in the art will recognize that, each exemplary process or function, no matter it is to be in function or the processing layer that calls, still be in the overall layer of processing corresponding to whole top layer, it can be realized with the mode of equivalence on the several functions, and the below should not be understood as that the multiformity of the possible implementation in restriction real system or the equipment to the description of Figure 75 to 83, perhaps requires to follow fully described illustrative exemplary handling process.

Should remember, for the brief property of expressing and the accuracy of explanation, next handling process in the middle of Figure 75 to 83 each will be described in the situation of the exemplary in nature that does not continue to mention each stage in the handling process or step, be to be understood that, in exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the implementation of equivalence for example can use different processing and different processing sequence and handling process tissues (as shown in Figure 75 to 83) to realize equivalent function on the function.Should be appreciated that all this alternative embodiments and equivalent function implementation all drop within the scope of method of the present invention and technology.

As shown in Figure 75, described processing starts from 6093.The first step is 6094.At 6094 places, this processing is arranged to 30 to the percentage ratio (UP PERCENT) that makes progress, and downward percentage ratio (DOWN PERCENT) is arranged to 15.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6095, at this place's count initialized device and labelling.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6096, locates this processing at this and waits for that 15 seconds pulse informations arrive.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6097, locates this processing at this and waits for next pulse.After receiving next pulse, handling process proceeds to 6098, processes definite overall direction symbol at this place by obtaining snap information (Get Fast Information).

When this processing was returned, handling process proceeded to 6099, calculated and recorded and work as front slope at this place.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6100, calculates and record nearest 12 seconds minimum prv and the highest nearest 12 seconds prv at this place.Thereby provide the scope of nearest 12 seconds prv value.

Handling process proceeds to 6101 subsequently.At 6101 places, directions is processed and is determined wave line of propagation.When this processing was returned, handling process proceeded to 6102, calculated and record current some peak-to-peak (pp) value, pulse rate values (prv), timestamp (ts), direction and some index at this place.

Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6103, states in this place to obtain which part that processing definite current point in some position is positioned at described scope.100 position means that this point is very near the top or on described scope.0 position means that this point is very near the bottom or below described scope.This percentage ratio height in described scope of value representation between 0 to 100.

When the processing of described acquisition point position was returned, handling process proceeded to 6104.At 6104 places, upgrade ripple at display and draw.That is to say, draw the prv value that receives recently at display.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6105.

At 6105 places, described processing inspection is when receiving nearest prv, and whether direction changes.If direction does not change, then handling process proceeds to 6097, states in this place to process and waits for next pulse.If direction changes really, then handling process proceeds to 6106, changes the change of processing direction at this place by processing direction.When this processing was returned, handling process proceeded to 6097, located this processing at this and waited for that next pulse arrives.

Figure 76 has described exemplary acquisition snap information and has processed.In the first step at 6108 places, the highest positive slope during nearest 5 seconds is registered as fast_rise (fast rise).Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6109.At 6109 places, the highest negative slope during nearest 5 seconds is registered as fast_drop (hurtling down).Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6111.

At 6111 places, described processing checks that fast_rise is whether greater than the absolute value of fast_drop.If then handling process proceeds to 6110.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6112.

At 6110 places, fast_rise is registered as fastest_change (changing the soonest).Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6113.

At 6112 places, the absolute value of fast_drop is registered as fastest_change.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6113.At 6113 places, described acquisition snap information is processed and is returned.

Figure 77 has described exemplary directions and has processed.In the first step of this processing at 6115 places, this process check when front slope whether greater than the upwards percentage ratio % (UPPERCENT%) that changes the soonest.If then handling process proceeds to 6116.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6117.

At 6116 places, current direction is registered as upwards.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6123.

At 6117 places, this process to detect when front slope whether less than change the soonest-the downward percentage ratio % of 1x (DOWN PERCENT%).If then handling process proceeds to 6119.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6118.

At 6118 places, current direction is registered as downwards.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6123.

At 6119 places, this processing checks whether current repercussion makes progress.If then handling process proceeds to 6120.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6121.

At 6120 places, current direction is registered as PEAK_PLATEAU (peak steady statue), also is known as the peak.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6123.

At 6121 places, this is processed and checks whether downward current direction is.If then handling process proceeds to 6122.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6123.

At 6122 places, current direction is registered as VALLEY_PLATEAU (paddy steady statue), and it is also called trough.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6123.At 6123 places, described directions is processed and is returned.

Figure 78 has described exemplary really fixed position and has processed.In the first step at 6125 places, whether this prv that processes the current point of inspection is less than the minimum prv in the described scope.If then handling process proceeds to 6126.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6127.

At 6126 places, the some position is registered as 0.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6130.

At 6127 places, whether this prv that processes the current point of inspection is greater than the highest prv in the described scope.If then handling process proceeds to 6128.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6129.

At 6128 places, the some position is for being recorded as 100.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6130.

At 6129 places, calculate and record this relative position in described scope.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6130.At 6130 places, described definite some position processed and returned.

Figure 79 has described the exemplary process direction and has changed processing.In the first step at 6134 places, this processing checks whether current direction makes progress.If then handling process proceeds to 6135.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6138.

At 6135 places, this is processed and checks whether downward previous direction is.If then handling process proceeds to 6136.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6132.

At 6132 places, this processing checks whether previous direction once was recorded.If not yet be recorded, then handling process proceeds to 6133.If record, then handling process proceeds to 6144.

At 6133 places, process upwards swinging of ripple by processing empty upwards swing (Process Null Up Swing).After this processing was returned, handling process proceeded to 6144.

At 6136 places, described processing checks whether current some position is in the bottom 25% of described scope.If then handling process proceeds to 6137.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6144.

At 6137 places, upwards swing processing (Process Regular Up Swing) by processing rule and process upwards swinging of ripple.After this processing was returned, handling process proceeded to 6144.

At 6138 places, described processing checks whether downward current direction is.If then handling process proceeds to 6139.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6144.

At 6139 places, this processing checks whether previous direction makes progress.If then handling process proceeds to 6140.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6143.

At 6140 places, whether this position that process to check current point is in the top 75% of described scope.If then handling process proceeds to 6141.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6144.

At 6141 places, by processing rule to lower swing (Process Regular Down Swing) process ripple to lower swing.After this processing was returned, handling process proceeded to 6144.

At 6143 places, this processing checks whether previous direction once was recorded.If not yet be recorded, then handling process proceeds to 6142.If be recorded, then handling process proceeds to 6144.

At 6142 places, by process empty to lower swing process ripple to lower swing.When this processing was returned, handling process proceeded to 6144.At 6144 places, described processing changes direction (ProcessChange Direction) processing and returns.

Figure 80 has described exemplary processing rule and has upwards swung processing.In the first step at 6146 places, the minimum prv since previous direction begins is registered as up-to-date valley point.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6147.

At 6147 places, whether this processing inspection has at least two valley points on described record.If then handling process proceeds to 6148.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6150.

At 6148 places, calculate and record the wavelength of a nearest ripple.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6149.At 6149 places, the calculating pressure index, and calculate mark.In addition, show pressure index, wavelength, history, mark and other measuring based on ripple at screen.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6150.

At 6150 places, previous direction is registered as upwards.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6151.At 6151 places, previous direction index is registered as and occurred in before 2.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6152, and at this place, described processing rule upwards swings to process and returns.

Figure 81 has described exemplary processing rule and has upwards swung processing.In the first step at 6154 places, the highest prv since nearest direction changes beginning is registered as next peak point.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6155.

At 6155 places, whether this processing inspection has recorded at least two peak values.If then handling process proceeds to 6156.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6157.

At 6156 places, the timestamp of nearest two peak values is subtracted each other, in order to calculate and record the nearest peak-to-peak time.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6157.

At 6157 places, previous direction symbol is arranged to downwards.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6158, at this place previous direction index is arranged to before 2.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6159, and at this place, described processing rule upwards swings to process and returns.

Figure 82 has described empty upwards swing of exemplary processing and has processed.In the first step at 6161 places, previous direction symbol is configured to upwards.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6162, and at this place, previous direction index was configured to before 2.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6163, and at this place, the empty upwards swing of described processing is processed and returned.

Figure 83 has described exemplary processing sky and has processed to lower swing.In the first step at 6164 places, previous direction symbol is configured to downwards.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6165, and at this place, previous direction index was configured to before 2.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6167, and at this place, described processing sky is processed to lower swing and returned.

Can also utilize following Implementation of pseudocode to be used for determining ripple stage for example and the exemplary process of describing ripple by the basis of pulse, described false code corresponds essentially to the flow processing of describing among Figure 75-83.

∥point_structure

pp,prv,ts,direction

∥define

#define UP_PERCENT 30

#define DOWN_PERCENT 15

∥initialize

prev_direction =NULL

point_index =0

num_valleys =0

num_peaks =0

Wait?for?15?seconds?worth?of?data.Use?a?rolling?window?of?15?seconds.Index?each?point

with?point?index

the?term?slope?refers?to?the?slope?of?three?prv?points

(wait for 15 seconds data.Use 15 seconds scrolling windows.With each point of an index index.The term slope refers to the slope that three prv are ordered)

∥main?loop

fast_rise:highest?positiive?slope?during?the?last?5?seconds

fast_drop:highest?negative?slope?during?the?last?5?seconds

if(fast_rise＞absolute(fast_drop))then

fastest_change=fast_rise

else

fastest_change=absolute(fast_drop)

current_slope=slope?ofthe?last?three?prv?points

[Begin?New?Code]

low_prv=lowest?prv?during?the?last?12?seconds

hi_prv+highest?prv?during?the?last?12?seconds

[End?New?Code]?∥determine?direction?if(current_slope＞(fastest_change*(UP_PPERCENT/100)))then

current_direction=UP?else?if(current_slope＞(-1)*(fastest_change)*(DOWN_PERCENT/100)))then?{

if?current_direction=UP?then?current_direction=PEAK_PLATEAU

else?if?current_direction=DOWN?then?current_direction=VALLEY_PLATEAU?}?else?current_direction=DOWN?point.pp=pp?point.prv=60000/pp?point.ts=current_timepoint.direction=direction[Begin?New?Code]if(point.prv＜low_prv)then

point.position=0else?if(point.prv＞hi_prv)then

point.position=100else?point.position=((point,prv-low_prv)/(hi_prov-low_prv))*100[End?New?Code]update?prv?displayif(current-direction!=prev_direction){

[Begin?New?Code]

if((current_direction==UP)&&(prev_direction==DOWN)&&(point.position＜25))then

[End?New?Code]

{

valley[num_valleys++]=lowest?point?prv?since?point[prev_direction_index]

if(num_valleys＞=2)then

{

last_wavelength=valley[num_valleys-1].ts-valley[num_valleys-2].ts

Update?Stress?Index,Wavelength,history,score

}

prev_direction=UP

prev_direction_index=point_index-2

}

[Begin?New?Code]

if(current_direction=DOWN)&&(prev_direction=UP)&&(point.position＞75))then

[End?New?Code]

{

peak[num_peaks++]=highest?point?prv?since?point[prev_direction_index]

if(num?peaks＞=2)then

last_peak_to_peak=peak[num_peaks-1].ts-peak[num_peaks-2].ts

prev_direction=DOWN

prev_direction_index=point_index-2

}

if((current_direction=UP)&&(prev_direction=NULL))

{

prev_direction=UP

prev_direction_index=point_index-2

}

if((current_direction=DOWN)&&(prev_direction==NULL))

{

prev_direction=DOWN

prev_irection_index=poin_index-2

}

}

The present invention also provides the processing that is used in real time rather than determines on the basis of pursuing pulse the end of setting point and RSA ripple.Figure 84-87 has described simultaneously two exemplary process of operation.First processes, and namely processes in real time 1 (at 6168 places) and carries out on the basis by pulse.Second processes, and namely processes in real time the every 250ms in 2 (at 6171 places) and carries out once.These two processing are worked together, in order to allow to detect in real time setting point and the real-time termination that detects when prewave.

For illustrative purpose, provided in described exemplary process and the handling process shown in Figure 84 to 87, and any exemplary functions that realizes this processing, comprising processed any auxiliary function and/or the processing of calling or utilizing by this exemplary flow.Those skilled in the art will recognize that, each exemplary process or function, no matter it is to be in function or the processing layer that calls, still be in the overall layer of processing corresponding to whole top layer, it can be realized with the mode of equivalence on the several functions, and the below should not be understood as that the multiformity of the possible implementation in restriction real system or the equipment to the description of Figure 84 to 87, perhaps requires to follow fully described illustrative exemplary handling process.

Should remember, for the brief property of expressing and the accuracy of explanation, next handling process in the middle of Figure 84 to 87 each will be described in the situation of the exemplary in nature that does not continue to mention each stage in the handling process or step, be to be understood that, in exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the implementation of equivalence for example can use different processing and different processing sequence and handling process tissues (as shown in Figure 84 to 87) to realize equivalent function on the function.Should be appreciated that all this alternative embodiments and equivalent function implementation all drop within the scope of method of the present invention and technology.

Figure 84 has described the interruption character of two exemplary process.Process in real time 1 and start from 6168.In the first step at 6169 places, this is processed and waits for the next pulse of reception.When receiving pulse, handling process proceeds to 6170, at this place, processes this pulse by processing pulse peak value (Handle Pulse Peak).When this processing was returned, handling process continued to get back to 6169, waited for next pulse at this place.

Meanwhile, the real-time processing 2 that starts from 6171 places operates simultaneously.In the first step of this processing at 6172 places, clock is interrupted being set to 250ms, thereby the every 250ms of this processing is called once.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6173, and at this place, this processes dormancy until the clock interruption occurs.When clock interrupts occuring, interrupt (Handle Clock Interrupt) by processing clock and process this interruption.When this processing was returned, handling process proceeded to 6172, clock is set again at this place interrupts.

Figure 85 has described exemplary processing pulse peak value and has processed.In the first step at 6176 places, process directions by described acquisition direction.(this acquisition direction is processed and relevant treatment is described in detail in the above, does not therefore repeat here.) after this processing was returned, handling process proceeded to 6177.

At 6177 places, described processing checks whether direction makes progress.If then handling process proceeds to 6181.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6178.

At 6178 places, described processing checks whether PEAK_PLATEAU of direction.If then handling process proceeds to 6182.If not, handling process proceeds to 6179.

At 6179 places, described processing checks whether downward direction is.If handling process proceeds to 6183.If not, handling process proceeds to 6180.

At 6180 places, process the current situation that just arrives paddy of ripple by processing this processing of paddy steady statue.When this processing was returned, handling process proceeded to 6187.

At 6181 places, paddy steady statue sign is set to vacation.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6184, and at this place, upwards sign is set to true.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6187.

At 6182 places, paddy steady statue sign is set to vacation.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6185, and at this place, upwards sign is set to true.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6187.

At 6183 places, paddy steady statue sign is set to vacation.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6186, and at this place, upwards sign is set to vacation.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6187.At 6187 places, described processing pulse peak value is processed and is returned.

Figure 86 has described exemplary processing clock and has interrupted processing.In the first step at 6190 places, this processing checks whether paddy steady statue sign is true.If then handling process proceeds to 6191.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6189.

At 6189 places, whether described processing inspection upwards sign is true.If handling process proceeds to 6193.If not, handling process proceeds to 6199.

At 6191 places, whether the described processing inspection current time has passed through the steady statue end of calculating.If then handling process proceeds to 6192.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6189.

At 6192 places, current direction is registered as upwards.Therefore, upwards swing is detected in real time.Therefore, detect in real time the end of previous ripple.Therefore, if desired, can calculate at this moment, record, disclosing solution are described, pressure is measured, parasympathetic nervous is measured etc.

Handling process proceeds to 6189 subsequently.At 6189 places, whether described processing inspection upwards sign is set to true.If then handling process proceeds to 6193.If not, then handling process proceeds to 6199.

At 6193 places, calculate the mirage phantom prv value that is known as tmp_prv.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6194, at this place, calculates based on two true prv and this mirage phantom prv and to work as front slope.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6195.

At 6195 places, described processing inspection when front slope whether less than-downward percentage ratio % that 1x changes the soonest.The calculating that changes has the soonest been described in the example in front.If it is less to work as front slope, then handling process proceeds to 6196.If it is not less, then handling process proceeds to 6199.

At 6196 places, current direction is registered as downwards.In other words, detect in real time downward transition.This processing does not need to wait for next pulse.Next pulse will occur after described setting point.

Handling process proceeds to 6197, and at this place, upwards sign is set to vacation.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6198, at this place, can process the setting point.This setting point can by vision ground, the expression of audition ground, perhaps can represent in two ways.After having used described setting point information, handling process proceeds to 6199.At 6199 places, the processing that described processing clock is interrupted is returned.

Figure 87 has described exemplary processing paddy steady statue and has processed.In the first step at 6201 places, upwards sign is set to vacation.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6202.

At 6202 places, described processing checks whether paddy steady statue sign is false.If false, then handling process proceeds to 6203.If not vacation, then handling process proceeds to 6212.

At 6203 places, whether end point a bit before described processing checks.If then handling process proceeds to 6204.If not, handling process proceeds to 6206.

At 6204 places, more front timestamp is registered as the steady statue end.Handling process proceeds to 6208.

At 6206 places, whether a bit rise before the described processing inspection transition point.If handling process proceeds to 6205.If not, handling process proceeds to 6207.

At 6205 places, 2 timestamps in the past are registered as the steady statue end.Handling process proceeds to 6208 subsequently.

At 6207 places, the timestamp of current point is registered as the steady statue end.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6208.

At 6208 places, whether the timestamp that described processing checks a nearest known paddy is less than the timestamp at a nearest known peak.If then handling process proceeds to 6209.If not, handling process proceeds to 6210.

At 6209 places, 1/3rd of the time between a nearest peak and the nearest paddy is added to described steady statue end.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6211.

At 6210 places, 1/3rd of the time between a nearest peak and the penultimate paddy is added to described steady statue end.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6211.

At 6211 places, paddy steady statue sign is set to very.Subsequently, handling process proceeds to 6212.At 6212 places, described processing paddy steady statue is processed and is returned.

Can utilize following false code to realize that described false code corresponds essentially to the flow processing of describing in Figure 84-87 for the exemplary process of determining in real time the end of setting point and RSA ripple.

∥point_index=the?index?of?the?last?point

<per?pp>

switch(direction)

case:UP

valley_plateau_flag=FALSE;

up_flag=TRUE;case:PEAK_PLATEAU

valley_plateau_flag=FALSE;

up_flag=TRUE;case:DOWN

valley_plateau_flag=FALSE;

up_flag=FALSE;case:VALLEY_PLATEAUup_flag=FALSE;if(lvalley_plateau_flag)

{

if(is_bottom_pt(point_index-1))then

plateau_end=point[point_index-1].ts ∥use?the?middle?point

else?if(is_ascending_trans(point_index-1))then?plateau_start=point[point_index-2].ts ∥use?the?first?point

if(valley[num-valleys-1].ts＜peak[num_peaks-1].ts)then

plateau_end+=(1/3)*(peak[num_peaks-1].ts-valley[num_valleys1].ts) ∥last?peak-last?valley?before?the?peak

else

plateau_end+=(1/3)*(peak[num_leaks-1].ts-valley[num_valleys-2].ts)

valley_plateau_flag=TRUE;

}<every?250ms>if(valley_plateau_flag)then{

if(current_time＞plateau_end)then?current_direction=UP}

if(up_flag)then

{

tmp_prv=(60000/(current_time-point[num_points-1].ts))

current_slope=slope?of?the?last?two?point?prvs?&?tmp_prv

if(current_slope＜(-1)*(fastest_change)*(DOWN_PERCENT/100))then

{

current_direction=DOWN

up_flag=false

goto?update?prv?display…

}

}

With reference to specific embodiment the present invention has been described.Yet, should be noted that in the situation that do not deviate from the spirit and scope of the present invention and can make changes and modifications.Especially, will be appreciated that, various flow processing described herein can be modified to provide the basically function implementation of equivalence, therefore should be regarded as dropping in the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims (15)

1. handhold portable formula biofeedback apparatus that is used for alleviating the pressure of human subjects comprises:

Shell;

The light plethysmogram pickup, wherein this light plethysmogram pickup is from this human subjects generated data;

Be coupled to the control system of this light plethysmogram pickup; And

Display screen,

Wherein, this control system is configured to process data from this human subjects in order to output to this display screen, wherein detect the setting point by the phasic change that uses the RSA ripple, described output data provide the information that is associated with the setting point of at least one RSA ripple to this human subjects, wherein the setting point is that the RSA ripple is from being transitioned into the point of decline to the top.

2. the equipment of claim 1, wherein, described information is vision.

3. the equipment of claim 1, wherein, described information is audition.

4. the equipment of claim 1, wherein, described information is used to point out described object to begin to exhale.

5. the equipment of claim 1, wherein, described information is offered described object basically in real time.

6. the equipment of claim 1, wherein, this equipment also comprises can be by the breathing metronome of described object activation, and wherein, this breathing metronome is programmed to stop using after predetermined amount of time.

7. the equipment of claim 1, wherein, this equipment is configured to extract the information relevant with the breathing of described object.

8. the equipment of claim 7, wherein, described with breathe relevant information and comprise speed, rhythm and capacity.

9. the equipment of claim 1, wherein, described shell comprises power supply.

10. the equipment of claim 1 wherein, is powered by the A/C source.

11. one kind generates the method that parasympathetic nervous spreads out of in the human subjects body, the method comprises by detect the setting point with the phasic change of RSA ripple to provide information about the setting point of at least one RSA ripple to this object, and wherein the setting point is that the RSA ripple is from being transitioned into the point of decline to the top.

12. the method for claim 11, wherein, described information is vision.

13. the method for claim 11, wherein, described information is audition.

14. the method for claim 11, wherein, described information is used to point out described object to begin to exhale.

15. the method for claim 11, wherein, described information is offered described object basically in real time.

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