CN116709984A - Light detection unit and brain function measuring device using same - Google Patents

Abstract

The light detection unit (23) is provided with: a photodetector (31) for detecting light; a storage container (71) which is cylindrical and stores the photodetector (31); and a flexible substrate (73) on which a signal processing circuit including an A/D converter (33) is mounted, wherein the A/D converter (33) converts an optical signal detected by the photodetector (31) from an analog signal to a digital signal, and the flexible substrate (73) is disposed in the inside of the storage container (71) in a state of being bent and deformed.

Description

Light detection unit and brain function measuring device using same

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a light detection unit and a brain function measuring device using the light detection unit, and more particularly, to a brain function measuring device including a light detection unit disposed on a head of a subject.

Background

Conventionally, a brain function measuring device is known in which a head of a subject is irradiated with light to observe a brain activity state (for example, patent literature 1). The brain function measuring device includes: a measurement unit that is attached to a head of a subject; and a main body unit connected to the measurement unit via an optical fiber.

The measuring unit includes: a light irradiation unit that irradiates near infrared light of a plurality of wavelengths to the brain of a subject; and a light receiving unit that receives near-infrared light emitted from the brain through the brain. The intensity of the light irradiated by the light irradiation unit is compared with the intensity of the light detected by the light detection unit, and the intensity change of the light is measured, so that the activity state of cerebral blood flow can be measured.

The main body unit includes a light source such as a light emitting diode, a light detection unit, and a main control unit for controlling the respective structures in a unified manner. The light detection unit is provided with: a photodetector for detecting light; an amplifier that amplifies the detected optical signal; and an a/D converter that converts the amplified optical signal into a digital signal. In general, an amplifier and an a/D converter are provided on a printed circuit board.

The light source is connected to a light irradiation mechanism such as a light transmitting probe via an optical fiber, and the photodetector is connected to a light receiving unit via an optical fiber. That is, near infrared light emitted from the light source is transmitted to the measurement unit side via the optical fiber, and is irradiated from the light irradiation mechanism to the brain of the subject. Near infrared light emitted from the brain of the subject is received by a light receiving unit provided in the measuring unit, and the received near infrared light is transmitted to the main body unit side via an optical fiber. The near infrared light transmitted to the main body unit side is detected by the photodetector. That is, the optical signal is amplified by an amplifier on the printed circuit board, and is further converted from an analog signal to a digital signal by an a/D converter. By analyzing the digital-converted optical signal, information on the brain activity state can be obtained.

Prior art literature

Patent literature

Patent document 1: japanese patent laid-open No. 2017-080479

Disclosure of Invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

However, in the case of the conventional example having such a structure, there are the following problems.

In the conventional configuration, after transmitting light received by the measuring unit to the main body unit side, an optical signal, which is an analog signal, is subjected to amplification processing and digital conversion processing. Therefore, a decrease in light occurs during transmission to the main body unit side. If the intensity of the optical signal is reduced, the noise ratio increases, and as a result, there is a concern that the S/N ratio (signal to noise ratio) decreases. In addition, in order to transmit light from the measurement unit to the main body unit, an optical fiber of several m-degree length is required, and therefore, the cost increases. In addition, since the optical fiber has low durability as compared with a general cable, it is necessary to carefully use the brain function measuring device.

The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a light detection unit capable of improving the S/N ratio of an optical signal, and a brain function measuring device provided with the light detection unit.

Solution for solving the problem

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention adopts the following configuration.

That is, the light detection unit of the present invention includes: a photodetector for detecting light; a storage container having a cylindrical shape and storing the photodetector; and a flexible substrate on which a signal processing circuit including an a/D converter for converting the optical signal detected by the photodetector from an analog signal to a digital signal is mounted, wherein the flexible substrate is disposed in the storage container in a state of being bent and deformed.

In this configuration, since the signal processing circuit including the a/D converter is mounted on the flexible substrate, the flexible substrate can be deformed to be a smaller shape. Further, by disposing the flexible substrate in a state of being bent and deformed inside the storage container, both the photodetector and the a/D converter are disposed inside the storage container. That is, since the photodetector and the a/D converter can be disposed at a position closer to each other, the optical signal detected by the photodetector can be quickly converted from an analog signal to a digital signal. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the decrease in optical signal intensity caused by transmitting the optical signal in the analog signal state, to miniaturize the optical detection unit, and to improve the S/N ratio of the optical signal.

In the above invention, it is preferable that the flexible substrate includes: a 1 st part connected to the photodetector; a 2 nd part on which a signal processing circuit including the a/D converter is mounted; and a connecting portion connecting the 1 st portion and the 2 nd portion, wherein the connecting portion is bent so that the 1 st portion and the 2 nd portion are orthogonal to each other, and the 2 nd portion is bent and deformed, so that the flexible substrate is deformed into a tubular shape along an inner surface of the storage container.

In the light detection unit according to the present invention, the flexible substrate can be deformed into a tubular shape along the inner surface of the storage container by bending the connection portion that connects the 1 st portion and the 2 nd portion of the flexible substrate and bending and deforming the 2 nd portion. Therefore, the flat flexible substrate can be deformed into a smaller cylindrical shape. In addition, according to such a configuration, a pressing force acts on the inner surface of the storage container from the flexible substrate due to the restoring force of the 2 nd portion attempting to return to the original shape. The flexible substrate is held in the storage container by the pressing force, and therefore, the flexible substrate can be stably held in the storage container without using a fixing member such as a screw.

In the above invention, it is preferable that the flexible substrate includes: a 1 st part connected to the photodetector; a 2 nd part on which a signal processing circuit including the a/D converter is mounted; and a connecting portion connecting the 1 st portion and the 2 nd portion, wherein the connecting portion is bent so that the 1 st portion and the 2 nd portion overlap each other, and the flexible substrate is deformed into a folded state inside the container.

In the light detection unit according to the present invention, the 1 st part and the 2 nd part constituting the flexible substrate are folded by bending the connection part so that the 1 st part and the 2 nd part overlap each other, and therefore, the flexible substrate can be deformed into a folded state inside the storage container. Therefore, the flat flexible substrate can be deformed into a smaller shape. Accordingly, the volume occupied by the flexible substrate can be further reduced, and therefore, the light detection unit can be further miniaturized.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention may have the following configuration.

That is, the brain function measuring device of the present invention includes: a measuring unit having the light detecting unit described above and a light irradiation unit that irradiates light to the brain of the subject, the measuring unit being attached to the head of the subject; and a main body unit electrically connected to the measurement unit and having a brain function measurement section that obtains measurement data related to brain activity of the subject based on the optical signal digitally converted by the a/D converter.

According to the brain function measuring device of the present invention, the substrate on which the a/D converter is mounted is made flexible, so that the substrate can be bent and deformed so as to be disposed inside the housing container provided in the light detection unit. Therefore, since the light detection unit can be miniaturized, the light detection unit can be disposed not on the main body unit side but on the measurement unit side attached to the head of the subject.

According to such a configuration, light that is irradiated from the light irradiation unit and transmitted through the brain of the subject is detected by the photodetector provided in the light detection unit, and then is quickly converted into a digital signal by the a/D converter. Accordingly, the decrease in optical signal intensity caused by transmitting the optical signal in the analog signal state can be avoided, and thus the S/N ratio of the optical signal can be improved. As a result, the accuracy of the brain function measurement data can be further improved.

ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF INVENTION

According to the light detection unit and the brain function measuring device provided with the light detection unit of the present invention, the signal processing circuit including the a/D converter is mounted on the flexible substrate, and therefore, the flexible substrate can be bent and deformed into a smaller shape. Further, by disposing the flexible substrate in a state of being bent and deformed inside the storage container, both the photodetector and the a/D converter are disposed inside the storage container. That is, since the photodetector and the a/D converter can be disposed at a position closer to each other, the optical signal detected by the photodetector can be quickly converted from an analog signal to a digital signal. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the decrease in optical signal intensity caused by transmitting the optical signal in the analog signal state, to miniaturize the optical detection means, and to improve the S/N ratio of the optical signal detected by the optical detection means.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a perspective view illustrating the overall structure of the brain function measuring device of embodiment 1.

Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating the structure of the brain function measuring device of embodiment 1.

Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the paired light-transmitting probes and light-receiving probes of example 1 and the measurement site of the brain.

Fig. 4 is a sectional view illustrating the structure of the probe unit holder of embodiment 1.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing a state in which a cover member is attached to a main body of the probe unit of example 1.

Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing a state in which a cover member is removed from a main body portion of the probe unit of example 1.

Fig. 7 is a sectional view of the main body portion of the probe unit of embodiment 1 taken along the line A-A of fig. 6.

Fig. 8 is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a holding member of the probe unit of embodiment 1.

Fig. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a holding member and a main body portion of the probe unit of embodiment 1 are combined.

Fig. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view of the photodetection unit of embodiment 1.

Fig. 11 is a plan view of the flexible substrate of example 1.

Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing a state in which the 2 nd portion is raised with respect to the flexible substrate of example 1.

Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing a state in which the 2 nd portion of the flexible substrate of example 1 is bent into a cylindrical shape.

Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing a state in which the photodetection unit of embodiment 1 is assembled.

Fig. 15 is a longitudinal sectional view of the photodetection unit of embodiment 1.

Fig. 16 is a plan view of the flexible substrate of example 2.

Fig. 17 is a perspective view showing a state in which the 2 nd portion is raised with respect to the flexible substrate of example 2.

Fig. 18 is a perspective view showing a state in which the flexible substrate of example 2 is bent at the 2 nd portion in a tubular shape.

Fig. 19 is a longitudinal sectional view of the photodetection unit of embodiment 2.

Fig. 20 is a plan view of the flexible substrate of example 3.

Fig. 21 is a perspective view showing a state in which the flexible substrate of example 2 is deformed into a columnar shape as a whole by bending each connection portion.

Fig. 22 is a longitudinal sectional view of the photodetection unit of embodiment 3.

Fig. 23 is a longitudinal sectional view of a light detection unit of a modification.

Detailed Description

Example 1

Hereinafter, embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

< description of the overall Structure >

As shown in fig. 1, the brain function measuring device 1 of embodiment 1 includes a measuring unit 3 and a main body unit 5. The measuring unit 3 and the main body unit 5 are electrically connected via a cable 6. The measurement unit 3 is mounted on the head of the subject M. In the present embodiment, as the main body unit 5, a portable computer is used.

The measurement unit 3 includes a probe unit 7 and a probe unit holder 8. The probe unit holder 8 holds the probe unit 7. The probe unit holder 8 has a shape to cover the head of the subject M, and is made of a light-shielding material. As an example of the constituent material of the probe unit holder 8, a resin having a helmet shape is given. The probe unit holder 8 is attached to the head of the subject M, whereby the probe unit 7 is held by the head of the subject M.

The positions and the number of the probe units 7 arranged in the probe unit holder 8 are changed according to the portion of the brain of the subject M to be measured. In the present embodiment, as shown in fig. 1, four probe units 7 are held by a probe unit holder 8. The probe unit holder 8 includes a fixing belt, not shown. In a state where the subject M mounts the probe unit holder 8 on the head, the fixing belt is further attached to the head of the subject M, so that the probe unit holder 8 is fixed to the head of the subject M.

As shown in fig. 1 and 2, the main body unit 5 includes a main control unit 9, an operation unit 11, a storage unit 13, and a display unit 15. The main control unit 9 includes an information processing unit such as a central processing unit (CPU: central Processing Unit), for example. The main control unit 9 controls various configurations of the brain function measuring device 1 in a unified manner.

The operation unit 11 is used to input an instruction from an operator related to the operation of the brain function measuring device 1, and the main control unit 9 performs unified control according to the instruction from the operator input operation unit 11. In the present embodiment, a keyboard provided in a computer is used as the operation unit 11. Examples of the operation unit 11 include a touch panel, a mouse, a dial switch, and a push button switch, in addition to a keyboard.

The storage unit 13 stores various programs executed by the main control unit 9 and various information such as various data measured by the measurement unit 3. As an example of the storage unit 13, a nonvolatile memory is given. The display unit 15 displays the measurement conditions of the measurement unit 3 and various information such as various data measured by the measurement unit 3. As an example of the display unit 15, a liquid crystal display and the like are cited.

As shown in fig. 2, the probe unit 7 includes an optical output unit 17, an optical transmission probe 19, an optical reception probe 21, and an optical detection unit 23. In the present embodiment, the probe unit 7 includes two light transmitting probes 19 and two light receiving probes 21. The number of the light transmitting probes 19 and the light receiving probes 21 provided in the probe unit 7 may be appropriately changed.

The light output unit 17 is a light source that generates light, and outputs near infrared light having wavelengths of 780nm, 805nm, and 830nm, for example. Examples of the light output unit 17 include a light emitting diode (LED: light Emitting Diode) and a semiconductor laser. The light output unit 17 is connected to the light transmitting probe 19 by a light transmitting member such as an optical fiber, and the light generated by the light output unit 17 is transmitted to the light transmitting probe 19.

The light transmitting probe 19 has a shape extending in one direction. One end side of the light transmitting probe 19 is connected to the light output unit 17, and the other end side of the light transmitting probe 19 is configured to be able to contact the head epidermis 25 of the subject M. As shown in fig. 3, the light-transmitting probe 19 emits light toward the subject M in a state of being in contact with the head skin 25 of the subject M. The light emitted from the light-transmitting probe 19 is transmitted to the brain region 29 of the subject M via the head epidermis 25 and the skull 27. Examples of the material constituting the light transmitting probe 19 include a light guide having a columnar glass member. Thus, the light output unit 17 and the light transmitting probe 19 constitute a light irradiation unit 20 that irradiates light to the brain of the subject M.

The light receiving probe 21 has the same structure as the light transmitting probe 19. That is, the light receiving probe 21 has a shape extending in one direction, and is constituted by a light guide including a columnar glass member, for example. One end side of the light receiving probe 21 is connected to the light detecting unit 23, and the other end side of the light receiving probe 21 is configured to be able to contact with the head epidermis 25 of the subject M. The light receiving probe 21 is configured to receive light and transmit the received light to the light detecting unit 23.

The diameter of one end of the light receiving probe 21 is larger than the diameter of a through hole 72 described later. The diameter of the other end of the light receiving probe 21 is equal to or smaller than the diameter of the through hole 72. That is, the other end side of the light receiving probe 21 is configured to be capable of penetrating a through hole 72 provided in the storage container 71.

The light detection unit 23 includes a photodetector 31 and an a/D converter 33. The photodetector 31 detects light received by the light receiving probe 21 and amplifies the optical signal. Examples of the photodetector 31 include a photomultiplier tube and a photodiode. The a/D converter 33 converts the optical signal detected and amplified by the photodetector 31 from an analog signal to a digital signal. As will be described later, the a/D converter 33 is mounted on the flexible board 73. The a/D converter 33 corresponds to the a/D converter of the present invention.

The measuring unit 3 further includes a measuring unit control unit 35. The measurement unit control section 35 is constituted by a computer including a processor and a memory. The measurement unit control section 35 controls various configurations in the measurement unit 3, for example, the light output unit 17 and the light detection unit 23. The measurement unit control unit 35 receives control from the main control unit 9, and performs control of various configurations in the measurement unit 3. The measurement unit control section 35 is connected to the light irradiation unit 20 via the cable 18. The measurement unit control unit 35 is connected to the light detection unit 23 via the cable 18.

< measurement operation Using brain function measuring device >)

Here, an operation of measuring the brain function of the subject M using the brain function measuring device 1 will be described. In the case of performing measurement using the brain function measuring device 1, as shown in fig. 3, the light-transmitting probe 19 and the light-receiving probe 21 are brought into contact with the head epidermis 25 of the subject M. Then, the measurement light L in the near infrared region outputted from the light output unit 17 is emitted from the light-transmitting probe 19 to the head epidermis 25.

As shown in fig. 3 and the like, the direction toward the head skin 25 is referred to as the z1 direction and the direction away from the head skin 25 is referred to as the z2 direction with respect to the probe unit 7 held by the probe unit holder 8. Hereinafter, the z1 direction and the z2 direction are collectively referred to as the z direction. In addition, a plane orthogonal to the z direction is taken as an xy plane, and two directions orthogonal to the xy plane are taken as an x direction and a y direction.

The measurement light L emitted to the head epidermis 25 reaches the brain region 29 through the cranium 27, and a part of the measurement light L passes through the brain region 29. The measurement light L emitted from the head epidermis 25 through the brain region 29 is then incident on the light receiving probe 21. At this time, one measuring channel CH having a banana shape is constituted by a region which becomes a path of the measuring light L between one light-sending probe 19 and one light-receiving probe 21.

The measurement light L received by the light receiving probe 21 is sent to the light detecting unit 23. The measurement light L is detected by the photodetector 31 provided in the light detection unit 23. In addition, the photodetector 31 amplifies the detection signal of the measurement light L. The detection signal of the amplified measurement light L is converted into a digital signal by the a/D converter 33. The detection signal subjected to the digital conversion is transmitted to the main body unit 5 via the cable 6. The main control unit 9 calculates measurement data indicating brain activity of the subject M based on the data of the digital signal.

Specifically, when the brain activity of the subject M is reflected and the amount of hemoglobin in the blood in the brain increases at the activated site, the amount of absorption of the measurement light L by hemoglobin increases. Therefore, a change in the amount of hemoglobin with brain activity can be obtained based on the intensity of the obtained measurement light L. Further, in hemoglobin, oxyhemoglobin bonded to oxygen and deoxyhemoglobin not bonded to oxygen have different light absorption characteristics. Therefore, the brain function measuring device 1 performs measurement using the measurement light L of a plurality of wavelengths (wavelengths of 780nm, 805nm, and 830nm, for example) in consideration of the difference in light absorption characteristics.

The main control unit 9 calculates a temporal change in the concentration of oxyhemoglobin and a temporal change in the concentration of deoxyhemoglobin based on the intensities of the measurement light L of the respective wavelengths received by the light receiving probe 21. Based on the time change in the concentration of each hemoglobin obtained by calculating the time change, the change in the blood flow rate and the activation state of oxygen metabolism in the brain of the subject M can be obtained in a non-invasive manner. The main control unit 9 corresponds to a brain function measuring unit according to the present invention.

The measuring unit 3 includes a plurality of light transmitting probes 19 and a plurality of light receiving probes 21. The brain region 29 is measured in a plurality of measurement channels CH using a plurality of light-transmitting probes 19 and a plurality of light-receiving probes 21, so that data representing a two-dimensional distribution regarding the activity status of the brain can be obtained.

As an example, measurement of brain functions is started by an input operation using the operation unit 11. When the operator inputs various instructions concerning measurement using the operation unit 11, the main control unit 9 performs control for starting measurement on the measurement unit control unit 35. When the measurement is started, the light output unit 17 is controlled by the measurement unit control unit 35 so that the measurement light L is sequentially output to the respective light transmitting probes 19 at a predetermined cycle.

The measurement unit control section 35 controls the light detection unit 23 in synchronization with the output of the measurement light L by the light output 17. That is, the measurement unit control section 35 controls the light detection unit 23 so that the light reception probe 21 constituting the measurement channel CH with the light transmission probe 19 that outputs the measurement light L detects the measurement light L. The measurement unit control unit 35 transmits a detection signal of the measurement light L detected by the light detection unit 23 to the main control unit 9.

The main control unit 9 analyzes a change in the amount of hemoglobin according to brain activity based on the detection signal of the measurement light L, and displays the measurement result on the display unit 15. After executing the predetermined task, the operator inputs an instruction to end the measurement of the brain function to the operation unit 11. When the input operation of the measurement completion is performed, the main control unit 9 performs control to complete the measurement with respect to the measurement unit control unit 35, and ends a series of operations related to the brain function measurement by the control.

Structure of holder for probe unit

Here, the structure of the probe unit holder 8 and the structure of connecting the probe unit holder 8 and the probe unit 7 will be described with reference to fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of the probe unit holder 8.

The probe unit 7 includes a main body 39, a holding member 41, and a connecting member 43. The probe unit holder 8 includes a connection member holding portion 47 and an opening portion 49. The main body 39 has a cylindrical structure as a whole, and houses the light output unit 17 and the light detection unit 23 therein. The detailed structure of the main body 39 will be described later. The holding member 41 holds the main body portion 39. The connection member 43 is disposed on the holding member 41 and is a curved plate-like member.

The connection member holding portion 47 is disposed on the back side of the head top of the probe unit holder 8, and holds the connection member 43. That is, the plate-shaped connection member 43 is connected to the holding member 41 at one end side thereof and to the connection member holding portion 47 at the other end side thereof. Thus, the probe unit 7 and the probe unit holder 8 are connected via the connection member 43. The opening 49 is provided near the position of the probe unit holder 8 where each probe unit 7 is arranged, and the connection member 43 penetrates the opening 49.

As shown in fig. 4, the connection member 43 is disposed in a state of being bent to protrude in the direction indicated by reference numeral P1. The direction indicated by reference numeral P1 is a direction from the head surface 25 of the subject M toward the inner peripheral surface of the probe unit holder 8, in other words, corresponds to a direction opposite to the head epidermis 25 of the subject M. In addition, a direction from the inner peripheral surface of the probe unit holder 8 toward the head surface 25 of the subject M is denoted by reference numeral P2. The direction P2 corresponds to the direction opposite to the direction P1.

The connection member 43 is configured to be elastically deformable in the direction P1 and the direction P2. Therefore, when the probe unit 7 is pressed in the direction P1 by the head skin 25 of the subject M when the measuring unit 3 is mounted on the subject M, a pressing force in the direction P2 is applied to the probe unit 7 due to a restoring force caused by elastic deformation. That is, the connection member 43 elastically deforms to generate a pressing force in the direction P2, so that the probe unit 7 is pressed against the head epidermis 25 of the subject M. As a result, the light-transmitting probe 19 and the light-receiving probe 21 can be reliably brought into contact with the head epidermis 25.

Structure of probe unit

The structure of the probe unit 7 will be described in more detail. As shown in fig. 5 and 6, the main body 39 of the probe unit 7 includes a base member 51, a cover member 53, a center shaft 55, a rotation shaft 57, a comb member 59, and a grip 61.

The base member 51 holds the light output 17 and the light detection unit 23. In the present embodiment, a disk-shaped member is used as the base member 51. Further, in the present embodiment, as shown in fig. 6, the base member 51 holds the light outputter 17 and the light detection unit 23 in such a manner that the direction in which the light outputter 17 and the light detection unit 23 extend is the z direction. At this time, the face of the base member 51 is parallel to the xy plane.

The cover member 53 is a tubular member having an opening in the z1 direction, and is provided to cover the light output unit 17 and the light detection unit 23 held by the base member 51 from the outside. A groove 51a is formed in the peripheral edge of the base member 51, and the cover member 53 is configured to fit into the groove 51a on the side having the opening.

The center shaft 55 is vertically disposed in the center of the base member 51. The main body 39 is rotatable about the axis of the center shaft 55. The rotation shaft 57 is disposed on a side surface of the base member 51, and is configured to protrude outward of the base member 51. The rotation shaft 57 is rotatable about an axis 58 of the rotation shaft 57. The base member 51 is configured to rotate about an axis 58 together with the rotation shaft 57. That is, by rotating the rotation shaft 57 about the axis 58, the main body portion 39 can be displaced so as to be inclined with respect to the xy plane.

The comb member 59 is constituted by a plurality of pin-like members. The comb member 59 is disposed so as to protrude from the base member 51 of the main body 39 toward the direction z 1. As shown in fig. 3 and the like, the comb member 59 is configured to be able to pull out the hair 26 of the subject M. The comb member 59 is composed of a material capable of elastic deformation. As an example of the constituent material of the comb member 59, there is mentioned a long and thin rod-shaped resin which can be suitably used for plucking the hair 26.

In measuring brain function, the comb member 59 is moved by rotating the main body 39 around the axis of the center shaft 55 to open the hair 26 of the subject M. By shifting the hair 26 by the comb member 59, the light transmitting probe 19 and the light receiving probe 21 can be reliably brought into contact with the head skin 25 without being obstructed by the hair 26. The top end of comb member 59 has a smooth face with rounded corners. By having a smooth surface with rounded corners, damage to the head skin 25 and the like can be avoided when the comb member 59 dials the hair 26.

The grip portion 61 is formed of two members having a circular arc shape, and the two members are disposed at positions facing each other about the center axis 55. The operator can rotate the body 39 around the axis of the center shaft 55 by gripping the grip 61.

Fig. 7 is a sectional view taken along line A-A of the body portion 39 shown in fig. 6. As shown in fig. 7, the base member 51 has the same number of through holes 51b as the light transmitting probes 19 and the light receiving probes 21. Further, an elastic member 51c is disposed on the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 51b of the base member 51. The light transmitting probe 19 and the light receiving probe 21 are held by the base member 51 by fitting a fitting portion 71b described later into a through hole 51b provided with an elastic member 51c.

The elastic member 51c is elastically deformable in the z direction inside the through hole 51 b. Examples of the constituent material of the elastic member 51c include a spring and the like. Due to the restoring force caused by the elastic deformation of the elastic member 51c, a force in the z direction is applied to the light transmitting probe 19 and the light receiving probe 21, respectively.

As shown in fig. 8, the holding member 41 of the probe unit 7 has an opening 41a. The holding member 41 is configured to hold the main body 39 inside the opening 41a. In the present embodiment, the holding member 41 has a circular ring shape, but the shape of the holding member 41 can be changed as appropriate. As shown in fig. 9, the holding member 41 is configured to be separable into a 1 st member 63 and a 2 nd member 64 in a direction (z-direction in the present embodiment) in which the main body portion 39 penetrates. The holding member 41 is divided into the 1 st member 63 and the 2 nd member 64, whereby the main body 39 is configured to be detachable from the holding member 41. The connection member 43 is connected to the 1 st member 63 in the holding member 41.

A recess 65 is formed in the peripheral edge portions of the 1 st member 63 and the 2 nd member 64. The 1 st member 63 and the 2 nd member 64 are combined, whereby the concave portions 65 provided in the 1 st member 63 and the 2 nd member 64 are combined to form the through hole 66. The through hole 66 is configured to be penetrated by the rotation shaft 57.

That is, the 1 st member 63 and the 2 nd member 64 are configured to hold the rotation shaft 57 with the rotation shaft 57 interposed therebetween in a direction in which the main body portion 39 penetrates. Further, by combining the 1 st member 63 and the 2 nd member 64 with the rotation shaft 57 interposed therebetween, the rotation shaft 57 can be rotated about the axis 58 while the holding member 41 holds the main body portion 39. By rotating the rotation shaft 57, the main body portion 39 can be moved in a direction inclined with respect to the xy plane. The direction in which the main body 39 is tilted by the rotation of the rotation shaft 57 is denoted by reference numeral F in fig. 4.

Structure of light detection unit

The structure of the light detection unit 23 will be described with reference to fig. 10 to 15. The light detection unit 23 includes a storage container 71 and a flexible substrate 73. The storage container 71 is a cylindrical member as a whole, and houses the photodetector 31 and the flexible substrate 73 therein. In the present embodiment, a cylindrical member is used as the storage container 71. Fig. 15 is a longitudinal sectional view of the light detection unit 23, except that the photodetector 31 and the flexible substrate 73 are partially cut away.

The housing 71 has a structure in which a body portion 71a and a fitting portion 71b are coupled. The fitting portion 71b is a cylindrical member having a smaller diameter than the body portion 71 a. The fitting portion 71b is fitted into the through hole 51b of the base member 51, and the lower surface of the body portion 71a abuts against the upper surface of the base member 51, whereby the base member 51 stably holds the storage container 71 provided in the light detection unit 23.

As shown in fig. 10, the photodetector 31 is disposed on the inner bottom surface of the storage container 71, and a flexible substrate 73 is disposed in a soldered state on the photodetector 31. Fig. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view of the light detection unit 23, but for convenience of explanation, the photodetector 31 and the flexible substrate 73 are side views. As described later, the flexible substrate 73 is disposed on the photodetector 31 in a state deformed into a cylindrical shape along the inner surface of the storage container 71.

A through hole 72 is formed in a lower portion of the fitting portion 71 b. The light receiving probe 21 is inserted into the through hole 72, whereby the storage container 71 holds the light receiving probe 21. The light receiving probe 21 is inserted into the through hole 72 provided in the fitting portion 71b so as to be in contact with the photodetector 31. That is, in the light detection unit 23, the light receiving probe 21 is in contact with the photodetector 31, and the photodetector 31 is in contact with the flexible substrate 73.

The structure of the flexible substrate 73 will be described with reference to fig. 11 to 15. Fig. 11 is a plan view of the flexible substrate 73 in an initial state. In the initial state, the flexible substrate 73 is entirely flat. The flexible substrate 73 is made of a flexible material, and each portion of the flexible substrate 73 is configured to be bendable and deformable.

The flexible substrate 73 includes a 1 st portion 75, a 2 nd portion 77, and a connecting portion 79. The 1 st part 75 is a part connected to the photodetector 31, and has a mounting part 75a. The mounting portion 75a is a portion to which the wiring 81 provided in the photodetector 31 is soldered. The photodetector 31 is mounted on the 1 st portion 75 of the flexible substrate 73 by soldering the wiring 81 to the mounting portion 75a. When the flexible substrate 73 is deformed into a cylindrical shape, the 1 st portion 75 is formed as the bottom of the cylindrical flexible substrate 73. The 1 st portion 75 is configured to have a shape and size that can be disposed on the inner bottom surface of the storage container 71. In example 1, the 1 st portion 75 has a disk shape.

The a/D converter 33, the transmission circuit 83, and the connector section 85 are mounted on the surface (circuit mounting surface) of the 2 nd portion 77. When the flexible substrate 73 is deformed into a cylindrical shape, the 2 nd portion 77 is formed as a side peripheral portion of the cylindrical flexible substrate 73. In example 1, the 2 nd portion 77 has a rectangular shape extending in the y direction.

The connection portion 79 connects the 1 st portion 75 and the 2 nd portion 77. In embodiment 1, the connection portion 79 has a rectangular shape extending in the x-direction. The shapes of the 1 st portion 75, the 2 nd portion 77, and the connecting portion 79 may be changed as appropriate according to the shape of the inner surface of the storage container 71. The 2 nd portion 77 is appropriately equipped with a signal processing circuit for processing the detection signal of the measurement light L and a wiring 82 for connecting the respective circuits, in addition to the a/D converter 33, the transmission circuit 83, and the connector unit 85. As an example of the signal processing circuit, an amplifying circuit that amplifies the detection signal of the measurement light L, and the like can be cited.

The transmission circuit 83 is a circuit for transmitting data of the detection signal of the measurement light L digitally converted by the a/D converter 33. In embodiment 1, as the transmission circuit 83, a serial peripheral interface (SPI: serial Peripheral Interphase) that performs serial communication is used. The connector section 85 is a device for connecting the measurement unit control section 35 and the flexible substrate 73 by the cable 18. The detection signal of the measurement light L detected by the photodetector 31 is quickly converted into a digital signal by the a/D converter 33 after being sent to the flexible substrate 73. The digital-converted detection signal is transmitted to the main body unit 5 via the transmission circuit 83, the connector section 85, and the cable 6.

< procedure of accommodating Flexible substrate >)

A process of deforming the flexible substrate 73 and accommodating the flexible substrate 73 in the accommodating container 71 will be described with reference to fig. 12 to 15. First, the 2 nd portion 77 is set in an upright state by bending the connection portion 79 with respect to the flat flexible substrate 73 shown in fig. 11. Fig. 12 shows the flexible board 73 with the 2 nd portion 77 in an upright state.

After the 2 nd portion 77 is set in the raised state, the 2 nd portion 77 is deformed so that both wing portions (both end portions in the longitudinal direction) of the 2 nd portion 77 are bent inward. By bending the two wing portions of the 2 nd portion 77, the 2 nd portion 77 is deformed into a cylindrical shape as shown in fig. 13. By deforming the 2 nd portion 77 into a tubular shape, the flexible substrate 73 is deformed into a tubular body having the opening 76 with the 1 st portion 75 as a bottom surface and the 2 nd portion 77 as a side surface.

The circuit mounting surface of the 2 nd portion 77 deformed into a cylindrical shape on which the a/D converter 33 and the like are mounted is configured to be an inner peripheral surface of a cylindrical body formed by the 2 nd portion 77. Thus, the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical body formed by the 2 nd portion 77 is a flat surface on which no circuit is mounted. The flexible substrate 73 deformed into a cylindrical body has an opening 76 on the z2 direction side. Accordingly, the cable 18 can be connected to the connector portion 85 from the outside of the flexible substrate 73 through the opening 76.

After the flexible substrate 73 is deformed into a cylindrical body, as shown in fig. 14, the light receiving probe 21, the photodetector 31, the flexible substrate 73, and the storage container 71 are combined to form the light detection unit 23. First, the other end side of the light receiving probe 21 is inserted into a through hole 72 provided in a fitting portion 71b of the storage container 71 from above the storage container 71. Since the diameter of the one end side of the light receiving probe 21 is larger than the diameter of the through hole 72, as shown in fig. 10, the condition that the one end side of the light receiving probe 21 passes through the through hole 72 and the light receiving probe 21 is detached from the storage container 71 can be avoided. Therefore, the light receiving probe 21 is stably held by the storage container 71.

After the light receiving probe 21 and the storage container 71 are combined, the photodetector 31 is mounted on the inner bottom surface of the storage container 71 extending in the z direction. The photodetector 31 mounted thereon is connected to one end side of the light receiving probe 21 protruding upward from the through hole 72. After the photodetector 31 is mounted on the inner bottom surface of the storage container 71 extending in the z direction, the flexible substrate 73 deformed into a cylindrical body is stored in the storage container 71 from the z direction. At this time, the wiring 81 of the photodetector 31 and the mounting portion 75a of the 1 st portion 75 are soldered to each other, whereby the photodetector 31 and the flexible substrate 73 are connected to each other.

As a material of the flexible substrate 73, a material having an elastic force is used, so that when the flexible substrate 73 in a flat plate shape in an initial state is deformed into a cylindrical body, a restoring force G for restoring the flat plate shape acts on the 2 nd portion 77 which is bent and deformed into a cylindrical shape. That is, in a state where the flexible substrate 73 deformed into a cylindrical body is housed in the housing container 71, a restoring force G acts on the inner surface of the housing container 71 from the flexible substrate 73. The restoring force G acts in a direction of pressing the inner surface of the storage container 71 outward. Therefore, the restoring force G acts, so that the flexible board 73 can be stably held in the storage container 71 without using a fastener such as a screw for the flexible board 73.

The light detection unit 23 of embodiment 1 has a structure in which a photodetector 31 and a flexible board 73 are housed in a housing container 71, the photodetector 31 detects the measurement light L and transmits a detection signal, and the flexible board 73 has an a/D converter 33 that converts the detection signal of the measurement light L from an analog signal to a digital signal. Therefore, in the light detection unit 23, the photodetector 31 and the a/D converter 33 are in a state of close proximity, and therefore, the detection signal of the measurement light L received by the light receiving probe 21 can be rapidly digital-converted. That is, the distance from which the measurement light L is transmitted before the digital conversion can be significantly shortened, and therefore, the decrease in the measurement light L caused by transmitting the measurement light L in the state of an analog signal can be avoided. As a result, the S/N ratio of the signal detected by the light detection unit 23 can be improved.

In addition, in the brain function measuring device, a small and lightweight measuring unit to be attached to the head of the subject M is desired. Therefore, in the brain function measuring device 1 of the present invention, the flexible substrate 73 is deformed into a cylindrical body, so that the area occupied by the flexible substrate 73, which is flat in the initial state, can be significantly reduced. That is, since the size of the light detection unit 23 can be kept small and the flexible substrate 73 including the a/D converter 33 is housed inside the light detection unit 23, both the improvement of the S/N ratio at the light detection unit 23 and the miniaturization of the light detection unit 23 can be achieved.

The storage container 71 is a tube shape extending in the z direction, and stores the photodetector 31 and the flexible substrate 73 in a state where the photodetector 31 and the flexible substrate 73 deformed into a tube shape extending in the z direction are connected in the z direction. According to such a configuration, the entire light detection unit 23 has a shape extending in the z direction, and therefore, the area occupied by the flexible substrate 73 and the light detection unit 23 in the xy plane can be reduced. In other words, since the area occupied by the light detection unit 23 in the face of the head epidermis 25 of the subject M can be reduced, the number of measurement channels CH of the brain function measuring apparatus 1 that measure the brain function of the subject M can be further increased.

In the brain function measuring device 1 of embodiment 1, the flexible board 73 on which the a/D converter 33 is mounted is deformed to be small and stored in the storage container 71 of the light detection unit 23. Therefore, in the brain function measuring device 1, the photodetector 31 and the a/D converter 33 can be disposed not on the main body unit 5 side but on the measuring unit 3 side attached to the head of the subject M.

That is, in the brain function measuring device 1, a series of signal processing such as detection of the measurement light L, amplification of the light detection signal, and digital conversion of the light detection signal can be performed on the measuring unit 3 side. Thus, unlike the conventional device that performs digital conversion of the light detection signal on the main body unit side, the brain function measuring device 1 of embodiment 1 does not need to connect the measuring unit 3 and the main body unit 5 by an optical fiber. That is, since a normal cable for transmitting an electric signal can be used as the cable 6, an increase in cost and a decrease in durability of the signal transmitting member due to a large amount of optical fibers can be avoided.

[ example 2 ]

Next, embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described with reference to fig. 16 to 19. In embodiment 2, the structure of the flexible substrate 73 is different from that of embodiment 1. Accordingly, the flexible substrate 73 of embodiment 2 is denoted by reference numeral 73A and is distinguished from the flexible substrate 73 of embodiment 1. On the other hand, the same reference numerals are given to the structures common to embodiment 1, and the description thereof is omitted. Fig. 19 is a partially cut-away sectional view of the photodetector 31 and the flexible substrate 73A, similar to fig. 15.

Fig. 16 is a plan view of a flexible substrate 73A of example 2. In the initial state, the flexible substrate 73A has a cross-shaped flat plate shape as a whole. The flexible substrate 73A includes a 3 rd portion 91 and a connecting portion 93 in addition to the 1 st portion 75, the 2 nd portion 77, and the connecting portion 79. The 1 st part 75 has a mounting part 75a connected to the photodetector 31. The 2 nd portion 77 has a rectangular shape extending in the y direction, and includes the a/D converter 33 and the transmission circuit 83 on the upper surface side. The 3 rd part 91 has a rectangular shape, and includes a connector portion 85 on the lower surface side. The connection portion 93 connects the 2 nd portion 77 and the 3 rd portion 91.

A process of deforming the flexible substrate 73A and housing the flexible substrate 73A in the housing container 71 in example 2 will be described. First, as shown in fig. 16, the 2 nd portion 77 is set in an upright state by bending the connection portion 79 with respect to the flat plate-like flexible substrate 73A. Then, the 3 rd portion 91 is set in a raised state in which it protrudes closer to the center of the 1 st portion 75 than the 2 nd portion 77 is by bending the connecting portion 93. Fig. 17 shows the flexible substrate 73A with the 2 nd portion 77 and the 3 rd portion 91 standing up.

After the 2 nd and 3 rd portions 77 and 91 are set in the raised state, the 2 nd portion 77 is deformed so that both wing portions of the 2 nd portion 77 are bent inward as in example 1. By bending the two wing portions of the 2 nd portion 77, the 2 nd portion 77 is deformed into a cylindrical shape as shown in fig. 18. By deforming the 2 nd portion 77 into a tubular shape, the flexible substrate 73A is deformed into a tubular body having the opening 76 with the 1 st portion 75 as a bottom surface and the 2 nd portion 77 as a side surface. In this tubular body, the 3 rd part 91 is disposed above the 2 nd part 77 deformed into a tubular shape. Further, the 3 rd portion 91 is formed in a shape protruding from the side peripheral portion of the flexible substrate 73A toward the central portion by bending the connection portion 93.

After the flexible substrate 73A is deformed into a cylindrical body, the light receiving probe 21, the photodetector 31, the flexible substrate 73A, and the storage container 71 are combined to form the light detection unit 23 shown in fig. 19. The procedure of the combination is the same as in example 1, and a detailed description thereof is omitted. As described above, the structure of the flexible substrate 73A shown in fig. 16 is also similar to that of example 1, and the flexible substrate 73A deformed from the flat initial state into a cylindrical body can be accommodated in the accommodation container 71.

[ example 3 ]

Next, embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described with reference to fig. 20 to 22. The flexible substrate of example 3 is denoted by reference numeral 73B and is distinguished from the flexible substrate 73 of example 1 and the like. Fig. 20 is a plan view of a flexible substrate 73B of example 3. In the initial state, the flexible substrate 73B has a flat plate shape extending in one direction as a whole. Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the light detection unit 23, except that the photodetector 31 is a partially cut-away cross-sectional view.

The flexible substrate 73B of example 3 includes the 1 st portion 75, the 2 nd portion 77, the 3 rd portion 103, the 4 th portion 105, the connection portion 79, the connection portion 109, and the connection portion 111. The 1 st part 75 has a mounting part 75a connected to the photodetector 31. The 2 nd portion 77 includes the a/D converter 33 on the upper surface side. The 3 rd part 103 includes a transmission circuit 83 on the upper surface side.

In example 3, each of the 1 st portion 75, the 2 nd portion 77, and the 3 rd portion 103 has a disk shape. The 4 th portion 105 has a rectangular shape, and includes the connector portion 85 on the upper surface side. The connection portion 79 connects the 1 st portion 75 and the 2 nd portion 77. The connection portion 109 connects the 2 nd portion 77 and the 3 rd portion 103. The connection portion 111 connects the 3 rd portion 103 and the 4 th portion 105.

The 2 nd portion 77 and the 3 rd portion 103 are configured to have the same shape and size as the inner bottom surface of the storage container 71, similarly to the 1 st portion 75. By configuring the shape and the size similar to those of the inner bottom surface of the storage container 71, when the flexible substrate 73B is deformed into a columnar shape and stored in the storage container 71, a gap generated between the flexible substrate 73B and the storage container 71 can be reduced. This can hold the flexible board 73B in the storage container 71 more stably.

A process of deforming the flexible substrate 73B and housing the flexible substrate 73B in the housing container 71 in example 3 will be described. First, as for the flat flexible substrate 73B shown in fig. 20, the flexible substrate 73B is deformed by bending the connection portion 79 so that the 1 st portion 75 and the 2 nd portion 77 overlap in the z direction. Then, the flexible substrate 73B is deformed by bending the connection portion 109 so that the 2 nd portion 77 and the 3 rd portion 103 overlap in the z direction. Finally, the 4 th portion 105 is raised above the center portion of the 3 rd portion 103 by bending the connecting portion 111.

The flexible substrate 73B is deformed so that the 1 st portion 75, the 2 nd portion 77, and the 3 rd portion 103 overlap in the z direction, and the flexible substrate 73B as a whole is deformed into a columnar shape extending in the z direction. The structure of the flexible substrate 73B deformed into a columnar shape by bending the connection portions 79 to 111 is as shown in fig. 21. In example 3, the disk-shaped 1 st portion 75, 2 nd portion 77, and 3 rd portion 103 are overlapped in the z-direction, whereby the flexible substrate 73B is folded and deformed into a columnar shape as a whole.

After the flexible substrate 73B was deformed into a columnar body, the light receiving probe 21, the photodetector 31, the flexible substrate 73B, and the storage container 71 were combined as in example 1, to form the light detection unit 23 shown in fig. 22. As described above, the flexible board 73B shown in fig. 20 can be deformed from the flat initial state into a columnar body, and the flexible board 73B deformed into a compact shape can be accommodated in the accommodating container 71. In example 3, the three connection portions 79, 109, and 111 are bent, and the number of portions to be bent and deformed is increased, so that the flexible substrate 73B can be deformed into a shape that is less compressed.

Effect of the structure of the embodiment

(1 st) the photodetection means 23 of the present embodiment includes: a photodetector 31 for detecting light; a storage container 71 having a tubular shape and storing the photodetector 31; and a flexible board 73 on which a signal processing circuit including an a/D converter 33 is mounted, the a/D converter 33 converting the optical signal detected by the photodetector 31 from an analog signal to a digital signal, the flexible board 73 being disposed in the storage container 71 in a state of being bent and deformed.

The light detection unit 23 according to claim 1, wherein the signal processing circuit including the a/D converter 33 is mounted on the flexible substrate 73, the flexible substrate 73 can be deformed to be smaller in shape by bending. Further, by disposing the flexible substrate 73 in the inside of the storage container 71 in a state of being bent and deformed, both the photodetector 31 and the a/D converter 33 are disposed inside the storage container 71. That is, since the photodetector 31 and the a/D converter 33 can be disposed at a position closer to each other, the optical signal detected by the photodetector 31 can be quickly converted from an analog signal to a digital signal. Accordingly, the reduction in optical signal intensity caused by transmitting the optical signal in the analog signal state can be avoided, and the S/N ratio of the optical signal can be improved while miniaturizing the optical detection unit 23.

(2 nd) in the photodetecting unit 23 according to 1 st, the flexible substrate 73 includes: a 1 st part 75 connected to the photodetector 31; a 2 nd part 77 on which a signal processing circuit including the a/D converter 33 is mounted; and a connection portion 79 that connects the 1 st portion 75 and the 2 nd portion 77, bends the connection portion 79 so that the 1 st portion 75 and the 2 nd portion 77 are orthogonal, and bends and deforms the 2 nd portion 77, thereby deforming the flexible substrate 73 into a tubular shape along the inner surface of the storage container 71.

According to the light detection unit 23 described in claim 2, the connection portion 79 that connects the 1 st portion 75 and the 2 nd portion 77 that constitute the flexible substrate 73 is bent, and the 2 nd portion 77 is bent and deformed, so that the flexible substrate 73 can be deformed into a tubular shape along the inner surface of the storage container 71. Therefore, the flat flexible substrate 73 can be deformed into a smaller cylindrical shape. Further, according to such a configuration, the pressing force G acts on the inner surface of the storage container 71 from the flexible substrate 73 due to the restoring force of the 2 nd portion 77 attempting to return to the original shape. The flexible board 73 is held inside the storage container 71 by the pressing force G, and therefore, the flexible board 73 can be stably held inside the storage container 71 without using a fixing member such as a screw.

(3) in the photodetecting unit 23 according to 1, the flexible substrate 73B includes: a 1 st part 75 connected to the photodetector 31; a 2 nd part 77 on which a signal processing circuit including the a/D converter 33 is mounted; and a connection portion 79 that connects the 1 st portion 75 and the 2 nd portion 77, and bends the connection portion so that the 1 st portion 75 and the 2 nd portion 77 overlap, thereby deforming the flexible substrate 73B into a folded state inside the storage container 71.

According to the light detection unit 23 described in claim 3, the connection portion 79 that connects the 1 st portion 75 and the 2 nd portion 77 that constitute the flexible substrate 73B is bent, and the 1 st portion 75 and the 2 nd portion 77 are overlapped, so that the flexible substrate 73B can be deformed into a folded state inside the storage container 71. Therefore, the flat flexible board 73B can be deformed into a smaller shape. Accordingly, the volume occupied by the flexible substrate 73B can be further reduced, and therefore, the light detection unit 23 can be further miniaturized.

(item 4) the brain function measuring device 1 according to the present embodiment includes: a measuring unit 3 having the light detecting unit 23 of any one of items 1 to 3 and the light irradiation unit 20 that irradiates the brain of the subject M with the measurement light L, the measuring unit 3 being mounted on the head of the subject M; and a main body unit 5 electrically connected to the measurement unit 3, and having a main control section 9, the main control section 9 obtaining measurement data related to brain activity of the subject M based on the optical signal digitally converted by the a/D converter 33.

According to the brain function measuring device 1 described in claim 4, the substrate on which the a/D converter is mounted is made flexible, so that the substrate can be bent and deformed so as to be disposed inside the storage container provided in the light detection unit. Therefore, since the light detection unit can be miniaturized, the light detection unit can be disposed not on the main body unit side but on the measurement unit side attached to the head of the subject.

According to such a configuration, the measurement light L irradiated from the light irradiation unit 20 and transmitted through the brain of the subject M is detected by the photodetector 31 provided in the photodetector 23, and then is quickly converted into a digital signal by the a/D converter 33. Accordingly, the decrease in optical signal intensity caused by transmitting the optical signal in the analog signal state can be avoided, and thus the S/N ratio of the optical signal can be improved. As a result, the accuracy of the brain function measurement data can be further improved.

< other embodiments >

The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the invention encompasses the claims and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims. As an example, the present invention can be modified as follows.

(1) In the above-described embodiment, as the main body unit 5, a portable computer is used, but is not limited thereto. Other examples of the main body unit 5 include a desk computer, a cart incorporating a computer, and the like.

(2) In the above-described embodiment or modification, the configuration in which the measuring unit 3 and the main body unit 5 are connected by the cable 6 and the brain function measurement data is transmitted from the measuring unit 3 to the main body unit 5 via the cable 6 has been described as an example. However, in the brain function measuring device 1, the structure for connecting the measuring unit 3 and the main body unit 5 is not limited to the wired type, and the measuring unit 3 and the main body unit 5 may be connected wirelessly.

In the embodiment of the present invention, the detection signal of the measurement light L is rapidly digital-converted in the light detection unit 23 disposed on the measurement unit 3 side, and therefore, the digital-converted detection signal of the measurement light L can be wirelessly transmitted to the main body unit 5. By connecting the measurement unit 3 and the main body unit 5 in a wireless manner, the movable range of the subject M can be widened when the measurement of the brain function is performed, and therefore, the activity status of the brain function can be measured in a more various situations such as when the subject moves or moves over a long distance.

(3) In example 3 described above, when the flexible substrate 73 is deformed into a columnar shape, the 1 st part 75, the 2 nd part 77, and the 3 rd part 103 are overlapped so as to be parallel to each other, but the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, as shown in fig. 23, the 1 st portion 75 may be arranged parallel to the inner bottom surface (xy plane in this case) of the storage container 71, and the connection portions 79 and 109 may be bent so that the 2 nd portion 77 and the 3 rd portion 103 are inclined with respect to the inner bottom surface of the storage container 71. The 2 nd and 3 rd portions 77 and 103 are not limited to the same size as the 1 st portion 75, and the 2 nd and 3 rd portions 77 and 103 may be smaller than the 1 st portion 75. The 2 nd portion 77 and the 3 rd portion 103 may have different shapes from the 1 st portion 75.

Description of the reference numerals

1. A brain function measuring device; 3. a measuring unit; 5. a main body unit; 6. a cable; 7. a probe unit; 8. a probe unit holder; 9. a main control unit; 11. an operation unit; 13. a storage unit; 15. a display unit; 17. a light output section; 19. a light transmitting probe; 20. a light irradiation unit; 21. a light receiving probe; 23. a light detection unit; 25. a head epidermis; 29. brain region; 31. a photodetector; 39. a main body portion; 41. a holding member; 43. a connecting member; 51. a base member; 53. a cover member; 57. a rotating shaft; 59. a comb member; 71. a storage container; 73. a flexible substrate; 75. part 1; 77. a 2 nd part; 79. a connection portion; 83. a transmission circuit; 85. a connector portion.

Claims (4)

1. A light detection unit, wherein,

the light detection unit includes:

a photodetector for detecting light;

a storage container having a cylindrical shape and storing the photodetector; and

a flexible substrate on which a signal processing circuit including an A/D converter for converting an optical signal detected by the photodetector from an analog signal to a digital signal is mounted,

the flexible substrate is disposed in the storage container in a state of being bent and deformed.

2. The light detection unit of claim 1, wherein,

the flexible substrate is provided with:

a 1 st part connected to the photodetector;

a 2 nd part on which a signal processing circuit including the a/D converter is mounted; and

a connecting portion connecting the 1 st portion and the 2 nd portion,

the flexible substrate is deformed into a tubular shape along an inner surface of the storage container by bending the connection portion so that the 1 st portion and the 2 nd portion are orthogonal and bending and deforming the 2 nd portion.

3. The light detection unit of claim 1, wherein,

the flexible substrate is provided with:

a 1 st part connected to the photodetector;

a 2 nd part on which a signal processing circuit including the a/D converter is mounted; and

a connecting portion connecting the 1 st portion and the 2 nd portion,

the connection portion is bent so that the 1 st portion and the 2 nd portion overlap each other, and the flexible substrate is deformed into a folded state inside the storage container.

4. A brain function measuring device, wherein,

the brain function measuring device is provided with:

a measurement unit having the light detection unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and a light irradiation unit that irradiates light to the brain of a subject, the measurement unit being mounted to the head of the subject; and

And a main body unit electrically connected to the measurement unit and having a brain function measurement section that obtains measurement data related to brain activity of the subject based on the optical signal digitally converted by the a/D converter.