EP3169241A1

EP3169241A1 - Equipment comprising an acoustic measurement device comprising means for linking a sensor to a rigid structure

Info

Publication number: EP3169241A1
Application number: EP15738640.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Franck Baudino
Original assignee: H4D
Current assignee: H4D
Priority date: 2014-07-18
Filing date: 2015-07-16
Publication date: 2017-05-24
Also published as: FR3023700A1; CN107072631B; WO2016008996A1; US20170202535A1; CN107072631A; US10716531B2; FR3023700B1

Abstract

The invention relates essentially to an item of equipment (100) intended to be positioned against the body of an individual, said item of equipment comprising an acoustic measurement device (105) comprising at least one acoustic sensor (110) for measuring acoustic signals emitted by the body of the individual, in which said measurement device (105) comprises: a rigid structure (120) fixed with respect to the item of equipment, and means (450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950) for linking the acoustic sensor (110) to the rigid structure (120), the linking means (450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950) and the acoustic sensor (110) being moveable with respect to the rigid structure (120), the linking means (450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950) defining predetermined degrees of freedom of the movement of the acoustic sensor (110).

Description

EQUIPMENT COMPRISING AN ACOUSTIC MEASURING DEVICE HAVING BINDING MEANS OF ONE

SENSOR HAS A RIGID STRUCTURE Background of the Invention

The present invention relates to the field of acoustic measurement. More specifically, the present invention relates to the field of equipment comprising an acoustic measuring device, these equipment being intended to be positioned against the body of an individual.

In known manner, medical equipment may include an acoustic measuring device comprising a plurality of acoustic sensors.

Document US 2008/0139893 discloses a jacket comprising a measuring device having a plurality of acoustic sensors. The acoustic sensors are positioned in line, on one side of the jacket, and are for example interposed between two layers of flexible material of the jacket. The acoustic sensors can also be positioned on rigid elements assembled to each other in a mobile manner. Thus, when a user puts the jacket, the acoustic sensors can be positioned against the body of the user by pleating the latter.

However, these sensors do not make it possible to perform optimal acoustic measurements.

One of the objectives of the invention is to solve such a problem. Object and summary of the invention

For this purpose, the present invention relates to equipment intended to be positioned against the body of an individual, said equipment comprising an acoustic measuring device comprising at least one acoustic sensor for measuring acoustic signals emitted by the body of the individual, wherein said measuring device further comprises:

a fixed rigid structure with respect to the equipment, and

- Acoustic sensor connecting means to the rigid structure, the connecting means and the acoustic sensor being movable relative to the rigid structure, the connecting means defining predetermined degrees of freedom of movement of the acoustic sensor.

The invention is advantageous in that the movement of the acoustic sensors is controlled according to predetermined degrees of freedom defined by the connecting means. Indeed, unlike the flexible material or the rigid elements of the jacket of the prior art that do not allow to control the movement of acoustic sensors, the combination of the rigid structure and the movable connecting means allows to direct with precision the acoustic sensor against the body of the user. This combination thus allows a high accuracy of movement of the acoustic sensor.

In a particular embodiment, the rigid structure comprises an orifice traversed by an element connected to the acoustic sensor, so that the acoustic sensor is positioned outside the rigid structure.

This arrangement allows to accurately guide the acoustic sensor against the body of the user, while being solid.

In a particular embodiment, the element connected to the acoustic sensor is a transmission cable.

In a particular embodiment, the element connected to the acoustic sensor is a rod.

In a particular embodiment, the movement of the acoustic sensor is limited for at least one predetermined degree of freedom by the surface of the rigid structure.

In a particular embodiment, the movement of the acoustic sensor is limited in rotation at a predetermined angle with respect to the surface of the rigid structure and / or in translation according to a predetermined linear displacement towards the rigid structure.

In a particular embodiment, the connecting means allow the acoustic sensor to exert pressure on the body of the individual when the equipment is positioned against the body of the individual.

This pressure ensures, in normal use situations of the equipment, a constant contact between the acoustic sensor and the body of the individual.

In a particular embodiment, the connection means comprise:

a ball support fixed to the rigid structure,

a ball joint connected to the acoustic sensor and positioned inside the ball support.

Thus, the acoustic sensor can rotate relative to the rigid structure according to the three degrees of freedom of rotation, this rotation being limited, for two degrees of freedom of rotation, by the surface of the rigid structure.

In a particular embodiment, the connection means comprise:

- A spring having a first end positioned against the rigid structure and a second end attached to the acoustic sensor.

Thus, the acoustic sensor can translate relative to the rigid structure along an axis perpendicular to the surface of the acoustic sensor, this translation being limited by the surface of the rigid structure.

In a particular embodiment, the connection means comprise:

a spring having a first end and a second end,

a patella support, and a ball joint positioned inside the ball support.

In a particular embodiment,

the ball is attached to the acoustic sensor,

- The first end of the spring is fixed to the rigid structure, and - the second end of the spring is fixed to the ball joint.

Thus, the acoustic sensor can rotate relative to the rigid structure according to the three degrees of freedom of rotation, this rotation being limited for two degrees of freedom of rotation by the rigid structure, and / or a translation with respect to the structure rigid along an axis perpendicular to the surface of the acoustic sensor, this translation being limited by the surface of the rigid structure.

In a particular embodiment,

the ball has an orifice through which is connected to the acoustic sensor,

the ball support is fixed to the rigid structure,

the first end of the spring is fixed to the rigid structure, and

- The second end of the spring is attached to the element connected to the acoustic sensor.

In a particular embodiment,

the acoustic sensor is connected to a transmission cable,

the rigid structure comprises an orifice through which the transmission cable passes,

the ball joint comprises an orifice through which the transmission cable passes,

the ball support is fixed to the rigid structure,

the first end of the spring is fixed to the rigid structure, and

- The second end of the spring is fixed to the transmission cable. Thus, the acoustic sensor can rotate relative to the rigid structure according to the three degrees of freedom of rotation, this rotation being limited for two degrees of freedom of rotation by the rigid structure, and / or a translation with respect to the rigid structure along an axis perpendicular to the surface of the acoustic sensor, this translation being limited by the surface of the rigid structure.

In a particular embodiment, the connecting means comprise a bellows positioned between the acoustic sensor and the rigid structure.

In a particular embodiment, the connection means comprise:

a spring comprising a first end connected to the acoustic sensor and a second end connected to the rigid structure, and

a flexible protective membrane extending between the acoustic sensor and the rigid structure.

In a particular embodiment, the equipment further comprises isolation means positioned around the acoustic sensor.

These isolation means make it possible to ensure the isolation of the measurement zone of the acoustic sensor vis-à-vis the external environment, and thus allow to ensure a measurement integrating at least the external disturbances.

In a particular embodiment, the acoustic sensor is a stethoscope horn.

In a particular embodiment, the equipment takes the form of a seat, a belt or a jacket.

In a particular embodiment, the equipment takes the form of a seat cover or a harness.

The invention also relates to a health booth comprising equipment as defined above.

Brief description of the drawings

Other features and advantages of the present invention will emerge from the description given below, with reference to the accompanying drawings which illustrate an embodiment having no limiting character. In the figures:

- Figures 1 to 3 and 10 to 14 schematically represent an equipment according to embodiments of the invention;

- Figures 4 to 9 show, schematically, variants of connecting means of an equipment according to the embodiments of the invention.

Detailed description of several embodiments

Figures 1 to 3 and 10 to 14 show, schematically, a device 100, 200, 300, 1000, 1100 to be positioned against the body of an individual. This equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000, 1100 comprises an acoustic measuring device 105 comprising at least one acoustic sensor 110 for measuring acoustic signals emitted by the body of the individual. In addition, the acoustic measuring device 105 comprises a rigid structure 120 fixed with respect to the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000, 1100. The acoustic measuring device 105 further comprises connecting means 450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950 of the acoustic sensor 110 to the rigid structure 120.

The connection means 450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950 and the acoustic sensor 110 are movable relative to the rigid structure 120. In addition, the connection means 450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950 define predetermined degrees of freedom of movement of acoustic sensor 110.

The movement of the acoustic sensor 110 is limited for at least a predetermined degree of freedom by the surface of the rigid structure 120. More specifically, the movement of the acoustic sensor 110 is limited in rotation at a predetermined angle with respect to the surface of the structure rigid 120 and / or in translation according to a predetermined linear displacement towards the rigid structure 120.

As shown in the figures, the acoustic sensor 110 is positioned outside the rigid structure 120. The movement of the acoustic sensor 110 is therefore limited, for at least one degree of freedom, by the external surface of the rigid structure 120. external, we mean "turned outwards".

The acoustic sensor 110 may be connected to signal processing means 107 via a transmission cable 140. In one example, the acoustic sensor 110 is a stethoscope horn. In addition, in one example, the rigid structure 120 is covered with an extensible and elastic textile fabric.

As shown in Figures 4 to 9, the rigid structure 120 may comprise an orifice 422 through which the transmission cable 140 passes, so that the acoustic sensor 110 is positioned outside the rigid structure 120. This arrangement of the acoustic sensor 110 with respect to the rigid structure 120 allows the acoustic sensor 120 to be accurately oriented against the body of the user while being solid.

Alternatively, the acoustic sensor 110 is a wireless sensor, and communicates with the signal processing means 107 via a wireless communication interface. The acoustic sensor 110 can then be connected to a rod, this rod passing through an orifice 422.

In one example, the outer surface of the rigid structure 120 is flat between two orifices 422.

In one example, insulation means 170 extend over the outer wall of the acoustic sensor 110. These isolation means 170 make it possible to insure the measurement zone from the outside environment. , and thus make it possible to ensure a measurement integrating at least the external disturbances.

More specifically, Figure 1 shows schematically and according to a first embodiment, a device 100 in the form of a seat. In this first embodiment, the acoustic measuring device 105 may comprise six acoustic sensors 110. In a variant, the acoustic measuring device 105 comprises a different number of acoustic sensor 110.

The seat 100 comprises a backrest 102 in which is positioned the rigid structure 120 of the acoustic measuring device 105. The acoustic sensors 110 are disposed on the surface of a portion of the backrest 102 that can be in contact with the back of a user. Thus, when a user sits on the seat 100 and leans on the backrest 102, the back of this user puts pressure on the acoustic sensors 110.

Alternatively, the acoustic measuring device 105 comprises a cushion positioned against the backrest 102, the acoustic measuring device 105 being positioned in the cushion. Acoustic sensors 110 are then disposed on the surface of a portion of the cushion that can be in contact with the back of a user.

In another variant shown in FIG. 10, the equipment takes the form of a seat cover 1000 that can be fastened to a seat 1010, by fastening means 1020. In one example, the fastening means 1020 take the form of a one or more self-gripping strips. In addition, the outer structure of the seat cover 1000 may be a sheet, a fabric, leather or a semi-rigid shell. The acoustic sensors 110 may be connected to the signal processing means 107 via their respective transmission cables 140 and a connection cable 1030 of the USB or Jack type.

In addition, Figure 2 shows schematically and according to a second embodiment, a device 200 in the form of a belt. In this second embodiment, the acoustic measuring device 105 may comprise six acoustic sensors 110. In a variant, the acoustic measuring device 105 comprises a different number of acoustic sensor 110.

The acoustic sensors 110 are disposed on the surface of a portion of the belt facing the user during the use of the belt, this part may thus be in contact with the back or chest of a user. Thus, when this belt is positioned around the user, the back or chest of the user exerts pressure on the acoustic sensors 110.

In one example, the material of the external structure of the belt 200 is of neoprene type.

In an example illustrated in FIG. 14, the belt 200 is a backbone comprising fastening means 1400 that can be one or more self-gripping strips.

In addition, FIG. 3 schematically shows, according to a third embodiment, a device 300 taking the form of a jacket. In this third embodiment, the acoustic measuring device 105 may comprise twelve acoustic sensors 110. Six acoustic sensors 110 may be placed on the surface of the rear internal part of the jacket, this part being able to be in contact with the back of the jacket. 'user. In addition, the other six acoustic sensors may be disposed on the surface of the front inner portion of the jacket, this portion may be in contact with the chest of the user. Alternatively, the acoustic measuring device 105 comprises a different number of acoustic sensor 110. In a variant, the acoustic sensors 110 are arranged on the surface of the rear internal part of the jacket. In a variant the acoustic sensors 110 are arranged on the surface of the front inner part of the jacket.

When the jacket is positioned around the user, the back and / or chest of the user exerts pressure on the acoustic sensors 110.

In an example shown in Figure 13, the jacket 300 comprises a closure 1300, which can be at least a self-gripping strip.

FIGS. 11 and 12 show schematically and according to a fourth embodiment, a device 110 taking the form of a harness comprising straps 1100. As shown in FIG. 11, in this fourth embodiment, the device of FIG. acoustic measurement 105 may comprise six acoustic sensors 110, positioned at the rear of the harness so as to be in contact with the back of the user.

The acoustic sensors 110 may be connected to the signal processing means 107 via their respective transmission cables 140 and a connection cable 1120 of the USB or Jack type.

In addition, in one example, the harness 1100 comprises a closure 1130, which may take the form of a female loop on which are embedded a plurality of male buckles, or at least one female buckle and an associated male loop. Harness 1100 may further include adjustment loops 1140.

Figures 4 to 9 show variants of connecting means that can be arranged in the equipment of Figures 1 to 3, 10 to 14.

FIG. 4 represents, schematically, an acoustic sensor 110 connected to the rigid structure 120 via a first variant of the connection means 450 of the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000, 1100 according to the first, second, third or fourth embodiment.

More specifically, the acoustic sensor 110 has an inner wall 431 facing the rigid structure 120, and an outer wall 432 turned on the opposite side. The transmission cable 140 has a first end 441 connected to the inner wall 431 of the acoustic sensor 110.

In addition, the rigid structure 120 includes an orifice 422. This orifice 422 is traversed by the transmission cable 140, so that the acoustic sensor 110 is positioned outside the rigid structure 120. The rigid structure 120 further comprises an outer wall 423 facing the acoustic sensor 110 and an inner wall 424 turned on the opposite side.

The connection means 450 comprise a ball joint 451 and a ball joint 452.

More specifically, the ball support 451 is attached to the wall of the orifice

422 of the rigid structure 120. The ball holder 451 takes for example the shape of a hollow sphere having a through hole 453. This orifice 453 comprises an outer end 454 turned towards the outside of the rigid structure 120 (toward the acoustic sensor 110), and an inner end 455 turned towards the inside of the rigid structure 120.

In addition, the ball 452 is connected to the transmission cable 140 and is positioned inside the ball holder 451. In one example, the ball 452 has a through hole, this hole being traversed by the cable. transmission 140. In another example, the transmission cable 140 is attached to the outer surface of the ball 451.

Thus, the connection means 450 allow the acoustic sensor 110 to rotate RI with respect to the rigid structure 120. More specifically, the acoustic sensor 110 can perform a rotation RI according to the three degrees of freedom of rotation, this rotation RI being allowed by the support 451 of the ball joint and the ball joint 452. This rotation R1 is however limited, at a predetermined angle α relative to the surface of the rigid structure 120, by the outer wall 423 of the rigid structure 120 and the surface of the acoustic sensor 110 and / or the edge of the outer end 454 of the hole 453 of the ball joint 451. This rotation RI is limited for two degrees of freedom of rotation by the rigid structure.

Thus, when a pressure is exerted on the wall 432 external of the acoustic sensor 110, the acoustic sensor 110 can incline by driving the transmission cable 140 and therefore the ball 452. The acoustic sensor 110 is then oriented according to the normal to body of the user at the point of contact between the acoustic sensor 110 and said body.

Alternatively, the acoustic sensor 110 is a wireless sensor. In this variant, the transmission cable 140 is replaced by a rod connected to the acoustic sensor 110 and passing through the orifice 422, so that the acoustic sensor 110 is positioned outside the rigid structure 120.

The ball 452 is then connected to the rod. Thus, when pressure is exerted on the outer wall 432 of the acoustic sensor 110, the acoustic sensor 110 can incline by driving the rod and therefore the ball 452.

FIG. 5 represents, schematically, an acoustic sensor 110 connected to the rigid structure 120 via a second variant of the connection means 550 of the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000, 1100 according to the first, second, third or fourth embodiment. As in the first variant, the acoustic sensor 110 has an inner wall 431 facing the rigid structure 120, and an outer wall 432 turned on the opposite side. The transmission cable 140 has a first end 441 connected to the inner wall 431 of the acoustic sensor 110.

In addition, as in the first variant, the rigid structure 120 comprises an orifice 422. This orifice 422 is traversed by the transmission cable 140, so that the acoustic sensor 110 is positioned outside the rigid structure 120. rigid structure 120 further comprises an outer wall 423 facing the acoustic sensor 110 and an inner wall 424 turned to the opposite side. In addition, the transmission cable 140 can slide in the orifice 422.

The connecting means 550 comprise a rigid casing 551 (or cable passage 551) and a spring 552. The rigid casing 551 is fixed on the transmission cable 140 and surrounds a portion of the transmission cable 140 from the first end 441 of the cable. this transmission cable 140.

The spring 552 has a first end 553 and a second end 554. The first end 553 of the spring 552 is fixed to the inner wall 424 of the rigid structure 120. In addition, the second end 554 of the spring 552 is fixed on the envelope As a variant, the first end 553 of the spring 552 is positioned against the inner wall 431 of the acoustic sensor 110 and the second end 554 of the spring 252 is positioned against the outer wall 423 of the rigid structure 120.

Thus, the connection means 550 allow the acoustic sensor 110 to perform a translation Tl relative to the rigid structure 120. More specifically, the acoustic sensor 110 can perform a translation T1 along an axis XI perpendicular to the outer wall 432 of the sensor 110 and passing through the orifice 422, this translation T1 being limited by the surface of the rigid structure 120. In addition, the connecting means 550 allow the acoustic sensor 110 to exert pressure on the body of the individual when the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000 or 1100 is positioned against the body of the individual.

Thus, when pressure is exerted on the external wall 432 of the acoustic sensor 110, the acoustic sensor 110 performs a translation Tl towards the rigid structure 120, and drives the transmission cable 140, the rigid envelope 551 and therefore the spring 552 This translation Tl makes it possible to guarantee, in situations of normal use of the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000 or 1100, a constant contact between the acoustic sensor 110 and the body of the individual.

Alternatively, the acoustic sensor 110 is a wireless sensor. In this variant, the transmission cable 140 and the rigid casing 551 are replaced by a rod connected to the acoustic sensor 110 and passing through the orifice 422, so that the acoustic sensor 110 is positioned outside the rigid structure 120 .

The second end 554 of the spring 552 can then be fixed on a rod connected to the acoustic sensor 110. Thus, when a pressure is exerted on the external wall 432 of the acoustic sensor 110, the acoustic sensor 110 translates Tl towards the rigid structure 120. , and drives the rod and therefore the spring 552.

FIG. 6 represents, schematically, an acoustic sensor 110 connected to the rigid structure 120 via a third variant of the connection means 650 of the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000, 1100 according to the first, second, third or fourth embodiment.

As in the first variant, the acoustic sensor 110 has an inner wall 431 facing the rigid structure 120, and an outer wall 432 turned on the opposite side. The transmission cable 140 has a first end 441 connected to the inner wall 431 of the acoustic sensor 110. In addition, as in the first variant, the rigid structure 120 comprises an orifice 422. This orifice 422 is traversed by the transmission cable 140, so that the acoustic sensor 110 is positioned outside the rigid structure 120. rigid structure 120 further comprises an outer wall 423 facing the acoustic sensor 110 and an inner wall 424 turned to the opposite side. In addition, the transmission cable 140 can slide in the orifice 422.

The connection means 650 comprise two springs 651, a ball joint holder 652, and a ball joint 653. In a variant, the connection means 650 comprise a number of spring 651 other than two.

Each spring 651 has a first end 654 and a second end 655. The first end 654 of each spring 651 is fixed to the inner wall 424 of the rigid structure 120. In one example, the first two ends 654 are positioned on a straight line. through the center of the orifice 422 of the rigid structure 120.

The ball support 652 is attached to the second end 655 of each spring 651. The ball support 652, for example, takes the form of a hollow sphere having a through orifice 656.

In addition, the ball 653 is attached to the transmission cable 140 and is positioned inside the support 652 ball. In one example, the ball 653 comprises a through hole, the transmission cable 140 passing through and being fixed to this orifice. In another example, the transmission cable 140 is attached to the outer surface of the ball 652.

Thus, the connection means 650 enable the acoustic sensor 110 to perform a rotation R2 and / or a translation T2 with respect to the rigid structure 120. More specifically, the acoustic sensor 110 can perform a rotation R2 according to the three degrees of freedom of rotation, this rotation R2 being enabled by the support 652 of the ball and the ball 653. This rotation R2 is limited, however, at a predetermined angle a2 relative to on the surface of the rigid structure 120, by the outer wall 423 of the rigid structure 120 and the surface of the acoustic sensor 110 and / or the edge of the outer end of the orifice 656 of the ball support 652 and / or the edge of the outer end of the orifice 422 of the rigid structure 120. This rotation R2 is therefore limited for two degrees of freedom of rotation by the rigid structure 120.

In addition, the acoustic sensor 110 can perform a translation T2 along an axis X2 perpendicular to the external wall 432 of the acoustic sensor 110 and passing through the orifice 422, this translation T2 being limited by the surface of the rigid structure 120.

Thus, when a pressure is exerted on the external wall 432 of the acoustic sensor 110, the acoustic sensor 110 performs a translation T2 and / or a rotation R2 towards the rigid structure 120, and drives the transmission cable 140, the ball 653, and the ball support 652 in the case of a translation, or the transmission cable 140, the ball 653, the ball support 652 and the two springs 651 in the case of a rotation R2 and in the case of a T2 translation associated with a rotation R2. The acoustic sensor 110 is then oriented according to the normal to the body of the user at the point of contact between the acoustic sensor 110 and said body.

In addition, the connection means 650 allow the acoustic sensor

110 to exert pressure on the body of the individual when the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000 or 1100 is positioned against the body of the individual. This pressure makes it possible to guarantee, in normal use situations of the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000 or 1100, a constant contact between the acoustic sensor 110 and the body of the individual.

The connection means 650 thus make it possible to orient the acoustic sensor 110 and to maintain contact between the acoustic sensor 110 and the body of the user. The connection means 650 also allow the acoustic sensor 110 to exert pressure on the body of the individual sufficient to allow a sound quality measurement.

The ball 653 is then attached to the rod. Thus, when a pressure is exerted on the external wall 432 of the acoustic sensor 110, the acoustic sensor 110 performs a translation T2 and / or a rotation R2 towards the rigid structure 120, and drives the rod, the ball 653, and the support of ball 652 in the case of a translation, or the rod, the ball 653, the ball support 652 and the two springs 651 in the case of a rotation R2 and in the case of a translation T2 associated with a rotation R2.

FIG. 7 schematically represents an acoustic sensor 110 connected to the rigid structure 120 via a fourth variant of the connection means 750 of the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000, 1100 according to the first, second, third or fourth embodiment.

As in the first variant, the acoustic sensor 110 has an inner wall 431 facing the rigid structure 120, and an outer wall 432 turned on the opposite side. The transmission cable 140 has a first end 441 connected to the inner wall 431 of the acoustic sensor 110.

In addition, as in the first variant, the rigid structure 120 comprises an orifice 422. This orifice 422 is traversed by the transmission cable 140, so that the acoustic sensor 110 is positioned outside the rigid structure 120. rigid structure 120 further comprises an outer wall 423 facing the acoustic sensor 110 and an inner wall 424 turned to the opposite side. In addition, the transmission cable 140 can slide in the orifice 422. The connecting means 750 comprise a support 751 of a ball joint, a ball 752, a spring 753 and a support 758 spring.

The support 751 of the ball is fixed to the inner wall 424 of the rigid structure 120. The support 751 of the ball takes for example the shape of a hollow sphere having a through hole 754.

In addition, the ball 752 is connected to the transmission cable 140 and is positioned inside the support 751 ball. In one example, the patella

752 has a through hole 755, the transmission cable 140 through and slidable through the hole 755.

The spring support 758 is fixed to the inner wall 424 of the rigid structure 120. This spring support 758 comprises a plate 759 comprising a through orifice 760, the transmission cable 140 traversing and slidable through this orifice 760. The diameter port 760 is sufficiently large to allow the transmission cable 140 to rotate relative to the plane of the plate 759 of the spring support 758. Alternatively, the spring support 758 is attached to the ball support 751.

The spring 753 has a first end 756 and a second end 757. The first end 756 of the spring 753 is fixed to the plate 759 of the spring support 758. The second end 757 of the spring

753 is fixed on a stop means 758, this stop means 758 being fixed to the transmission cable 140. In a variant, the second end 757 of the spring 753 is directly fixed to the transmission cable 140. In one example, the Spring 753 surrounds a portion of the transmission cable 140. In one example, a portion of the transmission cable 140 extending from the acoustic sensor 110 to the second end 757 of the spring 753 is stiffened.

Thus, the connecting means 750 allow the acoustic sensor 110 to rotate R3 and / or a translation T3 relative to the rigid structure 120. More specifically, the acoustic sensor 110 can rotate R3 according to the three degrees of freedom of rotation, this rotation R3 being enabled by the support 751 of the ball joint and the ball 752. This rotation R3 is however limited, according to a angle a3 predetermined with respect to the surface of the rigid structure 120, the outer wall 423 of the rigid structure 120 and the surface of the acoustic sensor 110 and / or the edge of the outer end of the orifice 754 of the support 751 of patella and / or the edge of the outer end of the orifice 422 of the rigid structure 120. This rotation R3 is therefore limited for two degrees of freedom of rotation by the rigid structure 120.

In addition, the acoustic sensor 110 can perform a translation T3 along an axis X3 perpendicular to the external wall 432 of the acoustic sensor 110 and passing through the orifice 422, this translation T3 being limited by the surface of the rigid structure 120.

Thus, when pressure is exerted on the external wall 432 of the acoustic sensor 110, the acoustic sensor 110 performs a translation T3 and / or a rotation R3 towards the rigid structure 120, and drives the transmission cable 140 and the spring 753 into the case of a translation T3, or the transmission cable 140, the spring 753 and the ball 752 in the case of a rotation R3 or a translation T3 associated with a rotation R3. The acoustic sensor 110 is then oriented according to the normal to the body of the user at the point of contact between the acoustic sensor 110 and said body.

In addition, the connecting means 750 allow the acoustic sensor 110 to exert pressure on the body of the individual when the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000 or 1100 is positioned against the body of the individual. This pressure makes it possible to guarantee, in normal use situations of the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000 or 1100, a constant contact between the acoustic sensor 110 and the body of the individual. The connection means 750 thus make it possible to orient the acoustic sensor 110 and maintain contact between the acoustic sensor 110 and the body of the user. The connecting means 750 further allow the acoustic sensor 110 to exert pressure on the body of the individual sufficient to allow a sound quality measurement.

The ball 752 is then connected to the rod and this rod passes through and can slide through the orifice 760. In addition, the stop means 758 is fixed to the rod. Alternatively, the second end 757 of the spring 753 is directly attached to the rod. In addition, the spring 753 may surround a portion of the rod.

Thus, when a pressure is exerted on the external wall 432 of the acoustic sensor 110, the acoustic sensor 110 performs a translation T3 and / or a rotation R3 towards the rigid structure 120, and drives the rod and the spring 753 in the case of a translation T3, or the rod, the spring 753 and the ball 752 in the case of a rotation R3 or a translation T3 associated with a rotation R3.

FIG. 8 schematically represents an acoustic sensor 110 connected to the rigid structure 120 via a fifth variant of the connection means 850 of the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000, 1100 according to the first, second, third or fourth embodiment.

The connection means 850 comprise a bellows 851 having an orifice 852 through which the transmission cable 140 passes. The bellows 851 is positioned between the acoustic sensor 110 and the rigid structure 120. The bellows material 851 allows the bellows 851 to be deformed when A pressure is exerted on this bellows 851, and further allows the bellows 851 to resume its original shape once the pressure is no longer exerted on the bellows 851. In one example, the bellows 851 is made of plastic-type material flexible.

Thus, the connecting means 850 allow the acoustic sensor 110 to rotate R4 and / or a translation T4 relative to the rigid structure 120. More specifically, the acoustic sensor 110 can rotate R4 according to the three degrees of freedom. of rotation, this rotation R4 being allowed by the bellows 851. This rotation R4 is, however, limited, at a predetermined angle a4 relative to the surface of the rigid structure 120, by the outer wall 423 of the rigid structure 120 and the surface of the Acoustic sensor 110. This rotation R4 is therefore limited for two degrees of freedom of rotation by the rigid structure 120.

In addition, the acoustic sensor 110 can carry out a translation T4 along an axis X4 perpendicular to the external wall 432 of the acoustic sensor 110 and passing through the orifice 422, this translation T4 being limited by the surface of the rigid structure 120. Thus, when a pressure is exerted on the external wall 432 of the acoustic sensor 110, the acoustic sensor 110 carries out a translation T4 and / or a rotation R4 towards the rigid structure 120, and compresses the bellows 851. The acoustic sensor 110 is then oriented normal to the body of the user at the point of contact between the acoustic sensor 110 and said body.

In addition, the connecting means 850 allow the acoustic sensor 110 to exert pressure on the body of the individual when the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000 or 1100 is positioned against the body of the individual. This pressure makes it possible to guarantee, in normal use situations of the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000 or 1100, a constant contact between the acoustic sensor 110 and the body of the individual.

The connection means 850 thus make it possible to orient the acoustic sensor 110 and to maintain contact between the acoustic sensor 110 and the body of the user. The connecting means 850 further enable the acoustic sensor 110 to exert pressure on the body of the individual sufficient to allow quality acoustic measurement.

Alternatively, the acoustic sensor 110 is a wireless sensor. In this variant, the measuring device 105 does not include the transmission cable 140, the orifice 852 and the orifice 422.

FIG. 9 represents, schematically, an acoustic sensor 110 connected to the rigid structure 120 via a sixth variant of the connection means 950 of the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000, 1100 according to the first, second, third or fourth embodiment.

The connecting means 950 comprise two springs 951 and a flexible protective membrane 952. Alternatively, the connecting means 950 comprise a number of spring 951 different from two.

Each spring 951 has a first end 953 and a second end 954. The first end 953 is attached to the inner wall 431 of the acoustic sensor 110. In addition, the second end 954 is attached to the outer wall 423 of the rigid structure 120. In one example, the two second ends 954 are positioned on a straight line passing through the center of the orifice 422 of the rigid structure 120.

The flexible protective membrane 952 extends between the acoustic sensor 110 and the rigid structure 120. This flexible protective membrane 952 further extends all along the edge of the acoustic sensor 110.

Thus, the connecting means 950 allow the acoustic sensor 110 to rotate R5 and / or a translation T5 relative to the rigid structure 120. More specifically, the acoustic sensor 110 can rotate R5 according to the three degrees of freedom. of rotation, this rotation R5 being allowed by the springs 951 and the flexible protective membrane 952. This rotation R5 is, however, limited, at a predetermined angle a5 relative to the surface of the rigid structure 120, by the outer wall 423 of the rigid structure 120 and the surface of the acoustic sensor 110. This rotation R5 is therefore limited for two degrees of freedom of rotation by the rigid structure 120. In addition, the acoustic sensor 110 can carry out a translation T5 along an axis X5 perpendicular to the external wall 432 of the acoustic sensor 110 and passing through the orifice 422, this translation T5 being limited by the surface of the rigid structure 120.

Thus, when a pressure is exerted on the external wall 432 of the acoustic sensor 110, the acoustic sensor 110 carries out a translation T5 and / or a rotation R5 towards the rigid structure 120, compressing the springs 951 and the flexible protection membrane 952. The acoustic sensor 110 is then oriented normal to the body of the user at the point of contact between the acoustic sensor 110 and said body.

In addition, the connecting means 950 allow the acoustic sensor 110 to exert pressure on the body of the individual when the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000 or 1100 is positioned against the body of the individual. This pressure makes it possible to guarantee, in normal use situations of the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000 or 1100, a constant contact between the acoustic sensor 110 and the body of the individual.

The connecting means 950 thus make it possible to orient the acoustic sensor 110 and to maintain the contact between the acoustic sensor 110 and the body of the user. The connection means 950 also allow the acoustic sensor 110 to exert pressure on the body of the individual sufficient to allow a quality acoustic measurement.

Alternatively, the acoustic sensor 110 is a wireless sensor. In this variant, the measuring device 105 does not include the transmission cable 140 and the orifice 422.

In the first, second, third and fourth embodiments, the connection means 450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950 may be different depending on the position of the acoustic sensors 110 associated with these connection means 450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950. It is thus possible to find connection means 450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950 according to several variants as described above in the same equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000 or 1100. In an example where, during the use of the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000, 1100 the body of the user is substantially parallel to a central portion of the rigid structure 120 and having a predetermined angle with respect to a peripheral portion of the rigid structure 120, connecting means 550 according to the second variant are associated with the acoustic sensors 110 positioned on the central portion and connection means 450 according to the first variant are associated with the acoustic sensors 110 positioned on the peripheral part, so that these acoustic sensors can be turned towards the body of the user.

In one embodiment, the equipment 100, 200, 300, 1000 or 1100 is positioned in a health booth.

Claims

Equipment (100, 200, 300, 1000, 1100) intended to be positioned against the body of an individual, said equipment comprising an acoustic measuring device (105) comprising at least one acoustic sensor (110) for measuring signals acoustic emitted by the body of the individual,

wherein said measuring device (105) further comprises:

a rigid structure (120) fixed relative to the equipment, and

connecting means (450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950) of the acoustic sensor (110) to the rigid structure (120),

the connecting means (450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950) and the acoustic sensor (110) being movable relative to the rigid structure (120), the connecting means (450, 550, 650, 750, 850 , 950) defining predetermined degrees of freedom of movement of the acoustic sensor (110),

the rigid structure (120) having an orifice (422) traversed by an element connected to the acoustic sensor (110), so that the acoustic sensor (110) is positioned outside the rigid structure (120).

2. Equipment according to claim 1, wherein the movement of the acoustic sensor (110) is limited for at least a predetermined degree of freedom by the surface of the rigid structure (120).

Equipment according to claim 2, wherein the movement of the acoustic sensor (110) is limited in rotation at an angle (a1, a2, a3, a4, a5) predetermined with respect to the surface of the rigid structure (120) and or in translation according to a predetermined linear displacement towards the rigid structure (120).

4. Equipment according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the connecting means (450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950) allow the acoustic sensor (110) to exert pressure on the body of the individual when the equipment is positioned against the body of the individual.

5. Equipment according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the connecting means (450) comprise:

a support (451) for a ball joint fixed to the rigid structure,

- A ball (452) connected to the acoustic sensor (110) and positioned inside the support (451) ball.

6. Equipment according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the connecting means (550) comprise:

- A spring (552) having a first end (553) positioned against the rigid structure (120) and a second end (554) attached to the acoustic sensor (110).

7. Equipment according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the connecting means (650, 750) comprise:

a spring (651, 753) having a first end (654, 756) and a second end (655, 757),

a support (652, 751) of patella, and

- A ball (653, 752) positioned inside the support (652, 751) ball.

Equipment according to claim 7, wherein:

the ball (653) is fixed to the acoustic sensor (110),

the first end (654) of the spring (651) is fixed to the rigid structure (120), and the second end (655) of the spring (651) is fixed to the support (652) of the ball joint.

Equipment according to claim 7, wherein:

the ball (752) comprises an orifice (760) traversed by the element (140) connected to the acoustic sensor (110),

the support (751) of the ball joint is fixed to the rigid structure (120),

the first end (756) of the spring (753) is fixed to the rigid structure (120), and

the second end (757) of the spring (753) is attached to the element

(140) connected to the acoustic sensor (110).

10. Equipment according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the connecting means (850) comprise a bellows (851) positioned between the acoustic sensor (110) and the rigid structure (120).

11. Equipment according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the connecting means (950) comprise:

a spring (951) having a first end (953) connected to the acoustic sensor (110) and a second end (954) connected to the rigid structure (120), and

a flexible protective membrane (952) extending between the acoustic sensor (110) and the rigid structure (120).

12. Equipment according to one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising isolation means (170) positioned around the acoustic sensor (110).

Equipment according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the acoustic sensor (110) is a stethoscope horn.

14. Equipment according to one of claims 1 to 13, taking the form of a seat (100), a belt (200), a jacket (300), a seat cover

(1000) or a harness (1100).

15. Health booth comprising equipment according to one of claims 1 to 14.