JP2008168032A - Pulse wave measuring apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a pulse wave measuring apparatus obtaining detection signals with a sufficient resolution by a simple sensor. <P>SOLUTION: The pulse wave measuring apparatus comprises a pressure detection part for detecting pressure, a pressure transmission part to be in contact with the measurement object for directly transmitting the pulse wave of the measurement object to the pressure detection part, and a pressing part for pressing the pressure detection part in the direction of the measurement object. The pressure detection part is held between the pressing part and the pressure transmission part and the pressure detection part is brought into press contact with the pressure transmission part by the pressing part. The pulse wave is transmitted from the measurement object through the pressure transmission part to the pressure detection part. At the time, the pressure detection part is pressed to the pressure transmission part by the pressing part, and the pressure transmission part is also pressed to the measurement object further. Since the respective members are brought into contact with each other without a clearance in a tightly attached state from the measurement object to the pressure detection part, the omission of pulse wave detection while the pulse wave is transmitted from the measurement object to the pressure detection part is reduced, and the pressure detection part detects the pulse wave with less attenuation. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a pulse wave measuring device that can be used for heart rate measurement and blood pressure measurement.

  The pulse wave measured by the pulse wave measuring device is used for heart rate measurement, blood pressure measurement, and the like by detecting the number of pulse waves and the presence or absence of the pulse. For example, a heart rate monitor that measures the heartbeat of a living body by irradiating the body with light from a light emitting element and detecting the reflected light or transmitted light with a light receiving element is known. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

  Since the pulse wave measurement device is expected to be used in various measurement environments including a measurement object, it is required to obtain a stable pulse wave signal in order to measure an accurate pulse wave. In order to obtain a stable pulse wave signal, it is necessary to detect a signal due to fluctuations in the pulse pressure of the measurement target with high resolution, and to stably display the pulse rate against the noise contained in the detection signal detected by the sensor. Etc. are being studied.

  For example, Patent Document 2 is known as a technique for stably displaying a pulse rate against noise included in a detection signal. This Patent Document 2 pays attention to the fact that a pulse caused by noise is a narrow pulse having a relatively wide width, and the pulse wave signal output by the pulse wave detection circuit is between the pulse wave detection circuit and the pulse wave calculation means. A pulse wave pulse evaluating means for evaluating the pulse width is provided, and only the signal recognized as a normal pulse wave signal is transmitted to the pulse wave calculating means to obtain the stability of the pulse rate display.

  Moreover, in order to detect a signal due to fluctuations in pulse pressure of the measurement object with high resolution, various sensors other than the optical sensor using the light emitting and receiving elements are conceivable. Various positions such as wrists and fingers are conceivable.

  The applicant of the present invention has applied for Patent Documents 3 and 4 as heartbeat detection techniques for stably displaying the pulse rate against noise included in the detection signal. These relate to a technique for accurately detecting a pulse wave by detecting a distortion included in a detection signal.

Japanese Patent Publication No. 61-29730 Japanese Examined Patent Publication No. 4-79250 Japanese Patent Application No. 2005-268717 (filed on September 15, 2005) Japanese Patent Application No. 2005-280398 (filed on Sep. 27, 2005)

  For example, in the case where the human body is a measurement object, the pulse wave is measured at various positions such as the upper arm, wrist, and finger, and by attaching a sensor to the measurement position, the pressure of the pulse wave of the artery in the vicinity of the position is measured. Measure changes. In order to detect the pulse pressure fluctuation of the measurement object with high accuracy, it is required that the sensitivity of the detection sensor is high and the sensor is positioned at a site where the pulse wave can be detected efficiently.

  However, the configuration using a highly sensitive sensor has a problem that the cost of the measuring device is high, and in order to position the sensor at a position suitable for measuring a pulse wave, the assistance of an experienced person is necessary. There is.

  In the case of grasping the health condition by the pulse wave, in addition to the form that a person with specialized technology uses a high-accuracy measuring device, a form in which a person who does not have specialized technique measures with a simple measuring device is considered. Of these, simple measurement using a simple measuring device is considered to be significant in grasping daily health conditions.

  In such a measurement device used for simple measurement, it is required that a simple sensor can be applied in the device configuration, and in the usage form, a person who does not have specialized technology can accurately place a sensor on the measurement site. Even if it is not possible to attach the sensor, it is required to obtain a detection signal with sufficient accuracy.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a pulse wave measuring device that solves the conventional problems and can obtain a detection signal having sufficient measurement accuracy by a simple sensor.

  The pulse wave measuring device of the present invention is configured to increase the measurement sensitivity of the pulse wave by the sensor by pressing the sensor that detects the pulse wave against the measurement object, thereby eliminating the need for a highly sensitive sensor, Even those who do not have technology can measure the pulse wave with a simple operation. Further, the pulse wave measurement can be performed on the sensor mounting position without requiring accuracy.

  The pulse wave measuring device of the present invention includes a pressure detection unit that detects pressure, a pressure transmission unit that is in contact with the measurement target and directly transmits the pulse wave of the measurement target to the pressure detection unit, and the pressure detection unit in the measurement target direction. It is the structure provided with the press part to press. A pressure detection unit is sandwiched between the pressing unit and the pressure transmission unit, and the pressure detection unit is pressed against the pressure transmission unit by the pressing unit. The pressure detection unit transmits the pulse wave from the measurement target via the pressure transmission unit. At this time, the pressure detection unit is pressed against the pressure transmission unit by the pressing unit, and the pressure transmission unit is also pressed against the measurement target.

  As a result, between the measurement object and the pressure detection unit, the members are in close contact with each other without a gap, so that the pulse wave is detected while the pulse wave is transmitted from the measurement object to the pressure detection unit. Leakage can be reduced, and the pressure detector can detect a pulse wave with little attenuation.

  The pulse wave measuring device can configure each part of the pressure detection unit, the pressure transmission unit, and the pressing unit in various forms.

  In one form of the pulse wave measuring device, the pressure detection unit, the pressure transmission unit, and the pressing unit can be stacked in order to form a three-layer structure. In this three-layer structure, a pressure transmission unit, a pressure detection unit, and a pressing unit are stacked in this order from the measurement target side.

  In another form of the pulse wave measuring device, the pressing part and the pressure transmission part may have an integral structure in which the pressure detection part is housed. In this configuration, the number of parts can be reduced by providing the pressure detection unit in the members constituting the pressing unit and the pressure transmission unit.

  Another form of the pulse wave measurement device includes an attachment member that attaches the pressure detection unit, the pressure transmission unit, and the pressing unit to the measurement target. This attachment member connects the pressing part directly or indirectly via a frame. With this configuration, it is possible to apply a pressing force to the pressing portion by attaching the attachment member to the measurement target. The direction of the pressing force applied at this time is a direction in which the pressure detection unit is pressed against the measurement object via the pressure transmission unit.

  The attachment member can be, for example, a string-like body wound around the measurement target, and an openable / closable belt or an elastic belt or string can be used. The belt that can be freely opened and closed is wound around the measurement target by making the inner diameter of the closed belt smaller than the belt in the open state, and the pressing portion is pressed toward the measurement target side to apply the pressing force. appear. Further, the elastic belt generates a pressing force by pressing the pressing portion toward the measurement target side by a contraction force due to elasticity.

  Further, the pulse wave measuring device includes a pulse wave measuring unit that measures a pulse wave to be measured from a pressure change detected by the pressure detecting unit. The pulse wave measurement unit can be attached to the frame body so as to be coupled to the pulse wave measurement device main body. In addition, the pulse wave measuring unit can be separated from the main body of the pulse wave measuring device by providing the pulse wave measuring unit separately from the frame.

  Various configurations can be adopted for the configuration of the pressing portion provided in the pulse wave measuring device.

  In one form of the pressing portion of the present invention, at least a portion in contact with the pressure detecting portion is an elastic material, and a pressing force is generated by a repulsive force of the elastic material. The pressing portion includes a hard material together with the elastic material, and the elastic material and the hard material are stacked in a plane, and the hard material is provided in a portion that does not contact the pressure detection unit. The hard material overlaps the elastic material in a planar manner, thereby pressing the elastic material without deviation. In addition, by providing the hard material in a part that does not contact the pressure detection unit, the pressure detection unit is pressed through the elastic material, and the false detection or damage of the pressure detection unit due to the hard material being directly pressed can be prevented. it can.

  Another form of the pressing portion of the present invention is configured to also serve as a portion that covers the pressure detection portion from the outside in the outer case that covers the pulse wave measuring device. According to this configuration, the number of components can be reduced.

  Another form of the pressing portion of the present invention is configured to also serve as a locking member for attaching the pulse wave measuring device to the measurement target. According to this configuration, the number of components can be reduced.

  The shape of the pressing portion of the present invention may be a shape that is curved in the same direction as the curve direction of the measurement object, or a shape that is curved in the direction opposite to the curve direction of the measurement object. By adopting a curved shape, the pressing force can be in a predetermined distribution state.For example, when the pulse wave measurement device is attached to the measurement target, the distribution of the pressing force can be determined according to the shape of the measurement target. Even if the shape on the measurement object side is non-uniform, the pressure distribution of the pressing force applied to the pressure detection unit can be made uniform.

  In addition, the distribution of the pressing force is changed between the part where the pulse wave detection is scheduled and the part where the pulse wave detection is not scheduled in the measurement target, and the detection is performed by increasing the pressing force distribution in the part where the pulse wave detection is scheduled. Differences in signal strength between parts can be made.

  Furthermore, it can be set as the structure which provides a projection part as another shape form of the press part of this invention. This protrusion can be provided on the side of the surface that contacts the pressure detection unit or the side of the surface that does not contact the pressure detection unit. Moreover, you may provide in both surfaces.

  The protrusions can be arranged at regular intervals with respect to the arrangement intervals of the detection parts of the pressure detection unit, or at intervals of 1 / n (n is an integer other than 1). When the position of the projection part of the pressing part and the detection part of the pressure detection part that are overlapped in a plane are shifted in the horizontal direction by setting an equal interval or 1 / n interval to the arrangement interval between the projection part and the detection part. Even so, it is possible to reduce the deviation of the pressure distribution of the pressing force to the pressure detection unit.

  Moreover, the shape of the convex part of a projection part can be made into any of a columnar body, a cone, and a dome-shaped body, and the cross-sectional shape of the front-end | tip can be made into a semicircle at convex shape or concave shape. Due to the cross-sectional shape of the tip, when the pulse wave measuring device is attached to the measurement target, even if the pressing part or the pressure detection part is curved along the shape of the measurement target, the bias of the pressing force is not controlled by the tip shape. Generation can be reduced.

  Further, the protruding portion may be formed by dispersing the hard resin in the soft resin, in addition to forming the convex portion by an elastic member which is a forming member of the pressing portion. In addition, when forming a convex part with an elastic member, the clearance gap between adjacent convex parts may be filled with a fluid material other than air. As for the arrangement of the hard resin, similarly to the above-described convex portion, in addition to the arrangement at equal intervals with respect to the arrangement interval of the detection parts of the pressure detection unit, arrangement at an interval of 1 / n (n is an integer excluding 1). Even if the protrusions of the pressing part and the detection part of the pressure detection part that overlap in a plane are displaced laterally, the bias distribution of the pressure distribution on the pressure detection part is reduced. The same effect that it can be made.

  One form of the pressure detection part of this invention can be comprised with the array sensor formed by arrange | positioning multiple detection elements in the shape of a row | line | column or a grid | lattice form. Here, an electrostatic detection element, a piezoelectric detection element, a resistance detection element, or the like can be applied as the detection element. The electrostatic detection element has electrodes arranged opposite to each other, and detects an inter-electrode distance that changes due to pressure fluctuation of the pulse wave as a change in capacitance. The piezoelectric detection element detects the pressure fluctuation of the pulse wave as a voltage change. The resistance type detection element detects a pressure fluctuation of the pulse wave as an electric resistance change.

  This array sensor is a line sensor when a plurality of detection elements are arranged in a line. According to this line sensor, the pulse wave on the measurement object can be detected as a pressure distribution along the line, and the peak position of the pressure distribution corresponds to the detection position of the pulse wave detected on the line, The peak value corresponds to the intensity of the pulse wave detected on the line.

  The array sensor is a two-dimensional sensor when a plurality of detection elements are arranged in a grid pattern. According to this two-dimensional sensor, the pulse wave on the measurement object can be detected as a pressure distribution on the surface, and the peak position of the pressure distribution corresponds to the detection position of the pulse wave detected in the surface, The peak value corresponds to the intensity of the pulse wave detected in the plane.

  The pulse wave measuring device of the present invention may be configured to include a plurality of array sensors in addition to a configuration including one array sensor.

  A configuration in which a plurality of array sensors are arranged can be in a plurality of forms.

  One form of a plurality of array sensors is a configuration in which a plurality of array sensors are juxtaposed in a plane, and this configuration can expand the measurement area, and the attachment of the pulse wave measurement device to the measurement target is rough. Even if it is performed by positioning, the pulse wave can be detected.

  In addition, a shape in which a plurality of array sensors are juxtaposed can be arbitrarily set, and a measurement region can be formed in accordance with the shape of the measurement target.

  Another form of the plurality of array sensors is a configuration in which at least a part of the plurality of array sensors is stacked. With this configuration, the detection signal output mode can be variously set depending on the measurement region. As an output mode of the detection signal, a plurality of detection outputs can be obtained from each array sensor for the overlapped region, and detection corresponding to the detection characteristics of each array sensor can be performed. As another output form of detection output, the detection output of the array sensor can be increased by superimposing a plurality of detection outputs from each array sensor on the overlapped region.

  Another form using a plurality of array sensors is configured such that the upper layer detection elements and the lower layer detection elements of the stacked array sensors are arranged at positions that do not overlap each other in a planar manner. By arranging the upper and lower detection elements so as not to overlap each other in plan view, the arrangement density of the detection elements can be substantially increased.

  The configuration of the pressure transmission unit included in the pulse wave measurement device can be various forms, and a configuration in which a protrusion is provided as one form can be adopted. This protrusion can be provided on the side of the surface that contacts the pressure detection unit or the side of the surface that contacts the measurement object. Moreover, you may provide in the both surfaces.

  The form of this protrusion can be the same as the form of the protrusion provided on the pressing part. The protrusions can be arranged at regular intervals with respect to the arrangement intervals of the detection portions of the pressure detection unit, or at intervals of 1 / n (n is an integer other than 1). When the positions of the protrusions of the pressing part and the detection part of the pressure detection part that are overlapped in a plane are shifted laterally by setting the interval between the protrusion part and the detection part to be equal or 1 / n. Even in this case, it is possible to reduce the deviation of the pressure distribution of the pressing force to the pressure detection unit.

  Moreover, the shape of the convex part of a projection part can be made into any of a columnar body, a cone, and a dome-shaped body, and the cross-sectional shape of the front-end | tip can be made into a semicircle at convex shape or concave shape. Due to the cross-sectional shape of the tip, when the pulse wave measuring device is attached to the measurement target, even if the pressing part or the pressure detection part is curved along the shape of the measurement target, the bias of the pressing force is not controlled by the tip shape. Generation can be reduced.

  Further, the protruding portion may be formed by dispersing the hard resin in the soft resin, in addition to forming the convex portion by an elastic member which is a forming member of the pressing portion. In addition, when forming a convex part with an elastic member, the clearance gap between adjacent convex parts may be filled with a fluid material other than air. As for the arrangement of the hard resin, similarly to the above-described convex portion, in addition to the arrangement at equal intervals with respect to the arrangement interval of the detection parts of the pressure detection unit, arrangement at an interval of 1 / n (n is an integer excluding 1). Even if the protrusions of the pressing part and the detection part of the pressure detection part that overlap in a plane are displaced laterally, the bias distribution of the pressure distribution on the pressure detection part is reduced. The same effect that it can be made.

  The concavo-convex protrusion provided in the present invention can provide an effect of suppressing a reduction in transmission efficiency of pressure transmission to the pressure detection unit, and an effect of reducing an uneven pressure distribution in the pressure detection unit. Moreover, air permeability can be improved by providing a projection part in a contact surface with the measuring object of a pressure transmission part.

  As another form of the pressure transmission part of this invention, it can be set as the structure provided with a protection member in the surface which contacts a measuring object. This protective member prevents intrusion of moisture from the measurement object and outside air to the pressure transmission unit and the pressing unit in addition to the pressure detection unit. The protective member can be a sheet-like member and can be attached by being brought into close contact with the surface of the pressure transmission unit. By preventing the intrusion of moisture, it is possible to prevent malfunction due to deterioration of the pressure detection unit, and it is possible to prevent a decrease in elasticity due to deterioration of the pressure transmission unit and the pressing unit.

  This protective member is detachable from the pressure transmission part, and can be replaced when the protective member itself is deteriorated or damaged. Moreover, when measuring a several measuring object with a pulse-wave measuring apparatus, you may replace | exchange a protection member for every measuring object.

  According to the present invention, a detection signal having sufficient measurement accuracy can be obtained with a simple sensor.

  Hereinafter, the pulse wave measuring apparatus of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Hereinafter, the outline of the pulse wave measuring device of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4, and the pressure detection unit provided in the pulse wave measuring device of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7. The pressure transmission part provided in the pulse wave measuring device and the protrusion provided in the pressing part will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 11, and the protective member provided in the pulse wave measuring device of the invention will be described with reference to FIG. A pressing portion included in the pulse wave measuring apparatus will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 17, and a line-shaped array sensor applied to the pulse wave measuring apparatus of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 18 to 21.

[Outline of the device: FIGS. 1 to 4]
First, the outline of the pulse wave measuring apparatus of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a schematic configuration of a pulse wave measuring apparatus 1 of the present invention. The pulse wave measuring apparatus 1 measures the pressure detection unit 10 that detects pressure, the pressure transmission unit 30 that contacts the measurement target 90 and transmits the pulse wave due to the pulsation of the measurement target to the pressure detection unit 10, and the pressure detection unit 10. And a pressing unit 20 that presses in the target direction. The pressure detecting unit 10 is sandwiched between the pressing unit 20 and the pressure transmitting unit 30, and the pressing unit 20 presses the pressure detecting unit 10 in the direction of the pressure transmitting unit 30. The pressure transmission unit 30 that is in pressure contact directly transmits the pressure change of the pulse wave due to the pulsation of the artery 91 of the measurement object 90 via the constituent members that constitute the pressure transmission unit 30.

  The pressure detection unit 10 detects a change in pressure transmitted via the pressure transmission unit 30 and outputs a detection signal to the pulse wave measurement unit 50. The pulse wave measurement unit 50 receives the detection signal from the pressure detection unit 10 and removes noise by signal processing to detect a pulse wave.

  By pressing the pressure detection unit 10 against the pressure transmission unit 30, the pressing unit 20 eliminates a gap between the pressure detection unit 10 and the pressure transmission unit 30, thereby improving adhesion, and detecting the pressure from the pressure transmission unit 30. The transmission efficiency of the pressure to the part 10 is improved. In addition, since the adhesion between the pressure transmission unit 30 and the measurement target 90 is also increased, the transmission efficiency of pressure from the measurement target 90 to the pressure transmission unit 30 is also improved. The pressing force by the pressing unit 20 can be generated by a tightening force or the like when the pulse wave measuring device 1 is attached to the measurement target 90 with the attachment member 6.

  The pulse wave measurement unit 50 extracts a pulse wave signal from the detection signal detected by the pressure detection unit 10. The pulse wave signal extracted by the pulse wave measuring unit 50 can be used for heart rate measurement and blood pressure measurement. The heart rate measurement uses the pulse wave signal extracted by the pulse wave measurement unit 50 to count the pulse wave number, and the blood pressure measurement uses the pulse wave signal extracted by the pulse wave measurement unit 50 to measure the pressure value while monitoring the pulse wave. To do.

  The pulse wave measurement unit 50 forms a pulse wave signal obtained by amplifying the signal intensity of the frequency component by performing signal processing to add a predetermined frequency characteristic. In the amplification of the signal intensity of the frequency component, the main component of the pulse wave waveform is increased and the noise component is reduced.

  The pulse wave measurement unit 50 includes a signal amplification circuit 50a that amplifies the detection signal, an A / D conversion circuit 50b that converts the detection signal into a digital signal, and a signal processing unit. The signal processing unit is a narrowband signal processing circuit 50c that performs noise removal and second harmonic signal amplification of the detection signal by a bandpass filter, second-order differential characteristics, or the like, and a waveform of a signal generated by the narrowband signal processing circuit 50c. A waveform distortion detection circuit (slope detection circuit) 50d that forms a distortion and detects a heartbeat is provided.

  One configuration example of the signal processing unit includes a signal amplification unit that amplifies the frequency component of the pulse wave waveform, and the signal amplification unit amplifies the low-frequency side frequency component of the pulse wave waveform with a low amplification factor, By using the signal amplification characteristic that amplifies the high frequency component of the pulse waveform at a high amplification factor, a predetermined frequency characteristic is added to the pulse waveform, the main component of the pulse waveform is increased, and the noise component is increased. Reduce. As this signal processing, for example, the frequency component of the pulse wave waveform is amplified with differential characteristics.

  In addition, the signal processing unit can include a band-pass filtering process, thereby performing signal processing on a predetermined narrow band signal of the pulse wave waveform, and a noise component in a frequency band other than the main component of the pulse wave waveform Remove. The signal processing of noise component removal and signal intensity amplification performed by the signal processing unit adds waveform distortion to the pulse wave signal. This waveform distortion increases the main component of the pulse waveform and reduces the noise component. Thereby, the waveform distortion is correlated with the pulse wave with a strong correlation. Therefore, waveform distortion provides pulse wave information with a good S / N ratio.

  In the heart rate monitor 60, the heart rate counting circuit 60a counts the heart rate from the pulse wave obtained by the pulse wave measuring unit 50, and the heart rate reporting unit 60b reports the heart rate counted by the heart rate counting circuit 60a. The notification includes heart rate display, recording, transmission, and the like.

  In the sphygmomanometer 70, the blood pressure measurement circuit 70a measures the blood pressure value from the pulse wave and the pressure value obtained by the pulse wave measurement unit 50, and the blood pressure value notification unit 70b notifies the blood pressure value measured by the blood pressure measurement circuit 70a. . Note that the notification includes display, recording, transmission, and the like of the blood pressure value.

[Explanation of schematic section of the device: Fig. 2]
Next, a schematic cross section of the pulse wave measuring device will be described. FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view. The pulse wave measuring device 1 includes a pressure transmission unit 30, a pressure detection unit 10, and a pressing unit 20 arranged in order, and the configuration shown in FIG. 2A shows an example of a three-layer structure in which these are sequentially laminated. ing. The pressure transmission unit 30, the pressure detection unit 10, and the pressing unit 20 are not limited to this three-layer structure, and may have other configurations such as an integrated structure in which the pressure detection unit is housed inside the pressing unit and the pressure transmission unit. . Other configuration examples will be described later. FIG. 2B shows a state in which the pressure transmission unit 30 is brought into contact with the measurement target 90 and the pressure detection unit 10 is pressed toward the measurement target 90 by the pressing unit 20.

  The pressure detection unit 10 includes a plurality of detection elements 11, detects a pulse wave transmitted from the measurement object 90 via the pressure transmission unit 30, and outputs it as a detection signal.

  A protective member 40 is detachably provided on the surface of the pressure transmission unit 30 that contacts the measurement target 90. The protection member 40 is a sheet-like member attached to the outer surface of the pressure transmission unit 30, protects the outer surface of the pressure transmission unit 30, and transmits a pulse wave from the measurement target 90 to the pressure transmission member 30. . The protective member 40 is thin enough to transmit the pulse wave to the pressure transmission material 30 and is sufficient to have good adhesion to the measurement object when the pulse wave measuring device 1 is attached to the measurement object. Be flexible. Details of the protection member 40 will be described later.

[Description of Device Mode: FIG. 3]
FIG. 3 is a view for explaining each form of the pulse wave measuring device of the present invention and an aspect attached to the measurement object.

  FIGS. 3A and 3B are views for explaining a first form and an attachment mode of the pulse wave measuring apparatus of the present invention. In the first embodiment, the pulse wave measuring apparatus 1 includes a pressure transmission unit 30, a pressure detection unit 10, and a pressing unit 21 that are sequentially stacked in a frame body 4 constituting an outer case, and a pressure detection unit. A circuit board 2 on which a circuit for performing signal processing for extracting a pulse wave from the detection signal detected in 10 and processing for displaying various display contents such as measurement results on the display unit 3 is incorporated. The display unit 3 displays the display content on the display surface through an opening provided in the frame body 4. Although not shown, power supply means such as a battery for supplying power to these, and input means such as a switch for performing an operation are also provided.

  The frame 4 is provided with a locking portion 5, and an attachment member 6 for attaching the pulse wave measuring device 1 to the measurement object 90 is attached. The attachment member 6 attaches the pulse wave measuring device 1 to the measurement object 90 and pushes the pressing part 21 toward the measurement object 90 by the action of the attaching force when attaching, thereby pressing the pressure detection part 10 against the pressure transmission part 30. To do.

  The attachment member 6 can be of any configuration as long as it has a function of attaching the pulse wave measuring device 1 to the measurement target 90 and pressing the pressing portion 21 toward the measurement target 90, but as an example, an elastic action is provided. A belt-like body can be obtained. As this belt-like body, for example, a band or string body whose inner diameter can be changed by opening and closing a normal stopper material (not shown), or a band body or string body itself having elasticity can do. An end portion of the attachment member 6 is attached to the frame body 4 by the locking portion 5. The locking portion 5 may be configured by a member provided on the frame body 4 or may be formed in a state where the end portion of the attachment member 6 is embedded when the frame body 4 is formed.

  Moreover, the attachment member 6 and the latching | locking part 5 are not restricted to an above-described structure. For example, the attachment member 6 and the locking portion 5 may be detachable. FIG. 3B shows this configuration. In this configuration, a locked portion 6a for hanging the locking portion 5 on the attachment member 6 is provided, and the mounting portion 6a is mounted by hanging the locking portion 5 thereon. For example, a hole provided in the attachment member 6 can be used as the locked portion 6a. One end of the locking portion 5 is attached to the hole. At this time, the position of the locked portion 6 a is selected so that a pressing force acts on the pressing portion 21. In this configuration, the attachment member 6 is provided with an opening so that the contact surface of the pressure transmission unit 30 of the attached pulse wave measuring device 1 is exposed to the outside.

  FIG.3 (c) is a figure for demonstrating the 2nd form and attachment aspect of the pulse-wave measuring apparatus of this invention.

  In the pulse wave measuring apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment, the pressing portion 22 is configured to also serve as a portion that covers the pressure detecting unit 20 from the outside in the frame 4 that is an external case that covers the pulse wave measuring apparatus. Inside, the pressure transmission part 30 and the pressure detection part 10 are laminated | stacked in order. Here, you may integrally form the frame 4 and the press part 22 which comprise an outer case.

  Similarly to the first mode shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the circuit board 2 is built in the frame body 4, and the display unit 3 is opened through the opening provided in the frame body 4. The display content is displayed on the display surface.

  Also in the mounting mode of the second mode, the locking part 5 is provided on the frame body 4 as in the mounting mode of the first mode, and the pulse wave measuring device 1 is formed by the locking unit 5 and the mounting member 6. Is attached to the measuring object 90. The attachment member 6 attaches the pulse wave measuring device 1 to the measurement object 90 and pushes the pressing part 22 toward the measurement object 90 by the action of the attaching force when attaching, thereby pressing the pressure detection part 10 against the pressure transmission part 30. To do. Since the structure of the latching | locking part 5 and the attachment member 6 is the same as that of a 1st form, it abbreviate | omits description here.

  FIG.3 (d) is a figure for demonstrating the 3rd form and attachment aspect of the pulse-wave measuring apparatus of this invention.

  The pulse wave measuring apparatus 1 according to the third aspect is a configuration example that does not use the frame body 4 described above, and has a configuration in which the pressing portion 23 itself is attached to the measurement target by the attachment member 6. In the third embodiment, the attachment member 6 presses the pressing portion 23 and attaches to the measurement object 90.

  In FIG. 3 (d), the circuit board 2 and the display unit 3 are separated from the pressure detection unit 10. However, the circuit board 2 and the display unit 3 may be mounted on the mounting member 6. Moreover, it is good also as a structure which provides separately the attachment member 6 which mounted the circuit board 2 and the display part 3, and the attachment member 6 which mounted the pressure detection part 10, the press part 20, and the pressure transmission part 30. FIG.

[Explanation of wrist wearing condition: Fig. 4]
FIG. 4 shows a state in which the pulse wave measuring device 1 of the present invention is worn on the wrist of the body. In this mounting example, the mounting member 6 is mounted around the wrist 92 and the pulse wave measuring device 1 is mounted on the mounting member 6. In this attachment, the pressure transmission unit (not shown in FIG. 4) of the pulse wave measuring device 1 is attached to a position where the wrist pulsation can be detected more favorably.

  The pulse wave measuring device of the present invention is not limited to a part used for pulse wave measurement, such as the upper arm, wrist, finger, etc. as a measurement part, and can be attached to any position as long as it is a part where a pulse wave can be obtained. can do.

[Description of pressure detection unit: FIGS. 5 to 7]
Next, the pressure detection part with which the pulse-wave measuring apparatus of this invention is provided using FIGS. 5-7 is demonstrated.

  The pressure detection unit 10 according to the present invention includes an array sensor in which a plurality of detection elements 11 are arranged in a row or grid. FIG. 5 shows a configuration example of an array sensor in which a plurality of detection elements 11 are arranged in a lattice shape, and shows an example of an electrostatic detection element. The electrostatic detection element has electrodes arranged opposite to each other, and detects an inter-electrode distance that changes due to pressure fluctuation of the pulse wave as a change in capacitance.

[Description of sensor array configuration: Fig. 5]
FIG. 5A is a configuration diagram of an array sensor using an electrostatic detection element. The array sensor 100 using the electrostatic detection element includes an upper sheet 12 in which a plurality of electrodes 12a are juxtaposed at a predetermined interval, and a lower sheet 13 in which a plurality of electrodes 13a are juxtaposed at a predetermined interval. The electrodes 12a and 13a are arranged to face each other so as to be orthogonal to each other, and a spacer 14 is sandwiched between both sheets. In this electrode arrangement, a portion where the electrode 12a and the electrode 13a intersect on the plane constitutes the detection element 11. At the intersection of the electrodes, the two electrodes are arranged opposite to each other with the spacer 14 in between to form a capacitor.

  The spacer 14 can also serve as a dielectric. The dielectric material is not particularly limited, and air, polyethylene film, paper, wood, gas (for example, sulfur hexafluoride), liquid crystal, and the like can be used. A vacuum may be applied. The capacitance of the capacitor can be freely selected by changing the material constituting the spacer 14. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the spacers 14 are omitted for easy viewing of the drawing.

  The capacitance of the capacitor portion sandwiched between the electrodes also changes depending on the distance between the electrode 12a and the electrode 13a. When a pressure is applied to the sheet of the array sensor 100, the distance between the sheets where the pressure is applied is reduced, and the distance between the electrodes provided on the sheet is also reduced. Since the reduction of the distance between the electrodes depends on the applied pressure, the applied pressure can be obtained by measuring the change in the capacitance of the capacitor based on the change in the distance between the electrodes. Further, the position where the pressure is applied can be obtained by obtaining the position where the capacitance change has occurred.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, the configuration in which the detection elements are arranged in a lattice shape can determine the pressure distribution of the pressure applied on the surface, and the array sensor constitutes a surface sensor. FIG. 5B schematically shows the pressure distribution obtained by the detection output of the array sensor 100. This pressure distribution has information about the position where the pressure change has occurred and its magnitude. When the pulse wave measuring device is configured using this array sensor 100, according to the pressure distribution example of FIG. 5B, the position where the pulsation has occurred can be obtained from the peak position of the pressure distribution. From this, the peak value of the pulse wave due to pulsation can be obtained.

  Since the magnitude of the peak value of the pulse wave is a relative value, it is necessary to calibrate the measured value by obtaining the peak value with reference pressure in order to obtain the absolute value.

  When detecting and measuring a pulse wave with a pulse wave measurement device, there are individual differences in the position where the pulse wave can be detected efficiently in the body, so it is not always necessary to specify a position where the pulse wave can be detected satisfactorily It is not easy, and it is not easy to detect the peak value of the pulse wave.

  On the other hand, according to this array sensor 100, since the detected peak position in the two-dimensional pressure distribution corresponds to the peak position of pulsation, the pulse wave is obtained by obtaining the peak value at the peak position in the pressure distribution. The value corresponding to the peak value of can be easily detected.

  In the case of the configuration shown in FIG. 5A, the detection accuracy of the pressure distribution is determined by the interval between the juxtaposed electrodes 12a and the interval between the juxtaposed electrodes 13a, and the interval between the juxtaposed electrodes is reduced. Thus, the detection accuracy can be increased.

  The detection elements constituting the array sensor are not limited to the electrostatic detection elements described above, and piezoelectric detection elements, resistance detection elements, and the like can be applied. The piezoelectric detection element detects the pressure fluctuation of the pulse wave as a voltage change, and the resistance detection element detects the pressure fluctuation of the pulse wave as an electric resistance change.

  The array sensor 100 described above may be configured to combine a plurality of array sensors in addition to being used alone. Hereinafter, a configuration example in which a plurality of array sensors are combined will be described with reference to FIGS.

[Description of configuration example of multiple array sensors: FIG. 6]
FIG. 6A is a configuration example in which a plurality of array sensors are arranged linearly on a plane or a curved surface. Here, a configuration is shown in which two array sensors 10A and 10B are juxtaposed with the sides of both array sensors adjacent to each other on the same plane. According to this configuration, the length of the measurement region can be arbitrarily determined by arranging the array sensors as constituent elements in a straight line while being adjacent to each other.

  FIG. 6B is a configuration example in which a plurality of array sensors are arranged in a planar shape on a plane or a curved surface. Here, a configuration is shown in which four array sensors 10A to 10D are juxtaposed with the sides of both array sensors adjacent to each other on the same plane. According to this configuration, the area and shape of the measurement region can be arbitrarily determined by arranging the array sensor as a constituent element in a planar shape while being adjacent to each other.

  FIGS. 6C to 6F are configuration examples in which a plurality of array sensors are provided with overlapping portions. FIG. 6C shows a configuration example in which a part of the array sensor 10E is overlaid on a part of the array sensor 10F, and FIG. 6D shows a part of the array sensor 10G above the whole of the array sensor 10H. 6 (e) and 6 (f) show a configuration example in which a part of the array sensor 10I is overlaid above the entire array sensor 10J. Note that FIG. 6F shows a cross section of the configuration example of FIG. In FIG. 6F, the planar shape of the array sensor 10J is circular, but it is not limited to a circular shape, and may be any shape, and the vertical relationship between the array sensor 10I and the array sensor J may be reversed.

  According to the configuration of FIGS. 6C to 6F, a portion where a plurality of array sensors are overlaid can be measured with a plurality of array sensors. For example, the same can be obtained by changing the detection characteristics of each array sensor. It is possible to detect a plurality of types of waveform characteristics for the pulse wave in the region. As the plural types of waveform characteristics, for example, a frequency characteristic can be used, and a high frequency component and a low frequency component of a pulse wave can be detected separately.

[Description of detection element mode: FIG. 7]
FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an aspect of the detection element when a plurality of array sensors are stacked. FIG. 7 shows a configuration in which two array sensors are stacked and one pressing part 20 and one pressure transmission part 30 are provided.

  In the configuration shown in FIG. 7A, in the two stacked array sensors 10a and 10b, the detection elements 11a and 11b included in each array sensor are in a position where they are overlapped in a planar shape. According to this configuration, the pulsation at the same point of the measurement target can be detected by the two detection elements of the detection element 11a and the detection element 11b.

  Thereby, when the detection element 11a and the detection element 11b have the same detection characteristic, the detection signal level can be increased by adding the output signals of both detection elements. Moreover, when the detection element 11a and the detection element 11b have different detection characteristics, different frequency components included in the pulse wave can be detected individually.

  In the configuration shown in FIG. 7B, in the two array sensors 10c and 10d that are stacked, the detection elements 11c and 11d included in each array sensor are vertically located at positions that are shifted from each other in a planar shape. According to the configuration in which the upper-layer detection element and the lower-layer detection element of the stacked array sensor are arranged at positions that do not overlap each other, the density of the measurement points to be measured is set to twice the arrangement density of the detection elements. Can do.

  The configurations shown in FIGS. 7C and 7D are configurations in which the detection characteristics of the two stacked array sensors 10e and 10f and the array sensors 10g and 10h are different from each other in the vertical direction. In the figure, a configuration example is shown in which the electrode intervals of the detection elements 11e to 11h included in each array sensor are made different. Accordingly, a sensor having different detection output characteristics with respect to pressure changes according to characteristics such as elasticity of a measurement target. Can be combined. Of course, the configuration may be such that the material of the dielectric of the detection element is different.

[Explanation of protrusions: FIGS. 8 to 11]
Next, the pressure transmission part with which the pulse wave measuring device of this invention is equipped, and the projection part with which a press part are provided are demonstrated using FIGS. 8-11.

  The pressure transmission unit 30 according to the present invention includes a protrusion on the side in contact with the pressure detection unit 10 or the side in contact with the measurement object 90. The protrusion of the pressure transmission unit 30 attenuates the pulse wave at the contact surface with the measurement object 90, attenuates the pulse wave until the pulse wave is transmitted to the pressure detection unit 10 in the pressure transmission unit 30, and the pressure detection unit 10 In addition to the effect of improving the transmission efficiency by reducing the attenuation of the pulse wave at various points such as the attenuation of the pulse wave on the contact surface, the contact state between the pressure transmission unit 30 and the pressure detection unit 10 is made uniform, This has the effect of avoiding uneven pressure transmission of pulse waves.

  In addition, the pressing unit 20 is also configured to include a protrusion on the side in contact with the pressure detection unit 10 or on the non-contact surface side with the pressure detection unit 10. When the pressure detection unit 10 is pressed, the protrusion of the pressing unit 20 makes the contact state with the pressure detection unit 10 uniform, and makes the contact state between the pressure transmission unit 30 and the pressure detection unit 10 uniform. This has the effect of avoiding uneven pressure transmission of pulse waves.

  In a device for detecting a pulse wave attached to the outer periphery of a measurement object having various outer shapes, such as the pulse wave measurement device of the present invention, the pressure detection unit and the pressure transmission unit are connected depending on the outer shape and attachment position of the measurement target. There is a high possibility that the contact state is different, and the pressure transmission state is uneven depending on the location and is not uniform. For this reason, in such a measurement environment that measures the pulse wave of the measurement object, the configuration in which the pressure transmission part and the pressing part are provided with the protrusions as in the present invention is particularly effective.

  Fig.8 (a) shows the structure which is not provided with the projection part, FIG.8 (b)-FIG.8 (h) have shown the various combinations of the projection part with which a pressure transmission part and a press part are provided. The protrusion can be formed in various forms depending on whether it is provided on the pressure transmission part or the pressing part, or on which side.

  The form of FIG. 8B is an example in which the protrusion 31 a is provided on the pressure transmission unit 30, and is an example provided on the surface facing the pressure detection unit 10. The portion 31c between the adjacent protrusions 31a can be formed of, for example, an air layer.

  The form of FIG. 8C is a form in which the protruding part 31 b is provided on the pressure transmission part 30, and is a configuration example provided on the surface facing the measurement object 90. The portion 31c between the adjacent protrusions 31b can be formed of, for example, an air layer.

  The form of FIG. 8D is an example in which the protrusion 21 a is provided on the pressing part 20, and is an example provided on the surface facing the pressure detection part 10. The inter-projection part 21c, which is a part between the adjacent projecting parts 21a, can be formed of, for example, an air layer.

  The form of FIG.8 (e) is a form which provides the projection part 21b in the press part 20, and is an example provided in the surface which goes outside. The interprotrusion portion 21c between the adjacent protrusions 21b can be formed of, for example, an air layer.

  8 (f), (g), and (h) are forms in which the protrusion 31a or the protrusion 31b is provided in the pressure transmitting part 30, and the protrusion 21a or the protrusion 21b is provided in the pressing part 20. 8 (f), the protrusion 31a is provided on the surface facing the pressure detection unit 10, the protrusion 21a is provided on the surface facing the pressure detection unit 10, and in the form of FIG. 8 (g), the protrusion 31b is provided. Provided on the surface toward the measurement object 90, the protrusion 21a is provided on the surface toward the pressure detection unit 10, and in the form of FIG. 8H, the protrusion 31b is provided on the surface toward the measurement object 90, and the protrusion 21b is externally provided. Provided on the surface facing

  Moreover, it is good also as a structure which provides a projection part in both surfaces of the pressure transmission part 30 and the press part 20 other than the said structure. In the configuration in which the projections are provided on both sides, the projections provided on both sides may be arranged in a planar shape so as to be opposed to the same position, or may be arranged in a planar shape so as not to overlap with each other. .

  The protrusion can be in various forms. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining various types of protrusions. In addition, although the structural example which goes to the pressure detection part 10 about the pressure transmission part 30 is shown here, it can be the same also about the structure provided in the press part 20, and the structure which provides a projection part in another surface.

  The form example of the protrusion shown in FIG. 9A is an example in which the protrusion 31 a is formed by the shape of an elastic material such as rubber or elastomer constituting the pressure transmission part 30. The space 31c between the adjacent protrusions 31a is an air layer without providing an elastic material. The pitch p between the protrusions 31a is the same as the pitch of the detection elements of the pressure detection unit 10 or 1 / n pitch (n is an integer).

  9B, the protrusion 31a is formed by the shape of an elastic material such as rubber or elastomer constituting the pressure transmission unit 30, and the planar base portion of the pressure transmission unit 30 is formed. This is an example in which the rigidity of a certain base 30b and the protrusion 31a is made different. In addition, the structure which makes the space part 31c between the adjacent protrusion parts 31a an air layer without providing an elastic material can be the same as that of Fig.9 (a). The pitch p between the protrusions 31a is also the same as the pitch of the detection elements of the pressure detection unit 10 or 1 / n pitch (n is an integer), as in FIG. 9A.

  In the above configuration, the base 30b and the protrusion 31a may be integrally formed, or may be formed separately and then joined.

  The protruding portion may be a columnar body, a cone, a dome-shaped body, or the like, and the cross-sectional shape of the tip thereof may be a convex shape, a concave shape, a semicircular shape, or the like. FIGS. 9C to 9L are diagrams illustrating examples of protrusions.

  Projections 31A and 31B shown in FIGS. 9C and 9D show examples of columnar bodies.

  The columnar protrusions can be cylindrical as shown in protrusions 31A, 31Aa, 31Ab shown in FIGS. The tip portion has a planar shape such as a protruding portion 31A (shown in FIG. 9 (f)), a semicircular shape having a convex sectional shape such as a protruding portion 31Aa (shown in FIG. 9 (g)), and a protruding portion 31Ab. The cross-sectional shape can be a concave semicircular shape (shown in FIG. 9H).

  Further, the columnar protrusions can be formed in a prismatic shape like the protrusions 31B, 31Ba, 31Bb shown in FIGS. The tip portion has a planar shape such as the protruding portion 31B (shown in FIG. 9 (i)), a semicircular shape having a convex cross section such as the protruding portion 31Ba (shown in FIG. 9 (j)), and the protruding portion 31Bb. The cross-sectional shape can be a concave semicircular shape (shown in FIG. 9 (k)).

  FIG. 9 (l) shows an example of a dome shape having no columnar portion. Further, the diameter of the columnar protrusion may be narrowed toward the tip to form a cone shape.

  The protrusions may be formed by varying the hardness of the elastic member constituting the pressure transmission part 30 or the pressing part 20 as in the structure shown in FIG. FIG. 10 shows an example in which the protrusion is formed by varying the hardness of the elastic member. Here, the pressure transmission unit 30 is shown, but the same applies to the pressing unit 20.

  FIG. 10A shows a cross section, and FIG. 10B shows a perspective view. In FIG. 10A, the hardness of an elastic member such as rubber, elastomer, or elastic resin that constitutes the pressure transmission unit 30 is varied, the protrusion 30a is formed by the hard part, and the base 30b is formed by the soft part.

  The arrangement interval of the projections is set to the same pitch p or 1 / n pitch (n is an integer) between the detection elements included in the pressure detection unit 10 so that the projections and the pressure detection unit 10 are positioned in the surface direction. Even in the case of deviation, the pressure distribution in the pressure detection unit 10 is not biased. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the arrangement interval of the protrusions. Here, the arrangement interval of the detection elements 11 included in the pressure detection unit 10 is p.

  FIG. 11A shows a state in which the detection element 11 and the protrusion 31 coincide with each other in the surface direction, and FIGS. 11B to 11D show p in which the detection element 11 and the protrusion 31 respectively in the surface direction. / 4 pitch, p / 2 pitch, and p pitch are shown. In any state, since the positional relationship between each detection element 11 and the protrusion 31 is maintained in the same positional relationship, the pressure distribution in the pressure detection unit 10 is not biased.

  In the example shown in FIGS. 11C and 11D, there is a portion (the right end side in the drawing) where the pressure transmission unit 30 is not shown in the lower part of the detection element 11. The position is shifted to the left in the drawing to facilitate explanation of the positional deviation. If the pressure transmission unit 30 is larger in area than the pressure detection unit 10, the pressure transmission unit 30 is always provided below the detection element 11. Will be.

[Description of protective member: FIG. 12]
The pressure transmission unit 30 can be configured to include a protection member 40 as shown in FIG. 2 on the surface that contacts the measurement object 90, and the protection member 40 can be detachable. The protective member with which the pulse wave measuring device of this invention is provided is demonstrated using FIG.

  FIG. 12A shows a configuration example of the protective member. The protective member 40 of this configuration example can be made detachable by holding the protective sheet 41 on the frame 42 and attaching the protective sheet 41 to the surface of the pressure transmission unit 30 by the frame 42.

  FIG. 12B shows another configuration example of the protective member. The protective member 40 of this configuration example is a film 43 having adhesiveness, and can be made detachable by sticking the adhesive surface to the surface of the pressure transmission unit 30. A plurality of holes 44 may be provided in the film 43 so that moisture from the measurement target is released to the outside air.

[Explanation of pressing part: FIGS. 13 to 17]
Next, the press part with which the pulse-wave measuring apparatus of this invention is provided using FIGS. 13-17 is demonstrated.

  The pressing unit 20 is a member that improves the detection sensitivity of the pulse wave by pressing the pressure detection unit 10 against the pressure transmission unit 30, and can be in various forms.

  The pressing unit 20 contacts and presses the pressure detection unit 10 in a surface and a surface opposite to the contact surface with the pressure detection unit 10 in order to apply a pressing force to the pressing member 21 having elasticity. And a frame portion 24 formed of a hard member to be covered.

  FIGS. 13A and 13B are views for explaining a first form of the pressing portion. The first form is a configuration example in which the pressing member 21 and the frame portion 24 are formed flat. FIG. 13A shows a state before pressing, and FIG. 13B shows a pressing state.

  Moreover, FIG.13 (c), (d) is a figure for demonstrating the 2nd form of a press part. The second form is an example in which the pressing member 21 and the frame portion 24 are curved upward. FIG. 13C shows the state before pressing, and FIG. 13D shows the pressing state.

  According to the second embodiment, when the contact surface of the measuring object 90 has a curved shape that protrudes upward, the pressing force applied to the pressure detection unit 10 can be made uniform by matching the curved state. .

  FIGS. 14A and 14B are views for explaining a third form of the pressing portion. The third form is an example in which the pressing member 21 is bent downward. FIG. 14A shows a state before pressing, and FIG. 14B shows a pressing state.

  According to the third embodiment, when the pressure detecting unit 10 is pressed by bending the pressing member 21 downward, a pressure distribution is formed in the pressing force to be applied, and a large pressing force is applied to a predetermined position. be able to.

  FIGS. 15A and 15B are views for explaining a fourth form of the pressing portion. The fourth embodiment is an example in which the pressing member 21 is curved upward and the contact surface side of the frame portion 24 with the pressing member 21 is curved downward (toward the pressing member 21). FIG. 15A shows a state before pressing, and FIG. 15B shows a pressing state.

  According to the fourth embodiment, when the pressure detector 10 is pressed by bending the frame portion 24 downward, a pressure distribution is formed in the applied pressing force, and a larger pressing force is applied to a predetermined position. be able to.

  FIGS. 16A and 16B are views for explaining a fifth form of the pressing portion. The fifth embodiment is a configuration example in which only the frame portion 24 is used as the pressing portion 20, and the pressing portion 20 is also used by the frame portion 24. FIG. 16A shows a state before pressing, and FIG. 16B shows a pressing state. According to the 5th form, the structure of the press part 20 can be simplified.

  FIGS. 17A to 17D are views for explaining sixth to ninth forms of the pressing portion.

  The 6th form shown to Fig.17 (a) is a structural example which forms integrally the press member which comprises the press part 20, and the elastic member which comprises the pressure transmission part 30. FIG. In this configuration example, the pressure detection unit 10 is embedded in an elastic member serving as both a pressing member and a pressure transmission unit, and is pressed by the frame unit 24. According to the 6th form, the structure of the press part 20 and the pressure transmission part 30 can be simplified.

  In the seventh embodiment shown in FIG. 17B, similarly to the sixth embodiment, the pressing member constituting the pressing portion 20 and the elastic member constituting the pressure transmitting portion 30 are integrally formed, and the frame portion 24 is used. This is a configuration example of pressing, and the frame portion 24 is bent downward (on the pressure detection unit 10 side). According to the seventh embodiment, similarly to the sixth embodiment, the configuration of the pressing unit 20 and the pressure transmitting unit 30 can be simplified, and the pressure detecting unit 10 can be curved by curving the frame unit 24 downward. When the pressure is pressed, a pressure distribution is formed in the applied pressing force, and a larger pressing force can be applied to a predetermined position.

  In the eighth and ninth embodiments shown in FIGS. 17C and 17D, the pressing member constituting the pressing portion 20 and the elastic member constituting the pressure transmitting portion 30 are integrated as in the sixth and seventh embodiments. In this configuration example, the hard material 25 is provided between the frame portion 24 and the pressure detection unit 10. The hard material 25 of the eighth form has a planar shape, and the hard material 25 of the ninth form has a configuration in which the frame portion 24 is curved downward (pressure detection unit 10 side).

  According to the eighth and ninth embodiments, the pressing force against the pressure detection unit 10 can be increased by the hard material 25. Further, according to the ninth embodiment, when the pressure detector 10 is pressed by bending the hard material 25 downward, a pressure distribution is formed in the applied pressing force, and a larger pressing force is applied to a predetermined position. Can be applied.

  Although the hard material 25 is not specifically limited, it can be comprised with a metal. At that time, it can be a flat plate shape or a wire shape. Of course, they may be made of a shape memory alloy or the like.

[Description of Line Array Sensor: FIGS. 18 to 21]
Next, a line array sensor applied to the pulse wave measuring apparatus of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  The pressure detection unit of the present invention can be configured to form a line array sensor by arranging a plurality of detection elements in a row, in addition to arranging a plurality of detection elements in a grid pattern to form an array sensor. . Hereinafter, the linear array sensor will be referred to as a line sensor.

  FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining one configuration of the line sensor. FIG. 18A shows a state in which the pressing unit 220, the pressure detection unit 210, and the pressure transmission unit 230 constituting the line sensor are separated, and FIG. 18B shows a state in which the line sensor 200 is configured by joining the parts. Is shown.

  The line sensor 200 can be used in units of one line. In addition to constituting a pulse wave measuring device by one line sensor, a plurality of line sensors 200A to 200N are juxtaposed to form a planar array sensor. It may be formed to constitute a pulse wave measuring device. By loosely joining the line sensors 200A to 200N, flexibility can be provided at least in the length direction of the line sensor, and a gap is formed between the contact surface of the measurement target and the outer shape of the measurement target. Can be installed without. FIGS. 18D and 18F show this state.

  FIG. 18E shows a configuration example of the pressure detection unit provided in the line sensor for one line. Here, the electrostatic pressure detection unit 210 is shown.

  The pressure detection unit 210 is configured by disposing an upper strip 212 in which a plurality of electrodes 212 a are arranged and a lower strip 213 in which one electrode 213 a is arranged through a spacer 214. Pressure detection can be performed by detecting a change in capacitance caused by a change in the distance between the plurality of electrodes 212a and one electrode 213a due to a change in the distance between the spacers 214 due to the external pressure. By providing each lead wire on the electrode 212a, it is possible to detect a change in capacitance of each part and to detect a pressure applied to each part.

  The spacer 214 can also serve as a dielectric. The dielectric material is not particularly limited, and air, polyethylene film, paper, wood, gas (for example, sulfur hexafluoride), liquid crystal, and the like can be used. A vacuum may be applied. The capacitance of the capacitor can be freely selected by changing the material constituting the spacer 214. In the example shown in FIG. 18, the spacer 214 is omitted for easy understanding of the drawing.

  A case where a pulse wave is formed by a line sensor will be described with reference to FIG.

  From the detection signals (the output signals on the right side shown in FIG. 19) of the line sensors 200A to 200F arranged in parallel, the pressure distribution in the length direction of the line can be obtained. By arranging the line-shaped pressure distributions in a state where the plurality of line sensors are juxtaposed, the surface-shaped pressure distribution can be obtained in a pseudo manner. The position of the pressure peak appearing in this planar pressure distribution corresponds to the pulsation part to be measured, and the peak value corresponds to the peak value of the pulsation.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining another configuration of the line sensor. FIG. 20A is a diagram for explaining a schematic configuration of the line sensor, and FIGS. 20B and 20C are diagrams for explaining a cross-sectional state of the line sensor.

  The line sensor 300 includes a pressing unit 320, a pressure detection unit 310, and a pressure transmission unit 330. The pressure detection unit 310 is formed by concentrically arranging a center electrode 313 a and an outer peripheral electrode 312 a via a spacer 314. The pressure transmission part 330 is formed by an elastic body provided between the outer peripheral electrode 312a and the exterior part 340. Note that this elastic body may be formed of the same elastic body as the spacer 314. In addition, the pressing part 320 is provided on one side of the outer periphery of the exterior part 340.

  FIG. 20B shows a non-contact state, and FIG. 20C shows a contact state. In the non-contact state of FIG. 20B, the distance d1 on the measurement object 90 side and the distance d2 on the pressing portion 320 side are substantially the same distance between the center electrode 313a and the outer peripheral electrode 312a. It becomes capacity. On the other hand, when the pressure due to the pulse wave is received in the contact state of FIG. 20C, the distance d1 on the measurement object 90 side is narrowed, the distance d2 on the pressing portion 320 side is widened, and a difference occurs in the interelectrode capacitance. As a result, the interelectrode capacitance between the center electrode 313a and the outer peripheral electrode 312a changes to reflect the pulse wave, so that the pulse wave can be detected by detecting the interelectrode capacitance.

  FIG. 20D is a diagram for explaining a schematic configuration of another line sensor, and FIGS. 20E and 20F are diagrams for explaining a sectional state of the line sensor.

  The line sensor 400 includes a pressing unit 420, a pressure detection unit 410, and a pressure transmission unit 430. The pressure detection unit 410 is formed by concentrically arranging a center electrode 413a and an outer peripheral electrode 412a with a spacer 414 interposed therebetween. The pressure transmission part 430 is formed by an elastic body provided between the outer peripheral electrode 412a and the exterior part 440. Note that this elastic body may be formed of the same elastic body as the spacer 414.

  In this configuration, the pressing portion 420 can be a central member provided at the center of the center electrode 413a, and the pressing portion outside the exterior portion 440 can be omitted as in the above-described configuration, and the pressing portion can be installed. Detection is possible without depending on the position, and detection is possible even if the line sensor 400 rotates in the circumferential direction.

  FIG. 20E shows a non-contact state, and FIG. 20F shows a contact state. In the non-contact state of FIG. 20 (e), the distance d1 on the measurement object 90 side and the distance d2 on the pressing portion 420 side are substantially the same distance between the center electrode 413a and the outer peripheral electrode 412a. It becomes capacity. On the other hand, when the pressure due to the pulse wave is received in the pressed state of FIG. 20 (f), the distance d1 on the measurement object 90 side is narrowed, the distance d2 on the pressing part 420 side is widened, and a difference occurs in the interelectrode capacitance. As a result, the interelectrode capacitance between the center electrode 313a and the outer peripheral electrode 312a changes to reflect the pulse wave, so that the pulse wave can be detected by detecting the interelectrode capacitance.

  FIG. 21 shows the line sensor attached to the wrist 92. FIG. 21A shows an attached state of a plurality of line sensors, and FIG. 21B shows an attached state of one line sensor.

  The line sensor 500 of FIG. 21A has a configuration in which a plurality of the line sensors 200, 300, and 400 already described are juxtaposed, or a configuration in which a plurality of line sensors 200, 300, and 400 are combined and juxtaposed. . The line sensor 600 in FIG. 21B has a configuration in which a plurality of line sensors 200, 300, and 400 already described are connected in series, or a combination of the line sensors 200, 300, and 400 is connected in series. This is the configuration.

  According to this line sensor, the elastic member can be used as the pressing member, so that the pressing member can be attached around the measurement object without the need for an attachment member.

  Reference numeral 700 denotes a box provided with power supply means such as a display unit, a circuit board, and a battery (not shown), which can notify measured information and the like.

  The pulse wave measuring device of the present invention can be applied to a body function measuring device using a pulse wave in addition to being applied to a heart rate monitor and a blood pressure monitor.

  The pulse wave measuring device of the present invention can be applied not only to the pulse wave measurement of a human body but also to the pulse wave measurement of an animal.

It is a figure for demonstrating schematic structure of the pulse-wave measuring apparatus of this invention. It is a figure showing a schematic sectional view of a pulse wave measuring device of the present invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the aspect attached to each form and measurement object of the pulse-wave measuring apparatus of this invention. It is a figure which shows the state which mount | wears the wrist of the body with the pulse-wave measuring apparatus of this invention. It is a figure which shows one structural example of the array sensor formed by arrange | positioning the detection element of this invention two or more in the shape of a lattice. It is a figure which shows the structural example which combined the some array sensor of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the aspect of the detection element at the time of overlapping the some array sensor of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the projection part with which the pulse-wave measuring apparatus of this invention is provided. It is a figure for demonstrating the various forms of the projection part of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example which forms a projection part by varying the hardness of the elastic member of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the arrangement | positioning space | interval of the projection part of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the protection member with which the pulse-wave measuring apparatus of this invention is provided. It is a figure for demonstrating the 1st, 2nd form of the press part of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the 3rd form of the press part of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the 4th form of the press part of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the 5th form of the press part of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the 6th-9th form of the press part of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating one structure of the line sensor of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the case where the line sensor of this invention forms a pulse wave by a pressure formation part. It is a figure for demonstrating the other structure of the line sensor of this invention. It is a figure which shows the attachment state of the line sensor of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Pulse wave measuring device 2 Circuit board 3 Display part 4 Frame 5 Locking part 6 Mounting member 10,11a-10h Pressure detection part 10A-10J Array sensor 11,11a, 11b Detection element 12 Upper sheet 12a Electrode 13 Lower sheet 13a Electrode 14 Spacer 20-23 Press part 21a, 21b Protrusion part 21c Interprotrusion part 24 Frame part 25 Hard material 30 Pressure transmission part 30a, 30c Hard part 30b Base part 31a, 31b Protrusion part 31c Space part 31A-31C Protrusion part 40 Protection member 41 protective sheet 42 frame 43 film 44 hole 50 pulse wave measurement unit 50a signal amplification circuit 50b A / D conversion circuit 50c narrowband signal processing circuit 50d waveform distortion detection circuit (slope detection circuit)
60 Heart rate monitor 60a Heart rate counting circuit 60b Heart rate notification unit 70 Blood pressure monitor 70a Blood pressure measurement circuit 70b Blood pressure value notification unit 90 Measurement object 91 Artery 92 Wrist 100 Array sensor 200, 200A to 200N Line sensor 210 Pressure detection unit 220 Pressing unit 230 Pressure transmission part 212a Electrode 213a Electrode 212 Upper strip 213 Lower strip 214 Spacer 300 Line sensor 310 Pressure detection part 312a Peripheral electrode 313a Center electrode 314 Spacer 320 Press part 330 Pressure transmission part 400 Line sensor 410 Pressure detection part 412a Peripheral electrode 413a Center electrode 420 Pressing part 430 Pressure transmitting part 500 Line sensor 600 Line sensor 700 Box

Claims (30)

A pressure detector for detecting pressure;
A pressure transmission unit that is in contact with the measurement target and directly transmits the pulse wave of the measurement target to the pressure detection unit;
A pressing unit that presses the pressure detection unit in the measurement target direction,
The pulse wave measuring apparatus, wherein the pressure detecting unit is sandwiched between the pressing unit and the pressure transmitting unit, and the pressure detecting unit is pressed against the pressure transmitting unit by the pressing unit.   The pulse wave measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the pressing unit, the pressure detecting unit, and the pressure transmitting unit have a three-layer structure that is sequentially laminated.   The pulse wave measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the pressing portion and the pressure transmitting portion have an integral structure that houses the pressure detecting portion therein. An attachment member for attaching the pressure detection unit, the pressure transmission unit, and the pressing unit to a measurement target;
The attachment member connects the pressing portion directly or indirectly through a frame body, and applies a pressing force to the pressing portion by attaching the attachment member to a measurement target. 4. The pulse wave measuring device according to any one of 3.   The pulse wave measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a pulse wave measuring unit that measures a pulse wave to be measured from a pressure change detected by the pressure detecting unit.   The pulse wave measuring device according to claim 5, wherein the pulse wave measuring unit is attached to the frame.   The pulse wave measuring device according to claim 5, wherein the pulse wave measuring unit is provided separately from the frame.   The pulse wave measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least a portion of the pressing portion that contacts the pressure detecting portion is an elastic material.   The pulse wave measuring device according to claim 8, wherein the pressing portion overlaps the elastic material in a planar manner and includes a hard material in a portion that does not contact the pressure detection portion.   10. The pulse wave according to claim 1, wherein the pressing portion also serves as a portion that covers the pressure detection unit from outside in an outer case that covers the pulse wave measuring device. measuring device.   The pulse wave measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the pressing portion also serves as a locking member for attaching the pulse wave measuring device to a measurement target.   The pulse wave measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the pressing portion has a shape curved in the same direction as the bending direction of the measurement target.   The pulse wave measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the pressing portion has a shape curved in a direction opposite to a bending direction of the measurement target.   The said press part is equipped with a projection part in the side which contacts the said pressure detection part, or the non-contact surface side with the said pressure detection part, The Claim 1 characterized by the above-mentioned. Pulse wave measuring device.   15. The pulse wave according to claim 14, wherein the protrusions are arranged at equal intervals or 1 / n (n is an integer other than 1) with respect to the arrangement interval of the detection parts of the pressure detection unit. measuring device.   The pulse according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the protrusion is any one of a columnar body, a cone, and a dome-shaped body, and a cross-sectional shape of a tip thereof is convex or concave and semicircular. Wave measuring device.   The pulse wave measuring device according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the projection is formed by dispersing hard resin in soft resin.   18. The pulse wave according to claim 17, wherein the hard resin is arranged at an equal interval or an interval of 1 / n (n is an integer other than 1) with respect to an arrangement interval of detection parts of the pressure detection unit. measuring device.   The pulse wave measurement device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the pressure detection unit is an array sensor in which a plurality of detection elements are arranged in a row or a lattice. .   The pulse wave measuring device according to claim 19, wherein a plurality of the array sensors are arranged.   21. The pulse wave measuring device according to claim 20, wherein the plurality of array sensors are juxtaposed in a plane.   The pulse wave measuring device according to claim 20 or 21, wherein at least a part of the plurality of array sensors is laminated.   23. The pulse wave measuring apparatus according to claim 22, wherein the upper layer detection element and the lower layer detection element of the stacked array sensor are arranged at positions that do not overlap each other in a planar manner.   The pulse wave according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the pressure transmission unit includes a protrusion on a side in contact with the pressure detection unit or a side in contact with the measurement target. measuring device.   25. The pulse wave according to claim 24, wherein the protrusions are arranged at equal intervals or 1 / n (n is an integer other than 1) with respect to the arrangement interval of the detection parts of the pressure detection unit. measuring device.   The pulse according to claim 24 or 25, wherein the protrusion is any one of a columnar body, a cone, and a dome-shaped body, and a cross-sectional shape of a tip is convex or concave and semicircular. Wave measuring device.   The pulse wave measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the pressure transmission unit includes a hard resin dispersed in a soft resin.   28. The pulse wave according to claim 27, wherein the hard resin is arranged at equal intervals or 1 / n (n is an integer excluding 1) with respect to an arrangement interval of detection parts of the pressure detection unit. measuring device.   The pulse wave measurement device according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the pressure transmission unit includes a protective member on a surface that contacts the measurement target.   30. The pulse wave measuring apparatus according to claim 29, wherein the protective member is detachable from the pressure transmission unit.

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