JP2016114983A - Headset and biological information measurement system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To measure biological information without affecting music reproduction or a call, by use of an existing terminal device.SOLUTION: A biological information measurement system includes: a terminal device having analog sound output function and analog sound input function; and a headset having a sound reproducing unit which is connected by wire to the terminal device via an analog sound output terminal and an analog sound input terminal, to reproduce sound on receipt of an analog output sound signal from the terminal device. The headset includes: a sensor for acquiring biological information of a person with the headset mounted thereon; and a controller which extracts a sensor driving signal included in the analog output sound signal from the terminal device, to drive the sensor, and transmits the biological information acquired by the sensor, to the terminal, by superimposing it on an analog input sound signal. The terminal device includes an information processing section which outputs the sensor driving signal superimposed on the analog output sound signal and extracts the biological information superimposed on the analog input sound signal, to be processed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a biological information measurement system using a headset incorporating a sensor and an existing portable terminal.

In order to make the effect of exercise effective during exercise for maintaining health, it is becoming common to exercise while measuring the heart rate. In addition, as for the heart rate management during such exercise, there are portable biometric devices in addition to those performed in a dedicated facility.
This type of portable biometric device for general health care is a device that connects a sensor built-in headset or sensor wristwatch to a portable terminal via short-range wireless communication, and processes the measurement results using application software on the portable terminal. Existing.

  For example, in the following patent documents and non-patent documents, the sensor built-in earphone and the portable terminal are connected by short-range wireless communication, and the measurement result is processed by application software on the portable terminal side.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,655,004 “Measure heart rate, exercise efficiently!”, [Online], [Search September 1, 2014], Internet <URL: http://www.iriver.jp/products/product_97.php> “Activity meter”, [online], [Search September 1, 2014], Internet <URL: http://japanese.engadget.com/2014/02/13/the-dash-199/> “Heart rate monitor”, [online], [searched September 1, 2014], Internet <URL: http://www.engadget.com/2014/01/06/lg-lifeband-touch-heart-rate -monitor-earphones / ＞

Here, when data is continuously transmitted and received by connecting a sensor and a mobile terminal using short-range wireless communication, the following problems exist.
Problem 1: A connection setting called pairing is required. This connection setting operation is complicated and troublesome for the user.

Problem 2: Power consumption is high because measurement results are transmitted by wireless communication. For this reason, a relatively large battery is required, and the weight of a headset or the like with a built-in sensor increases.
Problem 3: There is a case where it cannot be used in a place where wireless communication is restricted in an airplane or in the vicinity of a medical device.

Problem 4: About the sensor to measure, in the structure provided with the light emission part and the light-receiving part, electric power consumption may be large. For this reason, a relatively large battery is required, and the weight of a headset or the like with a built-in sensor increases.
On the other hand, the above problems can be solved by making a wired connection between the earphone with a built-in sensor and the portable terminal as the processing device.

Here, there are analog connection and digital connection as a method for wired connection to an existing portable terminal (such as a cellular phone device, a portable computer, and a portable music player) as the portable terminal.
Among these, in the wired digital connection, the data processing method depends on the model and operating system of each terminal device. Therefore, processing corresponding to the model and operating system is required, and it is expected that the cost will increase in order to cope with the processing.

On the other hand, in the wired analog connection, a general analog audio input / output terminal generally installed in each terminal device is used. By using this analog audio input / output terminal, it is possible to construct a simple system at low cost.
However, since the audio input / output terminal is used for inputting / outputting audio signals used during music playback and calls, it is necessary to exchange data of biometric measurement results without deteriorating audio during music playback or calls. It is necessary to devise.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems. An analog voice input / output is performed between a sensor for biometric information and a terminal device using a headset with a built-in sensor and an existing terminal device. It is an object of the present invention to provide a headset and a biological information measurement system capable of measuring biological information without interfering with music playback and telephone calls that are intended for use when connecting via a terminal.

  (1) The present invention provides a head that can be connected to a terminal device having an output function for outputting an analog audio signal on which a drive signal is superimposed and an input function for inputting an analog audio signal on which biological information is superimposed. A signal input unit that receives an analog audio signal from the terminal device, a signal output unit that outputs the analog audio signal to the terminal device, and an analog audio signal input from the signal input unit. An acoustic reproduction unit to be reproduced, a sensor that acquires biological information of the headset wearer, a signal processing unit that converts the biological information acquired by the sensor into an analog audio signal, and input from the signal input unit The sensor driving signal included in the analog audio signal is extracted and controlled to drive the sensor, and the biological information acquired by the sensor is The converted by the issue process section is superimposed on the analog audio signal characterized by comprising a controller for controlling to send to the terminal device.

  The present invention also includes a terminal device including the above headset, an output function for outputting an analog audio signal on which a drive signal is superimposed, and an input function for inputting an analog audio signal on which biological information is superimposed. The living body information measurement system, wherein the terminal device superimposes the sensor driving signal on an analog output signal and outputs the superimposed signal to the headset, and also superimposes the living body information superimposed on the analog audio signal in the headset. An information processing unit that extracts and processes information is provided.

(2) The controller controls driving and stopping of the sensor based on the sensor driving signal.
(3) When the controller does not receive the sensor drive signal, the controller controls the sensor to a drive stop state.

(4) The controller controls the sensor in a state other than driving and driving stop based on the sensor driving signal.
(5) The headset includes a microphone that collects sound to generate the analog audio signal, and the controller converts the biological information acquired by the sensor by the signal processing unit, and Control is performed so as to be superimposed on an analog audio signal from a microphone and sent to the terminal device.

(6) The information processing unit performs output of the sensor driving signal and extraction and processing of the biological information by an application program stored in the terminal device.
(7) The information processing unit generates and outputs the sensor driving signal in a non-audible state.

  (8) The headset includes a microphone that collects sound and generates the analog audio signal, and the controller outputs the biological information at a frequency outside the band of the analog audio signal generated by the microphone. It is superimposed on the analog audio signal and transmitted to the terminal device.

(9) The information processing unit monitors whether or not the analog audio signal is used in the terminal device, and the sensor drive signal is configured to stop driving the sensor during a period in which the analog audio signal is used. Is generated.
(10) The information processing unit generates the sensor driving signal for controlling driving and stopping of the sensor.

  (11) The information processing unit generates the sensor driving signal for controlling a state other than driving or stopping of the sensor.

  (1) In the present invention, the sensor drive signal is superimposed on the analog audio signal and output from the terminal device side, and the headset drives the sensor by extracting the sensor drive signal included in the analog audio signal. The headset sends the biological information superimposed on the analog audio signal to the terminal device, and the terminal device extracts and processes the biological information superimposed on the analog audio signal.

As a result, when using a headset with a built-in sensor and an existing terminal device to connect the biometric information measurement sensor and the terminal device to a wired connection, this may interfere with music playback and telephone calls that are intended for use. Therefore, it is possible to measure biological information.
Further, since the terminal device and the headset are connected by wire, there is no power consumption as in the case of wireless connection, and the device can be used for a long time. Moreover, since it is a wired connection, the power consumption of the sensor can be transmitted via the wired connection. This eliminates the need to incorporate a large capacity battery in the headset.

In addition, setting work such as pairing in the wireless connection between the terminal device and the headset is not necessary, and simply connecting the plug and jack using the signal input unit / signal output unit, Measurement becomes possible.
Since the signal input unit / signal output unit can use a plug / jack that is standardly mounted on a general terminal device, biometric information measurement is performed using most existing headsets and terminal devices. It becomes possible to build a system.

  (2) In order to control the drive and stop of the sensor based on the sensor drive signal superimposed on the analog audio signal, the signal input unit is configured to connect the biometric information measurement sensor and the terminal device using an existing terminal device. / When a wired connection is made via a signal output unit, it is possible to measure biometric information without hindering music playback and telephone calls, which are original uses.

  (3) When the sensor drive signal is not received, the sensor is controlled to be in a drive stop state, and therefore, the biological information measurement sensor and the terminal device are connected via the signal input unit / signal output unit using the existing terminal device. When a wired connection is made, the biometric information measurement can be performed without hindering the music reproduction and telephone call, which are the original purposes.

  (4) Since the controller of the headset controls the sensor other than the drive and drive stop states based on the sensor drive signal, it selects one of a plurality of sensors, adjusts the amount of light emitted from the sensor, Various biological information measurements such as impedance check and auxiliary control for accurately performing biological information measurement can be performed.

  (5) The controller of the headset converts the biological information acquired by the sensor by the signal processing unit, and superimposes it on the analog audio signal from the microphone so as to send it to the terminal device. By using the biometric information measurement sensor and the terminal device via the signal input unit / signal output unit, the biometric information measurement can be performed without hindering a call or the like that is an original use. .

  (6) In order to execute the output of the sensor drive signal and the extraction and processing of the biological information by the application program stored in the terminal device, the sensor and the terminal device for measuring biological information are used using the existing terminal device. When a signal is connected via a signal input unit / signal output unit, biometric information can be measured without hindering music playback and telephone calls, which are the original applications.

(7) When a sensor driving signal is generated and output in an inaudible state, and a sensor for measuring biological information is connected to the terminal device via a signal input unit / signal output unit using an existing terminal device. In addition, it is possible to measure biological information without hindering music playback and telephone calls, which are the original applications.
(8) In order to superimpose biological information on the analog voice signal at a frequency outside the band of the analog voice signal generated by the microphone and send it to the terminal device, a sensor and a terminal for measuring biological information using an existing terminal device When the apparatus is wired to the apparatus via the signal input section / signal output section, it is possible to measure biological information without hindering music playback and telephone calls that are originally used.

  (9) An existing terminal device is used to monitor whether or not an analog audio signal is used in the terminal device, and to generate a sensor drive signal so as to stop driving the sensor during the period in which the analog audio signal is used. Thus, when the sensor for measuring biometric information and the terminal device are connected by wire via the signal input unit / signal output unit, it is possible to measure biometric information without hindering a call that is the original use.

  (10) In order to generate a sensor driving signal for controlling the driving and stopping of the sensor on the terminal device side, the existing terminal device is used to connect the biological information measurement sensor and the terminal device to the signal input unit / signal output. When a wired connection is made via a section, it is possible to measure biological information without hindering music playback and telephone calls, which are the original applications.

  (11) A sensor drive signal for controlling a state other than driving and stopping of the sensor (selection of a plurality of sensors, adjustment of light emission amount of the sensor, impedance check of sensor electrodes, etc.) is generated on the terminal device side Therefore, various types of biological information measurement and auxiliary control for accurately performing biological information measurement can be performed.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the biometric information measurement system of embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the external appearance structure of the biometric information measurement system of embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the biometric information measurement system of embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the external appearance structure of the biometric information measurement system of embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the biometric information measurement system of embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the external appearance structure of the biometric information measurement system of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process example of the biometric information measurement system of embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state of an analog output audio | voice signal. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a waveform characteristic at the time of the process of the biometric information measurement system of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows another example of a process of the biometric information measurement system of embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows another example of a process of the biometric information measurement system of embodiment of this invention.

The best mode for carrying out the present invention (hereinafter referred to as an embodiment) will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings.
[Configuration of Embodiment]
Hereinafter, the configuration of the embodiment of the headset and the biological information measurement system of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

The biological information measurement system 1 in FIG. 1 includes a terminal device 100 and a headset 300.
Here, the terminal device 100 is an existing one, and as shown in FIG. 1, a control unit 101, an operation display unit 110, a voice processing unit 120, an information processing unit 130, It is comprised.

  The terminal device 100 includes a portable or stationary telephone device or wireless communication device (communication processing device), a portable or stationary computer (information processing device), a portable or stationary music playback device, or Various apparatuses such as a music recording / reproducing apparatus (music processing apparatus) are applicable.

  Here, the portable type includes not only a portable type but also a portable type (portable type). The stationary type includes not only a desktop type and a table top type, but also a fixed type such as a rack mount type. In the following embodiment, a portable processing device will be described as a specific example of the terminal device 100.

Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the terminal device 100 includes an analog audio input / output terminal 190a having both an analog audio input terminal and an analog audio output terminal, and a digital input / output terminal 190d.
The analog audio input / output terminal 190a is used when wired to the headset 300. The digital input / output terminal 190d is used when connected to a computer device (not shown).

  Here, the control part 101 controls each part in the terminal device 100, and especially performs control as a biological information measurement system. The operation display unit 110 includes a liquid crystal display unit, a touch panel, and the like, and accepts an operator's operation and displays various information. The audio processing unit 120 outputs analog audio signals (hereinafter, analog audio signals for reproduction are referred to as “analog output audio signals”: audio_L and audio_R in FIG. 1) during music reproduction, telephone call, and information reproduction. And an input process of an analog input audio signal from the headset 300. The information processing unit 130 executes various types of information processing and arithmetic processing according to various stored application programs, an operating system (not shown), and the like.

  The information processing unit 130 also superimposes and outputs a sensor drive signal for driving a sensor built in the headset 300 on the analog output audio signal, and also outputs an analog audio signal from a microphone built in the headset 300. (Hereinafter, the biometric information superimposed on the analog audio signal collected by the microphone is referred to as “analog input audio signal”) is extracted and processed.

Here, the headset 300 includes a sensor built in an earphone microphone, and includes a right earpiece portion 300R, a left earpiece portion 300L, and a controller 300C.
Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the headset 300 includes an analog audio input / output terminal 390a that can be connected to an analog audio input / output terminal 190a on the terminal device 100 side. Here, the analog audio input / output terminal 390a includes a signal input unit that receives an analog audio signal from the terminal device 100 and the like, and a signal output unit that outputs the analog audio signal to the terminal device 100 and the like. . Here, a specific example in which the signal input unit and the signal output unit are integrally configured as one plug is shown, but it may be divided into two. In addition, although it calls a headset here, it is synonymous with what is called an earphone or a headphone.

Here, the right earpiece unit 300R includes a driver unit 310R as an acoustic reproduction unit that reproduces a right audio signal (audio_R), and a sensor 330R that acquires biological information of the headset wearer.
The left earpiece unit 300L includes a driver unit 310L as an acoustic reproduction unit that reproduces a left audio signal (audio_L), and a sensor 330L that acquires biological information of the headset wearer.

  The sensors 330R and 330L may be any of a heart rate sensor, a thermometer, a saturated oxygen concentration sensor, an electroencephalogram sensor, and the like. Moreover, in this embodiment, although the structure which has the sensor 330R and the sensor 330L is shown, the structure in which any one sensor may exist may be sufficient.

In the following description, the sensor 330R and the sensor 330L may be collectively referred to simply as the sensor 330.
The controller 300 </ b> C includes a controller 301, a power supply unit 320, a signal processing unit 340, and a microphone unit 350. The controller 300C is not limited to the box shape in the middle of the cable as shown in FIG. 2, and various forms such as a built-in headband, a built-in neckband, and an earpiece integrated type are possible.

  Here, the controller 301 controls various processes for obtaining biological information in the headset 300. The power feeding unit 320 supplies necessary power to the sensors 330R and 330L in accordance with an instruction from the controller 301. In response to an instruction from the controller 301, the signal processing unit 340 sends the biological information from the sensors 330R and 330L to the terminal device 100 in a state of being superimposed on the analog input audio signal. The microphone unit 350 sends an audio signal obtained by collecting sound to the terminal device 100 as an analog input audio signal.

  FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 are explanatory diagrams showing another configuration example of the biological information measuring system 1. In FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the same number is attached | subjected to the same thing in FIG. 1 and FIG. Here, the microphone unit is not present in the headset 300. That is, headset 300 corresponds to a stereo earphone with a built-in sensor. Here, the signal processing unit 340 sends the biological information from the sensor 330R and the sensor 330L to the terminal device 100 as an analog input audio signal according to an instruction from the controller 301.

FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 are explanatory diagrams showing still another configuration example of the biological information measuring system 1. In FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the same number is attached | subjected to the same thing in FIG. 1 and FIG.
Here, in the headset 300, a driver unit 310R as an acoustic reproduction unit that reproduces a right audio signal (audio_R) and a plurality of sensors 330Ra to 330Rc that acquire biological information of the headset wearer are displayed on the right earpiece unit 300R. , And is configured. The left earpiece unit 300L includes a driver unit 310L as an acoustic reproduction unit that reproduces a left audio signal (audio_L), and a plurality of sensors 330La to 330Lc that acquire biological information of the headset wearer. Is done. The sensors 330Ra, 330Rb, and 330Rc, and the sensors 330La, 330Lb, and 330Lc may be any of a heart rate sensor, a thermometer, a saturated oxygen concentration sensor, an electroencephalogram sensor, and the like.

[Operation of Embodiment]
The operation of this embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Here, the biological information measurement system shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is taken as a specific example.
First, the user connects the analog voice input / output terminal 390a of the headset 300 to the analog voice input / output terminal 190a of the terminal device 100 (steps S101 and S201 in FIG. 7). The general analog audio input / output terminal 190a and the analog audio input / output terminal 390a are of a plug / jack type, and are configured to be easily inserted and removed.

  Here, the user of the terminal device 100 operates the measurement application program on the terminal device 100 side (step S102 in FIG. 7). The operation start of the measurement application program may be caused by a user's intentional operation, or the control unit 101 of the terminal device 100 that detects the connection of the sensor-equipped headset 300 starts the measurement application program. You may let them.

  Further, the headset 300 controls the controller 301 so that only the analog audio signal generated by the sound collection of the microphone unit 350 is transmitted to the terminal device 100 (step S202 in FIG. 7). That is, the controller 301 performs control so that the biological information is not sent to the terminal device 100 at this time.

  Here, the measurement application program confirms the activation state of another application program that uses the analog input audio signal (steps S103 and S104 in FIG. 7). Here, the other application programs using the analog input audio signal are a call application program, a voice command application program, a recording (voice recording) application program, a recording (moving image shooting) application program, and the like.

  When another application program that uses the analog input audio signal is activated (NO in step S104 in FIG. 7), the measurement application program does not start the biological information measurement of the present embodiment, and the analog input audio signal The system waits for the end of another application program that uses (step S104 NO, step S103 in FIG. 7).

On the other hand, when no other application program using the analog input audio signal is activated (YES in step S104 in FIG. 7), the measurement application program starts the biological information measurement of the present embodiment.
First, the measurement application program sends sensor drive signals to the sensors 330R and 330L built in the headset 300 by placing them on the wiring of the right audio signal (audio_R) and the left audio signal (audio_L) (FIG. 7 in step S105).

  In addition, since this sensor drive signal is superimposed on an audio | voice signal and sent, it is desirable to produce | generate in an inaudible state. Here, as an example of a non-audible state, it is possible to select a frequency and a level within an audible band so as to be hidden in an audio signal on hearing due to a masking effect. In this case, in order to generate the masking effect at a desired timing, it is possible to intentionally add noise to the audio signal. As another example of the inaudible state, it is also possible to disperse the drive signal in a low level and in a wide band by spread spectrum within the audible band. As another example of the non-audible state, a short-time signal is generated as a signal having a masking effect in the above-described audible band or a signal outside the audible band, and a certain time is valid from the short-time signal. It is also possible to do so.

  As still another example of the inaudible state, a carrier wave having a frequency outside the audible band can be used. As another example of the non-audible state, a short-time signal is generated as a signal in the above-mentioned audible band or outside the audible band, and a certain period of time is enabled from the short-time signal. Is possible.

Here, since the audio processing unit 120 of the general terminal device 100 includes a DA converter having a sampling frequency of 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz as a music reproduction function, the ability to reproduce up to 22 kHz or 24 kHz. Many are equipped with.
On the other hand, the audible frequency is said to be 20 kHz. Therefore, it is desirable to employ a frequency of about 20 to 22 kHz, which is a frequency outside the audible band, as the sensor drive signal of the present embodiment.

In this way, when connecting the biometric information measurement sensor and the existing terminal device 100 via the analog voice input / output terminal, the biometric information can be reproduced without interfering with the original music reproduction or telephone call. Information measurement becomes possible.
FIG. 8A shows an example of the waveform of an analog output audio signal output from the audio processing unit 120 during music reproduction, where the horizontal axis represents time and the vertical axis represents the signal level. FIG. 8B is a diagram showing the same signal as FIG. 8A output from the audio processing unit 120 during music playback as a spectrogram, with the horizontal axis representing time, the vertical axis representing frequency, and the density. Is the signal level (black: low level, white: high level).

  FIG. 9A shows an example of a signal waveform in which a sensor drive signal is superimposed on an analog output audio signal output from the audio processing unit 120 during music reproduction. FIG. 9 (b) is a diagram showing the same signal as FIG. 9 (a) output from the audio processing unit 120 during music reproduction as a spectrogram, with the horizontal axis representing time, the vertical axis representing frequency, and the density. Is the signal level (black: low level, white: high level).

  In the case of FIG. 9, the carrier signal of the sensor drive signal can be recognized at a frequency around 22 kHz. In this way, by making the carrier wave of the sensor drive signal out of the audible band, it is possible to measure biometric information without hindering music playback and telephone calls that are intended for use. In addition, since the frequency component included in the original music reproduction signal is extremely small in the vicinity of 22 kHz, there is no problem of causing malfunction in sensor driving.

  Note that the upper limit frequency that can be reproduced by the audio processing unit 120 is expected to be different depending on the model of the terminal device 100. For this reason, at the start of the operation of the measurement application program, sensor drive signals are transmitted at a plurality of different predetermined frequencies, and a response signal from the headset 300 is confirmed, so that communication is established reliably. The frequency of the carrier wave may be determined. In this case, for example, it is desirable to sequentially increase the carrier frequency of the sensor drive signal, such as 12 kHz, 14 kHz, 16 kHz, 18 kHz, 20 kHz, 22 kHz, and use the maximum operable frequency.

Moreover, the controller 301 of the headset 300 repeats reception of a sensor drive signal and presence confirmation from the time of being connected to the terminal device 100 (step S203 and step S204 in FIG. 7).
The controller 301 that has confirmed the reception of the sensor drive signal from the terminal device 100 causes the controller 301 and the signal processing unit 340 to generate a response signal as the reception confirmation of the sensor drive as necessary, and the analog for the microphone unit 350 A response signal is sent to the terminal device 100 as a response to the sensor drive signal by placing it on the wiring of the input audio signal (mic).

The response signal and biometric information described later include a carrier wave having a frequency that exceeds the upper limit frequency used as an analog input audio signal from the microphone unit 350 and that can be input and processed by the audio processing unit 120. It is desirable to use
For example, the voice processing unit 120 of the general terminal device 100 has a performance capable of stably inputting and processing up to about 15 kHz as voice processing for calls, recording, and recording, although there are differences depending on the model. . In contrast, application programs for calls and voice commands often use only up to about 10 kHz. In this case, it is desirable to employ a frequency (for example, about 15 kHz) higher than 10 kHz as the response signal and biological information carrier wave of this embodiment.

  It should be noted that the upper limit frequency that can be input and processed by the voice processing unit 120 may be different depending on the model of the terminal device 100. For this reason, at the start of the operation of the measurement application program, a response signal is transmitted from the headset 300 using a plurality of carrier waves having different frequencies that are predetermined on the terminal device 100 side and the headset 300 side, and communication is reliably established. The frequency of the carrier to be used may be determined.

  When the controller 301 confirms the reception of the sensor drive signal from the terminal device 100 (YES in step S204 in FIG. 7), the controller 301 performs the analog audio signal generated by the sound collection of the microphone unit 350. Control is performed so that the biometric information is transmitted to the terminal device 100 in a superimposed state (step S205 in FIG. 7). Further, in response to an instruction from the controller 301, power is supplied from the power supply unit 320 to the sensor 330R and the sensor 330L (step S206 in FIG. 7). The power feeding unit 320 may supply power necessary for driving the sensor from a built-in battery (not shown), or may use a voltage supplied from the terminal device 100 for driving the microphone unit 350. .

  Further, when the controller 301 confirms reception of the sensor drive signal from the terminal device 100 (YES in step S204 in FIG. 7), the controller 301 supplies power to the sensor 330R and the sensor 330L (step S206 in FIG. 7). At the same time, it is also desirable to perform calibration for the sensors 330R and 330L. That is, when a light emitting element and a light receiving element are used, a calibration process is performed such that the light emitting element emits light with a predetermined amount of light and the light receiving sensitivity of the light receiving element is set so that a predetermined level of measurement signal is obtained. To do.

  In addition, when the controller 301 confirms reception of the sensor drive signal from the terminal device 100 (YES in step S204 in FIG. 7), the controller 301 can select any one that is actually used in the headset 300 equipped with the plurality of sensors 330. It is also possible to select a sensor or switch the mode of the sensor 330.

Then, the sensor 330R and the sensor 330L to which the driving power is supplied perform biological information measurement, acquire biological information of the headset wearer (step S206 in FIG. 7), and use the acquired biological information as a signal processing unit. Send to 340.
Then, the signal processing unit 340 superimposes the biological information obtained by the sensor 330R and the sensor 330L in the driving state using the carrier wave signal having the predetermined frequency described above, and superimposes the analog information on the analog input audio signal. The data is sent to the terminal device 100 via the analog voice input / output terminal 390a and the analog voice input / output terminal 190a (step S207 in FIG. 7).
Here, “superimposition” means that biological information is included using any frequency within the frequency band of the analog input audio signal, regardless of whether the original analog input audio signal exists. . In addition, the use of spread spectrum or acoustic watermarking technology instead of using the carrier wave signal of the predetermined frequency described above to include biological information within the frequency band of the analog input audio signal is also included in “superimposition”.

  Note that a pulse wave signal or the like obtained by pulsation of a blood vessel is a signal having a very low frequency if the raw signal is not processed. For this reason, it is highly desirable to transmit the modulated signal such as amplitude modulation or frequency modulation to the terminal apparatus 100 using the carrier wave signal having the predetermined frequency described above.

Further, the controller 301 periodically confirms whether or not the sensor drive signal from the terminal device 100 can be continuously received (step S208 in FIG. 7).
Here, when the controller 301 can continuously confirm the reception of the sensor drive signal (YES in step S208 in FIG. 7), the controller 301 drives the sensors 330R and 330L and measures biological information (FIG. 7). Step S206 in the middle) and sending of biological information by the signal processing unit 340 (Step S207 in FIG. 7) are repeatedly executed.

On the other hand, on the terminal device 100 side, the audio processing unit 120 receives the biological information obtained by the sensors 330R and 330L superimposed on the analog input audio signal via the analog audio input / output terminal 190a (in FIG. 7). Step S106).
Here, the measurement application program extracts the biological information obtained by the sensor 330R and the sensor 330L superimposed on the analog input voice signal together with the voice processing unit 120, and analyzes the biological information as signal processing (in FIG. 7). Step S107). Note that how to analyze and how to use the obtained biological information can be freely determined in the measurement application program.

In addition, the measurement application program confirms the activation state of another application program that uses the analog input audio signal during the measurement of biological information (step S108 in FIG. 7).
When another application program that uses an analog input voice signal such as a call, recording, or voice command is activated (YES in step S109 in FIG. 7), the biometric information is converted to a voice that is used in the other application program. Considering the influence, the operation of the measurement application program is temporarily suspended (step S110 in FIG. 7). At the time of this interruption, the measurement application program also interrupts the transmission of the sensor drive signal.

  Note that the measurement application program uses the analog input audio signal even during the suspension of biometric information measurement so that the biometric information measurement can be resumed quickly when other application programs that use the analog input audio signal are terminated. The activation status of other application programs to be confirmed is repeatedly confirmed (steps S110, S108, and S109 in FIG. 7).

  In this state, when the controller 301 cannot confirm reception of the sensor drive signal on the headset 300 side (NO in step S208 in FIG. 7), the controller 301 drives the sensors 330R and 330L and performs a biological information measurement operation. Is temporarily suspended (step S209 in FIG. 7). When the measurement operation is interrupted, the sending of the biological information measurement superimposed on the analog input audio signal is also stopped.

Note that the interruption of the sensor drive signal is not only due to the activation of another application program on the terminal device 100 side, but also the connection / disconnection of the analog voice input / output terminal 190a and the analog voice input / output terminal 390a.
For this reason, the controller 301 also confirms connection / disconnection of the analog audio input / output terminal 190a and the analog audio input / output terminal 390a (step S210 in FIG. 7).

  If the analog voice input / output terminal 190a and the analog voice input / output terminal 390a are connected and disconnected (YES in step S210 in FIG. 7), the controller 301 ends all the biological information measurement operations in the headset 300 (FIG. 7). End in step S109).

  Although the sensor drive signal is stopped (NO in step S208 in FIG. 7), the connection between the analog audio input / output terminal 190a and the analog audio input / output terminal 390a is maintained (NO in step S210 in FIG. 7). ), The controller 301 repeatedly performs reception confirmation of the sensor drive signal so that the biological information measurement can be resumed promptly when the transmission of the sensor drive signal is resumed (step S208 in FIG. 7).

Further, on the terminal device 100 side performing the biological information measurement, the control unit 101 confirms connection / disconnection of the analog voice input / output terminal 190a and the analog voice input / output terminal 390a (step S111 in FIG. 7).
When the connection between the analog voice input / output terminal 190a and the analog voice input / output terminal 390a is maintained (NO in step S111 in FIG. 7), the sensor drive signal is transmitted by the measurement application program (step S105 in FIG. 7). Receiving the biological information obtained by the sensors 330R and 330L (step S106 in FIG. 7), analyzing the biological information (step S107 in FIG. 7), and confirming the activation of other application programs using the analog input voice signal (Step S110, Step S108, and Step S109 in FIG. 7) are repeatedly executed.

  On the other hand, if connection / disconnection of analog audio input / output terminal 190a and analog audio input / output terminal 390a has occurred (YES in step S111 in FIG. 7), control unit 101 ends the measurement application program (in FIG. 7). Step S112, end in step S113). In this case, the terminal device 100 and the headset 300 return to operations such as normal sound reproduction and telephone conversation.

  Although not shown in the above flowchart, the measurement application program is also terminated when the user of the terminal device 100 intentionally terminates the measurement application program (steps S112 and S113 in FIG. 7). The terminal device 100 and the headset 300 return to operations such as normal sound reproduction and telephone conversation.

In the explanation according to the above flowchart, the measurement application program temporarily suspends the biological information measurement operation when another application program such as a telephone call is operated. However, such a temporary suspension operation may not be performed. It is.
That is, when operating another application program such as a phone call using an analog input voice signal, the biological information obtained by the sensors 330R and 330L is used as the frequency band of the analog input voice signal used by the other application program. What is necessary is just to superimpose on an analog input audio | voice signal in the state modulated using the carrier wave signal of the predetermined frequency of the removed state.

Even in this way, when connecting a biometric information measurement sensor and a terminal device via an analog voice input / output terminal, it is possible to measure biometric information without hindering a call or the like that is originally intended. Become.
[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation state of the second embodiment of the biological information measurement system including the headset 300 and the terminal device 100. Here, in FIG. 10, the same processing numbers as those in the flowchart shown in FIG.

In the second embodiment, when the controller 301 confirms reception of the sensor drive signal from the terminal device 100 (YES in step S204 in FIG. 10), the controller 301
Control is performed so that only biological information is transmitted to the terminal device 100, that is, an analog audio signal generated by sound collection by the microphone unit 350 is not transmitted to the terminal device 100 (step S205 ′ in FIG. 10). . In this case, an audio signal is not mixed in the biological information, and accurate measurement is possible.

[Third embodiment]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an operation state of the third embodiment of the biological information measuring system including the headset 300 and the terminal device 100.
As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the third embodiment is an embodiment intended for the biological information measurement system 1 when the headset 300 is an earphone with a built-in sensor that does not include a microphone unit. is there. In FIG. 11, the same processing numbers as those in the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, the user connects the analog audio input / output terminal 390a of the headset 300 not provided with the microphone unit to the analog audio input / output terminal 190a of the terminal device 100 (steps S101 ″ and S201 ″ in FIG. 11). Here, the controller 301 disables the voice input / output terminal 390a by opening or shorting the microphone terminal to which the microphone unit is connected (step S202 ″ in FIG. 11).

  When the controller 301 confirms reception of the sensor drive signal from the terminal device 100 (YES in steps S203 and S204 in FIG. 11), the controller 301 should be connected to the microphone unit at the audio input / output terminal 390a. In a state where only the biological information can be transmitted to the microphone terminal (step S205 "in FIG. 11). In this case, when the earphone having the sensor without the microphone unit is used as the headset 300, the biological information is surely obtained. It becomes possible to transmit to the terminal device 100, and accurate measurement becomes possible.

[Other Embodiments]
In the above description, the drive of the sensor (measurement execution) is caused by the presence of the drive signal, and the drive of the sensor is stopped (measurement is stopped or measurement is stopped) by the absence of the drive signal. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, sensor drive signal frequency difference (22 kHz, 23 kHz, 24 kHz, etc.), different sensor drive signal combinations (22 kHz only, 22 kHz and 23 kHz, 22 kHz and 24 kHz, etc.), left and right sensor drive signal phase difference (in-phase, reverse) Control various states based on information such as phase and phase difference (90 degrees), such as selecting one of the sensors when there are multiple sensors, adjusting the amount of light emitted from the sensor, and checking the impedance of the sensor electrodes. It is also possible to do. In this case, it is possible to perform various biological information measurements by switching to a desired state.

[Effect obtained by the embodiment]
(1) In the biological information measurement system 1 according to the present embodiment or the headset 300 used in the biological information measurement system 1, the sensor drive signal is superimposed on the analog output audio signal from the terminal device 100 side and output. In the headset 300, the sensor drive signal included in the analog output audio signal is extracted to drive the sensor 330. Then, the headset 300 sends the biological information superimposed on the analog input audio signal to the terminal device 100, and the terminal device 100 extracts and processes the biological information superimposed on the analog input audio signal.

  Thus, when the headset 300 incorporating the sensor 330 and the existing terminal device 100 are used to connect the biological information measurement sensor 330 and the terminal device 100 via the analog audio input / output terminal, Biometric information can be measured without hindering the music playback and phone calls that are used.

  Further, since the terminal device 100 and the headset 300 are connected by wire, there is no power consumption as in the case of wireless connection, and the device can be used for a long time. In addition, since the terminal device 100 and the headset 300 are wired, it is possible to transmit the power consumption of the sensor built in the headset 300 via the wired connection. For this reason, it is not necessary to incorporate a large capacity battery in the headset 300.

In addition, setting work such as pairing at the time of wireless connection between the terminal device 100 and the headset 300 is not necessary, and simply connecting the plug and jack using an analog audio input / output terminal, Measurement becomes possible.
Since the signal input unit / signal output unit can use a plug / jack that is standardly mounted on a general terminal device, biometric information measurement is performed using most existing headsets and terminal devices. It becomes possible to build a system.

  (2) In order to control the driving and stopping of the sensor 330 based on the sensor driving signal superimposed on the analog output sound signal, the existing terminal device 100 is used to measure the biological information measuring sensor 330 and the terminal device 100. Is connected via an analog voice input / output terminal, it is possible to measure biometric information without hindering music playback and telephone calls that are originally intended.

  (3) When the sensor drive signal is not received on the headset 300 side, in order to control the sensor 330 to the drive stop state, the existing terminal device 100 is used to measure the biological information measuring sensor 330 and the terminal device 100. Is connected via an analog voice input / output terminal, biometric information can be measured without hindering music playback and telephone calls that are intended for use.

  (4) On the headset 300 side, the controller 301 controls a state other than driving and driving stop for the sensor based on the sensor driving signal, so that any one of a plurality of sensors, adjustment of the light emission amount of the sensor, sensor Various biological information measurements such as impedance check of the electrodes, and auxiliary control for accurately performing the biological information measurement become possible.

  (5) On the headset 300 side, the controller 301 performs signal processing on the biological information acquired by the sensor and superimposes it on the analog audio signal from the microphone, and sends it to the terminal device 100, whereby the existing terminal device When the biometric information measuring sensor and the terminal device 100 are connected to each other via the signal input unit / signal output unit using the 100, the biometric information measurement can be performed without hindering a call or the like that is originally used. It becomes possible.

  (6) In order to execute the output of the sensor drive signal and the extraction and processing of the biological information by the measurement application program stored in the terminal device 100, the sensor 330 for measuring biological information using the existing terminal device 100 is used. When the terminal device 100 is connected to the terminal device 100 via the analog voice input / output terminal, it is possible to measure biometric information without hindering music playback and telephone calls that are intended for use.

  (7) Since the terminal device 100 generates and outputs a sensor drive signal in an inaudible state, the sensor for biological information measurement and the terminal device are connected via the signal input unit / signal output unit using the existing terminal device. When a wired connection is made, it is possible to measure biological information without hindering music playback and telephone calls that are originally intended.

  (8) Biological information is superposed on the analog input voice signal at a frequency outside the band of the analog input voice signal generated by the microphone 350 and transmitted to the terminal apparatus 100. Therefore, the biological information measurement is performed using the existing terminal apparatus 100. When the digital sensor 330 and the terminal device 100 are connected via the analog voice input / output terminal, it is possible to measure biological information without hindering music playback and telephone calls that are intended for use.

  (9) An existing terminal is used to monitor whether or not the analog input audio signal is used in the terminal device 100 and to generate a sensor drive signal so as to stop driving of the sensor during the period in which the analog input audio signal is used. When the device 100 is used to connect the biometric information measurement sensor 330 and the terminal device 100 via the analog voice input / output terminal, the biometric information can be measured without hindering a call that is originally intended. Become.

  (10) In order to generate a sensor driving signal for controlling the driving and stopping of the sensor on the terminal device side, the existing portable terminal device is used to connect the biological information measurement sensor and the portable terminal device to the signal input unit / When a wired connection is made via a signal output unit, it is possible to measure biometric information without hindering music playback and telephone calls that are originally intended.

  (11) A sensor drive signal for controlling a state other than driving and driving stop (selection of a plurality of driving sensors, adjustment of light emission amount of the sensor, impedance check of sensor electrodes, etc.) on the sensor 330 on the terminal device side Since it produces | generates, the auxiliary | assistant control for performing various biological information measurement and biological information measurement correctly is attained.

1 Biological Information Measuring System 100 Terminal Device 300 Headset 330 Sensor

Claims (12)

A headset capable of wired connection to a terminal device having an output function for outputting an analog audio signal on which a drive signal is superimposed and an input function for inputting an analog audio signal on which biological information is superimposed,
A signal input unit to which an analog audio signal from the terminal device is input;
A signal output unit for outputting an analog audio signal to the terminal device;
An acoustic reproduction unit for reproducing an analog audio signal input from the signal input unit;
A sensor for acquiring biological information of the headset wearer;
A signal processing unit that converts the biological information acquired by the sensor into an analog audio signal;
The sensor driving signal included in the analog audio signal input from the signal input unit is extracted and controlled to drive the sensor, and the biological information acquired by the sensor is converted by the signal processing unit and A controller that controls to superimpose on an analog audio signal and send it to the terminal device;
A headset characterized by comprising. The controller controls driving and stopping of the sensor based on the sensor driving signal;
The headset according to claim 1. When the controller does not receive the sensor drive signal, the controller controls the sensor to be in a drive stop state.
The headset according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the headset is characterized in that The controller controls a state other than driving and driving stop for the sensor based on the sensor driving signal.
The headset according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The headset is configured to include a microphone that collects sound and generates the analog audio signal;
The controller controls the biological information acquired by the sensor to be converted by the signal processing unit and superposed on an analog audio signal from the microphone and sent to the terminal device.
The headset according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The headset according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
A terminal device having an output function for outputting an analog audio signal on which a drive signal is superimposed and an input function for inputting an analog audio signal on which biological information is superimposed;
A biological information measuring system comprising:
The terminal device superimposes the sensor drive signal on an analog output signal and outputs it to the headset, and extracts and processes the biological information superimposed on the analog audio signal in the headset. Comprising a part,
A biological information measuring system characterized by the above. The information processing unit executes the output of the sensor driving signal and the extraction and processing of the biological information by an application program stored in the terminal device.
The living body information measuring system according to claim 6 characterized by things. The information processing unit generates and outputs the sensor drive signal in a non-audible state;
The biological information measurement system according to claim 6, wherein the biological information measurement system is a biological information measurement system. The headset is configured to include a microphone that collects sound and generates the analog audio signal;
The controller superimposes the biological information on the analog audio signal at a frequency outside the band of the analog audio signal generated by the microphone, and sends it to the terminal device.
The biological information measurement system according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein The information processing unit monitors whether or not the analog audio signal is used in the terminal device, and generates the sensor drive signal so as to stop driving the sensor during a period of using the analog audio signal. ,
The biological information measuring system according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein The information processing unit generates the sensor driving signal for controlling driving and stopping of the sensor;
The biological information measurement system according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein The information processing unit generates the sensor driving signal for controlling a state other than driving or stopping of the sensor;
The biological information measurement system according to claim 6, wherein the biological information measurement system is a biological information measurement system.