JP2018134248A - Biological information acquisition device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a biological information acquisition unit capable of acquiring biological information even if a mounting type biological information acquisition device is removed from an object person in spite of its comparatively simple configuration.SOLUTION: A biological information acquisition device is provided with a first hollow member (31) configured so as to be mounted on an object person, on which a body motion of the object person acts, a pressure sensor (32) for detecting the pressure of the first hollow member (31), a signal processing part (51) for acquiring biological information on the object person based on the pressure signal detected by the pressure sensor (32), and a communication path (40) capable of communicating a second hollow member (74) provided to a predetermined object (5) with the pressure sensor (32).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

    The present invention relates to a wearable biological information acquisition device that can be worn by a subject.

    There is a biological information acquisition apparatus that acquires biological information of a subject.

    As this type of device, Patent Document 1 discloses a belt-type biological information acquisition device. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 of the same document, this biological information acquisition apparatus is configured to obtain a belt that can be worn on the subject's waist, an air bag (pressure-sensitive portion) attached to the surface of the belt, and an internal pressure of the air bag. And a pressure sensor for detection. When the subject's body movement acts on the air bag while the subject is wearing the belt, the internal pressure of the air bag changes. Based on the internal pressure, the pressure sensor acquires a signal related to the subject's biological information (for example, body movement such as the subject's rollover, movement such as breathing and heartbeat).

JP 2001-286448 A

    The wearable biological information acquisition apparatus as described above needs to be always attached to the subject when acquiring biological information. On the other hand, the subject may not always want to wear a wearable biometric information acquisition device, for example, when going to bed or relaxing on a sofa or the like. This is because there is a possibility of feeling restrained by wearing the biometric information acquisition device.

    The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and its purpose is to acquire biological information even if the wearable biological information acquisition device is removed from the subject while having a relatively simple configuration. It is to provide a biological information acquisition unit that can be used.

    1st invention is comprised so that a subject can be mounted | worn, the pressure sensor (32) which detects the pressure of the 1st hollow member (31) which this subject's body motion acts, and this 1st hollow member (31) ) And a signal processing unit (51) that acquires the subject's biological information based on the pressure signal detected by the pressure sensor (32), and a predetermined target A biological information acquisition device comprising a communication path (40) capable of communicating with a second hollow member (74) provided in an object (5) and the pressure sensor (32).

    In the first invention, the body movement of the subject acts on the first hollow member (31) in a state where the biological information acquisition device (10) to the first hollow member (31) are attached to the subject. Due to this body movement, the internal pressure of the first hollow member (31) changes. A pressure sensor (32) detects the internal pressure of a 1st hollow member (31), and outputs the pressure signal according to this internal pressure. The subject's body movement (coarse movement derived from a large body movement or fine movement derived from heartbeat / respiration) is superimposed on the pressure signal. Therefore, the biological information of the subject can be acquired by the signal processing unit (51) based on the pressure signal.

    On the other hand, in a situation where the subject does not want to wear the biological information acquisition device (10), the biological information acquisition device (10) is removed. And a subject's body motion is made to act on the 2nd hollow member (74) provided in the predetermined target object (5) (for example, bedding, a sofa, etc.). The second hollow member (74) communicates with the pressure sensor (32) via the communication path (40). For this reason, the pressure signal according to the internal pressure of the second hollow member (74) can be detected by the pressure sensor (32), and the biological information based on this pressure signal can be acquired by the signal processing unit (51). As described above, the biological information of the subject can be acquired even when the subject has removed the biological information acquisition device (10).

    The operation of acquiring biological information based on the internal pressure of the first hollow member (31) and the operation of acquiring biological information based on the internal pressure of the second hollow member (74) include a pressure sensor (32) and a signal processing unit. (51) is also used. For this reason, the above two operations can be performed without providing two pressure sensors and two signal processing units. Therefore, the biometric information acquisition device (10) can be simplified or reduced in cost.

    In a second aspect based on the first aspect, the communication path (40) connects the pressure sensor (32) in parallel with the first hollow member (31) and the second hollow member (74). This is a biological information acquisition device characterized by the above.

    In the second invention, the pressure sensor (32), the first hollow member (31) and the second hollow member (74) are connected in parallel via the branch path (43). Therefore, the internal pressure of the first hollow member (31) and the internal pressure of the second hollow member (74) can be detected by one pressure sensor (32).

    In a third aspect based on the second aspect, the communication path (40) is in communication with the pressure sensor (32), the first hollow member (31), and the second hollow member (74). A biological information acquisition device characterized in that a switching mechanism (46, 80) for switching between the two is provided.

    In the third aspect of the invention, only the pressure sensor (32) and the first hollow member (31) are communicated with each other by using the switching mechanism (46, 80), or the pressure sensor (32) and the second hollow member (74). Can only communicate. By mounting the biological information acquisition device (10) in a state where only the pressure sensor (32) and the first hollow member (31) are communicated with each other, a change in internal pressure of the first hollow member (31) is increased. As a result, the accuracy of the biological information acquired when the biological information acquisition device (10) is attached is improved.

    Further, when only the pressure sensor (32) and the second hollow member (74) are in communication with each other, the biological information acquisition device (10) is removed, and the body movement of the subject is applied to the second hollow member (74). The change in internal pressure of the second hollow member (74) increases. As a result, the accuracy of the biological information acquired when the biological information acquisition device (10) is removed is improved.

    In a fourth aspect based on the third aspect, the switching mechanism (46, 80) is an opening / closing mechanism for opening / closing a passage (43) for communicating the second hollow member (74) and the pressure sensor (32). 46, 80).

    In 4th invention, the channel | path (43) which connects a 2nd hollow member (74) and a pressure sensor (32) is interrupted | blocked by making an opening-and-closing mechanism (46,80) into a closed state. Thereby, it can avoid that the change of the internal pressure of a 1st hollow member (31) becomes small resulting from this channel | path (43) being open | released. In this state, when the subject wears the biological information acquisition device (10), the change in the internal pressure of the first hollow member (31) increases, and the accuracy of the acquired biological information is improved.

    By opening the opening / closing mechanism (46, 80), the second hollow member (74) and the pressure sensor (32) communicate with each other. Thereby, a subject's biological information can be acquired in the state where a biological information acquisition device (10) was removed. In this case, the first hollow member (31) and the pressure sensor (32) are also communicated with each other, but the first hollow member (31) is removed from the subject, and body movement does not act. For this reason, even if the first hollow member (31) and the pressure sensor (32) communicate with each other, the tendency of the internal pressure change of the second hollow member (74) does not change significantly. Therefore, even if the first hollow member (31) and the pressure sensor (32) communicate with each other, the biological information of the subject can be sufficiently acquired.

    In a fifth aspect based on the fourth aspect, the second hollow member (74) has a connecting portion (73) connectable to a starting end of the passage (43), and the opening / closing mechanism (46, 80). When the connection portion (73) of the second hollow member (74) is connected to the passage (43), the passage (43) is opened, and the connection portion of the second hollow member (74) ( 73) The biological information acquiring apparatus according to claim 73, wherein the passage (43) is closed when the passage (43) is detached from the passage (43).

    In the fifth invention, when the connecting portion (73) of the second hollow member (74) is connected to the passage (43) for communicating the second hollow member (74) and the pressure sensor (32), the opening and closing are performed. The mechanism (46, 80) is opened. Accordingly, the internal pressure of the second hollow member (74) can be detected by the pressure sensor (32) in a state where the biological information acquisition device (10) is detached from the subject, and the biological information of the subject can be obtained.

    On the other hand, when the biological information acquisition device (10) is mounted, the connecting portion (73) of the second hollow member (74) is removed from the passage (43). As a result, the opening / closing mechanism (46, 80) is closed, and the passage (43) is closed. Accordingly, the change in the internal pressure of the first hollow member (31) is increased, and the accuracy of the biological information when the biological information acquisition device (10) is attached is improved.

    In a sixth aspect based on the first aspect, the first hollow member has a hollow tube (31), and the second hollow member (74) is connected to the pressure sensor via the tube (31). (32) A biometric information acquisition device that is configured to be connectable.

    In 6th invention, in the state which removed the 2nd hollow member (74) from the tube (31) which is a 1st hollow member, a subject wears a biological information acquisition device (10), and a subject's body The movement acts on the tube (31). The pressure sensor (32) outputs a pressure signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the tube (31), and the signal processing unit (51) acquires biological information based on the pressure signal.

    On the other hand, the second hollow member (74) is connected to the tube (31) with the subject removing the biological information acquisition device (10). Thus, the second hollow member (74) communicates with the pressure sensor (32) via the internal passage (31b) of the tube (31). When the body movement of the subject acts on the second hollow member (74) provided on the subject (5), the pressure sensor (32) outputs a pressure signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the second hollow member (74). And a signal processing part (51) acquires biometric information based on this pressure signal. As described above, the pressure sensor (32) and the signal processing unit (51) are used with the second hollow member (74) added to the tube (31) to remove the biological information acquisition device (10). Thus, biometric information can be acquired.

    In the present invention, since the internal passage (31b) of the tube (31) also serves as the communication passage (40), the device can be simplified and downsized.

    According to the present invention, the biological information of the subject can be acquired while removing the biological information acquisition device (10) by causing the body movement to act on the second hollow member (74) provided in the object (5). . Accordingly, it is possible to avoid impairing the comfort of the subject due to the subject wearing the biological information acquisition device (10).

    According to the present invention, the pressure sensor (32) includes a case where the biological information is acquired using the first hollow member (31) and a case where the biological information is acquired using the second hollow member (74). And the signal processing unit (51). Thereby, the number of parts and the cost of the biological information acquisition device (10) can be reduced, and the device can be simplified and downsized.

FIG. 1 is a schematic overall configuration diagram showing a biological information acquisition unit according to the embodiment, and shows a state where the biological information acquisition device is detached from the stationary unit. FIG. 2 is a schematic overall configuration diagram showing the biological information acquisition unit according to the embodiment, and shows a state in which the biological information acquisition device is installed in the stationary unit. FIG. 3 is a top view illustrating an appearance of the biological information acquisition apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a front view illustrating an appearance of the biological information acquisition apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a right side view illustrating an appearance of the biological information acquisition apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a rear view illustrating an appearance of the biological information acquisition apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an overall configuration of the biological information acquisition unit according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating an example of an installation state of the tube unit according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a schematic configuration diagram enlarging the vicinity of the pressure sensor according to the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram in which the vicinity of the branch path according to the embodiment is enlarged, and the tube cock is in a closed state. FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram in which the vicinity of the branch path according to the embodiment is enlarged, and the tube cock is in an open state. FIG. 12 is a schematic configuration diagram in which the vicinity of the branch path according to Modification 1 is enlarged, and the check valve is in a closed state. FIG. 13 is a schematic configuration diagram enlarging the vicinity of the branch path according to Modification 1, with the check valve in the open state. FIG. 14 is a schematic configuration diagram enlarging the vicinity of a branch path according to the second modification. FIG. 15 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 6 according to the third modification.

    Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments are essentially preferable examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, its application, or its use.

    As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the biological information acquisition unit (1) according to the embodiment includes a wearable biological information acquisition device (10), a cradle unit (60), and an external tube unit (70). Are combined. The biological information acquisition device (10) is configured to be installable on the charging base (61) of the cradle unit (60) (see FIG. 2). In addition, a tube unit (70) can be connected to the biological information acquisition device (10).

<Biological information acquisition device>
The biometric information acquisition device (10) shown in FIGS. The biological information acquisition device (10) is configured to be attachable to and detachable from the subject's wearing items (2, 3), and is attached to the subject via the wearing items (2, 3). The biological information acquisition device (10) of the present embodiment is attached to the belt (2) and the trousers (3) that are worn items.

    The biological information acquisition device (10) includes a case unit (11), a first tube (31), a pressure sensor (32), a circuit board (21), and a rechargeable battery (22).

<Case unit>
As shown in FIG.1 and FIG.5, the case unit (11) comprises the inverted U-shaped external shape which is vertically long as a whole, and a lower side is open | released. A case unit (11) comprises the clamping member which clamps a subject's wear goods (2, 3). The case unit (11) has a first casing (12), a second casing (13), and a connection member (14). A 1st casing (12) is arrange | positioned at a subject side on both sides of a wear article (2, 3). A 2nd casing (13) is arrange | positioned on the opposite side to an object person on both sides of a wear article (2, 3). The connecting member (14) is made of a flexible cylindrical resin material. The connecting member (14) connects the end of the first casing (12) and the end of the second casing (13).

    The first casing (12) accommodates the first tube (31) and the pressure sensor (32), and the second casing (13) contains a liquid crystal display (20), a circuit board (21), and a rechargeable battery. (22) is housed.

    As shown in FIG. 4, an opening (15) for exposing the liquid crystal display (20) is formed in the front surface of the second casing (13). On the liquid crystal display (20), information related to the operation of the biological information acquisition device (10) and information related to the biological information of the subject are displayed.

    Further, on the front surface of the second casing (13), a lever (46b) (operation portion) of the tube cock (46) and an insertion hole (47) are provided above the liquid crystal display (20). Details of these will be described later.

    A power button (16) and a switching button (17) are provided on the right side surface of the second casing (13). The power button (16) is an ON / OFF switch for switching ON / OFF of the liquid crystal display (20) or the biological information acquisition device (10). The switching button (17) is a switching unit for switching the display of the liquid crystal display (20), for example.

    In the case unit (11), a recessed portion (18) (insertion hole) through which the worn article (2, 3) is inserted between the first casing (12), the second casing (13), and the connecting member (14). Is formed.

    A clip (not shown) is accommodated in the case unit (11). The clip is a U-shaped leaf spring along the first casing (12), the connection member (14), and the second casing (13). By the urging force of the clip, the first casing (12) and the second casing (13) are urged in the direction in which they approach each other. Thereby, a case unit (11) can attach a worn article (2, 3) firmly. Instead of the clip, other elastic members such as a spring can be used.

<First tube>
The 1st tube (31) comprises the main body side tube accommodated in the inside of a 1st casing (12). A 1st tube (31) is a 1st pressure sensitive part to which a subject's body motion acts. Moreover, the 1st tube (31) comprises the hollow 1st hollow member. The first tube (31) is formed in an elongated tube shape having a circular cross section, and is made of a flexible resin material (for example, vinyl chloride). The first tube (31) is formed on the back wall surface (first wall portion (12a)) of the first casing (12) and the front wall surface (second wall portion (12b)) of the first casing (12). Arranged to be sandwiched.

    As shown in FIG. 6, the first tube (31) is disposed in a substantially U shape along the first wall portion (12a). The proximal end portion of the first tube (31) is connected to the pressure sensor (32) via a tubular tube connector (). The tip of the first tube (31) may be open or sealed with a stopper or the like. Moreover, you may form the communicating port which connects the inside and exterior of a 1st tube (31) to this stopper. In any configuration, the first tube (31) is configured such that the internal pressure is changed by the body movement of the subject.

    The pressure sensor (32) is located near the upper end of the first casing (12) and overlaps the connecting member (14) in the front-rear direction. The pressure sensor (32) is composed of a microphone. A pressure sensor (32) detects the internal pressure of a 1st tube (31), and outputs the pressure signal according to this internal pressure. The pressure sensor (32) is also connected to the second tube (71) of the tube unit (70) via a communication path (40) described in detail later. Thereby, a pressure sensor (32) detects the internal pressure of a 2nd tube (71), and also outputs the pressure signal according to this internal pressure. The pressure signal detected by the pressure sensor (32) is sent to the circuit board (21) via a signal line (not shown).

<Circuit board>
As shown in FIG. 1, the circuit board (21) is accommodated in the second casing (13). The circuit board (21) is formed of a printed circuit board, on which an electronic circuit including a central processing unit (CPU) and a storage device (memory, register, etc.) is mounted. The circuit board (21) is formed in a plate shape extending vertically so as to follow the front and rear surfaces of the second casing (13). The liquid crystal display (20) described above is mounted on the front surface (front surface) of the circuit board (21).

<Rechargeable battery>
The rechargeable battery (22) is accommodated in a position adjacent to the circuit board (21) inside the second casing (13). The rechargeable battery (22) constitutes a power source of the biological information acquisition device (10). Electric power is supplied to the rechargeable battery (22) from the cradle unit (60).

<Input terminal>
As shown in FIG.1 and FIG.7, the input terminal (35) (input part) is provided in the 1st casing (12) of the biometric information acquisition apparatus (10). The input terminal (35) receives DC power output from the output terminal (69) of the cradle unit (60). The DC power input to the input terminal (35) is supplied to the rechargeable battery (22) via the power line.

<Cradle unit>
The cradle unit (60) shown in FIG.1 and FIG.2 comprises the stationary unit installed in a predetermined installation surface (for example, on a desk). The cradle unit (60) has a charging stand (61) and an AC adapter (68).

<Charging stand>
The charging stand (61) constitutes an installation base on which the biological information acquisition device (10) (strictly speaking, the case unit (11) which is the device main body) is installed. The charging stand (61) is formed in a concave shape whose upper side is open. The charging stand (61) includes a horizontally long base portion (62), a first convex portion (63) projecting upward from one longitudinal end (right end in FIG. 1) of the base portion (62), It has the 2nd convex part (64) which protrudes upwards from the other end (left end of FIG. 1) of the longitudinal direction of a base part (62). In the charging stand (61), the storage portion (65) in which the biological information acquisition device (10) is stored inside the base portion (62), the first convex portion (63), and the second convex portion (64). Is formed.

    An AC adapter (68) for charging the rechargeable battery (22) of the biological information acquisition device (10) is connected to the first convex portion (63).

<Output terminal>
As shown in FIG. 1, an output terminal (69) (output unit) is provided on the storage unit (65) side (right side in FIG. 1) on the upper part of the second convex portion (64) of the charging stand (61). It is done. When the biological information acquisition device (10) is installed on the charging stand (61), the output terminal (69) comes into contact with the input terminal (35) of the biological information acquisition device (10), and the contacts of both are connected. Thereby, the DC power supplied from the AC adapter (68) is output to the input terminal (35) via the output terminal (69).

<Tube unit>
As shown in FIGS. 2 and 8, the biological information acquisition unit (1) has a tube unit (70) as an accessory. The external tube unit (70) includes a second tube (71), a pad (72), and a tube joint (73). The second tube (71) and the tube joint (73) constitute a hollow second hollow member (74).

    The 2nd tube (71) is the 2nd pressure sensing part where a subject's body movement acts. The second tube (71) is formed in an elongated tube shape with a circular cross section, and is made of a flexible resin material (for example, vinyl chloride).

    As shown in FIG. 8, the second tube (71) is disposed on or inside the bedding (5) (for example, a bed mat) as an object. When the subject lies on the bedding (5), the body movement of the subject acts on the second tube (71).

    A rectangular thin plate-like pad (72) is attached to the tip of the second tube (71). By placing the pad (72) on the bedding (5), the displacement of the second tube (71) can be prevented.

    The tip of the second tube (71) may be opened or sealed with a stopper or the like. Moreover, you may form the communicating port which connects the inside and exterior of a 2nd tube (71) to this stopper. In any configuration, the second tube (71) is configured such that the internal pressure is changed by the body movement of the subject.

    As shown in FIG. 2, a hollow tube joint (73) is connected to the proximal end of the second tube (71). The tube joint (73) is made of, for example, a resin material bent in an L shape, and an air passage is formed therein. One end of the tube joint (73) is connected to the opening of the base end of the second tube (71). The other end of the tube joint (73) is connected to the insertion hole (47) of the biological information acquisition device (10). That is, the tube joint (73) constitutes a connection portion that can be connected to the start end of the branch path (43).

<Communication path>
The living body information acquisition device (10) of the present embodiment has a communication path (40) so that the internal pressure of both the first tube (31) and the second tube (71) can be detected by one pressure sensor (32). ) Is formed. The configuration of the communication path (40) and its peripheral devices will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 9 to 11.

    The communication path (40) of the present embodiment includes a pressure chamber (42) formed inside the tube connector (41) and a branch passage (43) communicating with the pressure chamber (42).

    As shown in FIG. 9, the tube connector (41) is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape that forms a pressure chamber (42) therein, and constitutes a sensor folder that holds the pressure sensor (32). An open portion into which the pressure sensor (32) is fitted is formed on one end side in the axial direction of the tube connector (41). A first connection port (44) to which the proximal end of the first tube (31) is connected is formed on the side wall on the other end side in the axial direction of the tube connector (41). The peripheral wall of the tube connector (41) is formed with a second connection port (45) to which a pipe (for example, a tube) constituting the branch path (43) is connected.

    Thus, in the communication path (40) of this embodiment, the first tube (31) and the second tube (second hollow member (74)) are connected in parallel to the pressure sensor (32).

<Tube cock>
As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, a tube cock (46) is connected in the middle of the branch path (43). The tube cock (46) is a switching mechanism that switches the communication state between the pressure sensor (32) and the communication states of the first tube (31) and the second tube (71). The tube cock (46) is an opening / closing mechanism that opens and closes a passage (branch path (43)) for communicating the second tube (71) and the pressure sensor (32).

    For example, the tube cock (46) has a vertically long cock main body (46a) and a lever (46b) formed at the upper end of the cock main body (46a). A communication hole (46c) that can communicate with the branch path (43) is formed in the lower portion of the cock body (46a). In the tube cock (46), by rotating the lever (46b), the cock body (46a) rotates with respect to the branch path (43), and the intermittent state between the branch path (43) and the communication hole (46c) Switches. Thereby, the subject can appropriately switch the opening and closing of the branch path (43).

    A circular insertion hole (47) that opens toward the outside of the case unit (11) is formed at the start end of the branch path (43). The insertion hole (47) is configured such that the tube joint (73) is detachable. When the tube joint (73) is connected to the insertion hole (47), the second tube (71) communicates with the pressure chamber (42) via the branch passage (43). Thereby, the internal pressure of the second tube (71) can be detected by the pressure sensor (32).

<Function block>
The functional blocks configured on the circuit board (21) described above will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The biological information acquisition device (10) includes a determination unit (50), a signal processing unit (51), a storage unit (57), and a communication unit (58).

    A determination part (50) determines whether the biometric information acquisition apparatus (10) is installed in the charging stand (61). The determination part (50) of this embodiment determines the installation state of a biometric information acquisition apparatus (10) according to the presence or absence of electric power feeding of a rechargeable battery (22). Specifically, when the biological information acquisition device (10) is installed on the charging stand (61), the contacts of the output terminal (69) and the input terminal (35) are connected, and the rechargeable battery ( DC power is supplied to 22). Therefore, the determination unit (50) can determine the presence / absence of power supply based on an index (DC power, DC current, DC voltage, etc.) indicating the power supply state of the power supply line, and consequently the installation state of the biological information acquisition device (10). Can be judged. For example, when feeding of the power supply line is not detected, the determination unit (50) determines that the biological information acquisition device (10) is not installed on the charging stand (61). On the other hand, when feeding of the power supply line is detected, the determination unit (50) determines that the biological information acquisition device (10) is installed on the charging stand (61).

    The signal processing unit (51) performs signal processing for acquiring the biological information of the subject based on a signal indicating body movement. The signal processing unit (51) of the present embodiment includes a body motion signal extraction unit (52), a heartbeat signal extraction unit (53), a respiratory signal extraction unit (54), an autonomic nerve information acquisition unit (55), and sleep information acquisition. Part (56).

    The body motion signal extraction unit (52) extracts the body motion signal of the subject from the pressure signal output from the pressure sensor (32). Here, the body motion signal is a signal in which a large body motion (coarse body motion) of the subject is superimposed on a small body motion (fine body motion) derived from heartbeat or respiration.

    The heartbeat signal extraction unit (53) extracts only a signal (heartbeat signal) derived from the heartbeat from the body motion signal extracted by the body motion signal extraction unit (52).

    The respiration signal extraction unit (54) extracts only a signal (respiration signal) derived from respiration from the body motion signal extracted by the body motion signal extraction unit (52).

    The autonomic nerve information acquisition unit (55) calculates, for example, the LF / HF value of the subject based on the heartbeat signal extracted by the heartbeat signal extraction unit (53). Here, the LF / HF value is a ratio between the low frequency component LF of fluctuation of the pulsation interval obtained based on the heartbeat signal and the high frequency component HF of fluctuation of the pulsation interval. The LF / HF value is an index indicating the stress level and autonomic nerve activity, and the higher the LF / HF value, the higher the stress level.

    The sleep information acquisition unit (56) is based on the body motion signal, the heartbeat signal, and the respiration signal. Etc.).

    The signal processing unit (51) switches between the first processing operation and the second processing operation according to the installation state of the biological information acquisition device (10) determined by the determination unit (50).

    The first processing operation is executed when the determination unit (50) determines that the biological information acquisition device (10) is not installed on the charging stand (61). In the first processing operation, the autonomic nerve information acquisition unit (55) acquires biological information related to the subject's autonomic nerve. The second processing operation is executed when the determination unit (50) determines that the biological information acquisition device (10) is installed on the charging stand (61). In the second processing operation, the sleep information acquisition unit (56) acquires biological information related to the sleep of the subject (details will be described later).

    The storage unit (57) is composed of a semiconductor memory such as a flash memory. In the storage unit (57), various signals processed by the circuit board (21) and data on the acquired biological information are appropriately stored together with corresponding times. Specifically, for example, the body movement signal, the heartbeat signal, the LF / HF value, and the like are gradually stored as time series data in the storage unit (57).

    The communication unit (58) is a communication interface of the biological information acquisition device (10). That is, the communication unit (58) is connected to an external device (information terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet, or a personal computer) via wired or wireless network communication. For example, each piece of information stored in the storage unit (57) is transmitted to an external device via network communication. Thereby, the target person can confirm the detail of biometric information using an external apparatus.

<Attaching / detaching biometric information acquisition device>
As shown in FIG. 5, the biological information acquiring apparatus (10) of the present embodiment is attached to the subject by attaching the case unit (11) to the worn article (2, 3). Specifically, the belt (2) and the portion around the waist of the trousers (3) are simultaneously inserted into the recess (18) of the case unit (11). In a state where the belt (2) and the trousers (3) are inserted into the recess (18), the first casing (12) and the second casing (13) are urged by the internal clip. Thereby, a belt (2) and trousers (3) are clamped by the 1st casing (12) and the 2nd casing (13). Accordingly, it is possible to reliably prevent the case unit (11) from coming off the belt (2) and the trousers (3).

    When removing the biological information acquisition device (10), the first casing (12) and the second casing (13) are separated from each other against the urging force of the clip, and the case unit (11) is moved upward. Thereby, a biometric information acquisition apparatus (10) can be easily removed from a belt (2) and pants (3).

<First processing operation>
The first processing operation is executed when the subject wears the biological information acquisition device (10). In the first processing operation, biological information related to the subject's autonomic nerve is acquired based on the change in internal pressure of the first tube (31).

    When performing the first processing operation, the second tube (71) is removed from the insertion hole (47). Further, the branch passage (43) is closed by the tube cock (46). Thereby, in a communicating path (40), while a pressure chamber (42) and an insertion hole (47) are interrupted | blocked, only a pressure chamber (42) and a 1st tube (31) communicate. Therefore, the change in the internal pressure of the first tube (31) increases, and the pressure signal of the first tube (31) can be reliably detected by the pressure sensor (32).

    In a state where the biological information acquisition device (10) is attached to the belt (2) and the trousers (3), the abdomen of the subject and the first casing (12) are in contact. For this reason, a subject's body motion is transmitted to a 1st tube (31) via the 1st wall part (12a) of a 1st casing (12). The pressure sensor (32) detects an internal pressure or a change in the internal pressure of the first tube (31), and outputs a pressure signal.

    In a state where the biological information acquisition device (10) is attached to the subject, the determination unit (50) determines that the biological information acquisition device (10) is not installed on the charging stand (61). For this reason, in the signal processing unit (51), the first processing operation is executed, and biological information regarding the autonomic nerve is acquired.

    Specifically, in the first processing operation, the body motion signal extraction unit (52) extracts the body motion signal from the pressure signal based on the internal pressure of the first tube (31). Next, the heartbeat signal extraction unit (53) extracts a heartbeat signal from the body motion signal. Next, the autonomic nerve information acquisition unit (55) gradually calculates the LF / HF value of the subject based on the heartbeat signal. Based on this LF / HF value, the stress state of the subject can be evaluated.

<Second processing operation>
The second processing operation is executed when the subject removes the biological information acquisition device (10) and is installed on the charging stand (61). In the second processing operation, biological information related to the sleep of the subject is acquired based on a change in internal pressure of the second tube (71) provided in the bedding (5).

    For example, when the subject goes to bed, if the subject remains wearing the biological information acquisition device (10), the subject feels a sense of restraint. For this reason, the subject removes the biological information acquisition device (10) and installs it on the charging stand (61). Thereby, the subject can further charge the biometric information acquisition device (10) without learning a sense of restraint.

    When performing the second processing operation, the tube joint (73) of the second tube (71) is inserted into the insertion hole (47) of the biological information acquiring device (10). Further, the branch passage (43) is opened by the tube cock (46). Thereby, the second tube (71) and the pressure chamber (42) communicate with each other, and the internal pressure of the second tube (71) can be detected by the pressure sensor (32). The first tube (31) and the pressure chamber (42) remain in communication with each other, but the body movement of the subject acts on the first tube (31) in the installed state of the biological information acquisition device (10). There is no. For this reason, even in this state, the change in the internal pressure of the second tube (71) can be sufficiently detected by the pressure sensor (32).

    When the subject enters the bedding (5), the body motion of the subject is transmitted to the second tube (71). The pressure sensor (32) detects an internal pressure or a change in the internal pressure of the second tube (71), and outputs a pressure signal.

    In a state where the biological information acquisition device (10) is installed on the charging stand (61), DC power is supplied to the rechargeable battery (22) via the output terminal (69) and the input terminal (35).

    When power is supplied to the rechargeable battery (22) in this way, the determination unit (50) determines that the biological information acquisition device (10) is installed on the charging stand (61). For this reason, the second processing operation is executed in the signal processing unit (51).

    In the second processing operation, the body motion signal extraction unit (52) extracts a body motion signal from the pressure signal. Next, the heartbeat signal extraction unit (53) extracts a heartbeat signal from the body motion signal. The respiratory signal extraction unit (54) extracts a respiratory signal from the body motion signal. Subsequently, a sleep information acquisition part (56) acquires the information regarding a subject's sleep using at least one of a body motion signal, a heartbeat signal, and a respiration signal. Thereby, a sleep state of a subject can be evaluated.

<Effect of the embodiment>
According to the present embodiment, when the subject goes to bed, the biological information (information related to sleep) can be continuously acquired while removing the biological information acquisition device (10) from the subject. Therefore, the subject's biological information can be acquired without the subject feeling a sense of restraint.

    In addition, the biological information acquisition device (10) is charged while the sleep information of the target person is acquired by installing the biological information acquisition device (10) on the charging stand (61) at the time of the subject's sleeping. Can do.

    In the first processing operation and the second processing operation, the pressure sensor (32) and the signal processing unit (51) are combined. For this reason, for example, it is not necessary to separately provide a pressure sensor or a signal processing unit on the cradle unit (60) side, so that the number of parts and cost can be reduced and the cradle unit (60) can be downsized.

    The first processing operation and the second processing operation are automatically switched based on whether or not the power supply line is fed by the determination unit (50). Thereby, in the state where the subject wears the living body information acquisition device (10), the living body information about the subject's autonomic nerve can be acquired based on the change in the internal pressure of the first tube (31). Moreover, in the state in which the biological information acquisition device (10) is installed on the charging stand (61), biological information related to the sleep of the subject can be acquired based on the change in internal pressure of the second tube (71).

<< Modification 1 >>
Modification 1 shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 is different from the above embodiment in the configuration of the opening / closing mechanism (switching mechanism). In the biometric information acquisition device (10) of Modification 1, a check valve (80) is used instead of the tube cock (46) of the embodiment. The check valve (80) constitutes an opening / closing mechanism that opens and closes the branch path (43). The check valve (80) is arranged at the inner edge of the insertion hole (47) of the biological information acquisition device (10). In the state where the tube joint (73) of the second hollow member (74) is disengaged from the insertion hole (47), the valve body (81) of the check valve (80) is not shown in FIG. It is urged by a spring or the like to close the branch path (43). On the other hand, when the tube joint (73) of the second hollow member (74) is inserted into the insertion hole (47), the valve element (81) is pushed into the branch passage (43) by the tip of the tube joint (73). Then, the branch path (43) is opened.

    When the subject wears the biological information acquisition device (10), the second hollow member (74) (strictly speaking, the tube joint (73)) is removed from the insertion hole (47). For this reason, like the above-mentioned embodiment, living body information about a subject's autonomic nerve can be acquired based on the internal pressure of the 1st tube (31) in the state where a branch way (43) was closed.

    For example, when the subject goes to bed, the biological information acquisition device (10) is installed on the charging stand (61), and the tube joint (73) is connected to the branch path (43). Thereby, since a 2nd tube (71) and a pressure chamber (42) communicate, the biological information regarding a subject's sleep can be acquired based on the internal pressure of a 2nd tube (71). Other functions and effects are the same as in the above embodiment.

<< Modification 2 >>
In the second modification shown in FIG. 14, a plug (85) (for example, a rubber plug) is detachably attached to the insertion hole (47) of the branch path (43). When the subject wears the biological information acquisition device (10), the stopper (85) is fitted into the insertion hole (47). Thereby, the branch path (43) is closed. Accordingly, it is possible to acquire biological information related to the autonomic nerve while sufficiently changing the internal pressure of the first tube (31).

    When installing the biometric information acquisition device (10) on the charging stand (61) and going to sleep, remove the plug (85) from the insertion hole (47) and the tube joint (73) to the insertion hole (47). Plug in. Thereby, since a 2nd tube (71) and a pressure chamber (42) communicate, the biological information regarding a subject's sleep can be acquired based on the internal pressure of a 2nd tube (71). Other functions and effects are the same as in the above embodiment.

<< Modification 3 >>
In Modification 3 shown in FIG. 15, the branch path (43) according to the embodiment is omitted. On the other hand, in Modification 3, the tip of the first tube (31) is guided to the outside of the first casing (12). A tube connection port (31a) that opens to the outside of the first casing (12) is formed at the tip of the first tube (31). The tube joint (73) of the second hollow member (74) is detachably connected to the tube connection port (31a).

    When the subject wears the biological information acquisition device (10), the second hollow member (74) is removed from the first tube (31). Then, for example, the tube connection port (31a) of the first tube (31) is sealed with the plug (85) according to the second modification. Accordingly, it is possible to acquire biological information related to the autonomic nerve while sufficiently changing the internal pressure of the first tube (31).

    When installing the biometric information acquisition device (10) on the charging stand (61) and going to sleep, remove the plug (85) from the tube connection port (31a) and connect the tube joint (73) to the tube connection port (31a). Plug in. In this state, the pressure sensor (32), the first tube (31), the tube joint (73), and the second tube (71) are connected in series in this order. That is, the second tube (71) is connected to the pressure sensor (32) via the first tube (31). That is, in Modification 3, the internal passage (31b) of the first tube (31) constitutes at least a part of the communication passage (40). Thereby, since a 2nd tube (71) and a pressure chamber (42) communicate, the biological information regarding a subject's sleep can be acquired based on the internal pressure of a 2nd tube (71).

    In Modification 3, the number of branch paths (43) in the above embodiment is reduced, so that the biological information acquisition device (10) can be simplified and downsized. Other functions and effects are the same as in the above embodiment.

<< Other Embodiments >>
The second hollow member (74) has the tube joint (73), but the tube joint (73) may be omitted. In this case, in the said embodiment, the modification 1, and the modification 2, the base part (connection part) of a 2nd tube (71) can be connected to an insertion hole (47). Moreover, in the said modification 3, the base part (connection part) of a 2nd tube (71) can be connected to the tube connection port (31a) of a 1st tube (31).

    The switching mechanism for switching the communication state between the pressure sensor (32) and the first tube (31) and the second tube (71) (second hollow member (74)) is not limited to the above-described form. For example, the switching mechanism communicates the first tube (31) and the pressure sensor (32) and blocks the second tube (71) and the pressure sensor (32), and the second tube (71). It may be a flow path switching valve that switches to a second state in which the pressure sensor (32) communicates and the first tube (31) and the pressure sensor (32) are blocked.

    The determination part (50) of the said embodiment determines the installation state of a biometric information acquisition apparatus (10) based on the presence or absence of the electric power feeding of a rechargeable battery (22), and performs 1st process operation and 2nd process operation. Switching. However, the determination unit (50) may determine the installation state of the biological information acquisition device (10) by other methods. Specifically, for example, a switch that operates by installing the biological information acquisition device (10) on the charging stand (61) can be used.

    The determination unit (50) may be omitted, and the first processing operation and the second processing operation may be manually switched by the operation of the subject.

    In the said embodiment, although the 2nd tube (71) is provided in the bedding (5) which is a target object, you may provide a 2nd tube (71) in the seat part of chairs, such as a sofa and a massage chair, for example. . In this case, the biological information (for example, autonomic nerve information) of the subject sitting on the seat is continued based on the second signal in a state where the subject has installed the biological information acquisition device (10) on the charging stand (61). Can be obtained.

    The stationary unit (cradle unit (60)) does not necessarily have a charging function.

    The 1st tube (31) and the 2nd tube (71) do not necessarily need to be a tube shape, for example, may be a bag shape.

    The signal processing unit (51) includes a body motion signal extraction unit (52), a heartbeat signal extraction unit (53), a respiratory signal extraction unit (54), an autonomic nerve information acquisition unit (55), and a sleep information acquisition unit (56). It is good also as a structure which omitted either. Further, for example, the functions of the autonomic nerve information acquisition unit (55) and the sleep information acquisition unit (56) may be provided to a server or other communication terminal connected to the network via the communication unit (58). In this case, based on the signal obtained by the signal processing unit (51), further biological information of the subject is acquired at the server or the communication terminal.

    The case unit (11) of the biometric information acquisition device (10) is attached to the worn belt (2) and trousers (3), but is attached to other worn items such as skirts, shoes, and disposable pants. It may be a thing.

    As described above, the present invention is useful as a biological information acquisition unit.

1 biological information acquisition unit 5 bedding (object)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Biological information acquisition apparatus 22 Rechargeable battery 31 1st tube (tube, 1st hollow member)
32 Pressure sensor 40 Communication path 43 Branch (passage)
46 Tube cock (switching mechanism, opening / closing mechanism)
51 Signal processor 73 Tube joint (connector)
74 Second hollow member 80 Check valve (switching mechanism, opening / closing mechanism)

Claims (6)

A first hollow member (31) configured to be wearable on the subject and acting on the subject's body movement;
A pressure sensor (32) for detecting the pressure of the first hollow member (31);
A wearable biological information acquisition device comprising a signal processing unit (51) for acquiring biological information of the subject based on a pressure signal detected by the pressure sensor (32),
A biological information acquisition apparatus comprising a communication path (40) capable of communicating a second hollow member (74) provided in a predetermined object (5) and the pressure sensor (32). In claim 1,
The biological information acquisition apparatus, wherein the communication path (40) connects the pressure sensor (32) in parallel with the first hollow member (31) and the second hollow member (74). In claim 2,
The communication path (40) is provided with a switching mechanism (46, 80) for switching the communication state between the pressure sensor (32) and the first hollow member (31) and the second hollow member (74). A biological information acquisition apparatus characterized by the above. In claim 3,
The switching mechanism (46, 80) is an open / close mechanism (46, 80) that opens and closes a passage (43) for communicating the second hollow member (74) and the pressure sensor (32). Information acquisition device. In claim 4,
The second hollow member (74) has a connection part (73) connectable to a starting end of the passage (43),
The opening / closing mechanism (46, 80) opens the passage (43) when the connecting portion (73) of the second hollow member (74) is connected to the passage (43), and the second hollow member The biological information acquiring apparatus according to claim 74, wherein when the connecting portion (73) of (74) is disengaged from the passage (43), the passage (43) is closed. In claim 1,
The first hollow member has a hollow tube (31),
The second hollow member (74) is configured to be connectable to the pressure sensor (32) through the tube (31).

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