JP3170396U - Load detection sensor - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided is a load detection sensor capable of accurately detecting behaviors such as getting out of bed or leaving a seat in a living space of a nurse. An upper plate and a lower plate made of a synthetic resin hard plate are opposed to each other with a predetermined gap inside a bag body made of a material having gas barrier properties, flexibility and water resistance. Has been placed. In the gap between the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4, an elastic body 6 provided to hold the gap and a thin switch 7 are provided. When the load W is not applied to the upper plate 3, the lower surface of the upper plate 3 and the tip of the switch 7 are separated from each other. When the load W of the patient is applied to the upper plate 3, the upper plate 3 is The lower surface of the upper plate 3 and the tip of the switch 7 come into contact with each other and are electrically closed. The signal of the switch 7 is transmitted from the signal extraction unit through the lead wire, and notifies the nurse or the like by the notification device that the nurse has left the bed. [Selection] Figure 3

Description

  The present invention mainly monitors the behavior of a nurse in the living space. More specifically, the present invention detects a nurse leaving the bed, leaving a wheelchair, entering / exiting a room, using a toilet, etc. The present invention relates to a load detection sensor.

  When caring for a patient at a hospital, a nursing facility, etc., the nurse has a very large mental and physical burden, and various care support devices have been proposed to reduce these. For example, the present applicant operates as a sensor used for the care support device by detecting the increase in the load and the action of air pressure in order to detect that the care worker has left the bed and left the wheelchair. A panel-type sensor in which a pair of electrically insulated electrode plates and a resin cover that encloses the electrode plates and contains air therein to retain airtightness are integrated with a cable for taking out an electrical signal from the electrode plates (For example, refer to Patent Document 1). In addition, a bed underlay sensor using an electrode counter sensor as the sensor has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

  On the other hand, it is arranged between the bed mattress and the bed frame, and has a slightly spaced upper and lower steel plates as sensors for monitoring the bed occupants, and a point sensor between the plates. Is disclosed, and an upper plate is bent in response to the weight of the occupant to generate an alarm (for example, see Patent Document 3).

JP 2005-152616 A Utility Model Registration No. 3144892 JP 2001-37821 A

  The panel type sensor shown in Patent Document 1 surrounds a pair of electrically insulated electrode plates facing each other with a resin cover that contains air and maintains airtightness in order to ensure the operation of load detection. It is assumed that In Patent Document 2, an electrode counter sensor is used. In these sensors, the upper and lower electrodes come into contact with each other through a hole in the insulating material to be electrically closed, and a contact signal is transmitted. In this configuration, if the mattress is flat or rigid, the mattress is electrically closed by a load from the upper surface. However, in the case of a mattress having a wavy surface, a body pressure dispersion mattress, and a low-resilience mattress, the sensor sinks into the mattress. Therefore, even when a load (for example, the back of a person) is applied from the upper surface of the sensor, there has been a problem that the pair of electrode plates are in poor contact (non-contact or unstable contact).

  Moreover, the load sensor shown in Patent Document 3 generates an alarm when the upper plate bends in response to the weight of the occupant and contacts the point switch. However, since it is disposed between the mattress and the bed frame of the bed, the load from the upper surface of the mattress is not accurately transmitted to the point switch in this configuration, resulting in a problem that detection accuracy is lowered. . The present invention has been made to solve these problems, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a load detection sensor that can accurately detect behavior such as getting out of bed or leaving a seat in a living space of a nurse. It is said.

  The load detection sensor according to claim 1 of the present invention is made of a hard plate made of a synthetic resin inside a sheet-like bag formed of a material having gas barrier properties (which can be kept airtight), flexibility and water resistance. The upper plate and the lower plate are arranged to face each other with a predetermined gap. The gap between the upper plate and the lower plate is provided with an elastic body provided to hold this gap and at least one thin switch. When the patient's load is not applied to the upper plate, the lower surface of the upper plate is separated from the tip of the switch. When the patient's load is applied to the upper plate, the upper plate is lowered downward. The lower surface of the upper plate and the tip of the switch come into contact and are electrically closed. The signal of this switch is transmitted from the signal extraction unit through the lead wire, and notifies the nurse or the like by the notification device that the nurse has left the bed or the like.

  This makes it possible to quickly and accurately detect the actions of the patient, such as lifting the head, causing a condition on the bed, getting down from the bed to the floor, getting out of the room, and getting up from the wheelchair. A highly reliable load detection sensor can be obtained.

  A load detection sensor according to a second aspect of the present invention is the load detection sensor according to the first aspect, wherein the sheet-like bag formed of a material having gas barrier properties, flexibility and water resistance has air inside. At least one vent hole is provided on the bottom surface of the bag body to have a space for storage and communicate with the outside air. As a result, the air stored in the bag body is gently discharged to the outside of the bag body due to the load of the care recipient, and when the load is reduced or eliminated, the air gently flows into the inside from the outside of the bag body. To do. As a result, it is possible to obtain a highly reliable load detection sensor that does not operate in response to a short-time load fluctuation due to the nursing caregiver turning over or moving the position.

  According to claim 3 of the present invention, the signal extraction portion is a wired system. This signal extraction part is composed of a main body for holding a contact signal extraction lead connected to the electrode outlet of the lower plate and a signal cable. The two contact signal extraction lead wires are housed in a signal cable and connected to a connector provided at the tip of the signal cable. Thereby, since a detection signal is reliably transmitted to the alarm device described later through the cable, a highly reliable load detection sensor can be obtained.

  According to claims 4 and 5 of the present invention, the signal extraction portion is a wireless system, and this signal extraction portion is installed on the peripheral surface of the bag. Since the transmitter is incorporated in the signal extraction unit and has a function of setting a plurality of device numbers, even if a plurality of load detection sensors are installed in the same patient room, no interference occurs. According to this, it can be easily installed in almost any place where the care recipient resides or acts. In addition, the wireless system can be used for a mobile phone (including PHS) and a wireless system. The transmitter uses a battery as its power source, but has a structure that allows easy battery replacement.

  According to claims 6 and 7 of the present invention, the signal extraction portion is a wireless system, and this signal extraction portion is installed inside the periphery of the bag body. A transmitter is incorporated in the signal extraction unit, and a battery is used as a power source of the transmitter. In order to facilitate the battery replacement, an outlet through which the transmitter can be taken out is provided at the peripheral edge of the bag. Thereby, battery replacement | exchange can be performed easily. Moreover, since there is no restriction | limiting of an installation place like the above, it can install easily in most places where a nursing person lives or acts. Note that the wireless system can be used for a mobile phone (including PHS) and a wireless system.

  According to claim 8 of the present invention, the load detection sensor can be installed on a bed, under a pillow, a bed rail, a floor area under the bed, a floor surface of a room, a room entrance / exit, a bathroom, a toilet, a wheelchair, and the like. . As a result, most of the daily behavior of the nurse can be monitored, and the mental and physical burden on the nurse can be reduced.

  The load detection sensor of the present invention can quickly and accurately perform the actions of the patient, such as lifting the head, causing a condition on the bed, getting down from the bed to the floor, getting out of the room, and getting up from the wheelchair. A highly reliable load detection sensor that can detect well can be obtained.

  The load detection sensor of the present invention is such that air stored in the bag body is gently discharged to the outside of the bag body due to the load of the care recipient, and when the load is reduced or eliminated, the air is discharged from the outside of the bag body. Since it flows gently into the interior, it is possible to obtain a highly reliable load detection sensor that does not operate in response to a short-time load fluctuation due to the caregiver turning over or moving the position.

  In the load detection sensor of the present invention, the signal extraction unit is a wired system or a wireless system. In the wired system, since a detection signal can be reliably transmitted to the notification device through the cable, a highly reliable load detection sensor can be obtained. Further, in the wireless system, the signal extraction unit is installed on the peripheral surface of the bag body, so that it can be easily installed in almost any place where the care recipient resides or acts. Further, it can be used for a mobile phone (including PHS) and a wireless system.

  The load detection sensor according to the present invention uses a wireless signal extraction part, and this signal extraction part is installed inside the periphery of the bag body, and an outlet for taking out the transmitter is provided at the peripheral part of the bag body. Since it is provided, battery replacement can be performed easily.

  The load detection sensor according to the present invention can be installed on the bed, under the pillow, bed fence, around the floor under the bed, room floor, room entrance, bathroom, toilet, wheelchair, etc. Since it is possible to monitor most of the daily activities of the nurse, the mental and physical burden on the nurse can be reduced.

1 is a plan view showing a first embodiment of the present invention. In 1st embodiment of this invention, it is a top view which shows the state except a bag and an upper board. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is an expanded sectional view which shows 1st embodiment of this invention, (a) is a no-load state, (b) is the state which applied the load to the center part of the upper board, (c) is the side part of the upper board. The load is applied. It is a top view which shows 2nd embodiment of this invention. It is a top view which shows 3rd embodiment of this invention. In 3rd embodiment of this invention, it is a top view which shows another Example. In 3rd embodiment of this invention, it is explanatory drawing which shows the Example of a vent hole. It is a top view of the signal extraction part which shows 4th embodiment of this invention. In 4th Embodiment of this invention, it is a top view of the signal extraction part which shows another Example. It is a top view of the signal extraction part which shows 5th embodiment of this invention. In 5th Embodiment of this invention, it is a top view of the signal extraction part which shows another Example. In 5th embodiment of this invention, the example of the radio | wireless transmitter incorporated in the bag body is shown, (a) is before insertion of a wireless transmission part, (b) is after insertion of a wireless transmission part, (c ) Is an explanatory view showing a state where the outlet is folded. In the fifth embodiment of the present invention, another example of the wireless transmitter built in the bag body is shown. (A) is before insertion of the wireless transmission unit, (b) is after insertion of the wireless transmission unit. It is explanatory drawing shown. In the fifth embodiment of the present invention, another example of the wireless transmitter built in the bag is shown, (a) before insertion of the wireless transmission unit, (b) after insertion of the wireless transmission unit, (C) is explanatory drawing which shows the state which folded the closing plate. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a caregiver monitoring system using the load detection sensor of this invention. It is a block diagram of the wireless transmission part of this invention. It is the perspective view which showed the example of installation of the load detection sensor of this invention, (a) is on the mattress of a bed, (b) is under a pillow, (c) is the circumference under a bed, (d) is a wheelchair, (E) is the entrance to the room, and (f) is the state installed in the toilet seat.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to these, and can be appropriately changed without departing from the gist. Moreover, in each drawing, the same member is displayed with the same code | symbol.

(First embodiment)
1 to 3, a load detection sensor 1 is opposed to a sheet-like bag body 2 formed of a material having gas barrier properties, flexibility and water resistance, and a predetermined gap is provided inside the bag body 2. The upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4, the elastic body 6 provided to hold the gap between the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4, and the gap between the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 are provided. When the upper surface of the upper plate 3 is not loaded, at least one switch 7 is disposed on the upper surface of the lower plate 4 so that the lower surface of the upper plate 3 and the tip of the switch 7 are separated from each other. When the caregiver's load W is applied to the upper plate 3, the upper plate 3 descends downward (or bends so as to protrude downward), and the lower surface of the upper plate 3 contacts the tip of the switch 7. And is electrically closed. The signal of the switch 7 is transmitted from the signal extraction unit 20 to the notification device through the lead wire 10.

  The bag body 2 uses a material having gas barrier properties (confidentiality), flexibility and water resistance, for example, a soft synthetic resin sheet such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Further, the material is not limited to this, and any material that does not allow air to permeate, such as nylon, polypropylene, tarpaulin, and rubber sheet can be used. The bag body 2 is rectangular and can be folded in half from the central portion in the longitudinal direction, covers the entire circumference of the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 that are arranged facing each other while holding a predetermined gap, and the upper plate 3 and a lower plate 4 and the bag body 2 are provided with a space for storing air A. The entire periphery of the bag body 2 is welded using a high frequency welding machine or the like so that air does not leak. Further, on the outer peripheral edge of the bag body 2, an anti-displacement weld 8 is applied at eight locations in order to prevent horizontal displacement of the pair of upper plate 3 and lower plate 4 provided in the bag body 2. Yes. Note that the location and position of the anti-displacement weld 8 can be changed as appropriate.

  The upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 are thin plates having flexibility, and are formed in a rectangular shape by using a hard synthetic resin plate such as PET resin, PVC resin, ABS resin, acrylic resin, for example. Inside the bag body 2, a pair of an upper plate 3 and a lower plate 4 separated from the center portion of the bag body 2 on the left and right are provided. The vertical and horizontal dimensions of the upper plate 3 are slightly smaller than the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the lower plate 4, and the thicknesses of the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 are 1 mm to 5 mm, more preferably, depending on the shape and size. 1 mm. Thereby, it is possible to receive the load of the patient without being affected by the material and structure of the mattress.

  The elastic body 6 is a repelling malt, and urethane foam, polyethylene foam or the like is used. On the four sides of the outer periphery of the lower plate 4, four frame elastic bodies 5 are provided so as to surround the upper plate 3 so as to reduce the sense of discomfort felt by the patient by eliminating the step. Has been. Further, the gap between the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 is maintained, and the upper plate 3 is compressed when it receives the load W and descends (or bends so as to be convex downward. The same applies hereinafter), and the load W is removed. When this occurs, eight elastic bodies 6 that repel the original shape and maintain a predetermined gap are erected and bonded to the lower plate 4. Note that the upper plate 3 and the elastic body 6 may or may not be bonded. Further, the number and position of the elastic bodies 6 can be appropriately changed.

  When the upper plate 3 is not loaded, at least one switch 7 is provided on the upper surface of the lower plate 4 so that the lower surface of the upper plate 3 and the tip of the switch 7 are spaced apart (in FIG. Are arranged). In the present embodiment, the switch 7 uses a thin tactile switch, but is not limited to this, and a limit switch, a push button switch, or the like can be used. The gap between the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 is desirably 5 mm or less. In addition, the tip of the switch 7 is a contact point that contacts the lower surface of the upper plate 3, but the height (thickness) of the switch 7 is equal to the height (thickness) of the switch 7 in order to prevent damage due to a long time load or increased contact frequency. A protective plate 9 is erected on the side of the switch 7.

  In FIG. 2, six switches 7 are separated from the central portion of the bag body 2 on the left and right sides, and six switches 7 are installed. Between each switch 7, two lead wires 10 are connected in series, and between the left and right switches 7, the central portion of the bag body 2 is connected by a flexible flat knitted lead wire 11, and twelve pieces are connected. The switch 7 is connected. As a result, when the tip of at least one switch 7 comes into contact with the lower surface of the upper plate 3, it is electrically closed and a signal is transmitted.

  The signal extraction unit 20 extracts a signal from the switch 7 through the lead wire 10 and transmits the signal to a notification device (not shown) provided separately (existing or newly installed). The signal extraction unit 20 includes a main body that holds the contact signal extraction lead wire 22 connected to the signal outlet 21 of the lower plate 4 and a signal cable 24. The two contact signal extraction lead wires 22 are accommodated in a signal cable 24, and a connector 25 connected to a repeater (not shown) is provided at the tip of the signal cable 24. When the signal extraction unit 20 is a wired system, it can be connected to a network such as a dedicated line in the building, an electric light line, or a nurse call system. The main body of the signal extraction unit 20 is fixed to the edge of the bag body 2. The connection between the flat knitted lead wire 11 and the lead wire 10 from the switch 7 and the connection between the lead wire 10 and the contact signal extracting lead wire 22 are soldered, and hot melt 26 is used to prevent disconnection at the connection point. The lead wire is fixed with.

  The effect | action of the load detection sensor of 1st embodiment is demonstrated based on FIG. The load detection sensor 1 is placed on the upper surface of a bed mattress (not shown). The load detection sensor 1 may be placed on either the upper surface or the lower surface of the sheet. Fig. 5 (a) shows no load (the patient is not in bed), and Fig. 3 (b) shows the load on the center of the upper plate 3 (the patient is in the bed's center). FIG. 3 (c) is an explanatory view showing a state in which a load is applied to the side portion of the upper plate 3 (the care receiver is on the bed side portion). Note that FIG. 3 is enlarged to facilitate understanding. 3A, 3B, and 3C, 1 is a load detection sensor, 2 is a bag, 3 is an upper plate, 4 is a lower plate, 5 is a frame elastic body, 6 is an elastic body, and 7 is A switch, 8 is a presser plate, A is air, and W is a load.

  In FIG. 3B, the load W of the cared person is applied to the center of the load detection sensor 1 from above. Then, the bag body 2 is lowered while being compressed by the load W, and pushes the upper plate 3 substantially horizontally. The lower surface of the depressed upper plate 3 comes into contact with the tips of a plurality of switches 7 erected on the lower plate 4 and stops descending. As a result, the switch 7 is electrically closed and a contact signal is taken out.

  In FIG. 3C, the load W of the care recipient is applied to the side portion of the load detection sensor 1 from above. Then, the bag body 2 is lowered while being compressed by the load W, and pushes down the upper plate 3 in an inclined state. The lower surface of the depressed upper plate 3 comes into contact with the tip of at least one or more switches 7 erected on the lower plate 4 in a state of being inclined or projecting downward and stops descending. As a result, the switch 7 is electrically closed and a contact signal is taken out.

  In FIG. 3 (a), when the care worker leaves the upper portion of the load detection sensor 1, the load W is removed and the elastic body 6 repels and pushes the upper plate 3 upward until it is restored to its original shape. Stop. As a result, the lower surface of the upper plate 3 and the tip of the switch 7 are separated from each other, so that the switch 7 is electrically opened and a contact signal is taken out.

(Second embodiment)
As shown in FIG. 4, the second embodiment of the present invention is different from the first embodiment in that the shape of the bag body 2 is different, but the internal structure (see FIG. 2) and operation (see FIG. 3) of the bag body 2. Reference) is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, and will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In FIG. 4, a load detection sensor 1 is disposed opposite to a sheet-like bag 2 formed of a material having gas barrier properties, flexibility, and water resistance, and a predetermined gap is provided inside the bag 2. The upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4, the elastic body 6 provided to hold the gap between the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4, and the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4. When the upper surface of the plate 3 is unloaded, at least one switch 7 is disposed on the upper surface of the lower plate 4 so that the lower surface of the upper plate 3 and the tip of the switch 7 are separated from each other. When the load of the care recipient is applied to the upper plate 3, the upper plate 3 descends downward, and the lower surface of the upper plate 3 and the tip of the switch 7 come into contact with each other to be electrically closed. The signal of the switch 7 is transmitted from the signal extraction unit to the notification device through the lead wire.

  The bag body 2 uses a material having gas barrier properties (confidentiality), flexibility and water resistance, for example, a soft synthetic resin sheet such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Further, the material is not limited to this, and any material that does not allow air to permeate, such as nylon, polypropylene, tarpaulin, and rubber sheet can be used. The bag body 2 is rectangular, covers the entire circumference of the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 that are arranged facing each other while maintaining a predetermined gap, and the periphery of the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 and the bag body 2 Is provided with a space for storing air. The entire periphery of the bag body 2 is welded using a high frequency welding machine or the like so that air does not leak. Further, on the outer peripheral edge of the bag body 2, an anti-displacement weld 8 is applied at eight locations in order to prevent horizontal displacement of the pair of upper plate 3 and lower plate 4 provided in the bag body 2. Yes. Note that the location and position of the anti-displacement weld 8 can be changed as appropriate.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 are thin plates having flexibility, for example, a rectangular shape using a hard synthetic resin plate such as PET resin, PVC resin, ABS resin, acrylic resin, or the like. Is formed. A pair of upper plate 3 and lower plate 4 is provided inside the bag body 2. The vertical and horizontal dimensions of the upper plate 3 are slightly smaller than the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the lower plate 4, and the thicknesses of the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 are 1 mm to 5 mm, more preferably, depending on the shape and size. 1 mm. Accordingly, the load W of the care recipient can be received without being affected by the material and structure of the mattress.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the elastic body 6 is a repulsion malt, and urethane foam, polyethylene foam or the like is used. On the four sides of the outer periphery of the lower plate 4, four frame elastic bodies 5 are provided so as to surround the upper plate 3 so as to reduce the sense of discomfort felt by the patient by eliminating the step. Has been. The eight elastic bodies that hold the gap between the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 and are compressed when the upper plate 3 is lowered by receiving the load W and repel when the load W is removed to hold a predetermined gap. 6 is erected and bonded to the lower plate 4. Note that the upper plate 3 and the elastic body 6 may or may not be bonded. Further, the number and position of the elastic bodies 6 can be appropriately changed.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, at least one switch 7 is provided on the upper surface of the lower plate 4 so that the lower surface of the upper plate 3 and the tip of the switch 7 are separated when the upper plate 3 is not loaded. The above (six in the second embodiment) are arranged. The switch 7 uses a thin tactile switch, but is not limited to this, and a limit switch, a push button switch, or the like can be used. The gap between the upper plate 3 and the lower plate 4 is desirably 5 mm or less. In addition, the tip of the switch 7 is a contact point that contacts the lower surface of the upper plate 3, but the height (thickness) of the switch 7 is equal to the height (thickness) of the switch 7 in order to prevent damage due to a long time load or increased contact frequency. A protective plate 9 is erected on the side of the switch.

  In FIG. 2, six switches 7 are installed inside the bag body 2. Each switch 7 is connected in series by two lead wires 10, and when the lower surface of the upper plate 3 contacts the tip of at least one switch 7, it is electrically closed and a signal is generated. It has become.

  In FIG. 2, the signal extracting unit 20 extracts a signal from the switch 7 and transmits the signal to a separate notification device (not shown) provided (existing or newly installed). The signal extraction unit 20 includes a main body that holds the contact signal extraction lead wire 22 connected to the signal outlet 21 of the lower plate 4 and a signal cable 24. The two contact signal extraction lead wires 22 are accommodated in a signal cable 24 and connected to a connector 25 provided at the tip of the signal cable 24. The main body of the signal extraction unit 20 is fixed to the edge of the bag body 2. The lead wire 10 and the contact signal extraction lead wire 22 are connected by soldering, and the lead wire is fixed by hot melt 26 in order to prevent disconnection at the connection point.

  Since the operation of the load detection sensor 1 in the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.

(Third embodiment)
In the third embodiment of the present invention, at least one or more ventilation holes 12 communicating with outside air (in the atmosphere, the same applies hereinafter) are provided on the bottom surface of the bag body 2 shown in the first embodiment and the second embodiment. . FIG. 5 shows the bag body 2 according to the first embodiment provided with the vent holes 12 on the bottom surface, and FIG. 6 shows the bag body 2 according to the second embodiment with the vent holes 12 provided on the bottom surface. Show.

  In FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, vent holes 12 communicating with the outside air are provided on the outer peripheral edge portion of the bag body 2 and the bottom surface in the vicinity of the signal outlet 21. The installation location, the hole diameter, and the number of installation of the ventilation holes 12 can be appropriately changed depending on the size of the bag body 2 and the installation location, and are set by the opening ratio with respect to the bottom surface area of the bag body 2. Usually, 2 to 4 vent holes 12 are preferably installed, but 5 or more may be installed. The shape of the vent hole 12 is circular, but can be any shape such as a square or a triangle. The vent hole 12 may only be opened, but it is desirable to reinforce the peripheral edge of the vent hole 12 by heat melting treatment, eyelet treatment or seal sticking treatment in order to prevent cracks and breakage.

  FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of the vent holes 12 provided in the rectangular bag body 2, (a) two installed on the bottom, (b) four installed on the bottom, (C) is two installed on the same surface as the contact signal extraction unit 20, (d) is installed on a side surface orthogonal to the contact signal extraction unit 20, and (e) is installed at the four corners of the bottom surface. .

  The operation of the load detection sensor 1 in the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The load detection sensor 1 is placed on a mattress (not shown) of the bed. 3B and 3C, the load W of the care recipient is applied from the upper part of the load detection sensor 1. Then, since the bag body 2 of the load detection sensor 1 is compressed by the load W, the air A stored in the bag body 2 is gradually discharged to the outside from the vent hole 12. When the compression continues further, the upper plate 3 descends while compressing the elastic body 6 and stops at the position where the lower surface of the upper plate 3 and the tip of the switch 7 are in contact. As a result, the contact signal is taken out from the switch 7 and is electrically closed.

  3A, when the care worker leaves the load detection sensor 1, the upper plate 3 is pushed up and stopped until the load W is removed and the elastic body 6 is restored to its original shape. Accordingly, air A flows into the bag body 2 from the outside through the vent hole 12, and the air A is stored inside the bag body 2. When the lower surface of the upper plate 3 and the tip of the switch 7 are separated from each other, a contact signal is taken out and the switch is electrically opened.

  The vent hole 12 provided in the bottom surface of the bag body 2 has an important function for maintaining the reliability of the load detection sensor 1. The hole diameter of the vent hole 12 is set to a hole diameter (for example, 3 to 8 mm) calculated from the opening ratio with respect to the bottom area of the bag body 2 so that air is not discharged in a short time (for example, 1 to 5 seconds). As a result, when the load W is received, the air A stored inside the bag body 2 is gradually discharged from the vent hole 12 to the outside. Further, when the load W is removed, air gradually flows into the bag body 2 through the vent hole 12 and is stored. As a result, even if the caregiver rolls over the bed or moves the load W due to a change in position, the contact signal is not detected in a short time load change, so that malfunction can be prevented.

(Fourth embodiment)
In the fourth embodiment of the present invention, in the first embodiment to the third embodiment, the signal extraction unit 20 is installed on the surface of the peripheral portion of the bag body 2 and wirelessly transmits a signal to the notification device. is there. In addition, since it is the same as that of 1st embodiment-3rd embodiment about structure and effect | actions other than the signal extraction part 20, description is abbreviate | omitted.

  8 and 9, the signal extraction portion 20 is provided at a corner portion (lower right corner in the drawing) of the peripheral edge portion of the surface of the bag body 2. A radio transmitter 13 is incorporated in the signal extraction unit 20. Since the wireless transmitter 13 has a function of setting a plurality of device numbers, even if a plurality of load detection sensors 1 are installed in the same patient room, no interference occurs. A battery 14 is used as the power source of the wireless transmitter 13. Further, it is possible to connect to a solar power source or a commercial power source (not shown) instead of the battery 14. When the wireless system is adopted, it can be easily installed in almost any place where the care recipient resides or acts, and can be used for a portable telephone (including PHS) or a wireless system.

(Fifth embodiment)
In the fifth embodiment of the present invention, in the first embodiment to the third embodiment, the signal extraction unit 20 is installed inside the peripheral portion of the bag body 2 and wirelessly transmits a signal to the notification device. is there. In addition, since it is the same as that of 1st embodiment-3rd embodiment about structure and effect | actions other than the signal extraction part 20, description is abbreviate | omitted.

  10 and 11, the signal extraction portion 20 is provided at a corner portion (lower right corner in the drawing) of the peripheral portion inside the bag body 2. A radio transmitter 13 is incorporated in the signal extraction unit 20. Since the wireless transmitter 13 has a function of setting a plurality of device numbers, even if a plurality of load detection sensors 1 are installed in the same patient room, no interference occurs. A battery 14 is used as the power source of the wireless transmitter 13. When the wireless system is adopted, it can be easily installed in almost any place where the care recipient resides or acts, and can be used for a portable telephone (including PHS) or a wireless system.

  FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of the wireless transmitter 13 installed inside the bag body 2, (a) before insertion of the wireless transmitter, (b) after insertion of the wireless transmitter, (c ) Is an explanatory view showing a state where the outlet is folded. In FIG. 12A, a storage chamber 30 for storing the wireless transmitter 13 is provided in the vicinity of the lower right edge of the bag body 2 of the load detection sensor 1 using the same material as the bag body 2. The storage chamber 30 is formed in a pocket shape in which one side of the side edge is opened and the other three sides are thermally fused 41 to the inner surface of the bag so that the wireless transmitter 13 can be taken in and out. Further, an outlet 32 a is projected from the side edge of the bag body 2 on the opening side of the storage chamber 30. The outlet 32a is formed in a cylindrical body having both ends opened, and the base end side is opened so that the wireless transmitter 13 can be connected to the storage chamber 30. It is welded to the side edge. The wireless transmitter 13 is inserted from the distal end of the outlet 32a in the direction indicated by the arrow and is stored in the storage chamber 30 of the bag body 2.

  In FIG. 12 (b), a releasable attachment means 33, for example, a hook-and-loop fastener, an adhesive or an adhesive, is applied to one surface of the attachment port 32a and the contact surface of the bag body 2 attached by the one surface. Used double-sided tape, etc. are provided. The tip of the attachment port 32a is heat-welded 41 with a width of about 5 mm after the wireless transmitter 13 is stored in the storage chamber 30 inside the bag body 2. Here, the thermal welding is a method in which a thermoplastic film sheet or the like is melted by heat and bonded by pressurization and cooling, and includes a hot air type, a hot plate type, an impulse type, and a trowel type. Thereby, since the front-end | tip of an outlet is sealed, water etc. do not permeate.

  In FIG. 12 (c), the outlet 32a is formed in the bag body 2 by covering one surface of the attachment port 32a provided with the releasable attachment means 33 on the contact surface of the bag body 2 adhered by the one surface. Locked along the surface. The releasable attachment means 33 can be attached to any one or both sides of the attachment port 32a. In this case, the releasable attachment means 33 attached to the bag body 2 is also attached to the attachment port 32a. It is provided on one side or both sides facing the removable attachment means 33.

  FIGS. 13A and 13B show another embodiment of the wireless transmitter 13. FIG. 13A is an explanatory diagram showing the state before the wireless transmitter is inserted, and FIG. 13B is an explanatory view showing the state after the wireless transmitter is inserted. In FIG. 13A, a storage chamber 30 for storing the wireless transmitter 13 is provided in the vicinity of the lower right edge of the bag body 2 using the same material as the bag body 2. The storage chamber 30 is formed in a pocket shape in which one side of the side edge side is opened and the other three sides are thermally welded 41 to the inner surface of the bag body 2 so that the wireless transmitter 13 can be taken in and out. Further, an outlet 32 b is provided on the side edge of the bag body 2 on the opening side of the storage chamber 30. The outlet 32 b is formed to be slightly wider than the width of the welded surface on the outer periphery of the bag body 2, and is opened so that the wireless transmitter 13 can be conducted to the storage chamber 30. The wireless transmitter 13 is inserted from the outlet 32b in the direction indicated by the arrow and is stored in the storage chamber 30 of the bag body 2.

  In FIG. 13 (b), the entire periphery except for the outlet 32 b of the bag body 2 is high-frequency welded 42. High frequency welding is a welding method using a high frequency dielectric heating method. The high-frequency dielectric heating method is a method in which an object to be heated (dielectric material) is heated by electric potential action at the atomic or molecular level by an electric field action of high-frequency (electromagnetic wave) energy of several tens of MHz. A heating method using a heater or the like is a method (external heating) in which heat is transferred from a heat source outside the object to be heated by heat conduction (transfer of heat). On the other hand, the high frequency dielectric heating is to heat the object to be heated itself (internal heating). In high-frequency welding, only the portion to which the object to be heated is welded is internally heated, so that the portion that is not welded is not affected by heat in a short time. Therefore, it is finished with a beautiful texture.

  The mounting port 32b is ultrasonically welded 43 with a width of 1 to 2 mm after the wireless transmitter 13 is stored in the storage chamber 30 inside the bag body 2. According to this embodiment, since it is not necessary to bend and attach the attachment port 32b to the bag body surface, handling becomes easier. As a result, the outlet 32b is sealed, so that water or the like does not enter the bag body. The ultrasonic welding is a method in which ultrasonic energy having a frequency of 20 kHz or more is transmitted from a resonance body called a horn to an object to be heated to generate strong frictional heat for welding. Ultrasonic welding has many advantages such as fast cycle, low cost, clean finish, high strength, and high airtightness, and is particularly suitable as a means for welding the outlet. In addition, although heat welding, high frequency welding, and ultrasonic welding were specified and explained, the present invention is not limited to this, and heat welding, high frequency welding, and ultrasonic welding are not limited to this. Either can be constructed.

  FIG. 14 shows another embodiment of the wireless transmitter 13, where (a) is before insertion of the wireless transmitter, (b) is after insertion of the wireless transmitter, and (c) is folding the closing plate. It is explanatory drawing which shows a state. In FIG. 14A, a storage chamber 30 for storing the wireless transmitter 13 is provided with the same material as the bag body 2 in the vicinity of the lower right edge of the bag body 2 of the load detection sensor 1. The storage chamber 30 is formed in a pocket shape in which one side of the side edge is opened and the other three sides are thermally welded 41 to the inner surface of the bag so that the wireless transmitter 13 can be taken in and out. A closing plate 34 extends from the side edge of the bag body 2 on the opening side of the storage chamber 30. The closing plate 34 is formed in a sheet shape using a flexible material, and the base end side is welded to the side edge of the bag body 2. The wireless transmitter 13 is inserted from the opening in the direction indicated by the arrow and is stored in the storage chamber 30 of the bag body 2.

  In FIG.14 (b), the releasable attachment means 33, for example, a hook-and-loop fastener, an adhesive, or an adhesive agent is attached to the one surface of the closing plate 34, and the contact surface of the bag body 2 covered by the one surface. Used double-sided tape, etc. are provided.

  In FIG. 14C, the closing plate 34 is covered with the bag 2 by covering one side of the closing plate 34 provided with the releasable attachment means 33 on the contact surface of the bag 2 covered by the one side. Locked along the surface. The releasable attachment means 33 is attached to one surface on the side covering the opening of the bag body 2 by the closing plate 34, and the releasable attachment means 33 attached to the bag body 2 is also the above-described closing plate. 34 is provided at a single-sided position facing the re-peelable attachment means 33.

Hereinafter, the replacement procedure of the wireless transmitter of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
(1) The outlet 32a is peeled off again from the surface of the bag body 2.
(2) The welded portion of the outlet 32a is cut with a blade or the like to open the tip portion.
(3) The wireless transmitter 13 is taken out from the storage chamber 30 inside the bag body 2.
(4) Repair the wireless transmitter 13, replace the battery 14, or prepare a new wireless transmitter 13. (5) The repaired or replaced wireless transmitter 13 is stored in the storage chamber 30 inside the bag body 2.
(6) The tip of the outlet 32a is heat-welded 41 again.
(7) Affixing to a predetermined surface of the bag body 2 using the attaching means 33 provided at the outlet 32a. With this procedure, the wireless transmitter 13 can be repeatedly repaired or newly replaced.

  FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of a caregiver monitoring system using the load detection sensor of the present invention. In FIG. 15, 100 is a load detection sensor, 110 is an output signal of the load detection sensor, 120 is a repeater, 130 is an output signal of the repeater, T is a time when the output signal is transmitted, 140 is a nurse call connection adapter, 150 Is a nurse call device, 170 is a chime, 180 is a radio signal transmitter, 190 is a signal radio wave, and 200 is a radio signal receiver. The output signal 110 is closed when a load is applied to the load detection sensor 1 (the patient is in bed), and the output signal 110 is opened when the load is removed.

  When the output signal 110 changes from closed to open, the repeater 120 operates to output the output signal 110. The output signal 110 is a contact signal that is closed for T time. This output signal 110 activates the nurse call connection adapter 140, the chime 170, or the transmitter 180. The nurse call connection adapter 140, the chime 170, or the transmitter 180 can be connected, or a combination of these can be connected. The nurse call connection adapter 140 is for linking with a nurse call device 150 already installed in a hospital or facility. The nurse call device 150 is activated by the operation of the load detection sensor 1 and is notified by voice, sound, or indicator lamp. Can do.

  In addition, the said wired system shall include the thing using a private line in a facility, or a power line communication and a modem. The transmitter 180 can transmit the operation of the load detection sensor 100 wirelessly, and is notified by voice, sound, or indicator light regardless of the location even when moving by the receiver 200 (for example, a portable phone). can do. The repeater 120 can be selected from a single function that is simply connected and one that has a signal conversion function that delays or inverts the output signal 110 of the load detection sensor 100 depending on the application.

  FIG. 16 is a block diagram of the wireless transmission unit of the present invention. The wireless transmission unit 301 includes a wireless transmitter 302 and a battery 303. The wireless transmitter 302 includes a control circuit 304, a transmission circuit 305, an antenna 306, and the like. The control circuit 304 includes input terminals 307a and 307b connected to the lower plate. When the switch (not shown) is turned on (when the lower surface of the upper plate and the tip of the switch are in contact), the control circuit 304 responds to the switch being turned on. Then, a detection signal indicating that a load is applied to the load detection sensor 1 is output to the transmission circuit 305, and the transmission circuit 305 wirelessly transmits the detection signal via the antenna 306.

  Since the wireless transmitter 302 has a function of setting a plurality of device numbers, even if a plurality of cordless load detection sensors 1 are installed in the same hospital room, no interference occurs. When the cordless type load detection sensor 1 is used, it can be easily installed in almost any place where the care recipient resides or acts, and can be applied to a portable telephone (including PHS) and a wireless management system.

  The battery 303 is a small dry battery or a rechargeable battery (secondary battery), and supplies power to the control circuit 304 and the transmission circuit 305 to operate each circuit. The wireless transmission unit 301 is stored in a storage chamber 30 provided inside the bag body 2 so as to be freely inserted and removed.

  FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing an installation example of the load detection sensor of the present invention, in which (a) is on the bed mattress, (b) is under the pillow, (c) is under the bed, (d ) Is a wheelchair, (e) is a room entrance, and (f) is a toilet seat. Although not shown, it can be installed on a bathroom wall, a handrail, a staircase handrail, a room floor, or the like. This makes it possible to monitor most of the daily activities of the nurse, so that the mental and physical burden on the nurse can be reduced.

    The present invention is mainly used for a caregiver monitoring system, and relates to a load detection sensor that detects a behavior of a caregiver, such as getting out of bed or leaving a seat, by a change in load, and a function for detecting a change in load. For example, it can be used as a crime prevention device by installing in a residential opening such as a window frame.

1 load detection sensor, 2 bag body, 3 upper plate, 4 lower plate, 5 frame elastic body,
6 Elastic body, 7 Switch, 8 Misalignment prevention welding, 9 Protection plate, 10 Lead wire, 11 Flat braided wire, 12 Vent hole, 13 Wireless transmitter, 14 Battery, 20 Signal extraction part 21 Signal outlet, 22 For contact signal extraction Lead wires, 24 signal cables,
25 connector, 30 storage chamber, 32a, 32b outlet, 33 mounting means,
34 Closing plate, 41 Thermal welding, 42 High frequency induction, 43 Ultrasonic welding 100 Load detection sensor, 110 Load detection sensor output signal, 120 repeater,
130 repeater output signal, 140 nurse call connection adapter,
150 nurse call devices, 170 chimes, 180 radio signal transmitters,
190 signal radio wave, 200 radio signal receiver, 301 radio transmitter,
302 wireless transmitter, 303 battery, 304 control circuit, 305 transmission circuit,
306 Antenna, 307a, 307b Input terminal, A Air, T time, W load

Claims (8)

A sheet-like bag formed of a material having gas barrier properties and flexibility;
An upper plate and a lower plate disposed facing each other with a predetermined gap inside the bag body;
An elastic body provided to hold a gap between the upper plate and the lower plate;
Provided in the gap between the upper plate and the lower plate, and when the upper surface of the upper plate is unloaded, at least one or more are arranged on the upper surface of the lower plate so that the lower surface of the upper plate and the tip of the switch are separated from each other A switch,
It consists of a signal extraction unit for extracting the signal from the switch,
When a load is applied to the upper surface of the upper plate, the load detection sensor is actuated by lowering the upper plate and coming into contact with the tip of the switch to transmit a signal indicating the presence or absence of a human body.   2. The load detection sensor according to claim 1, wherein the bag body has a space in which air is stored inside, and at least one vent hole communicating with outside air is provided at an appropriate location on the bottom surface. .   The load detection sensor according to claim 1, wherein the signal extraction unit is a wired system.   The load detection sensor according to claim 1, wherein the signal extraction unit is a wireless system.   The load detection sensor according to claim 4, wherein the signal extraction portion is provided at a peripheral edge portion of the surface of the bag body.   In the signal extraction part, the outlet is formed in a cylindrical body having both ends opened, and the proximal end side is welded to the edge of the bag body so that the inside of the cylindrical body conducts to the inside of the bag body. The load detection sensor according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the portion is welded after the wireless transmission portion is inserted into the bag body through the inside of the cylindrical body.   In the signal extraction part, the outlet is a part of the side edge of the bag body that is opened, and a closing plate for covering the opening part extends from the side edge and is welded. The load detection sensor according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the opening is detachably covered with a closing plate after the wireless transmitter is inserted into the bag body through the opening.   The load detection sensor is installed on a bed, under a pillow, a bed fence, a floor area under the bed, a floor surface of a room, a room entrance / exit, a bathroom, a toilet, or a wheelchair. The load detection sensor in any one of 1-7.

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