JP5756918B2 - Body composition measuring device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a body composition measuring apparatus that includes a stretchable belt and a plurality of electrode blocks that measure information relating to body composition, and the plurality of electrode blocks are fixed to the belt.

  The body composition measurement apparatus of Patent Document 1 includes a plurality of electrodes that measure bioelectrical impedance, a belt that is wound around the abdomen, and an arithmetic unit that performs arithmetic processing. The plurality of electrodes are fixed to the belt. The belt is made of a highly stretchable material.

  When the bioimpedance is measured by the plurality of electrodes in a state where the belt is wound around the abdomen, the calculation unit calculates the body composition based on the measurement result.

JP 2002-369806 A

  By the way, the bioelectrical impedance is affected by the ratio of muscles and fats in the body composition and the amount of the whole body composition. Therefore, an accurate calculation result of the body composition can be obtained by correcting using the abdominal circumference as an alternative index of the amount of the whole body composition. However, the body composition measuring apparatus of Patent Document 1 does not have a function of measuring the abdominal circumference. For this reason, in order to obtain the calculation result of a body composition accurately, it is calculated | required to prepare the apparatus for measuring an abdominal circumference separately from a body composition measuring apparatus.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a body composition measuring apparatus having a structure for obtaining an accurate calculation result of body composition and having high convenience.

  One form of the body composition measuring apparatus according to the present invention comprises a belt having elasticity, a first fixing part and a second fixing part fixed to the belt, and a measuring band used for measuring abdominal circumference, and the measuring band The portion between the first fixing portion and the second fixing portion of the belt has a margin with respect to the length of the belt, moves relative to the belt according to the elongation of the belt, The belt between the measurement unit in which the margin decreases according to elongation, the electrode, the electrode holding unit that holds the electrode, and the electrode holding unit in a state in which the measurement band can move with respect to the belt A guide unit that bundles the measurement bands is provided, and includes a plurality of electrode blocks that measure information related to body composition, and a detection unit that detects the length of the measurement unit or information related to the length.
  Another form of the body composition measuring apparatus according to the present invention includes a stretchable belt, a first fixing portion and a second fixing portion fixed to the belt, and a scale used for measuring the waist circumference is formed. A measurement band and a portion between the first fixing part and the second fixing part in the measurement band, having a margin with respect to the length of the belt, and with respect to the belt according to the extension of the belt A measurement unit in which the margin decreases according to the elongation of the belt, an electrode, an electrode holding unit for holding the electrode, and the electrode holding unit in a state in which the measurement band can move with respect to the belt And a plurality of electrode blocks for measuring information relating to body composition.

  The body composition measuring apparatus has a configuration for obtaining an accurate calculation result of the body composition and is highly convenient.

1 is a perspective view of a body composition measuring apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the body composition measuring apparatus in FIG. 1. These are the figures of the measurement part of FIG. 1 (a: front view, b: back view, c: plan view). FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the electrode block of FIG. 3. These are the figures of the electrode block of FIG. 3 (a: perspective view, b: 5-5 sectional drawing). FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an end portion of the belt of FIG. 3. FIG. 4 is a diagram of the belt and abdomen of FIG. 3 (a: before wearing, b: after wearing). FIG. 4 is a view of the belt and abdomen of FIG. 3 (a: abdominal circumference small, b: abdominal circumference large). FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a modified electrode block. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a modified electrode block. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a modified electrode block. These are the block diagrams of the body composition measuring apparatus of a modification.

  (An example of a form that the body composition measuring device can take)
  [1] One form of the body composition measuring apparatus according to the present invention includes a belt having elasticity, a first fixing part and a second fixing part fixed to the belt, and a measurement band used for measuring the abdominal circumference, It is a portion between the first fixed portion and the second fixed portion in the measurement band, has a margin with respect to the length of the belt, moves relative to the belt according to the elongation of the belt, Between the measurement unit in which the margin decreases according to the elongation of the belt, the electrode, the electrode holding unit that holds the electrode, and the electrode holding unit in a state in which the measurement band can move with respect to the belt A guide unit that bundles the belt and the measurement band is provided, and includes a plurality of electrode blocks that measure information related to body composition, and a detection unit that detects the length of the measurement unit or information related to the length.
  [2] Another embodiment of the body composition measuring apparatus according to the present invention comprises a stretchable belt, a first fixing portion and a second fixing portion fixed to the belt, and a scale used for measuring the waist circumference. The formed measurement band, and a portion between the first fixing part and the second fixing part in the measurement band, and has a margin with respect to the length of the belt, and according to the extension of the belt A measurement unit that moves relative to a belt and reduces the margin according to the elongation of the belt; an electrode; an electrode holding unit that holds the electrode; and the measurement band that is movable with respect to the belt A guide part that bundles the belt and the measurement band is provided between the electrode holding part and a plurality of electrode blocks that measure information relating to body composition.
  [3] According to an example of the body composition measuring apparatus, the apparatus further includes a mark portion for determining the position of the belt with respect to the body.
  [4] According to an example of the body composition measuring apparatus, the belt includes a first end and a second end that can be separated and connected to each other.
  [5] According to an example of the body composition measuring apparatus, the apparatus further includes a measurement block attached to the belt and capable of measuring body composition information B, which is one piece of information relating to body composition, and the plurality of electrode blocks include a body. It is possible to measure body composition information A, which is one piece of information related to the composition.
  [6] According to an example of the body composition measuring apparatus, the body composition information A is body fat including visceral fat, and the body composition information B is subcutaneous fat.
  [7] According to an example of the body composition measuring apparatus, a difference between a distance between the measurement surface of the electrode block and the belt and a distance between the measurement surface of the measurement block and the belt is equal to or less than a predetermined dimensional difference. .
  [8] According to an example of the body composition measuring apparatus, a difference in distance between the measurement surface and the belt in each of the plurality of electrode blocks is equal to or less than a predetermined dimensional difference.
  [9] According to an example of the body composition measuring apparatus, the belt is disposed on the living body side with respect to the measurement band.
  [10] According to an example of the body composition measuring apparatus, the body composition measuring apparatus further includes a holding unit that binds the measuring unit and the belt.
  [11] According to an example of the body composition measuring apparatus, the width of the measurement band is smaller than the width of the belt.
  [12] According to an example of the body composition measuring apparatus, the belt includes a wireless communication unit.

(Embodiment)
With reference to FIG. 1, the structure of the body composition measuring apparatus 1 is demonstrated. FIG. 1 shows a state where the first end 31 and the second end 32 of the belt 30 of the measuring unit 20 are connected.
The body composition measuring apparatus 1 includes a main body 10 and a measuring unit 20.
The main body 10 includes an operation unit 12 used for inputting information necessary for measuring body fat, a display unit 13 for presenting various types of information to the user, and a control unit 11 for performing various calculations. In addition, a cable 14 for connecting the main body 10 and the measurement unit 20 is provided. The main body 10 contains a battery (not shown) as a power source.

  The measuring unit 20 includes an elastic belt 30 for wrapping around a user, two fasteners 21, a spine marking unit 22, a connecting rod 23 (see FIG. 3), and a measure unit 40 for measuring an abdominal circumference. , Six electrode blocks 60 (60A to 60F) for measuring bioimpedance and a subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 for measuring subcutaneous fat are provided. The subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 corresponds to a “measurement block”. Further, the spine mark portion 22 corresponds to a “mark portion”.

  The belt 30 includes a first end 31 and a second end 32 that can be separated and connected to each other. The first end portion 31 is fixed to the connecting rod 23 (see FIG. 3). The belt 30 is preferably in the most contracted state, and the length of the belt 30 (hereinafter, “belt length TB”) is preferably smaller than the user's waist circumference. For this reason, for example, a material that has the belt length TB of 50 cm in the most contracted state and can be extended to 150 cm is used. As this material, for example, a cloth containing rubber can be cited. Further, if the width of the belt 30 is small, twisting is likely to occur, and if it is large, the contact position of the electrode 61 is likely to be displaced, so that an error in the calculated value increases. For this reason, it is preferable to make it an appropriate width. For example, 1-5 cm is mentioned.

With reference to FIG. 2, the electrical configuration of the body composition measuring apparatus 1 will be described.
The control unit 11 of the main body 10 transmits and receives signals among the scale sensor 44 of the major unit 40, the electrodes 61 of the electrode blocks 60A to 60F, and the light receiving unit 73 of the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 .

The control unit 11 performs the following (Control A) to (Control C) in accordance with a signal from the operation unit 12 by the operation of the operation unit 12 by the user.
(Control A) When the power button of the operation unit 12 is operated, the scale 51 (see FIG. 3A) of the measurement band 50 is read by the scale sensor 44.
(Control B) When the measurement button of the operation unit 12 is operated, supply of current to the pair of electrodes 61 functioning as current electrodes among the electrodes 61 is started. A voltage value is measured by a pair of electrodes 61 functioning as voltage electrodes among the electrodes 61.
(Control C) When the measurement button of the operation unit 12 is operated, near infrared light is emitted from the light emitting unit 72. And the light quantity of the near infrared light which passed the biological body by the light-receiving part 73 is measured.

  The control unit 11 calculates the abdominal circumference based on the information of (Control A). Further, the volume of body fat including visceral fat and subcutaneous fat is calculated based on the voltage value of (Control B). Further, the thickness of the subcutaneous fat and the volume of the subcutaneous fat are calculated based on the amount of light in (Control C). Then, the volume of visceral fat is calculated based on the abdominal circumference, the volume of body fat, the volume of subcutaneous fat, and various information input via the operation unit 12, and the calculated result is displayed on the display unit 13. In addition, as various information input by the operation part 12, a user's height, weight, age, sex, etc. are mentioned. The voltage value measured by (control B) corresponds to “body composition information A”. The amount of light measured by (control C) corresponds to “body composition information B”.

With reference to FIG. 3, the structure of the measurement part 20 is demonstrated.
The fastener 21, the spine marking portion 22, and the measure unit 40 and each of the blocks 60A to 60F, 70 are arranged from the second end 32 to the first end 31 of the belt 30, and the measure unit 40, the electrode block 60F, and the electrode block 60D. , electrode block 60B, fastener 21, spine mark portion 22, the fastener 21, the electrode block 60A, the electrode block 60C, are arranged in the order of subcutaneous fat measurement block 70, and the electrode block 60 E.

Below, the position of the fastener 21, the spine marking part 22, the measure unit 40, and each of the blocks 60A to 60F and 70 with respect to the belt 30 will be described.
The spine mark portion 22 is fixed to the central portion 33 of the belt 30. One of the two fasteners 21 is fixed closer to the central portion 33 between the first end portion 31 and the central portion 33 of the belt 30. The other is fixed near the central portion 33 between the second end portion 32 and the central portion 33 of the belt 30. The subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 is fixed near the first end 31 between the first end 31 and the central portion 33 of the belt 30. The measure unit 40 is fixed to the second end portion 32. The electrode blocks 60 </ b > B, 60 </ b > D, 60 </ b > F are fixed closer to the second end portion 32 between the central portion 33 and the second end portion 32 . The electrode blocks 60 </ b> A, 60 </ b> C, 60 </ b> E are fixed closer to the first end portion 31 between the central portion 33 and the first end portion 31 .

The electrode 61 of the electrode block 60A and the electrode 61 of the electrode block 60B function as current electrodes and constitute a current electrode pair.
The electrodes 61 of the electrode blocks 60C to 60F function as voltage electrodes. Further, the electrode 61 of the electrode block 60C and the electrode 61 of the electrode block 60D constitute one voltage electrode pair. Further, the electrode 61 of the electrode block 60E and the electrode 61 of the electrode block 60F constitute one voltage electrode pair.

The structure of the major unit 40 will be described.
The major unit 40 includes a housing 41 and a measurement band 50 that is partly smaller than the belt 30 that is housed inside the housing 41.

The housing 41 includes a connecting hole 43 into which the connecting rod 23 is inserted, an umbilical mark portion 42 printed on the surface of the housing 41, a scale sensor 44 that reads the scale 51 of the measuring band 50, and a measuring spring 50 ( And a take-up button 45 for taking up the casing 41 with a force (not shown).

  The measurement band 50 is provided with a scale 51 at a predetermined interval on the surface thereof. One end of the measurement band 50 is fixed to the first end 31 via the connecting rod 23. The other end 31 is fixed to the second end 32 via a housing 41. The portion fixed to the first end 31 of the measurement band 50 corresponds to a “first fixing portion”. The portion fixed to the second end portion 32 of the measurement band 50 corresponds to a “second fixing portion”.

  The vicinity of the second end 32 of the measurement band 50 is wound up inside the housing 41. When the belt 30 is extended, the portion of the measurement band 50 that is wound is pulled out from the housing 41 according to the extension of the belt 30. Thereby, the part currently wound up decreases. When the belt 30 is contracted from the extended state, the portion of the measurement band 50 drawn out is wound into the housing 41 by pressing the winding button 45. The entire length of the measurement band 50 corresponds to the belt length TB when the belt 30 is extended to the maximum. The portion where the measurement band 50 is wound corresponds to “margin”. The entire measurement band 50 corresponds to a “measurement unit”.

The structure of the fastener 21 will be described.
The fastener 21 has a ring-shaped structure. The fastener 21 passes the belt 30 and the measurement band 50 inside the ring, and binds the belt 30 and the measurement band 50 together. The fastener 21 is fixed to the belt 30 but is not fixed to the measurement band 50.

The structure of the spine mark portion 22 will be described.
The spine mark portion 22 has a ring-shaped structure that is wider than the fastener 21. The spine mark portion 22 passes the belt 30 and the measurement band 50 inside the ring, and binds the belt 30 and the measurement band 50 together. The spine marking 22 is fixed to the belt 30 but is not fixed to the measurement band 50.

The structure of the electrode block 60 will be described with reference to FIG. Hereinafter, in the measurement unit 20, the side where the electrode 61 of the electrode block 60 is provided is referred to as “inside”, and the side where the measurement band 50 is provided is referred to as “outside”. The direction from the inside to the outside is referred to as the “depth direction”. The inner side corresponds to the “living body side”.

  The electrode block 60 connects each member with an electrode 61, an electrode holding portion 62 that holds the electrode, a guide portion 65 that is fixed to the outside of the electrode holding portion 62, a rubber 67 that fixes the belt 30. And a screw 68 for the purpose. The electrode holding part 62 includes an outer peripheral holding plate 63 that holds the outer periphery of the electrode 61 and a rear holding plate 64 that holds the electrode 61 from the outside.

The electrode 61 has a curved shape with the center in the width direction protruding inward. In addition, as an electrode material, what carried out the metal plating process of the SUS and the resin material surface is used.
The electrode 61 is fixed to the rear holding plate 64 with screws 68. The back surface holding plate 64 is fitted into the outer periphery holding plate 63. The outer peripheral holding plate 63 is fixed to the guide portion 65 with screws 68 with the belt 30 and the measurement band 50 interposed therebetween. In addition, the corner | angular part which contacts the belt 30 and the measurement belt | band | zone 50 of the electrode holding | maintenance part 62 and the guide part 65 is formed in circular arc shape.

The structure of the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 will be described with reference to FIG.
The subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 includes a casing 71 including two light emitting units 72 that emit near-infrared light and one light-receiving unit 73 that receives near-infrared light, and a guide common to the electrode blocks 60A to 60F. A portion 65 (see FIG. 4) and a rubber 67 (see FIG. 4) are provided. The two light emitting units 72 and the light receiving unit 73 are arranged in the height direction in the order of the light emitting unit 72, the light emitting unit 72, and the light receiving unit 73. In addition, it is preferable that the distance between the light emitting unit 72 and the light receiving unit 73 is approximately half to twice the general subcutaneous fat thickness at the position where the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 is arranged in the user's abdomen.

The relationship between the belt 30 and the measurement band 50 will be described with reference to FIG.
As shown in FIG. 5A, the belt 30 and the measurement band 50 are disposed in an opening 66 formed between the electrode holding part 62 and the guide part 65.

The belt 30 is fixed by a rubber 67 disposed between the guide portion 65 and the belt 30 and an electrode holding portion 62. Further, the measurement band 50 can freely move in the longitudinal direction of the belt 30 between the belt 30 and the guide portion 65. On the other hand, it can move only in the range of the opening 66 in the height direction and the depth direction.

In the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 shown in FIG. 3, the belt 30 is fixed by the guide portion 65 and the casing 71. Further, the measurement band 50 can freely move in the longitudinal direction of the belt 30 between the belt 30 and the guide portion 65. On the other hand, in the height direction and the depth direction, it can move only in a range of a space (not shown) formed between the casing 71 and the guide portion 65.

With reference to FIG.3 (c), the positional relationship in the depth direction of the belt 30, the major unit 40, and each block 60A-60F, 70 is demonstrated.
The distance DA of the inner surface of the belt 30 and the measure unit 40, the distance DA of the belt 30 and the electrode 61 of the electrode blocks 60A to 60F that protrudes to the innermost side, and the casing 71 of the belt 30 and the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 The distance DA to the inner surface is substantially equal. These distances correspond to the “block length”. Further, the difference between these distances corresponds to a “dimensional difference”. Further, the innermost protruding portion of the electrode 61 of the electrode blocks 60 </ b> A to 60 </ b> F and the inner surface of the housing 71 of the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 correspond to a “measurement surface”.

The visceral fat measurement procedure will be described with reference to FIGS. In FIG. 7, the cable 14 and the main body 10 shown in FIG. 1 are omitted.
The user measures the body composition by the following (Procedure 1) to (Procedure 7 ).
(Procedure 1) Press the power button of the operation unit 12 in FIG.
(Procedure 2) Hold the belt 30 in hand.
(Procedure 3) The spine marking 22 is applied to the spine 120 (see FIG. 7A).
(Procedure 4) The belt 30 is stretched and wound around the abdomen 100 (see FIG. 7B).
(Procedure 5) The connecting rod 23 is inserted into the connecting hole 43 (see FIG. 6).
(Step 6) matched umbilical marker portion 42 of the measure unit 40 (see FIG. 6) in the umbilical 110.
(Procedure 7) Press the measurement button of the operation unit 12 in FIG.

  In the state in which the above (Procedure 5) is performed, the portion of the measurement band 50 wound around the casing 41 is pulled out according to the extension of the belt 30, so the length of the measurement band 50 outside the casing 41 ( Hereinafter, “measurement band length TP”) is equal to the belt length TB. The belt length TB is a length corresponding to the waist circumference. 2 calculates the waist circumference based on the detection signal of the scale sensor 44.

  The positional relationship between each block and the body will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, FIG.8 (b) has shown the measurement part 20 when it is wound around the user of an abdominal girth larger than Fig.8 (a).

Since the fastener 21, the spine mark portion 22, the measure unit 40, the electrode blocks 60A to 60F, and the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 of the measurement unit 20 are fixed to the belt 30, the abdomen 100 of the user shown in FIG. When wound around the user's abdomen 100 in FIG.
-One of the fasteners 21 is located between the spine 120 and the right flank 130.
-The other of the fasteners 21 is located between the spine 120 and the left flank 140.
The spine mark portion 22 is located at a position corresponding to the spine 120.
The measure unit 40 is located at a position corresponding to the navel 110.
The electrode block 60A is positioned near the right flank 130 and ahead of the right flank.
The electrode block 60B is located near the left flank 140 and ahead of the left flank.
The electrode block 60C is located between the navel 110 and the right flank 130.
The electrode block 60D is located between the navel 110 and the left flank 140.
The electrode block 60E is located near the umbilicus 110 and to the right of the umbilicus 110.
The electrode block 60F is located near the umbilicus 110 and to the left of the umbilicus 110.
The subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 is located between the umbilicus 110 and the right flank 130.

(Effect of embodiment)
The body composition measuring apparatus 1 of the present embodiment has the following effects.
(1) The body composition measuring apparatus 1 has a measurement band 50 that moves relative to the belt 30 according to the elongation of the belt 30. The measurement band 50 has less margin according to the elongation of the belt 30. According to this configuration, when the belt 30 is wound around the user's abdomen 100, the measurement band 50 is pulled out from the measure unit 40 according to the extension of the belt 30. For this reason, the user's waist circumference can be measured from the scale 51 of the measurement band 50. Bioimpedance is affected by the ratio of body composition such as muscle and fat and the amount of the whole body composition. For this reason, an accurate calculation result of the body composition can be obtained by correcting using the abdominal circumference measured as an alternative index of the amount of the whole body composition.

  (2) The user's abdominal circumference changes with eating and drinking, breathing, posture, and the like. In addition, as the abdominal circumference varies, the area and shape of the visceral fat of the portion to be measured vary greatly. For this reason, in order to obtain an accurate calculation result of the body composition by the bioelectrical impedance and the waist circumference, it is preferable that the time difference when measuring two pieces of biometric information is small.

  Since the belt 30 of the body composition measuring apparatus 1 has the plurality of electrodes 61 and the measurement band 50, the bioimpedance and waist circumference can be measured at the same time or at the same time. For this reason, the calculation accuracy of body composition improves.

  Further, when breathing, posture, and the like change, the amount of change in area of the portion to be measured differs for each body composition. Therefore, by measuring the bioelectrical impedance and the waist circumference a plurality of times, the body composition can be estimated more accurately based on the amount of change in the body impedance and the amount of change in the waistline.

  (3) The major unit 40 measures the measurement band length TP and transmits the result to the control unit 11. According to this configuration, it is not necessary for the user to read the scale 51 of the measurement band 50 and input the measurement band length TP to the operation unit. For this reason, convenience is improved.

(4) The belt has a spine mark portion 22 corresponding to the spine 120 and an umbilical mark portion 42 corresponding to the position of the navel 110. According to this configuration, the user can mark the spine mark portion 22 and the umbilical mark portion 42 when the belt 30 is wound around the abdomen 100. Accordingly, since the positional relationship between the plurality of electrodes 61 and the body is suppressed every time the belt 30 is wound, the variation in the measurement results of the body composition due to the positional deviation of the plurality of electrodes 61 is reduced.

  (5) The belt 30 has a first end portion 31 and a second end portion 32 that can be separated and connected to each other. According to this configuration, the attachment to the abdomen 100 and the removal from the abdomen 100 can be easily performed as compared with the belt 30 formed as one continuous annular member.

  (6) Each of the electrode blocks 60 </ b> A to 60 </ b> F has a guide portion 65 that guides the belt 30 and the measurement band 50. According to this configuration, the measurement band 50 is prevented from separating from the belt 30. For this reason, an abdominal circumference can be measured accurately.

  (7) Body fat includes visceral fat and subcutaneous fat. For this reason, in order to measure visceral fat accurately, it is necessary to consider subcutaneous fat. On the other hand, the body composition measuring apparatus 1 has a subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 for measuring the subcutaneous fat thickness. According to this configuration, subcutaneous fat can be reflected in the calculation process of visceral fat. For this reason, the calculation accuracy of visceral fat is improved.

  (8) When the dimensional difference between the electrode blocks 60 </ b> A to 60 </ b> F and the measurement block 70 is large, there is a possibility that the measurement surface of the block with a small distance DA may not properly contact the living body. Moreover, there is a possibility that the user may feel uncomfortable due to a large difference in the force with which each block pushes the living body. On the other hand, the measurement surfaces of the electrode blocks 60A to 60F and the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 of the body composition measuring apparatus 1 are arranged on the virtual line X. That is, the distance DA between the electrode blocks 60A to 60F and the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 is substantially equal. According to this configuration, the measurement surfaces of the blocks 60 and 70 are appropriately in contact with the living body. Moreover, since the difference in the force with which each of the blocks 60A to 60F and 70 pushes the living body is reduced, the user is less likely to feel discomfort.

  (9) The belt 30 is located inside the measurement band 50. According to this configuration, when the user wraps the belt 30 around the abdomen 100, the belt 30 is pressed against the living body by the measurement band 50, so that the belt 30 is prevented from being separated from the living body.

  (10) The measurement unit 20 includes a fastener 21 that binds the measurement unit of the measurement band 50 and the belt 30. According to this configuration, the measurement unit of the measurement band 50 is suppressed from being separated from the belt 30. Further, the belt 30 and the measurement band 50 are prevented from being twisted. For this reason, an abdominal circumference can be measured accurately.

  (11) The width of the measurement band 50 is smaller than the width of the belt 30. According to this configuration, unlike the configuration in which the width of the measurement band 50 is larger than the width of the belt 30, that is, the configuration in which the outer surface of the belt 30 is covered with the measurement band 50, However, the position of the belt 30 can be easily visually confirmed. For this reason, convenience is improved.

  (12) The body composition measuring apparatus 1 includes a main body 10 that is separate from the measuring unit 20 and the measuring unit 20 connected by the cable 14. According to this configuration, the belt 30 is prevented from being shifted downward from the abdomen 100 due to the weight of the main body 10.

  (13) When the amount of bending of the cable 14 is large and when the amount of bending changes, the impedance changes due to the influence on the resistance and reactance components. The body composition measuring apparatus 1 winds the cable 14 around the abdomen 100 with the cable 14 disposed below the belt 30. According to this configuration, the cable 14 is unlikely to be bent as compared with the case where the cable 14 is wound around the abdomen 100 with the belt 14 disposed above the belt 30. For this reason, the change of the impedance resulting from the bending amount of the cable 14 can be reduced. Further, the load on the cable 14 itself can be reduced by the weight of the cable 14.

  Moreover, since the measurement part 20 has arrange | positioned the cable 14 under all the electrode blocks 60A-60F, it can make the difference in the impedance resulting from the bending amount between electrode blocks 60A-60F small.

  (14) The electrode 61 has a curved shape with the center protruding inward in the width direction. According to this configuration, since it is easier to contact the abdomen 100 as compared with the case where the electrode 61 has a planar shape, the measurement accuracy of visceral fat is improved.

  (15) The measurement unit 20 has a measurement band 50 along the entire belt 30. According to this configuration, the measurement accuracy of the abdominal circumference is improved as compared with the case where the measurement band 50 along only a part of the belt 30 is provided.

  (16) The electrode holding part 62 and the guide part 65 have corners in contact with the belt 30 and the measurement band 50 in an arc shape. According to this configuration, the load when the belt 30 and the measurement band 50 move with respect to the electrode holding part 62 and the guide part 65 can be reduced.

(17) The first end portion 31 and the second end portion 32 of the belt 30 are disposed at positions corresponding to the navel 110 when the belt 30 is wound around the abdomen 100. According to this configuration, since the connecting rod 23 and the connecting hole 43 are disposed in front of the user, it is easy to connect the first end portion 31 and the second end portion 32.

(Other embodiments)
The present invention includes embodiments other than the above-described embodiment. Hereinafter, the modification of the said embodiment as other embodiment of this invention is shown. The following modifications can be combined with each other.

-The measurement part 20 of the said embodiment (FIG. 1) has six electrode blocks 60A-60F. On the other hand, modification of the measuring unit 20 has a two to five or seven or more electrodes block 6 0,. In addition, when it has two electrode blocks, each electrode block can also have the function of a current electrode and the function of a voltage electrode.

In the embodiment (FIG. 1), the measurement unit 20 fixes the electrode blocks 60B, 60D, and 60F closer to the second end portion 32 between the central portion 33 and the second end portion 32 . On the other hand, the measurement unit 20 according to the modification fixes the electrode blocks 60 </ b> B, 60 </ b> D, 60 </ b> F closer to the central portion 33 between the central portion 33 and the first end portion 31.

The measurement unit 20 of the above embodiment (FIG. 1) fixes the electrode blocks 60 </ b> A, 60 </ b> C, 60 </ b> E closer to the first end 31 between the central portion 33 and the first end 31 . On the other hand, the measurement unit 20 of the modification fixes the electrode blocks 60 </ b> A, 60 </ b> C, 60 </ b> E to the central portion 33 between the central portion 33 and the second end portion 32.

  In the measurement unit 20 of the above-described embodiment (FIG. 1), the electrode blocks 60A, 60C, and 60E and the electrode blocks 60B, 60D, and 60F are arranged symmetrically on the belt 30. On the other hand, in the measurement unit 20 of the modified example, the electrode blocks 60A, 60C, and 60E and the electrode blocks 60B, 60D, and 60F are arranged on the left and right sides.

  In the above embodiment (FIG. 1), the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 is fixed between the electrode block 60C and the electrode block 60E. On the other hand, the modified subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 is fixed between the electrode block 60A and the electrode block 60C.

  -The measurement part 20 of the said embodiment (FIG. 1) has the two fasteners 21. FIG. On the other hand, the measurement unit 20 of the modified example includes one or three or more fasteners 21. In addition, arrangement | positioning of the fastener 21 on the belt 30 can be changed suitably.

The measure unit 40 of the above embodiment (FIG. 2) has a scale sensor 44 that reads the scale 51 of the measurement band 50. On the other hand, the major unit 40 of the modification has at least one of the following configurations (A) and (B).
(A) The major unit 40 of the modification has a rotary encoder that reads the rotation angle of the winding portion of the measurement band 50.
(B) The major unit 40 of the modification has a force sensor that reads the restoring force of the mainspring spring.

  The measure unit 40 of the above embodiment (FIG. 2) has a scale sensor 44 and a scale 51 for the scale sensor 44 to read. On the other hand, the major unit 40 of the modified example has a scale of the measurement band 50 in which the scale sensor 44 is omitted and a number for reading by the user is engraved. In this case, the number read by the user is input by the operation unit 12.

The measure unit 40 in the above embodiment (FIG. 1) has a wide measurement band 50. On the other hand, the modified major unit 40 has a string-shaped measurement band.
The measure unit 40 of the above embodiment (FIG. 3) has a structure in which the margin of the measurement band 50 is wound inside the housing 41. On the other hand, the major unit 40 of the modified example has a space for folding the measurement band 50 inside the housing 41. In this case, the user stores the margin of the measurement band 50 in the housing 41 before starting measurement.

  In the above embodiment (FIG. 3), the major unit 40 is fixed to the second end portion 32. On the other hand, the major unit 40 of the modified example is fixed to the central portion 33 of the belt 30. In this case, the measurement band 50 is arranged from the central portion 33 to the first end portion 31. The major unit 40 functions as a spine mark portion.

  In the measurement band 50 of the above embodiment (FIG. 3), both end portions are fixed to the first end portion 31 and the second end portion 32 of the belt 30. On the other hand, the measurement band 50 of the modified example is fixed to the belt 30 at the portion A and the portion B closer to the center than the end portions. In this case, the part A corresponds to the “first fixing part”, and the part B corresponds to the “second fixing part”. Further, the part A to the part B correspond to “measurement part”.

-The measurement part 20 of the said embodiment (FIG. 1) has the spine mark part 22 and the navel mark part 42. FIG . On the other hand, the measurement unit 20 of the modified example omits at least one of the spine mark part 22 and the umbilical mark part 42 . When both the spine mark portion 22 and the umbilical mark portion 42 are omitted, the center of the housing 41 of the measure unit 40 is aligned with the navel 110.

-The measurement part 20 of the said embodiment (FIG. 1) has the ring-shaped spine mark part 22. FIG. On the other hand, the measurement unit 20 of the modified example has a spine mark printed on the surface of the belt 30.
-The electrode block 60 of the said embodiment (FIG. 5) has the opening part 66 with which the belt 30 and the measurement belt | band | zone 50 contact mutually. On the other hand, the electrode block 60 of the modification shown in FIG. 9 has an opening 66 including a partition plate 69 between the belt 30 and the measurement band 50. The partition plate 69 has a smaller coefficient of friction on the outer surface with which the measurement band 50 contacts than the surface of the belt 30. According to this configuration, the measurement band 50 can easily move with respect to the belt 30.

  -The measurement part 20 of the said modification (FIG. 9) has the measurement belt | band | zone 50 arrange | positioned outside the belt 30. FIG. On the other hand, the measurement unit 20 of the modified example shown in FIG. 10 has a measurement band 50 arranged on the inner side of the belt 30. According to this configuration, the measurement accuracy of the abdominal circumference is improved because the measurement band 50 is closer to the abdomen 100 as compared with the case where the measurement band 50 is disposed outside the belt 30. Further, since the measurement band 50 is pressed inward by the belt 30, the measurement band 50 is suppressed from being separated from the abdomen 100. In this case, the guide portion 65 has an opening for placing the belt 30, and the back support plate 64 has an opening for placing the measurement strip 50.

  The measurement unit 20 of the above embodiment (FIG. 3) has a measurement band 50 that is disposed outside the belt 30. On the other hand, the measurement unit 20 of the modification has a measurement band 50 arranged inside the bag of the bag-like belt 30. According to this configuration, the measurement band 50 is prevented from separating from the belt 30.

The major unit 40 of the above embodiment (FIG. 3) has a winding button 45. On the other hand, the major unit 40 of the modified example omits the winding button 45.
-The measurement part 20 of the said embodiment (FIG. 3) has the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 as a measurement block. On the other hand, the measurement unit 20 of the modified example has at least one measurement block of the following (A) and (B) instead of or in addition to the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70.

  (A) The measurement unit 20 of the modification has a moisture measurement block. According to this configuration, the calculation accuracy of visceral fat can be improved by measuring the amount of water that affects the measurement of bioelectrical impedance. The moisture measuring block measures the conductance of the skin surface by alternating current with an electrode interval of several mm. In this case, the conductance corresponds to “body composition information B”.

  (B) The measurement unit 20 of the modification has a temperature measurement block. According to this configuration, the calculation accuracy of visceral fat can be improved by measuring the electrode temperature or the body surface temperature that affects the measurement of bioimpedance. Note that the temperature measurement block may be shared with the electrode block 60. In this case, the electrode temperature and the body surface temperature correspond to “body composition information B”.

-The measurement part 20 of the said embodiment (FIG. 2) has the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 which measures subcutaneous fat thickness by near-infrared light. On the other hand, the measurement unit 20 of the modification includes a subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 that measures subcutaneous fat by at least one of the following (A) and (B).
(A) The measurement unit 20 of the modification includes a subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 that measures subcutaneous fat due to impedance. In this case, the distance between the electrodes constituting the voltage electrode pair is set to be approximately half to twice the general subcutaneous fat thickness at the position where the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 is disposed.
(B) The measurement unit 20 of the modification includes a subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 that measures subcutaneous fat by ultrasonic waves.

-The measurement part 20 of the said embodiment (FIG. 2) has the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 for improving the calculation accuracy of a visceral fat. On the other hand, the measurement unit 20 of the modified example has at least one of the following sensors (A) and (B) instead of or in addition to the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 in order to improve the calculation accuracy of visceral fat.
(A) The measurement unit 20 of the modification has a sensor for detecting whether the first end 31 and the second end 32 are correctly connected.
(B) The measuring unit 20 of the modification includes a height sensor and a horizontal sensor that detect whether the belt 30 is horizontally disposed on a cross section passing through the navel 110.

  -The measurement part 20 of the said embodiment (FIG. 2) has the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 for improving the calculation accuracy of a visceral fat. On the other hand, the measurement unit 20 of the modification has a temperature adjustment unit for improving the calculation accuracy of visceral fat. In this case, the bioimpedance is measured in a state where the temperature of the electrode 61 and the body surface temperature are constant.

  -The measurement part 20 of the said embodiment (FIG. 5) has the ring-shaped fastener 21. FIG. On the other hand, the measuring unit 20 of the modified example (FIG. 11) has a fastener 80 constituted by the electrode holding unit 62 and the guide unit 65 of the electrode block 60. In this case, the fastener 80 can be used as the electrode block 60 by fixing the electrode 61 to the electrode holding portion 62 of the fastener 80.

  -The body composition measuring apparatus 1 of the said embodiment (FIG. 1) has the cable 14 which connects the main body 10 and the measurement part 20 with a wire communication. On the other hand, the body composition measuring apparatus 1 of the modified example (FIG. 12) includes a wireless communication unit 90 that communicates with each of the main body 10 and the measuring unit 20 wirelessly. The measure unit 40, the electrode blocks 60 </ b> A to 60 </ b> F, and the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 are connected to the wireless communication unit 90 of the measurement unit 20 by the cable 14. According to this configuration, since the cable 14 for connecting the main body 10 and the measurement unit 20 by wire can be omitted, the cable 14 does not interfere with the user. It is also possible to employ a configuration in which each of the major unit 40, the electrode blocks 60A to 60F, and the subcutaneous fat measurement block 70 includes the wireless communication unit 90 and communicates with the wireless communication unit 90 of the main body 10 wirelessly.

-The belt 30 of the said embodiment (FIG. 6) has the connecting rod 23 for connecting the 1st end part 31 and the 2nd end part 32, and the connection hole 43 of the measure unit 40. FIG. On the other hand, the belt 30 of the modified example has any one of the following configurations (A) to (C) for connecting the first end portion 31 and the second end portion 32.
(A) The belt 30 of the modified example has a protrusion protruding inward at the first end portion 31 and a hole formed on the outer side of the measure unit 40.
(B) The belt 30 of the modified example has a belt buckle that can fix the second end portion 32 inside the measure unit 40.
(C) The belt 30 of the modified example includes a magnet fixed to the first end portion 31 and a magnet fixed to the second end portion 32.

  -The belt 30 of the said embodiment (FIG. 3) has the 1st end part 31 and the 2nd end part 32. FIG. On the other hand, the belt 30 of the modified example does not have an end. In this case, the user wears the belt 30 by spreading the belt 30 and diving the belt 30 from the toe or head.

  -The electrode block 60 of the said embodiment (FIG. 4) has the rubber 67 for fixing the electrode holding | maintenance part 62 and the belt 30. FIG. On the other hand, the rubber 67 is omitted from the modified electrode block 60. In this case, the electrode holding part 62 and the belt 30 are fixed with an adhesive.

  -The electrode block 60 of the said embodiment (FIG. 4) has the electrode holding part 62. FIG. On the other hand, the electrode block 60 of the modified example omits the electrode holding portion 62. In this case, the electrode 61 is directly connected to the inner surface of the belt 30. In this case, the portion where the electrode 61 is disposed on the surface of the belt 30 may be formed as conductive rubber, and the conductive rubber may be used as the electrode 61.

-The measurement part 20 of the said embodiment (FIG. 3) has the belt 30 comprised with the cloth in which rubber was woven. On the other hand, the measurement unit 20 of the modified example includes a belt 30 configured by at least one of the following (A) and (B).
(A) The measuring unit 20 of the modified example has a belt 30 constituted by a spring.
(B) The measuring unit 20 of the modified example includes a belt 30 configured by a rhombus lattice structure that extends and contracts as a whole.

-The body composition measuring apparatus 1 of the said embodiment (FIG. 6) winds the measurement part 20 around the abdomen 100, and measures the volume of the visceral fat as a body composition. On the other hand, the body composition measuring apparatus 1 of the modified example wraps the measuring unit 20 around an arm or a leg and measures the volume of subcutaneous fat as a body composition.
-This invention can also be applied to body composition measuring apparatuses other than the body composition measuring apparatus 1 illustrated by the said embodiment. As another body composition measuring apparatus, a body composition measuring apparatus is mentioned. In short, the present invention can be applied to any body composition measuring device as long as it is a body composition measuring device.

  (Additional note regarding means for solving the problem)
  [Appendix 1]
  In a body composition measuring apparatus comprising a belt having elasticity and a plurality of electrode blocks for measuring information relating to body composition, wherein the plurality of electrode blocks are fixed to the belt,
  Having a measuring band to measure the waist circumference,
  The measurement band has a first fixing part and a second fixing part fixed to the belt;
  The measurement part between the first fixing part and the second fixing part in the measurement band has a margin with respect to the length of the belt and moves relative to the belt according to the extension of the belt. about,
  In addition, the measuring unit should have less margin according to the elongation of the belt.
  An apparatus for measuring body composition.
  [Appendix 2]
  In the body composition measurement apparatus according to attachment 1,
  Having a mark for locating the belt relative to the body
  An apparatus for measuring body composition.
  [Appendix 3]
  In the body composition measuring apparatus according to appendix 1 or 2,
  The belt has a first end and a second end that are separable and connectable to each other.
  An apparatus for measuring body composition.
  [Appendix 4]
  In the body composition measuring device according to any one of appendices 1 to 3,
  At least one of the plurality of electrode blocks has a guide portion that guides the belt and the measurement portion of the measurement band.
  An apparatus for measuring body composition.
  [Appendix 5]
  In the body composition measuring device according to any one of appendices 1 to 4,
  The plurality of electrode blocks measure body composition information A as information on body composition;
  Providing a measurement block for measuring body composition information B;
  And the measuring block is attached to the belt.
  An apparatus for measuring body composition.
  [Appendix 6]
  In the body composition measurement apparatus according to attachment 5,
  Measuring body fat including visceral fat as the body composition information A measured by the plurality of electrode blocks;
  And measuring subcutaneous fat as body composition information B measured by the measurement block
  An apparatus for measuring body composition.
  [Appendix 7]
  In the body composition measuring apparatus according to appendix 5 or 6,
  The distance between the measurement surface and the belt in each of the plurality of electrode blocks and the measurement block is a block length, and the difference between the block lengths of the plurality of electrode blocks and the measurement block is equal to or less than a predetermined dimensional difference. about
  An apparatus for measuring body composition.
  [Appendix 8]
  In the body composition measuring device according to any one of appendices 1 to 4,
  The distance between the measurement surface of each of the electrode blocks and the belt is a block length, and the difference in the block lengths of the plurality of electrode blocks is not more than a predetermined dimensional difference.
  An apparatus for measuring body composition.
  [Appendix 9]
  In the body composition measuring device according to any one of appendices 1 to 8,
  The belt is positioned on the living body side with respect to the measurement band.
  An apparatus for measuring body composition.
  [Appendix 10]
  In the body composition measuring device according to any one of appendices 1 to 9,
  It has a holding part that binds the measuring part of the measuring band and the belt.
  An apparatus for measuring body composition.
  [Appendix 11]
  In the body composition measuring device according to any one of appendices 1 to 10,
  The width of the measurement band is smaller than the width of the belt
  An apparatus for measuring body composition.
  [Appendix 12]
  In the body composition measuring device according to any one of appendices 1 to 11,
  The belt has a wireless communication unit.
  An apparatus for measuring body composition.
  [Appendix A]
  A belt having elasticity;
  A measurement band that is attached to the belt so as to be movable along the belt, and includes a measurement unit that is longer than the belt and changes in length as the belt expands and contracts;
  A detection unit that detects the length of the measurement unit or information about the length.
  measuring device.
  [Appendix B]
  A belt having elasticity;
  A measuring strip that is attached to the belt so as to be movable along the belt, is longer than the belt, changes in length as the belt expands and contracts, and has a measuring portion that forms a scale.
  measuring device.
  [Appendix C]
  The apparatus further includes a device attached to the belt.
  The measuring apparatus according to Appendix A or B.
  [Appendix D]
  The device measures information about a living body
  The measuring device according to appendix C.
  [Appendix E]
  It further comprises an accommodating part that is a part accommodating the measuring part,
  The measuring part can be pulled out from the accommodating part.
  The measuring apparatus according to any one of appendices A to D.

  1: Body composition measuring device
  10: Body
  11: Control unit
  12: Operation unit
  13: Display section
  14: Cable
  20: Measurement unit
  21: Fastener (holding part)
  22: spine mark part (mark part)
  23: Connecting rod
  30: Belt
  31: First end
  32: Second end
  33: Central part
  40: Major unit
  41: casing
  42: Umbilical mark part (mark part)
  43: Connecting hole
  44: Scale sensor (detection unit)
  45: Winding button
  50: Measurement band
  51: Scale
  60: Electrode block
  60A: Electrode block
  60B: Electrode block
  60C: Electrode block
  60D: Electrode block
  60E: Electrode block
  60F: Electrode block
  61: Electrode
  62: Electrode holding part
  63: outer periphery holding plate
  64: Back holding plate
  65: Guide section
  66: opening
  67: Rubber
  68: Screw
  69: Partition plate
  70: Subcutaneous fat measurement block (measurement block)
  71: casing
  72: Light emitting part
  73: Light receiving portion
  80: Fastener (holding part)
  90: Wireless communication unit
  100: Abdomen
  110: Navel
  120: spine
  130: Right flank
  140: Left flank
  DA: Distance
  TB: Belt length
  TP: Measurement band length

Claims (12)

  A belt having elasticity;
  A first fixing portion and a second fixing portion fixed to the belt, and a measurement band used for measurement of the abdominal circumference;
  It is a portion between the first fixed portion and the second fixed portion in the measurement band, has a margin with respect to the length of the belt, moves relative to the belt according to the elongation of the belt, A measuring section in which the margin decreases according to the elongation of the belt;
  An electrode, an electrode holding part for holding the electrode, and a guide part for bundling the belt and the measurement band between the electrode holding part in a state in which the measurement band can move with respect to the belt; A plurality of electrode blocks for measuring information;
  A detection unit that detects the length of the measurement unit or information about the length.
  Body composition measuring device.   A belt having elasticity;
  A first measuring part and a second fixing part fixed to the belt, and a measurement band on which a scale used for measuring the abdominal circumference is formed,
  It is a portion between the first fixed portion and the second fixed portion in the measurement band, has a margin with respect to the length of the belt, moves relative to the belt according to the elongation of the belt, A measuring section in which the margin decreases according to the elongation of the belt;
  An electrode, an electrode holding part for holding the electrode, and a guide part for bundling the belt and the measurement band between the electrode holding part in a state in which the measurement band can move with respect to the belt; A plurality of electrode blocks for measuring information
  Body composition measuring device.   A mark part for determining the position of the belt with respect to the body is further provided.
  The body composition measuring apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.   The belt includes a first end and a second end that are separable and connectable to each other.
  The body composition measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.   A measurement block attached to the belt and capable of measuring body composition information B, which is one piece of information relating to body composition;
  The plurality of electrode blocks can measure body composition information A, which is one of information related to body composition.
  The body composition measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.   The body composition information A is body fat including visceral fat,
  The body composition information B is subcutaneous fat
  The body composition measuring apparatus according to claim 5.   The difference between the distance between the measurement surface of the electrode block and the belt and the distance between the measurement surface of the measurement block and the belt is less than a predetermined dimensional difference.
  The body composition measuring apparatus according to claim 5 or 6.   The difference in distance between the measurement surface and the belt in each of the plurality of electrode blocks is equal to or less than a predetermined dimensional difference.
  The body composition measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.   The belt is disposed on the living body side with respect to the measurement band.
  The body composition measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.   The apparatus further includes a holding unit that bundles the measuring unit and the belt.
  The body composition measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.   The width of the measurement band is smaller than the width of the belt
  The body composition measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.   The belt includes a wireless communication unit.
  The body composition measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.