JPH05261112A - Auditory-tube function testing system - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To avoid waste in recording paper and time that would be caused in the case where correct measurement is not performed, by displaying the measured data obtained at the time of measurement on a screen in real time so as to sweep, so that the measured result can be confirmed by visual inspection. CONSTITUTION:In a measuring system 20, an internal-pressure sensor 21 detects the nasal/throat cavity pressure of an examinee who is sucessively pressurized, for instance, by a pressurizing device or the like via a tube 22, and supplies it to an amplifying circuit 70. At that time, when an external-pressure senser 26 that has been connected to a device 10 is in the testing mode of the TTAG method, the external auditory canal pressure of the examinee is successively detected, and it is supplied to the control circuit 70 via an amplifying circuit 25. Since the measured data are displayed in real time in such a way that they appear from the right end of waveform display parts 91, 92 and sweep in the direction of time axis 93 at a prescribed speed, the measurement can be carried out while confirming the measured result by visual inspection in real time. Thus, waste in recording paper and time that would be caused in the case where correct measurement is not performed can be avoided.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an Eustachian tube function inspection apparatus, and is suitable for application to a method of displaying measurement data, control means, and the like.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art The middle ear and the nasopharynx are connected by a thin tube called an ear canal. The eustachian tube is opened and closed in association with the swallowing movement, whereby the middle ear cavity and mastoid honeycomb are ventilated or exudate in the middle ear or the like is excreted outside the middle ear.

Determining the quality of the opening and closing function of the Eustachian tube has an important meaning in daily clinical otologic medical care, such as diagnosis of middle ear transduction device failure and decision of treatment policy, and conventionally, the function concerned. As an inspection method of T. T. A. The G method, impedance method, acoustic method, inflation / deflation test, etc. have been proposed.

T. T. A. The G method seals the external auditory meatus of a subject with earplugs and the like, and measures the external auditory meatus pressure and nasopharyngeal pressure of the subject that change due to opening and closing of the Eustachian tube based on Valsalva ventilation and subsequent swallowing. A test method for determining the Eustachian tube function of a subject based on the obtained ventilation pressure, waveform, etc., for example, the type and degree of Eustachian tube disorder can be easily diagnosed by pattern determination from the waveform.

The impedance method is described in T.W. T. A. It is a test method in which changes in the acoustic impedance of the eardrum of a subject and changes in the nasopharyngeal pressure at this time are measured by the same procedure as in the G method to test the function of the Eustachian tube.

The acoustic method is a test method in which a sound source is placed at the entrance of the nostril of a subject, and the sound passing through the ear canal when the eustachian tube is opened during swallowing (sound passing through the ear canal) is measured as a change in sound pressure in the ear canal. Thus, the opening / closing function of the Eustachian tube during natural swallowing can be determined.

Further, the inflation / deflation test is an inspection method for a subject having a hole or a hole in the eardrum, and the inside of the ear canal of the subject sealed by an earplug using a pump or the like is applied. It refers to an inspection method in which the opening and closing function of the Eustachian tube is tested by measuring changes in the pressure of the external auditory meatus due to swallowing, etc. under pressure (inflation test) or pressure reduction (deflation test).

[0008] Usually, these tests are performed by using a dedicated inspection device (hereinafter collectively referred to as an Eustachian tube function inspection device) corresponding to each inspection method. In this case, the Eustachian tube function inspection device sequentially outputs measurement data. The measurement is continued while being taken in, and the measurement data obtained after the measurement is printed and displayed.

[0009]

In practice, for example, in an inspection by an acoustic method, sound is emitted from a speaker as a sound source so that a band noise of about 5000 to 8000 [Hz] is not leaked into the nasopharynx of a subject. To do. As for the sound pressure output from the speaker, the sound pressure level (external ear canal sound pressure) in the subject's external auditory meatus without swallowing is a predetermined level value (for example, 40 [dB]).
Is adjusted to such a sound pressure, and thus the eustachian tube function testing device detects a sound pressure change in the external auditory meatus associated with swallowing at this time with a microphone and outputs the measurement result as a measurement waveform T1 as shown in FIG. 23, for example. It is designed to be displayed.

In this case, in the Eustachian tube function testing apparatus, the measured waveform T1 showing the sound pressure change in the external auditory meatus and the measured waveform T2 of the pharyngeal noise for timing the swallowing, together with the Eustachian tube opening obtained at this time. The time (hereinafter referred to as the ear canal opening time) 1 and the maximum value 2 of the sound pressure of the external auditory meatus at this time are displayed. By the way, as described above, in the conventional time function inspection device, the measurement result cannot be obtained until the measurement is completed, and accordingly, there is a disadvantage that it is not known whether or not the measurement can be correctly performed until the printout, and the measurement cannot be performed correctly. However, there was a problem of wasting recording paper and time.

Further, in the display method of the measurement result of the acoustic method, the opening time 1 of the Eustachian tube is displayed at a position apart from the sound pressure peaks P1 and P2 associated with swallowing, so that the sound pressure peaks P1 and P2 and the Eustachian tube open. There was a problem that the correlation with time display 2 was difficult to understand. Furthermore, in the Eustachian tube function tester used for the acoustic method inspection, conventionally, the switch for starting and stopping the measurement and the output adjustment of the band noise are not linked, and therefore a loud sound is emitted from the speaker even during the measurement. Therefore, there was a drawback that the surrounding people were uncomfortable.

The present invention has been made in consideration of the above points, and the first invention proposes an eustachian tube function inspection apparatus capable of displaying the measurement result in real time. Further, in the second and third aspects of the invention, there is proposed an Eustachian tube function inspection apparatus that displays the correlation between the Eustachian tube opening time and the sound pressure peak in an easy-to-understand manner during an acoustic inspection. Further, the fourth invention proposes an Eustachian tube function inspection apparatus in which a load sound is output from a speaker only during a measurement operation and a calibration operation during an acoustic method inspection.

[0013]

In order to solve such a problem, in the first invention, measurement systems 20, 40 and 60 for detecting measurement data according to a plurality of inspection methods at the time of inspection of the Eustachian tube function, and measurement Control means 72 for outputting the display signal S32 based on the detection outputs S1, S2, S6, S14, S16 and S21 supplied from the systems 20, 40 and 60, and display means 11 for displaying the measurement data on the screen based on the display signal S32. And 76 are provided, and the control means 72 sends measurement data to
The measurement data display element is displayed on the display screen along the time axis 93, 1
The flow is displayed in the display means in real time so as to flow in the directions of 03, 113, and 122.

Further, in the second invention, the control means 72
Displays the Eustachian tube opening time near the Eustachian tube opening waveform T7 corresponding to the Eustachian tube opening time, and displays the Eustachian tube opening time 114 and 115 together with the Eustachian tube opening waveform T7 during the acoustic examination. The display means 11 and 76 are displayed so as to flow in the direction of the axis 113.

Further, in the third invention, the control means 7
No. 2 prevents the subsequent Eustachian tube opening time from being displayed on the display means 11 and 76 even if the Eustachian tube opening time is obtained within a predetermined time after the Eustachian tube opening time is displayed.

Further, in the fourth invention, a load sound generating means for generating a load sound to be loaded into the nasopharynx of a subject and outputting the load sound as a load sound signal S11 at the time of examining the Eustachian tube function by the acoustic method. 41 and 42, a variable amplifier circuit 43 that receives the load sound signal S11, sends the load sound signal S11 to the speaker 45 for sound emission, and can change the output level of the load sound signal S1 at this time, and a measurement operation. Alternatively, when starting the calibration operation, the control signal S42 is sent to the variable amplifier circuit 43 to increase the output level of the load sound signal S11, and after the measurement is finished, the control signal S42 is sent to the variable amplifier circuit 43 to send the load sound signal. A control means 72 for lowering the output level of S11 is provided.

[0017]

In the first invention, the control means 72 displays the measurement data display element in real time so that the measurement data display element flows on the display screen in the directions of the time axes 93, 103, 113 and 122. By doing
It is possible to perform the measurement while visually confirming the measurement result, and thus it is possible to effectively avoid waste of recording paper and time when the measurement is not correctly performed.

Further, in the second invention, the control means 72
Displays the Eustachian tube opening time near the corresponding Eustachian tube opening waveforms P3 and P5, and displays the Eustachian tube opening time 114.
And 115 are displayed on the display means 11 and 76 so as to flow in the direction of the time axis 113 together with the Eustachian tube opening waveforms P3 and P5, the Eustachian tube opening waveforms P3 and P5 and the Eustachian tube opening time display 114 and It is possible to realize the Eustachian tube function testing device 10 that can display the correlation with 115 easily.

Further, in the third invention, the control means 7
Since the display means 11 and 76 do not display the ear canal opening time even if a continuous ear canal opening time is obtained within a predetermined time after 2 displays the ear canal opening time, the ear canal opening time displays 114 and 115 are displayed. Can be prevented from overlapping.

Further, in the fourth invention, the control means 7
2 sends a control signal S40 that raises the output level to the variable amplifier circuit 43 when starting the measurement operation or the calibration operation, and sends a control signal S40 that lowers the output level to the variable amplifier circuit 43 after the measurement operation ends. By transmitting the sound, a loud sound is not emitted from the speaker except during measurement, and thus it is possible to prevent the surrounding people from feeling uncomfortable due to noise.

[0021]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(1) Overall Configuration In FIG. 1, reference numeral 10 generally designates an Eustachian tube function testing apparatus. T. A. In addition to having four types of inspection functions, G method, impedance method, acoustic method, and inflation / deflation test, the inspection mode selection switch SW1 provided on the front panel is pressed to operate the desired inspection method (inspection mode). ) Is selected, the inspection can be performed in the selected inspection mode.

For this reason, a plurality of operation switches SW2 to SW8 are arranged at the front edge of the front panel of the apparatus 10, and
An earphone terminal, a speaker terminal, a microphone terminal, an air tube connection terminal (not shown), and the like are provided on the back surface of the device 10. Furthermore, Eustachian tube function testing device 10
In FIG. 1, a liquid crystal display panel 11 and a contrast adjusting knob 12 of the liquid crystal display panel are provided on the front panel.

Further, in the Eustachian tube function inspection apparatus 10,
The lid 13 is opened and a recording paper (not shown) is loaded inside the apparatus. Therefore, the paper exit port 14 is provided on the front panel.
And a recording head-up lever 15 of the printer (FIG. 2) is provided. Furthermore, in the Eustachian tube function testing apparatus 10, the 2 CCs are placed in the middle of the front panel in order to perform the 2CC calibration when the impedance method is calibrated.
The CC cavities 16 are provided, and after the transducer (not shown) is inserted into the 2CC cavities 16, the compliance volume 17 is rotated and adjusted.

(2) Circuit calibration Here, in the Eustachian tube function test apparatus 10, as shown in FIG. T. A. A first measurement system 20 for the G method and the impedance method inspection mode, a second measurement system 40 for the acoustic method inspection mode, and a third measurement system 40 for the inflation / deflation test mode.
Measurement system 60 of

In the first measurement system 20, the T.S. T. A.
In the inspection mode of the G method and the impedance method, the internal pressure sensor 21 detects the nasopharyngeal pressure of the subject sequentially pressurized by the pressurizing device or the like via the tube 22, and detects the nasopharyngeal pressure detection signal S1. Is supplied to the control circuit unit 70 via the amplifier circuit 23. The external pressure sensor 24 connected to the device 10 at this time is T. A. In the G method inspection mode, the ear canal pressure of the subject is sequentially detected and is supplied to the control circuit unit 70 via the amplifier circuit 25 as the ear canal pressure detection signal S2.

On the other hand, the sine wave oscillating circuit 26 has an AC signal S of 226 [Hz] in the test mode of the impedance method.
3 is generated and sent to the earphone 27, and the earphone 27 emits sound into the ear canal of the subject based on the AC signal S3. Thus, the microphone 28 collects the reflected sound from the eardrum and sends it as the reflected sound signal S4 to the 226 Hz band pass filter 30 via the microphone amplification circuit 29.
The 226 Hz band pass filter 30 outputs the reflected sound signal S4 22
After extracting the signal component of 6 [Hz], this is detected and smoothed by the detection circuit 3
The acoustic impedance of the tympanic membrane that changes due to opening of the Eustachian tube due to pressurization and swallowing by detecting the acoustic rectification and DC in 1 is supplied to the control circuit unit 70 as an acoustic impedance detection signal S6.

In the second measuring system 40, the white noise generating circuit 41 converts the generated white noise to 7K.
It is sent to the Hz band pass filter circuit 42 to extract a 7 KHz component, and this is sent as a 7 KHz band noise signal S11 to the speaker 45 via the control amplifying circuit 43 and the power amplifying circuit 44 so that it is in the nasopharynx of the subject. Let it emit a sound. At this time, the microphone 46 connected to the device 10
Sequentially detects the sound pressure of the ear canal of the subject and outputs it as a sound collection signal S12 to the 7 KHz band pass filter circuit 48 and the 1 KHz band pass filter circuit 49 via the microphone amplifying circuit 47.

Thus, the 7 KHz band pass filter circuit 4
Numeral 8 extracts a 7 KHz component from the sound collection signal S12 for detecting the sound passing through the Eustachian tube during swallowing, sends it to the detection / logarithmic compression circuit 50, rectifies and logarithmically compresses it, and then outputs 7 KHz component of the ear canal sound pressure signal S14. Is supplied to the control circuit unit 70. On the other hand, the 1 KHz band-pass filter circuit 49 extracts a 1 KHz component from the sound collection signal S12 to detect pharyngeal noise, sends it to the detection logarithmic compression circuit 51, rectifies and logarithmically compresses it, and outputs the ear canal sound pressure of 1 KHz. Component signal S16
Is supplied to the control circuit unit 70.

Further, in the third measurement system 60, the internal pressure sensor 61 sequentially detects, via the tube 63, the ear canal pressure of the subject, which is sequentially pressurized or depressurized by a transformer such as a manual pump 62. , This is the ear canal pressure detection signal S
21 is supplied to the control circuit unit 70. Here, in the control circuit unit 70, as shown in FIG.
S2, S6, S14 and S21 are all supplied to the switching circuit 74. In the control circuit unit 70, the control circuit 71
Has a microcomputer configuration including a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 72.

When the inspection mode switching switch SW1 of the front panel switch group 73 is pressed, the CPU 72 responds to the pressing operation to cyclically and sequentially switch the setting of the inspection mode, and also sends an inspection mode switching signal S30 to the switching circuit 74. To do. The switching circuit 74 detects the detection signals S1, S2, S according to the inspection mode set by the CPU 72 (hereinafter referred to as the set inspection mode) based on the inspection mode switching signal S30.
6, S14, S16 or S21 is selected and converted into a digital signal in the analog-digital conversion circuit 75, and then the CPU 7 outputs the detected digital signal S31.
Send to 2. At this time, the CPU 72 sends a display signal S32 to the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76 to transmit the T.S.T. T. A.
Recording screens 90 and 100 as shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, respectively, for the setting of each inspection mode of the G method, the impedance method, the acoustic method, and the inflation / deflation test.
110 and 120 are displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 11.

Subsequently, the CPU 72 responds to the pressing operation of the single sweep mode switch SW2 or the continuous sweep mode switch SW3 (FIG. 1) of the switch group 73, and detects a digital signal as necessary according to a predetermined program. The measurement data based on S31 is loaded into the RAM (random access memory) 77, and the measurement data is sent to the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76 to be displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 11. In this case, T. T. A.
In the inspection mode of the G method, the impedance method and the acoustic method, the measurement data is recorded in two channels and the recording screens 90, 100 and 1 are displayed.
On the other hand, in the inspection mode of the inflation / deflation test, the measurement data is displayed on the recording screen 120 in one channel.

At this time, the CPU 72 responds to the pressing operation of the range switching switch SW4A or 4B (FIG. 1) of the switch group 73, in response to this, to change the display range of the first or second channel of the detected digital signal S31. Switch. Further, the CPU 72 sends a drive signal S33 for driving the printer 79 to the printer drive circuit 78 in response to the press operation of the print switch SW5 (FIG. 1) of the switch group 73 when the measurement is completed or stopped. At the same time, the measurement data in the setting inspection mode is read out from the RAM 77 and sent to the printer drive circuit 78 to be printed on the recording paper.

In this case, the CPU 72 responds to the pressing operation of the paper feed switch SW6 (FIG. 1) of the switch group 73 and sends a drive signal S33 to the printer drive circuit 78 to feed the paper to the printer 79. Let Further CPU
When the clear switch SW7 (FIG. 1) of the switch group 73 is pressed, the data 72 deletes the measurement data in the setting inspection mode stored in the RAM 77 in response to the pressing operation. Further, the CPU 72 controls the calibration switch SW of the switch group 73.
When 8 (FIG. 1) is pressed, it responds to this and calibrates according to a predetermined program corresponding to each inspection mode.

In practice, in the switching circuit 74, the T.S.
T. A. The nasopharyngeal pressure detection signal S1 and the ear canal pressure detection signal S2, the nasopharyngeal pressure detection signal S1, the acoustic impedance detection signal S3, and the ear canal sound pressure 7 KHz component signal S14 are set for the inspection modes of the G method, the impedance method, and the acoustic method, respectively. And the ear canal sound pressure 1 KHz component signal S16 are selected and output by the first and second channels, respectively, and the ear canal pressure detection signal S21 is selected with respect to the setting of the inspection mode of the inflation / deflation test. It is designed to output this in the first channel. For this reason, T. T. A. On each of the recording screens 90, 100 and 110 of the G method, the impedance method and the acoustic method, a first waveform display unit 91 that displays a measured waveform T3, T5 or T7 based on the detection signal S1 or S14 of the first channel, respectively. , 101, 111 and the measured waveforms T4, T based on the second channel detection signal S2, S6 or S16.
A second waveform display section 92, 102 or 112 for displaying 6 or T8 is provided, and the ear canal pressure detection signal S2 is displayed on the recording screen 120 of the inflation / de-deflation test.
Third waveform display unit 1 for displaying measured waveform T9 based on 1
21 is provided.

Each waveform display section 91, 92, 101, 10
2, 111, 112, and 121, the level is taken in the vertical axis direction and time is taken in the horizontal axis direction, and the first and second waveform display sections 91 and 92, 101 and 102, and 111 and 112 show time. Shaft 93, 103 or 113
Are displayed above and below the time axis 93, 103, or 113, respectively, so that the measurements are displayed on the first and second waveform display units 91 and 92, 101 and 102, and 111 and 112, respectively. Waveform T3
And T4, T5 and T6, and T7 and T8 can be displayed in an easy-to-understand manner. In the case of this embodiment, the measured waveforms T3 to T9 appear from the right end of the waveform display sections 91, 92, 101, 102, 111, 112 and 121 in real time and have a predetermined speed (1) in the direction of the time axis 93, 103, 113 or 122. The screen is displayed as if it were flowing (sweeping) in about 10 seconds, which allows you to visually check the measurement results in real time.

In this case, when the single sweep mode switch SW2 is pressed to start taking in the measurement data to the RAM 77 (single sweep mode), the CPU 72 displays the waveform display portion 91 at the tip of the measured waveforms T3 to T9. 92, 101, 102, 111, 112 and 1
21 When the left end is reached (that is, this state means that the CPU 72 has obtained the measurement data for one screen after the measurement data has been loaded into the RAM 77), or the single sweep mode switch SW2 is pressed again, RA
Stop loading measurement data to M77.

On the other hand, the CPU 72 sequentially sweeps the measurement waveforms T3 to T9 when the continuous sweep mode switch SW3 is pressed to start taking the measurement data into the RAM 77 (continuous sweep mode). In addition to displaying, the waveform display units 91, 92, 101, 1
02, 111, 112 and 121 The waveforms T3 to T9 reaching the left end are sequentially displayed on the screen 90, 100, 110 or 120.
While erasing from the CPU (that is, the CPU 72
Are waveform display sections 91, 92, 101, 102, 111, 1
12 and 121 Meaning that new measurement data is sequentially fetched into RAM 77 while discarding old measurement data that has reached the left end.) Continuous sweep mode Continues fetching measurement data into RAM 77 until switch SW3 is pressed. To do.

Incidentally, in the CPU 72, when the acquisition of the measurement data into the RAM 77 is completed or stopped, the measurement data is read out from the RAM 77 and sent to the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76 for display on the liquid crystal display panel 11. Therefore, at this time, the measured waveform T3
~ T9 is displayed in a stopped state without sweeping. Further, in the case of this embodiment, the CPU 72 is configured to switch the range in two steps, and when the range switching switch SW4A or 4B is pressed during measurement, the new range after switching the measurement data before the range switching is performed. Are sent to the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76 to be displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 11, and thus consistent measurement can be performed without re-measurement by switching the range.

Further, in the case of this embodiment, when the print switch SW5 is pressed with no recording paper or the recording head of the printer 79 is raised, the CPU 72 outputs the display signal S32 to the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76. It is sent to each of the liquid crystal display panels 11 to display “PAPER EMP”.
A warning is displayed by displaying "TY" or "PRINTER HEAD UP". Further, in the case of this embodiment, in the RAM 77, as shown in FIG.
T. A. RAM area 77A capable of storing one screen of measurement data for each inspection mode of G method, impedance method, acoustic method, and inflation / deflation test
77D are provided respectively, and the CPU 72 sends the measurement data of the new inspection mode stored in the RAM 77 to the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76 to display on the liquid crystal display panel 11 when the inspection mode is switched, As a result, for example, even in the case where a comprehensive examination is performed on a single subject in a plurality of examination modes, it is possible to sufficiently deal with the situation in practice.

Further, in the case of this embodiment, the CPU 72 sends the display signal S32 to the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76 during the calibration to display "CALIB" on the liquid crystal display panel 11.
"RATION", and when calibration is not possible even after a lapse of a predetermined time, "CAL ERROR" is displayed as an error and then an error is displayed, and the measured data is displayed in each sweep mode and data is loaded into RAM77. The measurement operation is carried out so that erroneous operation and erroneous measurement can be prevented. Further, in the case of this embodiment, the CPU 72 adjusts the output sound pressure of the speaker 45 so that the ear canal pressure in the state of not swallowing in the calibration of the acoustic method becomes the reference sound pressure of 40 [dB], and 44 [dB] When the sound pressure peaks P3 and P4 (hereinafter, referred to as an Eustachian tube opening waveform) exceeding the above are generated, the time that has exceeded at this time is detected as the Eustachian tube opening time.

Therefore, the open time display section 11 is provided above the first waveform display section 111 on the acoustic method recording screen 110.
3 is provided, and the CPU 72 sets the sound pressure peak P
When P3 and P4 are lower than 44 [dB], the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76 immediately outputs the display signal S32 for displaying the obtained Eustachian tube opening time on the opening time display unit 113.
It is designed to be sent to and displayed on. Further CP
In U72, the displays 114 and 115 of the Eustachian tube opening time (hereinafter referred to as Eustachian tube opening time display) are displayed on the liquid crystal display panel 11 so as to sweep together with the Eustachian tube opening waveforms P3 and P4. As a result, the correlation between the Eustachian tube open waveforms P3 and P4 and the open time displays 114 and 115 is displayed in an easy-to-understand manner.

In this case, in the CPU 72, when the Eustachian tube opening time obtained at the time of measurement exceeds a predetermined upper limit time (for example, about 5 seconds), a white character is used instead of a numerical value to indicate "S. “O” is displayed on the opening time display unit 113, and nothing is displayed when the time is less than a predetermined lower limit time (for example, about 50 milliseconds), thereby displaying an abnormal eustachian tube opening time. It is designed not to Further, the CPU 72 sends a display signal S32 to the liquid crystal display panel 11 to display the Eustachian tube opening time to the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76, and then obtains the Eustachian tube opening time within a predetermined time. 9 does not send the display signal S32 for displaying the subsequent Eustachian tube opening time to the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76.
Overlap of the Eustachian tube open time display 116 and 11
It is designed to prevent 7.

(3) Operation of the Embodiment With the above-mentioned configuration, the CPU 72 executes the measurement processing procedure RT0 shown in FIGS. 10 to 22 when the power of the apparatus 10 is turned on, and confirms that the power is turned on at step SP1. Go to the register of the CPU 72 (not shown)
The inspection mode discrimination code is read from. CP at this time
U72 stores the T. T. A. When the discrimination code of the inspection mode of the G method is stored, or when the inspection mode selection switch SW1 is pressed after being activated in another inspection mode, the T.S.T. T. A. When the G method is selected, the process proceeds to step SP3, and it is determined whether or not the inspection mode selection switch has been pressed.

When the CPU 72 obtains a positive result in this step SP3, it proceeds to step SP4 and RAM 7
After executing the inspection mode switching processing such as reading the measurement data of the impedance method stored in 7 and switching the recording screen, the process proceeds to step SP5 to write a new inspection mode discrimination code into the register, and then Move to measurement processing. On the other hand, the CPU 72
When a negative result is obtained in step SP3, the process proceeds to step SP6 and determines whether or not the range switching switch has been pressed. If the CPU 72 obtains a positive result in this step SP6, it proceeds to step SP7 to switch the range and then proceeds to step SP8, whereas if it obtains a negative result, it proceeds to step SP8 and then to single sweep mode switch SW2 or continuous. Sweep mode Switch SW3 is pressed and pressed in step SP3-
Wait while repeating the loop of SP6-SP8-SP3.

Subsequently, the CPU 72 proceeds to this step SP8.
When it is confirmed that any one of the sweep mode switches SW2 and SW3 is operated, the process proceeds to step SP9, and the operated one is the continuous sweep mode switch SW.
When it is determined whether or not the result is 3 and a negative result is obtained, it is determined that the single sweep mode switch SW2 has been pressed, and the process proceeds to step SP10A shown in FIG. 11 to start the calibration operation. In step SP10A, the CPU 72 determines whether or not the baselines of the first and second channels on the recording screen 90 meet the "0" level, and in step SP11A whether a predetermined time limit has elapsed after the start of calibration. If it is judged whether or not both are negative, the program proceeds to step SP12A to set the baselines of the first and second channels to the "0" level and then returns to step SP10A.

After that, the CPU 72 steps SP10A-SP11A-SP12A-SP10A until a positive result is obtained at step SP10A or step SP11A.
Loop is repeated, and if a positive result is obtained in step SP10A, the process proceeds to step SP14A to end the calibration operation. On the other hand, the CPU 72 determines that the step S
If an affirmative result is obtained at P11, the process proceeds to step SP13A to send a display signal S32 for causing the liquid crystal display panel 11 to display an error to the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76, and then to step SP14A to end the calibration operation.

After that, the CPU 72 proceeds to step SP15 and moves to the measurement operation processing procedure RT1 of the subroutine shown in FIG. 12 so as to start the measurement operation, and step SP30.
At, it is determined whether the baseline level is within the allowable range at the time of calibration. When the CPU 72 obtains a positive result in step SP30, the CPU 72 proceeds to step SP31 and displays a display signal S3 for displaying a warning on the liquid crystal display panel 11.
After sending 2 to the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76, the process proceeds to step SP33, and if a negative result is obtained, the process proceeds to step SP32 to erase the warning and proceeds to step SP33.

Subsequently, the CPU 72 sequentially stores the measurement data in the RAM 77 at step SP33, and
In the subsequent step SP34, a display signal S32 for displaying the measurement data on the liquid crystal display panel 11 is sent to the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76, and thus step SP3.
In step 5, the procedure returns to the measurement processing procedure RT0 of the main routine, and the process proceeds to step SP16. Subsequently, the CPU 72 proceeds to step SP16 to select the single sweep mode switch S.
It is determined whether or not W2 is pressed again, and it is determined whether or not the measurement time for one screen has elapsed since the measurement operation was started in step SP17, and then either step SP16 or SP17 is determined. Until a negative result is obtained in step SP16-SP17-SP
Repeat the loop of 15-SP16.

In this case, the CPU 72 proceeds to step SP16
Alternatively, when a negative result is obtained in SP17, the measurement operation is ended, and thereafter, the operation returns to step SP3 to operate the switches SW1 to SW1.
Wait for command input based on the pressing operation of 8. When the CPU 72 obtains a positive result in step SP9, the CPU 72 proceeds to step SP18 shown in FIG. 13 to calibrate switch SW.
It is determined whether or not 8 has been pressed. When the CPU 72 obtains a positive result in step SP18, it proceeds to step SP10B and in steps SP10B to SP14B, the calibration operation step S in the single sweep mode.
The calibration is executed by the same procedure as P10A to SP14A, and after the calibration is completed, the process proceeds to step SP19 to start the measurement operation.

On the other hand, when the CPU 72 obtains a negative result in this step SP18, it proceeds to step SP19 and starts measurement. Thus, when the CPU 72 executes the measurement operation in the step SP19 by the same procedure as the steps SP30 to SP35, the step SP2
When it goes to 0, it is judged whether or not the continuous sweep mode switch SW3 has been pressed again, and if a negative result is obtained, it returns to step SP18 and returns to step SP18-SP19-SP.
While repeating the loop of 20-SP18, it waits for the continuous sweep mode switch SW3 to be pressed again.

Thus, the CPU 72 makes this step SP
When a positive result is obtained at 20, the measurement operation is terminated and the process returns to step SP3, after which the command input is awaited as in the single sweep mode. Furthermore, the CPU 72
In step SP2, the test mode selection switch SW is set when the test mode discrimination code of the impedance method is stored in the register or after the test mode is started in another test mode.
When 1 is pressed and the impedance method is selected, the process proceeds to step SP3C of FIGS. 14 to 16 in which the same reference numerals and suffixes C and D are given to the corresponding portions of FIGS. 10 to 13, and the inspection mode selection switch SW1 is It is determined whether or not the pressing operation has been performed.

When the CPU 72 obtains a positive result in this step SP3C, it proceeds to step SP4C and RA
After performing the inspection mode switching process such as reading the measurement data of the acoustic method stored in M77 and switching the recording screen, the process proceeds to step SP5C to write the discrimination code of the new inspection mode into the register, and then the acoustic method Move to measurement processing. On the other hand, the CPU 72 determines that the step SP
If a negative result is obtained in 3C, the process proceeds to step SP6C, after which the T.S. T. A. Step S by the same procedure as G method
Execute P6C to SP20C. Furthermore, the CPU 72
10 to 13 when the discrimination code of the inspection method of the acoustic method is stored in the register at step SP2 or when the inspection mode selection switch SW1 is pressed to start the acoustic mode and the acoustic method is selected. 17 to 19 in which the same reference numerals are added to the corresponding portions with the suffix D to determine whether or not the inspection mode selection switch SW1 has been pressed.

When the CPU 72 obtains a positive result in this step SP3D, it proceeds to step SP4D and RAM.
After executing the inspection mode switching process such as reading the measurement data of the inflation / deflation test stored in 77 and switching the recording screen, step SP
Go to 5D and write a new discrimination code into the register,
After this, the measurement process of the inflation / deflation test is started. On the other hand, the CPU 72 determines that the step SP
If a negative result is obtained in 3D, the process proceeds to step SP6D, and then T.S. T. A. The steps SP6D to SP20D are processed according to the same procedure as the G method. In this case C
The PU 72 proceeds to step SP40A particularly when a negative result is obtained at step SP9D, and determines whether the external auditory meatus sound pressure of the subject obtained at the first channel of the detected digital signal S31 is within the allowable range for the predetermined time reference sound pressure. It is determined whether or not a predetermined time limit has elapsed since the calibration operation was started in step SP41A.

Thus, the CPU 72 makes this step SP
If a negative result is obtained in both the steps of 40A and SP41A, the operation proceeds to step SP42A and the 40dB calibration circuit 5
2 (FIG. 2), the calibration signal S40 is transmitted so that the difference between the sound pressure of the ear canal of the subject and the reference sound pressure is reduced, and the process returns to step SP40A. In this case, the 40 dB calibration circuit 52 converts the calibration signal S40 from a digital signal to an analog signal and sends it to the control amplification circuit 43 as a calibration digital signal S41, and the control amplification circuit 43 outputs the 7 KHz band based on the calibration digital signal S41. The output level of the noise signal S11 is adjusted, thus causing the speaker 45 to output the reference value band noise of the sound pressure level close to the reference sound pressure.

Thereafter, the CPU 72 proceeds to step SP40A.
Or SP40A-SP41A-SP42 until a positive result is obtained in any of SP41A.
Repeat the loop of A-SP40A, for example, step S
If a positive result is obtained in P40A, step SP44A
Proceed to and complete the calibration operation. On the other hand, the CPU 72
If a positive result is obtained in step SP41A, the flow advances to step SP43A to send a display signal S32 for displaying an error on the liquid crystal display panel 11 to the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76, and then to step SP44A to end the calibration operation. Then, proceed to step SP15D.

When the CPU 72 particularly obtains a positive result in step SP9D, the CPU 72 sends the calibration signal S40 to the 40 dB calibration circuit 52 to output the standard value band noise from the speaker, and then proceeds to step SP18D to perform the calibration switch. It is determined whether or not the pressing operation has been performed. In this case CP
The U72 proceeds to step SP40B particularly when it obtains a positive result in step SP18D, and thereafter proceeds to steps SP40B to SP44B.
Processing is performed in the same procedure as SP44A.

Further, the CPU 72, especially the step SP1
When a positive result is obtained in 6D, SP17D and SP20D, the process proceeds to step SP45 and the control amplifier circuit 4
3 to send the control signal S42 to stop the sound emission from the speaker 45, and then return to step SP3D. Furthermore C
The PU 72 pushes the inspection mode selection switch SW1 when the inflation / deflation test discrimination code is stored in the register in step SP2 or after the inspection code is started in another inspection mode and the inflation / deflation is performed. Figure 10 when the test is selected
20 to 22 in which the subscript E is attached to the portion corresponding to 13, the inspection mode selection switch SW is entered.
It is determined whether 1 has been pressed.

When the CPU 72 obtains a positive result in this step SP3E, it proceeds to step SP4E and RAM.
77 stored in the T.77. T. A. After performing the inspection mode switching processing such as reading the measurement data of the G method and switching the recording screen, the process proceeds to step SP5E to write a new discrimination code in the register, and then the T.S.T. T. A. The measurement process of the G method is started. On the other hand, when the CPU 72 obtains a negative result in step SP3E, step SP6E
Proceed to T. T. A. The steps SP6E to SP20E are processed according to the same procedure as the method G.

In this case, in the CPU 72, especially when a negative result is obtained in step SP9E, step S
Proceed to P50A, and record screen 120 at step SP50A.
In the step SP51A, it is determined whether or not the baseline of the first channel in step 1) meets the "0" level, and whether or not a predetermined time limit has elapsed after the start of calibration. Proceed to SP52A to adjust the baseline of the first channel to the "0" level, and then return to step SP50A. After this, the CPU 72 proceeds to step SP50A-SP51A-SP52A- until a positive result is obtained at step SP50A or SP51A.
Repeat the SP50A loop, for example step SP5
If a positive result is obtained at 0A, the procedure proceeds to step SP54A to end the calibration operation, and then proceeds to step SP15E.

On the other hand, the CPU 72 determines that the step SP
When a positive result is obtained in 51A, the process proceeds to step SP53A, and a display signal S32 for causing an error display on the liquid crystal display panel 11 is sent to the liquid crystal display panel display circuit 76. After that, the calibration operation is completed in step SP54A, and step SP15E. Proceed to and start the measurement operation.
If the CPU 72 obtains a positive result in step SP18E, it proceeds to step SP50B, and then proceeds to steps SP50B to SP54B.
Processing is performed in the same procedure as 0A to SP54A.

(4) Effects of the Embodiments According to the above configuration, the measurement data appears in real time from the right end of the waveform display section 91, 92, 101, 102, 111, 112 or 121 and the time axis 93, 103, 113.
Also, by displaying so that it sweeps at a predetermined speed in the direction 122 and 122, it is possible to measure while visually confirming the measurement result in real time, and thus waste of recording paper and time in the case where the measurement result is not correct. It can be effectively avoided. Further, according to the above configuration, in the examination mode of the acoustic method, the Eustachian tube opening time is displayed near the Eustachian tube opening waveforms P3 and P4, and the Eustachian tube opening time displays 114 and 115 are displayed together with the Eustachian tube opening waveforms P3 and P4. By displaying so as to sweep in the direction of the time axis 113, the correlation between the Eustachian tube opening waveforms P3 and P4 and the Eustachian tube opening time display 114 and 115 can be displayed in an easy-to-understand manner.

Further, according to the above configuration, even if the Eustachian tube opening time which continues within a predetermined time after the Eustachian tube opening time is displayed, this is not displayed. It is possible to realize an eustachian tube function testing device that can avoid the overlap of the displays 114 and 115 and thus effectively prevent erroneous measurement. Further, according to the above configuration, in the inspection mode of the acoustic method, when the single sweep mode switch SW2 or the continuous sweep mode switch SW3 is pressed in the measurement operation end state or the stop state, the band noise output from the speaker 45 is released. Along with C
By stopping the output of the band noise from the speaker 45 when the PU finishes or stops the measurement operation, it is possible to prevent the speaker 45 from emitting sound other than during measurement, thus making noise to people around. It is possible to prevent the discomfort caused by.

(5) Other Embodiments In the above-described embodiment, the first invention is based on the T.S. T.
A. The case where the method is applied to the Eustachian tube function testing device 10 having four kinds of test functions of the G method, the impedance method, the acoustic method, and the inflation / deflation test has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. It may be applied to an Eustachian tube function inspecting apparatus having an inspection function of any three kinds or less out of the four kinds of inspection methods, and further to an Eustachian tube function inspection apparatus having an inspection function other than the four kinds of inspection methods. Widely applicable.

In the above embodiment, the second to fourth
The invention of T. T. A. The case of applying to the Eustachian tube function testing device 10 having four types of test functions of the G method, the impedance method, the acoustic method, and the inflation / deflation test has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the four types. The inspection method may be applied to an Eustachian tube function inspection device having an inspection function of any three types or less, including the acoustic method, and further has an inspection function of the acoustic method and other than the four types of inspection methods. It can be widely applied to an Eustachian tube function inspection device having an inspection function.

Further, in the above-mentioned embodiments, the case where the liquid crystal display panel 11 is used as the display means has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a cathode ray tube or the like may be used. Various display devices can be applied as the means. Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the range switching of the Eustachian tube function inspection device 10 is performed in two steps has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the Eustachian tube function inspection apparatus that can perform range switching in three or more steps. Can also be applied to.

Further, in the above embodiment, the measured waveforms T3 to T9 are displayed on the waveform display portions 91, 92, 101, 102 ,.
111, 112 and 121 Time axis 9 appears from the right end
Although the case where the display is performed so as to sweep at a predetermined speed in the directions of 3, 103, 113, and 122 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and the measured waveforms T3 to T9 are displayed on the waveform display unit 9.
1, 92, 101, 102, 111, 112 and 121
Time axis 93, 103, 113 and 12 appearing from the left end
The sweep may be performed in two directions. In short, the measurement waveforms T3 to T9 are displayed on the display screens 90, 100, 110, 120.
Various methods can be applied as the display method as long as it is displayed in real time and displayed so as to sweep.

Further, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the opening time display section 113 is provided above the first waveform display section 111 on the recording screen 110 of the acoustic method, and the opening time display section 113 is provided with the Eustachian tube opening time. Display 114 and 11
5 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. In short, the Eustachian tube opening time is displayed in the vicinity of the Eustachian tube opening waveform and is displayed so as to be swept together with the Eustachian tube opening waveforms P3 and P4. If so, various methods can be widely applied as the display method. Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the measurement waveforms T3 to T9 sweep the display screen at a speed of about 10 seconds per screen is described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and in short, the measurement waveforms T3 to T9. The sweep speed may be other than 10 seconds as long as T9 is easily displayed.

Further, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the case where the baseline level is shifted to the predetermined allowable range or more at the time of measurement is described and a warning is given, but the present invention is not limited to this, and other warnings such as a buzzer are given. The method is also widely applicable. Further, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the case where the measurement waveforms T3 to T9 and the Eustachian tube open time display 114 and 115 in the examination mode of the acoustic method are displayed so as to sweep is described as the measurement data, but the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention can be widely applied to other measurement data display elements as well.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, when the acoustic method is calibrated so that the ear canal sound pressure of the subject becomes 40 [dB], and when a sound pressure peak exceeding 44 [dB] occurs, , The case where the time exceeded at this time was measured as the Eustachian tube opening time was described, but these values are not limiting, and the point is that if the Eustachian tube function can be effectively examined, the Various values can be applied. Further, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the CPU 72 controls the control signal S42.
To the control amplifier circuit 43, and when the measurement operation or the calibration operation is started, the 7 KHz band noise signal S11
While the output of the 7 KHz band noise signal S11 is stopped after the measurement operation is finished, the present invention is not limited to this, and the output level of the 7 KHz band noise signal S11 is not limited to during the measurement operation or the calibration operation. May be made small, and in short, some sound may leak from the speaker 45 other than during the measurement operation or the calibration operation as long as the surrounding people do not feel uncomfortable.

[0071]

As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the eustachian tube function testing device displays the measurement data obtained at the time of measurement on a real-time screen display so that the measurement result can be visually confirmed. However, it is possible to effectively avoid the waste of the recording paper and the time when the measurement cannot be performed correctly.

According to the second invention, the Eustachian tube open time is displayed near the open waveform in the examination by the acoustic method, and the Eustachian tube open time display is displayed together with the open waveform so as to be swept in the time axis direction. By doing so, it is possible to realize an Eustachian tube function inspection apparatus that can easily display the correlation between the open waveform and the Eustachian tube open time display.

Further, according to the third aspect of the present invention, even after the Eustachian tube opening time is displayed, it is not displayed even when the Eustachian tube opening time that continues within a predetermined time is obtained. Overlapping of open time indications can be avoided and thus false measurements can be effectively prevented.

Further, according to the fourth invention, in the inspection by the acoustic method, the load switch outputs the load sound from the speaker only during the calibration operation and the measurement operation by interlocking the measurement switch and the output of the band noise. It is possible to prevent sound emission from the speaker other than during measurement, and thus to prevent the surrounding people from feeling uncomfortable due to noise.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of an Eustachian tube function testing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a measurement system of an Eustachian tube function testing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a control circuit unit of the Eustachian tube function testing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. T. A. It is an approximate line figure showing the record screen in the inspection mode of G method.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a recording screen in an inspection method of an impedance method.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a recording screen in an inspection mode of an acoustic method.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a recording screen in an inspection mode of an inflation / deflation test.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a memory map of a RAM.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the overlap of the Eustachian tube opening time display on the recording screen in the examination mode of the acoustic method.

FIG. 10: T. T. A. 9 is a flow chart showing a measurement processing procedure in the inspection mode of the G method.

FIG. 11: T. T. A. It is a flow chart which shows the processing procedure of the single sweep mode of G method.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing a measurement operation processing procedure.

FIG. 13: T. T. A. It is a flow chart which shows the processing procedure of the continuous sweep mode of G method.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing a measurement processing procedure in the inspection mode of the impedance method.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure in a single sweep mode of the impedance method.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure in a continuous sweep mode of the impedance method.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing a measurement processing procedure in the inspection mode of the acoustic method.

FIG. 18 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure in a single sweep mode of an acoustic method.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in a continuous sweep mode of an acoustic method.

FIG. 20 is a flow chart showing a measurement processing procedure in an inspection mode of an inflation / deflation test.

FIG. 21 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure in a single sweep mode of an inflation / deflation test.

FIG. 22 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure in a continuous sweep mode of an inflation / deflation test.

FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram showing a conventional example.

[Explanation of symbols]

10 ... Eustachian tube function inspection device, 11, 76 ... Display means (liquid crystal display panel, liquid crystal display panel display circuit), 20,
40, 60 ... Measuring system, 41, 42 ... Load sound generating circuit (white noise generating circuit, 7 KHz band pass filter), 43 ... Variable amplifying circuit (control amplifying circuit), 45 ... Speaker, 70 ... Control Circuit part, 72 ...
... Control means (CPU), 74 ... Switching circuit, 77 ... R
AM, 77A to 77D ... Storage area division (RAM area), 90, 100, 110, 120 ... Recording screen, 9
3, 103, 113, 122 ... Time axis, 113 ... Eustachian tube opening time display section, 114, 115 ... Eustachian tube opening time display, SW1 to SW8 ... Operation switch, S1, S2, S
6, S14, S16, S21 ... Detection output signal, S11
…… Load tone code (7KHz band noise signal), S30…
... inspection mode switching signal, S31 ... detection digital signal, S32 ... display signal, P1, P2, P3, P4 ...
Eustachian tube open waveform, T1 to T9 ... Measured waveform.

Claims (4)

[Claims] 1. A measurement system for detecting measurement data according to one or a plurality of inspection methods at the time of inspection of the Eustachian tube function, and control means for outputting a display signal based on the detection output supplied from the measurement system. Display means for displaying the measurement data on the screen based on the display signal, the control means displays the measurement data on the display means in real time so that the measurement data display element flows in the time axis direction on the display screen. Eustachian tube function testing device characterized by displaying. 2. The control means displays the Eustachian tube opening time in the vicinity of the Eustachian tube opening waveform corresponding to the Eustachian tube opening time, and displays the Eustachian tube opening time in the acoustic method inspection. 2. The Eustachian tube function testing device according to claim 1, wherein the Eustachian tube function inspection apparatus causes the display unit to display the Eustachian tube opening waveform so as to flow in the time axis direction. 3. The control means does not cause the display means to display the subsequent Eustachian tube open time even when the continuous Eustachian tube open time is obtained within a predetermined time after displaying the Eustachian tube open time. The eustachian tube function testing device according to claim 2. 4. A load sound generating means for generating a load sound to be loaded into the nasopharynx of a subject and outputting the load sound as a load sound signal during the inspection of the Eustachian tube function by an acoustic method, and the load sound signal. In response to the output of the load sound signal to the speaker for sound emission, the variable amplifier circuit that can change the output level of the load sound signal at this time and the variable amplifier circuit when starting the measurement operation or the calibration operation And a control means for sending the control signal to raise the output level of the load sound signal, and for sending the control signal to the variable amplifier circuit after the measurement to lower the output level of the load sound signal. An Eustachian tube function testing device characterized in that