WO2018143255A1

WO2018143255A1 - Mobility evaluation system and mobility evaluation method

Info

Publication number: WO2018143255A1
Application number: PCT/JP2018/003162
Authority: WO
Inventors: 小池　卓二; 加以高桑; 優花入江; 晶神崎; 世傑徐; 武展肥後; 林　正晃
Original assignee: 国立大学法人電気通信大学; 学校法人慶應義塾; 有限会社メカノトランスフォーマ; 株式会社リーデンス; 第一医科株式会社
Priority date: 2017-01-31
Filing date: 2018-01-31
Publication date: 2018-08-09

Abstract

This mobility evaluation system for evaluating the mobility of the ossicles, is provided with: a measurement probe comprising a vibration exciter which contacts the ossicles and transmits vibration, an actuator which causes the vibration exciter to vibrate, and a force sensor which measures the reactive force on the actuator when the vibration exciter contacts the ossicles, and which outputs a voltage on the basis of the measurement result; an analysis unit which performs a FFT analysis on the basis of the voltage outputted from the measurement probe and which calculates a prescribed frequency component value; an evaluation unit which evaluates the mobility of the ossicles on the basis of the prescribed frequency component value; and an output unit which outputs the evaluation result.

Description

Mobility evaluation system and mobility evaluation method

The present invention relates to a mobility evaluation system and a mobility evaluation method, and more particularly to a mobility evaluation system and a mobility evaluation method for quantifying the mobility of the ossicles.

Conventionally, with regard to otic surgery, there is a method for confirming the mobility of an ossicle by an operator pushing and moving the ossicle with a probe in diagnosis and treatment for middle ear disease.

Specifically, the middle ear is an organ that converts sound waves incident on the ear canal into vibrations of the eardrum and efficiently transmits the mechanical vibrations to the inner ear cochlea through the ossicular chain. The chain consists of the tibia, quinuta, and stapes and is held by the ligaments and muscle tendons to vibrate easily in the tympanic chamber. If these ligaments and muscle tendons become stuck due to aging or lesions, conduction hearing loss occurs, resulting in middle ear disease.

Therefore, in order to restore hearing, it is necessary to remove the fixation directly by surgery and restore the mobility of the ossicles to a normal state. Was performed by a method in which the surgeon pushes the probe using a probe.
However, such methods do not have clear standards and depend heavily on the experience of the surgeon.

Patent Document 1 discloses an optical force detection element for a microsurgical instrument for evaluating the mobility of the ossicular chain in tympanoplasty as a method for quantitatively evaluating the ossicular mobility. By means of a method of detecting and monitoring the three-dimensional contact force between the tip of a microsurgical instrument or tool and the tissue or organ to be examined or treated using measurement techniques, An optical force sensing element is disclosed having a sensitivity of 5 to 20 times higher than in the xy direction perpendicular to the axis.

JP 2013-160756 A

However, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, when displaying the evaluation result of the mobility of the ossicles on the display provided in the information processing apparatus, it is necessary to detect and process the three-dimensional contact force. However, there is a problem in terms of efficiency. In addition, since an optical fiber fixed to the structure is used, for example, in consideration of hygiene, or when a measurement device needs to be replaced in the case where a failure occurs in the optical fiber, the cost and There was a problem in exchangeability, and usability was not always sufficient. Further, in order to ensure the quality of the optical fiber, the optical fiber is vulnerable to breakage and dirt (contamination), so it must be handled with care, and the usability is not always sufficient.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a user-friendly mobility evaluation system for quantitatively evaluating the mobility of the ossicles.

A mobility evaluation system according to the present invention is a mobility evaluation system that evaluates the mobility of the ossicle, and includes an excitation device that makes contact with the ossicle and applies vibration, an actuator that vibrates the excitation device, and an excitation device. The reaction force applied to the actuator when the vibration device is brought into contact with the ossicle is measured, and based on the measurement result, the measurement probe including a force sensor that outputs a voltage, and the FFT output based on the voltage output from the measurement probe An analysis unit that performs analysis to obtain a predetermined frequency component value, an evaluation unit that evaluates the mobility of the ossicle based on the predetermined frequency component value, and an output unit that outputs an evaluation result are provided.

Furthermore, in the mobility evaluation system according to the present invention, the excitation device is an elongated rod-like probe, and the probe is removably supported by a fixed fulcrum and a force sensor at two points near the center of gravity and at the end. The actuator gives a constant amplitude vibration around a fulcrum near the center of gravity of the probe, the force sensor includes a piezoelectric sensor and a charge amplifier, and the piezoelectric sensor applies the force applied to the probe by the probe. In addition, the charge amplifier generates a charge signal, and the charge amplifier converts the generated charge signal into a voltage and outputs the voltage. The analysis unit includes an AD converter, and the AD converter converts the voltage into voltage information of the digital signal. Then, the voltage information may be subjected to FFT analysis.

Furthermore, in the mobility evaluation system according to the present invention, the probe may be provided with a dent formed in the vicinity of the center of gravity, and the fulcrum may be provided with a spherically shaped magnet to be fitted and supported in the dent.

Furthermore, in the mobility evaluation system according to the present invention, the measurement probe may include an elastic body that elastically contacts the probe.

Furthermore, in the mobility evaluation system according to the present invention, the actuator may vibrate the probe at 5 Hz or more, and the predetermined frequency component value may be a value of a frequency component of 5 Hz or more of each waveform in the voltage information.

Furthermore, the mobility evaluation system according to the present invention is installed in the cochlear window or in the vicinity of the cochlear window, and detects the cochlear microphone potential when the vibration is applied to the ossicles by the vibration device, and the detected cochlear microphone potential. The output unit may display the measured cochlear microphone potential.

The mobility evaluation method according to the present invention is a mobility evaluation method for evaluating the mobility of the ossicle, and is a process for applying vibration to the ossicle by bringing the tip of the probe vibrated by the actuator into contact with the ossicle. Based on the oscillation step, the voltage measurement step that outputs the voltage based on the measurement result, and the voltage output from the measurement probe based on the measurement result. , An analysis step for performing a FFT analysis to obtain a predetermined frequency component value, an evaluation step for evaluating the mobility of the ossicle based on the predetermined frequency component value, and an output step for outputting the evaluation result.

A mobility evaluation system according to the present invention is a mobility evaluation system that evaluates the mobility of the ossicle, and includes an excitation device that makes contact with the ossicle and applies vibration, an actuator that vibrates the excitation device, and an excitation device. The reaction force applied to the actuator when the vibration device is brought into contact with the ossicle is measured, and based on the measurement result, the measurement probe including a force sensor that outputs a voltage, and the FFT output based on the voltage output from the measurement probe Analyzing to obtain a predetermined frequency component value by analyzing, mobility evaluation unit comprising an evaluation unit for evaluating the mobility of the ossicle based on the predetermined frequency component value, and an output unit for outputting the evaluation result System. With these configurations, a predetermined frequency component value can be obtained when quantitatively evaluating the mobility of the ossicles, so that it is possible to provide a mobility evaluation system that can reduce the effects of camera shake when used as a handpiece. , Improve usability.

The mobility evaluation system and the mobility evaluation method according to the present invention can improve usability in quantifying the mobility of the ossicles.

It is a system diagram showing a configuration of a mobility evaluation system according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of the mobility evaluation system which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a conceptual diagram which shows the concept of the internal structure of the measurement probe which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a disassembled perspective view of the measurement probe which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view of a measurement probe concerning one embodiment of the present invention. (A) It is a top view of the measurement probe which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. (B) It is a side view of the measurement probe which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing of the measurement probe which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the process which the mobility evaluation system which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention performs. It is a perspective view of a force sensor concerning one embodiment of the present invention. It is sectional drawing of the probe and fulcrum metal fitting which concern on one Embodiment of this invention.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

(Configuration of Mobility Evaluation System 700)
FIG. 1 is a system diagram showing an example of the configuration of the mobility evaluation system 700.

1, the mobility evaluation system 700 includes a measurement probe 100, an information processing device 300, a display device 400 (400a, 400b), an amplifier 500, and an electrode 600. In FIG. 1, two

display devices

400a and 400b are shown for ease of explanation, but one

display device

400 or 400 or more may be present. In the following, display devices are collectively referred to as a display device 400 unless there is a particular need for distinction. In the mobility evaluation system 700, the display 400 and the audio output unit 340 of the information processing apparatus 300 described later output the evaluation results of the mobility of the ossicles and the measurement results of the cochlear microphone potential (display, audio output, etc.). Collectively referred to as an output section. The output unit outputs the evaluation result of the evaluation unit.

The measurement probe 100 measures the reaction force applied to the actuator when the vibrating device is brought into contact with the ossicle, the vibration device that makes contact with the ossicle and vibrates, the actuator that vibrates the vibration device, and the vibration device. And a force sensor that outputs a voltage based on the measurement result.

For example, as will be described later, the measurement probe 100 is an elongated rod-like probe, and the probe is supported by a fixed fulcrum and a force sensor at two points near the center of gravity and at the end, and an actuator Provides a vibration having a constant amplitude around a fulcrum near the center of gravity of the probe, the force sensor includes a piezoelectric sensor and a charge amplifier, and the piezoelectric sensor applies the force applied to the probe by the actuator. The charge signal may be generated by being applied by a needle, and the charge amplifier may convert the generated charge signal into a voltage and output the voltage.

Specifically, for example, the information processing device 300 is connected to the measurement probe 100, the display device 400, the amplifier 500, or the like by wire or wirelessly, and receives information processing requests from these peripheral devices and peripheral devices to perform information processing. Done. Any computer device such as a server that provides the result of the processing may be used, or a hardware device dedicated to the measurement probe 100 may be used.

The display device 400 may be any device as long as it is connected to the information processing device 300 and displays the display information output from the information processing device 300 on the screen. The display device 400 displays, for example, the evaluation result of the ossicular mobility evaluated by the information processing device 300. For example, the display device 400 may display the measured cochlear microphone potential using the electrode 600 and the amplifier 500.

The amplifier 500 may be an amplifier device such as a differential amplifier that amplifies a weak signal such as a cochlear microphone potential measured by the electrode 600.

The electrode 600 may be a silver electrode that can be installed near the cochlear window or near the cochlear window and can measure the cochlear microphone potential (CM).

As shown in FIG. 1, the mobility evaluation system 700, as an example, uses the reaction force applied to the measurement probe 100 as voltage information when the tip of the measurement probe 100 is vibrated and brought into contact with the ossicle 800 that is the measurement target. The information processing apparatus 300 evaluates the mobility of the ossicle based on the transmitted voltage. The mobility evaluation system 700 may display the evaluation result on the display device 400b using a graph or the like as shown in FIG. 1, or may notify the voice by the voice output function of the information processing device 300. . By visualizing the evaluation results of the mobility of the ossicles in this way, the operator can confirm the quantitative evaluation of the mobility of the ossicles before and during the operation, and determine the surgical procedure, etc. It can be done efficiently. According to such a configuration, the mobility of the ear ossicles, that is, the ear ossicles can be easily displayed even during the operation by displaying the ossicular mobility with a numerical value and a graph or the like and notifying the operator by voice as necessary. Can be diagnosed.

As shown in FIG. 1, as an example, the mobility evaluation system 700 is installed in the vicinity of the cochlear window or the cochlear window, and an electrode for detecting the cochlear microphone potential when the ossicle is vibrated by the vibration device, An amplifier for amplifying and measuring the detected cochlear microphone potential may be provided, and the output unit may display the measured cochlear microphone potential.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, the mobility evaluation system 700 has an electrode 600 installed on the cochlear window 801, and the measurement probe 100 is inserted instead of the eardrum, the ossicle 800 or the ossicle. A cochlear microphone potential generated when the vibration is applied to an artificial ossicle or the like may be measured. At this time, the vibration applied to the ossicles when measuring the cochlear microphone potential may be oscillated at an audible frequency of about 125 to 2000 Hz. The mobility evaluation system 700 may display the measured cochlear microphone potential on a graph or the like.

計測 By measuring and displaying the cochlear microphone potential in this way, the sound transmission characteristics of the middle ear can be evaluated. In addition, by visualizing the cochlear microphone potential in this way, for example, by evaluating the middle ear transmission characteristics once during the operation, and by evaluating the middle ear transmission characteristics again before and after the procedure, the cochlear microphone potential It is possible to confirm that the amplitude of the signal has become sufficiently large, evaluate that there is no problem in the sound transmission characteristics of the middle ear, and complete the operation, thereby reducing the risk of reoperation.

(Configuration of information processing apparatus 300)
Hereinafter, the configuration of the information processing apparatus 300 will be described in detail.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the information processing apparatus 300. As an example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the information processing apparatus 300 includes a communication unit 310, an I / O unit 320, a control unit 330, an audio output unit 340, a storage unit 350, and the like.

The communication unit 310 has a function of performing communication (transmission and reception of various messages) with peripheral devices and other information processing devices under the control of the control unit 330 via the network. Specifically, for example, the communication unit 310 transmits a message transmitted from each unit to another device, receives a message from the other device, and receives the message according to the control of the control unit 330 via the network. Communicate the message to other parts. The communication may be either wired or wireless, and any communication protocol may be used as long as mutual communication can be performed. Further, the communication may be subjected to an encryption process in order to ensure security. The “message” here includes text, images (photos, illustrations), sound, moving images, and the like, and information attached thereto (information about dates, positions, etc. attached to the text, images, sounds, and moving images).

The I / O unit 320 has a function of connecting to other devices, other devices or media by wireless or wired in accordance with the control of the control unit 330. Specifically, the I / O unit 320 includes WiFi (Wireless Fidelity), HDMI (registered trademark) (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), USB (Universal Serial Bus), power connector, I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit), and the like. A connected device.

The control unit 330 is a processor having a function of controlling each unit. The control unit 330 includes an analysis unit (not shown) and an evaluation unit (not shown). Specifically, the control unit 330 may receive, for example, a command output from a program or the like stored in the storage unit 350, and may control each unit to operate based on the command. Further, the control unit 330 may generate display information to be displayed on the display device 400 based on, for example, the evaluation result of the mobility of the ossicles and the measurement result of the cochlear microphone potential.

The analysis unit performs an FFT analysis based on the voltage output from the measurement probe 100 to obtain a predetermined frequency component value. Here, “FFT analysis” refers to analysis by fast Fourier transform (Fast Fourier Transform), which can be obtained by analyzing component values for each frequency. Specifically, the analysis unit may include, for example, an AD converter, and the AD converter may convert the voltage output from the measurement probe 100 into voltage information of a digital signal, and the voltage information may be subjected to FFT analysis. As the AD converter, an AD conversion circuit built in the information processing apparatus 300 may be used, or an external AD converter may be used.

In the mobility evaluation system according to the present invention, the measurement probe 100 is assumed to be used as a handpiece that is held and measured by a surgeon during the operation, and at that time, it is necessary to consider the influence of camera shake. . In order to reduce the influence of camera shake on the voltage output from the measurement probe 100, for example, the predetermined frequency component value may be 5 Hz or more. More preferably, in consideration of the audible range, the vibration frequency of the vibration applied to the ossicles by the measurement probe 100 may be 20 Hz, which is the lower limit of the audible range. At this time, the analysis unit may obtain a component value of voltage information equal to the vibration excitation frequency (input frequency to the actuator 116) of the vibration applied to the probe 103 by the actuator 116 as the predetermined frequency component value. Specifically, for example, in the analysis unit, when the excitation frequency of the actuator is 20 Hz, the value of the 20 Hz frequency component of each waveform in the voltage information may be obtained as the predetermined frequency component value. As a result, raising the frequency to the audible range may cause cochlear injury and the like, but the influence of camera shake can be reduced without raising the frequency to the audible range. In other words, since the influence of camera shake can be excluded from the voltage output from the measurement probe 100 by the FFT analysis by the analysis unit, the measurement probe 100 can be measured with the hand held by the operator and can be easily measured during the operation. it can.

Here, with respect to the FFT analysis of the mobility evaluation system according to the present invention, as shown in FIG. 3, the result of measuring the mobility of the calibrator imitating the stapes 122 and the ligament 121 supporting the bone with the measurement probe 100. Will be described. As a result of measuring the calibrator with the measurement probe 100, if the mobility of the calibrator decreases (the spring constant increases), the 20 Hz component of the FFT analysis result increases. The mobility of the ossicle is quantified by the increased amount. Although the frequency component seen at 5 Hz or less is due to camera shake, it can be clearly distinguished from the 20 Hz component. Therefore, even in hand-held measurement using the measurement probe 100, the mobility evaluation system according to the present invention has the effect of camera shake. It is possible to evaluate the ossicular mobility with almost no exposure.

The evaluation unit evaluates the mobility (compliance) of the ossicle based on a predetermined frequency component value. Specifically, for example, the evaluation unit fixes the ossicle based on a 20 Hz component value equal to the excitation frequency of vibration such as rotational vibration given to the ossicle by the measurement probe 100 (equal to the input frequency to the actuator 116). Evaluate the degree. The evaluation unit, for example, evaluates as normal if the compliance of the 20 Hz component value is within the range of the reciprocal of the spring constant (compliance) of the system composed of the otic bone and ligament of the normal ear, and if out of the range, It may be evaluated as abnormal (the ear ossicles are fixed). Thereby, it can be quantitatively shown that the ossicle is less likely to vibrate.

As an example, the mobility (compliance) C of the ossicle is a displacement [unit: m] that the actuator 116 gives to the ossicle, and a reaction force P [unit] when the actuator 116 gives the displacement to the ossicle. : N] and the following equation (1).

The sound output unit 340 has a function of outputting sound according to the control of the control unit 330. The audio output unit 340 notifies the evaluation result. The audio output unit 340 may be a speaker built in the information processing apparatus 300 or an external audio output device.

The storage unit 350 has a function of storing various programs, data, and parameters necessary for the information processing apparatus 300 to operate in accordance with the control of the control unit 330. The storage unit 350, specifically, for example, a main storage device composed of ROM and RAM, an auxiliary storage device composed of a nonvolatile memory, HDD (Hard Disc Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), flash memory And various other recording media. For example, the storage unit 350 may store the voltage output from the measurement probe 100 under the control of the control unit 330 as voltage information of a digital signal converted into a digital signal via an AD converter (not shown).

(Configuration of measurement probe 100)
(Embodiment 1)
Hereinafter, an embodiment (Embodiment 1) of the configuration of the measurement probe 100 will be described in detail.
FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the concept of the internal structure of the measurement probe 100 according to the first embodiment. Embodiment 1 is a form of the aspect which comprises the principle of the measurement probe 100 which concerns on this invention.

Measurement probe measures ossicular reaction force. As shown in FIG. 3, the measurement probe 100 includes a probe 103 and an attachment 120 as an example. The attachment 120 includes, for example, an actuator 116, a piezoelectric sensor 117, a strain gauge 118, and a probe fixing magnet 119. FIG. 3 shows a state where the probe 103 is attached to the attachment 120. In FIG. 3, for the sake of explanation, the stapes 122 and ligaments 121 constituting the ossicle are modeled and described.

As the probe 103, specifically, an otologic probe may be used. Thus, by using the probe that is actually used in otologic surgery or the like, the surgeon can measure the reaction force of the ossicle without a sense of incongruity. Specifically, the actuator 116 may be a piezoelectric actuator with a displacement magnifying mechanism for driving the probe. Specifically, the piezoelectric sensor 117 may be a piezoelectric sensor (piezoelectric piezoelectric ceramic) or the like.

The probe 103 is removably supported by a fixed fulcrum and a piezoelectric sensor 117 at two points near the center of gravity and at the end thereof, and a probe fixing magnet 119 is used for the support part. In this way, by adopting a configuration in which the probe 103 is attached to the attachment 120, the probe 103 can be easily attached and detached. For example, only the probe 103 can be replaced or sterilized, thereby improving hygiene. Can be made.

Specifically, for example, the measurement probe 100 applies a vibration such as rotational vibration with a constant amplitude around the fulcrum near the center of gravity to the probe 103 by the actuator 116 by placing the side of the tip of the probe 103 against the ossicle, and piezoelectrically The sensor 117 measures the force applied by the actuator 116 (that is, the reaction force from the probe 103) and outputs a voltage. By adopting such a configuration, the movement of the probe 103 by the actuator 116 is similar to the movement performed by the operator during normal measurement, so that the ossicular reaction force can be measured without a sense of incongruity.

More specifically, for example, the measurement probe 100 causes the actuator 116 to vibrate when the probe 103 is vibrated at 20 Hz by the actuator 116 and the tip of the probe is brought into contact with the stapes 122 constituting the ossicle to be measured. The reaction force applied to the sensor is measured by the piezoelectric sensor 117, and a voltage is output. Here, since the displacement applied to the ossicles should be as small as possible from the viewpoint of protection of the cochlea, the displacement applied by the actuator 116 of the measurement probe 100 is set to 40 μm or less, and the actual voltage is applied. Amplify using a charge amplifier or the like (not shown) and output a voltage proportional to the measured reaction force. The displacement of the actuator 116 is measured by the strain gauge 118.

(Embodiment 2)
Hereinafter, an embodiment (Embodiment 2) of the configuration of the measurement probe 100 will be described in detail.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the measurement probe 100.
As shown in FIG. 4, the configuration of the measurement probe 100 according to the second embodiment includes, as an example, an upper cover 101, a lower cover B102, a probe 103, a lock knob 104, a cord bush 105, a lower cover A106, and a leaf spring 107. (107a, 107b), tapping screw 108 (108a, 108b, 108c, 108d, 108e, 108f, 108g, 108h), fulcrum bracket 109, E ring 110, actuator 116, charge amplifier 112,

cords

113, 123, for actuator It includes a holder 114, standard screws 115 (115a, 115b, 115c), a piezoelectric sensor 117, and a fulcrum bracket fixing pin 111. In the configuration of the measurement probe 100 according to the second embodiment, the attachment includes a fulcrum bracket 109, an actuator 116, and a piezoelectric sensor 117.

The probe 103 is formed in an elongated rod shape. Specifically, the probe 103 may be an otologic probe or the like, and is supported by these components by being placed on a fulcrum bracket 109 as a fixed fulcrum and a piezoelectric sensor 117 attached to the actuator 116. And attached. As a result, the probe 103, which is an otologic probe normally used during surgery, is placed on the fulcrum bracket 109 and the piezoelectric sensor 117 attached to the actuator 116 (that is, the probe 103 is attached to the attachment). Therefore, it is possible to provide an easy-to-use measurement probe that can be easily attached and can measure the quantitative reaction force of the ossicle. In addition, since the tip of the probe 103 directly touches the ossicle, the probe 103 can be easily replaced and hygiene can be improved with such simple attachment.

Further, the probe 103 may be formed with a depression (concave portion) in the vicinity of the center of gravity. Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 10, the probe 103 may be provided with a concave or concave digging portion such as a spherical shape or a circular shape in the vicinity of its center of gravity in order to be supported by a fulcrum bracket 109 or the like. Conversely, a convex protrusion may be provided. With such a configuration, it is possible to satisfactorily install the support member (the fulcrum bracket 109 or the like), and it is possible to prevent the occurrence of blurring in the rotation direction. Further, when the probe 103 is removed from the measurement probe 100 and used, it also serves as an indicator for positioning the operator's handle. When the operator holds the probe 103 with his / her hand, it is visually confirmed. Since the position near the center of gravity of the probe 103 can be easily specified without any problem, a convenient probe can be provided.

As an example of attachment of the fulcrum bracket 109 and the probe 103, the fulcrum of the fulcrum bracket 109 forms a mountain shape in the longitudinal direction of the measurement probe 100, and a recess (for example, a probe) When the length of 103 is 160 mm and the distance from the fulcrum fitting 109 to the measurement point of the piezoelectric sensor 117 (the point where the probe 103 is mounted on the piezoelectric sensor 117 attached to the actuator 116 and measured) is 55 mm, the width 1 0.1 mm and a 0.6 mm depth rectangular groove, etc., while the fulcrum fitting 109 has a protrusion (for example, a width of 1.0 m and a height of 0. A 6 mm rectangular protrusion or the like may be provided, and the uneven portions may be fitted together. Further, when the probe 103 is placed on the fulcrum bracket 109, when the probe 103 is horizontal with respect to the longitudinal direction, clearances (for example, on the both sides between the concave portion of the probe 103 and the convex portion of the fulcrum bracket 109, for example, The probe 103 may be disposed on the fulcrum fitting 109 so that a gap of 0.05 mm on one side is formed. With such a configuration, rotational vibration is applied to the probe 103 by the actuator 116, and when the probe 103 is tilted (for example, the fulcrum metal fitting 109 has a tilt of 1 ° around the fulcrum (rotation center) that supports the probe 103. When the probe is tilted, the probe 103 interferes with the fulcrum bracket 109, and the interference allows the tip of the probe 103 to move up and down along the short direction (for example, the inclination 1). When tilted at 0 °, tan 1 ° × 105 mm = about 1.8 mm can be moved), and the probe 103 can be easily attached and detached.

Further, another example of attaching the fulcrum bracket 109 and the probe 103 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of the fulcrum bracket 109 and the probe 103 taken along the line X-X ′ in FIG. 6A for explaining an example of a method of attaching the fulcrum bracket 109 and the probe 103. As shown in FIG. 10, the fulcrum metal fitting 109 may include a magnet part 136 formed in a spherical shape and a base part 135 that fits and supports the magnet part 136. Further, as shown in FIG. 10, the probe 103 may be provided with an SR-shaped digging process so that the magnet portion 136 is fitted into a part thereof. For example, the magnet portion 136 may be formed by covering thin plate-like aluminum from above. With such a configuration, the probe 103 is supported by the spherical magnet 136 with point support, so that when the probe 103 is subjected to rotational vibration by the actuator 116, no blurring occurs in the translational movement direction. The probe 103 can move flexibly in the rotation direction, and the probe 103 can be easily detached from the measurement probe 100 and attached to the measurement probe 100. Furthermore, with such a configuration, the probe 103 can be fixed to the fulcrum bracket 109 by the magnetic force of the magnet 136, and therefore, the probe 103 can be prevented from falling off from the measurement probe 100.

The measurement probe 100 may include an elastic body that elastically contacts the probe 103. The elastic body may be any material as long as it is in contact with the probe 103 and imparts an elastic resistance force. For example, a leaf spring may be considered. In this example, as an example, a description will be given of an example in which the leaf spring 107 is used. The leaf spring 107 may be elastically in contact with the probe 103 and give an elastic resistance force. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the

leaf springs

107a and 107b are screwed to the upper cover 101 by tapping

screws

108a and 108b. When the upper cover 101 is set on the lower cover B102, the probe is fixed. It may be attached so as to contact 103. With such a configuration, the inertial term of the probe 103 can be canceled and the ossicular reaction force can be accurately measured. Further, by adopting such a configuration, the leaf spring 107 can be exchanged, so that a user-friendly measurement probe can be provided.

As shown in FIG. 4, the fulcrum bracket 109 may be attached to the lower cover A 106 by a fulcrum bracket fixing pin 111 as a fixed fulcrum of the probe 103.

Further, as shown in FIG. 10, the fulcrum metal fitting 109 may include a spherical magnet 136 and a base 135 that is fitted and supported in a recess near the center of gravity of the magnet 136.

The piezoelectric sensor 117 is disposed so as to be sandwiched between the probe 103 and the actuator 116, and measures the reaction force applied to the actuator 116 by the probe 103 that vibrates and rotates. The measured reaction force is transmitted to the charge amplifier 112, and the charge amplifier 112 converts the reaction force into a voltage and outputs the voltage. Specifically, the piezoelectric sensor 117 generates a charge signal when the force applied by the actuator 116 to the probe 103 is applied by the probe 103. At this time, the charge amplifier 112 converts the generated charge signal into a voltage and outputs the voltage. Specifically, the piezoelectric sensor 117 may be a piezoelectric sensor (piezo-type piezoelectric ceramic), a laminated piezoelectric sensor, or the like.

Further, as an example, the piezoelectric sensor 117 may support the probe 103 not by point support but by a surface or a line. An example in which the piezoelectric sensor 117 supports the probe 103 in contact with a line will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing an example of the piezoelectric sensor 117. As shown in FIG. 9, the piezoelectric sensor 117 may include a lateral shake prevention mechanism unit 131, a magnet unit 132, a sensor main body unit 133, and a sensor holding unit 134.

The side shake prevention mechanism 131 is a member for preventing the side shake of the probe 103. The side shake prevention mechanism 131 is, for example, a substantially disk-shaped member, and a probe receiver with a height of both concave sides is formed at the upper part thereof (in other words, at the center side). Semi-cylindrical protrusions may be formed on both sides with left and right anti-shake protrusions that are higher in height than the protrusions on the central side. With such a configuration, the core of the probe 103 is automatically moved with respect to the magnet unit 132 by the inclined surfaces of the protruding portions formed on both sides while being supported by the magnetic force of the magnet unit 132 so that it can be removed and restrained. Therefore, the horizontal displacement of the probe 103 can be prevented. Further, since the structure is supported by line contact, the response of the sensor can be improved compared to point contact, and the force applied from the probe 103 can be measured with high accuracy. The material of the side shake prevention mechanism 131 may be any material as long as it is lightweight and has a certain rigidity, and for example, stainless steel or the like can be used.

The magnet unit 132 is a member that allows the probe 103 to be removed by a magnetic force and supported by the concave probe receiver of the lateral shake prevention mechanism unit 131 with a binding force. The material of the magnet part 132 may be any material as long as the probe 103 can be removed by magnetic force and gives a restraining force. For example, a neodymium magnet or the like can be used.

The sensor main body 133 is a sensor main body of the piezoelectric sensor 117. The sensor main body 133 has a piezoelectric element having a piezoelectric effect, converts the force applied by the probe 103 into a charge signal, and outputs it.

The sensor holding part 134 is a member that holds (adheres) the sensor main body part 133. The sensor holding unit 134 may hold one or more round grooves (four round grooves in the example of FIG. 9) to hold the signal line (code) from the sensor main body 133.

Further, as an example, the piezoelectric sensor 117 may be configured by sandwiching a non-conductive member between the side shake prevention mechanism portion 131 and the magnet portion 132 and the sensor main body portion 133. With such a configuration, an insulating region can be provided between the sensor main body 133 of the force sensor 117 and the probe 103 via the side shake prevention mechanism 131, and the periphery of the ossicle 800 is electrically very sensitive. Therefore, the probe 103 of the measurement probe 100 can be contacted with the ossicle more safely.

As shown in FIG. 4, the actuator 116 is stored in the actuator holder 114 and attached by being screwed to the actuator holder 114 with a standard screw 115. Specifically, the actuator 116 may be a piezoelectric actuator with a displacement enlarging mechanism, for example.

The charge amplifier 112 is screwed and attached to the actuator holder 114 with a tapping screw 108c, and the actuator holder 114 is screwed to and attached to the lower cover A106 with tapping

screws

108d, 108e, and 108f.

The charge amplifier 112 is connected to

cords

113 and 123, and the

cords

113 and 123 are connected to an external device (such as the information processing device 300) through the cord bush 105. The cord bush 105 may be attached to the lower cover A106 using a fixing means such as a hexagon nut fixing rib. With such a configuration, the cord bush 105 can be easily attached. Further, the charge amplifier 112 may be configured separately into (1) an OP amplifier unit that performs analog operation and amplification, and (2) a power supply unit that supplies power to the actuator. (1) A line (signal line) for connecting to the OP amplifier unit for outputting an analog signal and (2) a line (power line) for connecting to the power supply unit and supplying power to the actuator 116 are separated. May be formed. With such a configuration, the OP amplifier unit needs to be provided in the vicinity of the force sensor 117 in order to pick up noise, but the other part (power supply unit) is provided outside the measurement probe 100. Thus, in making the measurement probe 100 into a handpiece, it can be made more compact. Further, with such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the influence of induced noise on the output signal by separating the signal line and the power supply line.

As shown in FIG. 4, in the measurement probe 100 according to the second embodiment, the upper cover 101 and the lower cover B102 are attached, the lower cover B102 and the lower cover A106 are attached, The knob 104 is attached to the E-ring 110 by E-ring fastening and used. As shown in FIG. 4, the upper cover 101 forms a hinge mechanism in which a part in the short direction and a part of the lower cover B102 are folded, and the upper cover 101 is partly attached to the lower cover B102. The upper cover 101 may be opened and closed with respect to the lower cover B102. With this configuration, the

leaf springs

107a and 107b screwed by the tapping

screws

108a and 108b can be exchanged, and an easy-to-use measurement probe can be provided. As an example of a hinge mechanism for attaching a part of the upper cover 101 to a part of the lower cover B102, a hinge mechanism is formed, and a part of the rotating upper cover 101 is provided with a mountain-shaped convex portion, A part of the lower cover B102 corresponding to a part may be provided with a trough-shaped concave part so that the rotation of the upper cover 101 is fixed in a state where the concave and convex part is fitted.

As shown in FIG. 4, the measurement probe 100 is an elongated rod-like probe 103. The probe 103 is supported by a fixed fulcrum and a force sensor at two points near the center of gravity and at the end, and an actuator 116 gives vibration such as rotational vibration with a constant amplitude around a fulcrum near the center of gravity of the probe 103, the force sensor includes a piezoelectric sensor 117 and a charge amplifier 112, and the piezoelectric sensor 117 is applied to the probe 103 by an actuator. The charge signal may be generated by applying the applied force by the probe 103, and the charge amplifier 112 may convert the generated charge signal into a voltage and output the voltage. With such a configuration, it is possible to measure the quantitative reaction force of the ossicle, quantify the degree of improvement in mobility before and after the treatment of the ear with ossicles, and improve postoperative results And the risk of re-operation can be reduced.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the measurement probe 100.
FIG. 5 shows a state where the measurement probe 100 according to the second embodiment is used with each component attached as described above. 5A is a perspective view of the measurement probe 100 according to the second embodiment when viewed obliquely from the cord bush 105 side, and FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the measurement probe 100 according to the second embodiment of the probe 103. It is the perspective view seen diagonally from the front end side. As shown in FIG. 5, the measurement probe 100 according to the second embodiment includes a lower cover B102 and a lower cover so that an operator can easily grasp the measurement probe 100 by holding the lower cover B102 and the lower cover A106. A106 has a shape that conforms to the shape of a human hand. By setting it as such a structure, the measurement probe 100 can be made into a handpiece, and the measurement probe 100 which is easy to use can be provided.

In FIG. 5, for the sake of explanation, the lock knob 104 is shown attached to both sides of the lower cover B102, but the lock knob 104 is provided on either the left or right side so that it can be locked only on one side. May be. Furthermore, when the locking knob 104 is provided only on one side, an opening / closing knob for opening and closing the upper cover 101 up and down with one touch with respect to the lower cover B may be provided on the other side.

FIG. 6A is a plan view illustrating an example of the configuration of the measurement probe 100.
As shown in FIG. 6 (a), the lower cover B102 has a shape conforming to the shape gripped by a human hand so that the operator can easily hold the measurement probe 100 while holding the lower cover B102 on the hand. is doing. By setting it as such a structure, the measurement probe 100 can be made into a handpiece, and the measurement probe 100 which is easy to use can be provided. In addition, the measurement probe 100 is assumed to be used as a hand piece, and as an example, the dimensions (unit: mm) of each part are shown in FIG. 6A. Any size can be used as long as the handpiece is easily gripped by a human hand.

FIG. 6B is a side view showing an example of the configuration of the measurement probe 100.
As shown in FIG. 6B, the lower cover B102 and the lower cover A106 are arranged so that the operator can easily grasp the measurement probe 100 when holding the lower cover B102 and the lower cover A106. The shape is in line with the grip shape. By setting it as such a structure, the measurement probe 100 can be made into a handpiece, and the measurement probe 100 which is easy to use can be provided. In addition, the measurement probe 100 is assumed to be used as a handpiece, and as an example, the dimensions (unit: mm) of each part are shown in FIG. 6B. Any size can be used as long as the handpiece is easily gripped by a human hand.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the measurement probe 100. FIG. 7 is a sectional view taken along line XX ′ in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 7, the probe 103 is in contact with the plate springs 107a and 107b from above (referred to as an upward direction with respect to the grounding surface when the operator uses the measurement probe 100). Further, the probe 103 is supported and attached by two points of a fulcrum fitting 109 and a piezoelectric sensor 117 located near the center of gravity of the probe 103 so that the probe 103 is supported at two points near the center of gravity and at the end. . The piezoelectric sensor 117 generates a charge signal by applying the force applied to the probe 103 by the actuator 116 by the force applied when the end of the probe 103 moves up and down. With such a configuration, the actuator 116 can give the probe 103 vibration such as rotational vibration having a constant amplitude centered on a fulcrum near the center of gravity.

(Processing executed by the mobility evaluation system 700)
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing executed by the mobility evaluation system 700.

The mobility evaluation system 700 rotates and vibrates the vibration exciter (step S10). More specifically, the mobility evaluation system 700 applies vibration to the ossicle by bringing the tip of the probe 103 rotated and vibrated by the actuator 116 into contact with the ossicle (step S10).

The mobility evaluation system 700 measures the reaction force applied to the actuator 116 when the tip of the probe 103 is brought into contact with the ossicle when evaluating mobility (in the case of “evaluating mobility” in step S11). (Step S12). The mobility evaluation system 700 outputs a voltage based on the measurement result (step S13). The mobility evaluation system 700 analyzes the frequency of the voltage information (step S14). More specifically, the mobility evaluation system 700 performs an FFT analysis based on the voltage output from the measurement probe to obtain a predetermined frequency component value (step S14). The mobility evaluation system 700 evaluates the mobility of the ossicle based on a predetermined frequency component value (step S15).

The mobility evaluation system 700 measures the cochlear microphone potential when measuring the potential (in the case of “measuring potential” in step S11) (step S16).

The mobility evaluation system 700 outputs these measurement and evaluation results (step S17).

(Other)
Although the embodiment for evaluating the mobility of the ossicle is taken up with respect to the mobility evaluation system according to the present invention, the present invention is not limited to this, and it is also used when evaluating the cured state of a part of a living body in a fine space. it can. For example, it can also be used when detecting the presence or absence of cancer in the surrounding area by vibrating the stomach wall with an endoscope.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Measurement probe 300 Information processing apparatus 400 Display apparatus 500 Amplifier 600 Electrode 700 Mobility evaluation system

Claims

A mobility evaluation system for evaluating the mobility of the ossicles,
An excitation device that contacts and applies vibration to the ossicles;
An actuator that vibrates the vibration exciter;
A force sensor that measures a reaction force applied to the actuator when the vibration device is brought into contact with the ossicle, and outputs a voltage based on the measurement result;
A measurement probe including
Based on the voltage output from the measurement probe, an FFT analysis is performed to obtain a predetermined frequency component value;
An evaluation unit that evaluates the mobility of the ossicle based on the predetermined frequency component value;
An output unit for outputting the evaluation result;
A mobility evaluation system comprising:
The vibrating device is an elongated rod-like probe, and the probe is removably supported by a fixed fulcrum and the force sensor at two points near the center of gravity and at the end,
The actuator gives a constant amplitude vibration around a fulcrum near the center of gravity of the probe,
The force sensor includes a piezoelectric sensor and a charge amplifier, and the piezoelectric sensor generates a charge signal when the force applied to the probe by the actuator is applied by the probe, and the charge amplifier generates the generation signal. The converted charge signal is converted to voltage and output,
The analysis unit includes an AD converter; the AD converter converts the voltage into voltage information of a digital signal; and the FFT analysis of the voltage information;
The mobility evaluation system according to claim 1.
The probe has a depression formed near the center of gravity,
The fulcrum is provided with a spherically shaped magnet for fitting and supporting in the recess;
The mobility evaluation system according to claim 2.
The measurement probe is
The mobility evaluation system according to claim 2, further comprising an elastic body that elastically contacts the probe.
The actuator vibrates the probe at 5 Hz or higher,
The predetermined frequency component value is a value of a frequency component of 5 Hz or more of each waveform in the voltage information;
The mobility evaluation system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein
The mobility evaluation system includes:
An electrode for detecting a cochlear microphone potential when the cochlear window or the cochlear window is installed, and the osseous bone is vibrated by the vibration device;
An amplifier for amplifying and measuring the detected cochlear microphone potential;
With
The output unit displays the measured cochlear microphone potential;
The mobility evaluation system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein:
A mobility evaluation method for evaluating the mobility of the ossicles,
An excitation step for applying vibration to the ossicle by bringing the tip of the probe oscillated by an actuator into contact with the ossicle;
Measuring a reaction force applied to the actuator when the tip of the probe is brought into contact with the ossicle, and a voltage measuring step for outputting a voltage based on the measurement result;
Based on the voltage output from the measurement probe, an analysis step of performing an FFT analysis to obtain a predetermined frequency component value;
An evaluation step for evaluating the mobility of the ossicle based on the predetermined frequency component value;
An output step of outputting the evaluation result;
A mobility evaluation method comprising: