ECG device

Abstract

The present invention provides an electrocardiographic measuring device that can suppress discomfort caused to various subjects when wearing the device. The electrocardiographic measuring device (1) comprises: a plurality of electrodes (33) whose length along the circumference of an upper arm (100) can be changed according to the circumferential length of the upper arm (100), and the plurality of electrodes detect potentials from the upper arm (100) in contact; and a device body (12) that generates electrocardiographic information based on the potentials detected by the plurality of electrodes (33).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrocardiogram measuring device for measuring a biological signal corresponding to the potential on the surface of a living body, which is generated by the beating of the heart. Background Art

[0002] An electrocardiogram measurement device is known that detects an electrocardiogram signal, which is a potential generated on the surface of a living body due to the beating of the heart and is one of biological signals, and generates an electrocardiogram waveform of a subject.

[0003] As such an electrocardiogram (ECG) measurement device, a heart rate measurement device using a belt is known. The belt comprises a belt body that is wrapped around the chest of the subject, and a plurality of electrodes fixed to the inner surface of the belt body along its longitudinal dimension (see, for example, Patent Document 1). When the heart rate measurement device is formed into a ring, a metal fitting is used to connect a stretchable hanging strap and a non-stretchable belt equipped with electrodes in the circumferential direction of the strap. When detecting ECG signals on the chest, a larger potential difference can be achieved by arranging the electrodes across the heart, so the spacing between the electrodes in the non-stretchable belt can be shortened. Therefore, the stretchable portion can be lengthened, making it easy to adjust the length of the hanging strap.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 5441977 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0008] The aforementioned electrocardiogram (ECG) measurement devices are sometimes attached to the limbs (upper or lower limbs) of various subjects using a strap. In such cases, adjusting the strap length before attachment can be cumbersome. Furthermore, increasing the number of electrodes on the strap or increasing the area of ​​each electrode to detect even smaller potential differences can make it difficult to fit the strap into a circumferentially stretchable area. In such cases, after the body-worn device is attached to the user using the strap, the strap length will not track the increase in the diameter (circumference) of the area where the body-worn device is attached, potentially causing discomfort to the user.

[0009] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an electrocardiographic measuring device that can suppress discomfort caused to various subjects when wearing the device.

[0010] Technical Solution

[0011] According to one embodiment, an electrocardiographic measuring device is provided, comprising: a plurality of electrodes whose lengths along the circumference of a living body can vary according to the circumferential length of the living body, and the plurality of electrodes detect potentials from the living body in contact; and a device body that generates electrocardiographic information based on the potentials detected by the plurality of electrodes.

[0012] Here, the living body is, for example, an upper arm, a wrist, a chest, a leg, or the like.

[0013] According to this aspect, the lengths of the plurality of electrodes along the circumferential direction of the living body can be varied, thereby enabling the electrocardiogram measurement device to be worn by various subjects, and suppressing discomfort inducing in various subjects during wearing.

[0014] In the electrocardiographic measuring device according to the above-mentioned aspect, there is provided an electrocardiographic measuring device wherein the lengths of the plurality of electrodes along the circumferential direction of the living body can be changed by extension and contraction.

[0015] According to this embodiment, the plurality of electrodes can be formed into, for example, a coil or bellows shape. Alternatively, the plurality of electrodes can be configured by connecting a plurality of members so as to be movable. Alternatively, the plurality of electrodes can be configured by a link mechanism.

[0016] In the electrocardiographic measurement device according to the above-mentioned aspect, there is provided an electrocardiographic measurement device wherein the lengths of the plurality of electrodes along the circumferential direction of the living body can be changed by changing the lengths of the electrodes protruding from reference positions.

[0017] According to this aspect, it is not necessary to configure the plurality of electrodes to have a variable length. For example, by configuring the fixing portion to which the electrodes are fixed to have a variable length of the portion of the electrode protruding from the fixing portion, the configuration of the electrodes can be simplified.

[0018] In the electrocardiographic measuring device of one embodiment described above, there is provided an electrocardiographic measuring device, wherein the plurality of electrodes are connected to an insulator, the device main body or a sub-device main body to form a ring shape, and the sub-device main body generates electrocardiographic information based on the potential of the connected electrodes.

[0019] According to this embodiment, the electrocardiogram measurement device is configured in a ring shape, making it easier to attach to a living body. Furthermore, when using a secondary device, the function of generating electrocardiogram information based on multiple electrodes can be divided between the device main body and the secondary device main body. This prevents the device main body and the secondary device from becoming larger.

[0020] In the electrocardiographic measuring device according to the above-mentioned aspect, there is provided an electrocardiographic measuring device wherein the plurality of electrodes and the insulator or the sub-device main body to which the plurality of electrodes are respectively connected fix the device main body to the living body.

[0021] According to this aspect, since an additional fixing member for fixing the electrocardiogram measurement device to the living body is unnecessary, it is possible to prevent an increase in the number of parts of the electrocardiogram measurement device.

[0022] In the electrocardiographic measurement device according to the above-mentioned aspect, there is provided an electrocardiographic measurement device wherein the outer peripheral surface side of the electrode is configured as an insulating portion.

[0023] According to this aspect, the plurality of electrodes can be prevented from coming into contact with parts other than a desired part of the living body, thereby improving the accuracy of detecting the potential of the living body.

[0024] Effects of the Invention

[0025] The present invention can provide an electrocardiogram measuring device that can be worn by various subjects. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram showing a state where the electrocardiogram measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is worn on the upper arm of a measurement subject.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of an electrocardiographic measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 It is a perspective view showing the configuration of an electrocardiographic measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram showing a state where the electrocardiogram measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is worn on the upper arm.

[0030] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram showing a state where the electrocardiogram measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is worn on the upper arm.

[0031] Figure 6 It is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the main parts of a modified example of the electrocardiographic measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 7 Yes Figure 6 An illustration of the main parts of the .

[0033] Figure 8 It is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the main parts of a modified example of the electrocardiographic measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 9 Yes Figure 8 An illustration of the main parts of the device.

[0035] Figure 10It is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the main parts of a modified example of the electrocardiographic measurement device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 11 Yes Figure 10 An illustration of the main parts of the device.

[0037] Figure 12 It is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of an electrocardiographic measurement device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 13 It is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of an electrocardiographic measurement device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 14 It is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of an electrocardiographic measurement device according to a fourth embodiment.

[0040] Figure 15 It is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of an electrocardiogram measurement device according to another embodiment.

[0041] Figure 16 It is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of an electrocardiogram measurement device according to another embodiment.

[0042] Figure 17 Yes Figure 16 An explanatory diagram of the structure of the main parts of the electrocardiogram measuring device.

[0043] Figure 18 This is an explanatory diagram showing a state where an electrocardiogram measurement device according to another embodiment is worn on the upper arm. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] [First embodiment]

[0045] Below, use Figures 1 to 5 An example of the electrocardiographic measurement device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a state where the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 is attached to the upper arm 100 of a subject. Figure 2 It is a block diagram showing the configuration of the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 . Figure 3 It is a perspective view showing the structure of the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 . Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram showing a state where the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 is worn on the upper arm 100 . Figure 4 The electrocardiogram measurement device 1 is shown in a state where it is attached to the upper arm 100 of the subject having the shortest circumference among the upper arms 100 of the subjects set as users of the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 . Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram showing a state where the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 is worn on the upper arm 100 . Figure 5The electrocardiogram measurement device 1 is shown as being mounted on the upper arm 100 of the subject having the longest circumference among the upper arms 100 of the subjects set as users of the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 .

[0046] An electrocardiogram (ECG) measuring device 1 is a potential measuring device that is worn on a living body and detects electrical potentials at multiple locations on the surface of the living body's skin. Based on these detected electrical potentials, the device generates ECG information necessary for generating an ECG. It should be noted that the ECG measuring device 1 may generate and display an ECG waveform, or may display information necessary for generating an ECG and output this information to an external terminal.

[0047] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the electrocardiographic measurement device 1 includes a mounting portion 11 having a plurality of electrodes 33 and mounted on a living body with a portion of the living body disposed inside; and a device body 12 for generating electrocardiographic information based on potentials detected by the plurality of electrodes 33 .

[0048] The electrocardiogram measurement device 1 functions as a so-called wearable device in which the mounting portion 11 is mounted on, for example, the upper arm 100 . Figure 1 An example of a state in which the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 is attached to the upper arm 100 of a subject is shown.

[0049] The mounting portion 11 is fixed to the device body 12 and is integrally formed into a ring shape with the device body 12. Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the attachment portion 11 includes a plurality of electrodes 33 and a plurality of connection portions 34. The attachment portion 11 is configured to be able to fix the device body 12 to the upper arm 100.

[0050] The electrodes 33 are formed of a conductive material and are configured to be in contact with the upper arm 100 to detect the potential of the upper arm 100 . The lengths of the electrodes 33 along the circumference of the upper arm 100 are variable according to the circumference of the upper arm 100 .

[0051] Here, the fact that the lengths of the plurality of electrodes 33 along the circumference of the upper arm 100 can be varied means that the plurality of electrodes 33 can be extended or contracted, or that the lengths of the portions of the electrodes 33 protruding from a reference position can be varied. The reference position is, for example, the surface of a member to which the electrodes 33 are fixed, such as the connection portion 34 or the device body 12. In this embodiment, a configuration in which the plurality of electrodes 33 can be extended or contracted is described as an example.

[0052] The plurality of electrodes 33 are configured to be retractable. In addition, the plurality of electrodes 33 have the ability to recover from the stretched state to the original length. The plurality of electrodes 33 are formed, for example, in the shape of a retractable coil. In addition, the plurality of electrodes 33 are formed, for example, in the shape of a flat coil. When stretched, the plurality of electrodes 33 will recover to the original length due to their own elasticity. The plurality of electrodes 33 are, for example, four electrodes 33. In this embodiment, the plurality of electrodes 33 are fixed to the device body 12 or the connecting portion 34. The plurality of electrodes 33 are electrically connected to the device body 12 by, for example, wiring, etc. As Figure 3 As shown, the surface of the electrode 33 fixed to the connection portion 34 on the upper arm 100 side is formed, for example, to be flush with the surface of the connection portion 34 on the upper arm 100 side. The surface of the electrode 33 fixed to the device body 12 on the upper arm 100 side is formed, for example, to be flush with the surface of the device body 12 on the upper arm 100 side.

[0053] The connecting portion 34 is an insulator. The connecting portion 34 connects two adjacent electrodes 33 in an insulated manner. For example, the multiple connecting portions 34 include three connecting portions 34. The connecting portion 34 is fixed to the electrode 33 by, for example, integrally molding the end of the electrode 33. Alternatively, the connecting portion 34 may be fixed to the electrode 33 using an adhesive.

[0054] Alternatively, the connection portion 34 may also be fixed with the electrode 33 in a detachable manner. As this example, a snap-fitting portion is formed on the connection portion 34, and the end portion of the electrode 33 is formed as a snap-fitting portion that can be snap-fitted to the snap-fitting portion in a detachable manner, for example, formed in a hook shape. Furthermore, the snap-fitting portion of the electrode 33 is snap-fitted to the snap-fitting portion of the connection portion 34, whereby the electrode 33 is fixed to the connection portion 34 in a detachable manner. In other examples, the connection portion 34 may also be fixed with the electrode 33 in a detachable manner using a magnet. For example, a magnet is provided on at least one of the connection portion 34 and the electrode 33. A metal or a magnet that can be fixed to the magnet is provided on the other side.

[0055] The both ends of the attachment portion 11 configured in this manner are constituted by, for example, two electrodes 33. The two electrodes 33 constituting the both ends of the attachment portion 11 are fixed to the device main body 12.

[0056] The circumference of the attachment portion 11 in the unextended state of the plurality of electrodes 33 is set to be shorter than the shortest length among the circumferences of the upper arms 100 of the plurality of subjects set as users of the electrocardiographic measurement device 1. Figure 4 As shown, when the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 is attached to the upper arm 100 at its shortest circumference, the plurality of electrodes 33 are extended in the circumferential direction of the upper arm 100. The extension amount of the plurality of electrodes 33 in this state is the extension amount sufficient to secure the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 to the upper arm 100 by the tightening force exerted on the upper arm 100 by the restoring force of the plurality of electrodes 33.

[0057] Furthermore, the circumference of the attachment portion 11 when the electrodes 33 are in their most extended state is set to be equal to or greater than the longest circumference of the upper arms 100 of the multiple subjects who are designated as users of the electrocardiogram measurement device 1. In other words, the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 can be fixed to the upper arm with the longest circumference.

[0058] In this manner, the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 can be fixed, via the mounting portion 11 , to the upper arms 100 of a plurality of measurement subjects who are set as users of the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 .

[0059] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the device body 12 includes a housing 41, an operating unit 42, a display unit 43, a power supply unit 44, an electrocardiogram information generating unit 45, an electrocardiogram generating unit 46, a memory 47, and a control unit 48. Furthermore, the device body 12 includes a communication unit for transmitting and receiving information with an external terminal. It should be noted that the communication unit transmits and receives information with the external terminal wirelessly and / or via a wired connection. Furthermore, the device body 12 includes, for example, a ground electrode 49.

[0060] The housing 41 houses part of the operation unit 42, part of the display unit 43, the electrocardiographic information generating unit 45, the electrocardiogram generating unit 46, the memory 47, and the control unit 48. The housing 41 also exposes part of the operation unit 42 and part of the display unit 43 from the outside.

[0061] The operating unit 42 receives user commands. For example, the operating unit 42 includes a plurality of buttons 42a and sensors that detect operation of the buttons 42a. It should be noted that the operating unit 42 may also include a pressure-sensitive or capacitive touch panel, such as provided on the housing 41 or the display unit 43, or a microphone for receiving voice commands. User operation of the operating unit 42 converts commands into electrical signals, which are then output to the control unit 48.

[0062] The display unit 43 is electrically connected to the control unit 48. The display unit 43 is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic electroluminescence display (OELD). The display unit 43 displays the date and time, electrocardiogram information, and electrocardiogram waveforms in accordance with control signals from the control unit 48. It should be noted that if the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 is used as a biological information measurement device that displays blood pressure values, the display unit 43 may also display various information including blood pressure values ​​such as the maximum and minimum blood pressures, and measurement results such as heart rate.

[0063] The power supply unit 44 is a power source. For example, the power supply unit 44 is a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery. The power supply unit 44 is electrically connected to the control unit 48. Specifically, the power supply unit 44 supplies power to the control unit 48. The power supply unit 44 supplies driving power to the control unit 48 and, through the control unit 48, supplies driving power to the operation unit 42, the display unit 43, the electrocardiogram information generation unit 45, the electrocardiogram generation unit 46, and the memory 47.

[0064] The electrocardiographic information generating unit 45 is electrically connected to the plurality of electrodes 33 and the ground electrode 49. The electrocardiographic information generating unit 45 calculates a potential difference from the potentials detected by the plurality of electrodes 33, and generates electrocardiographic information.

[0065] The electrocardiogram generation unit 46 is electrically connected to the electrocardiogram information generation unit 45. The electrocardiogram generation unit 46 generates electrocardiogram information based on the electrocardiogram information generated by the electrocardiogram information generation unit 45. The electrocardiogram information may include an electrocardiogram waveform.

[0066] Such an ECG information generating unit 45 and an ECG generating unit 46 are, for example, processing circuits capable of respectively performing the functions of the ECG information generating unit 45 and the ECG generating unit 46. The ECG information generating unit 45 and the ECG generating unit 46 are electrically connected to the control unit 48. It should be noted that the control unit 48 may include the processing circuits of the ECG information generating unit 45 and the ECG generating unit 46, and execute the functions of the ECG information generating unit 45 and the ECG generating unit 46 by executing a program stored in the memory 47.

[0067] Furthermore, for example, the electrocardiogram information generating unit 45 or the electrocardiogram generating unit 46 may include a low-pass filter, an amplifier, and an analog-to-digital converter. For example, the potential difference signal may be filtered to remove unnecessary noise components, amplified by an amplifier, and then converted to a digital signal by the analog-to-digital converter.

[0068] The memory 47 includes, for example, a solid state drive (SSD), random access memory (RAM), and read-only memory (ROM) as storage media. The memory 47 stores programs required for executing various control processes. Furthermore, the memory 47 stores detected electrocardiographic signals, generated electrocardiographic information, and electrocardiogram information. For example, this information is stored in a time-series manner in the memory 47.

[0069] The control unit 48 includes a single or multiple processors. The control unit 48 is formed from one or more processing circuits. For example, the control unit 48 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Based on the program stored in the memory 47, the control unit 48 executes the overall operation and specified operations (functions) of the electrocardiogram measurement device 1. The control unit 48 performs specified calculations, analysis, and processing according to the read program. The control unit 48 controls the operation of the operation unit 42, display unit 43, electrocardiogram information generation unit 45, and electrocardiogram generation unit 46, transmits and receives signals, and supplies power.

[0070] The ground electrode 49 is fixed to, for example, the surface of the housing 41 on the upper arm 100 side. The ground electrode 49 is electrically connected to the electrocardiographic information generating unit 45.

[0071] An example of attaching the thus configured electrocardiogram measurement device 1 to a subject's upper arm 100 will be described. In the case where the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 has electrodes 33 fixed to the connecting portion 34, the subject inserts their arm into the attaching portion 11 starting from the fingertips. The subject then moves the attaching portion 11 to the upper arm 100.

[0072] The electrodes 33 expand and contract along the circumference of the subject's upper arm 100 according to the circumference of the subject's upper arm 100. Furthermore, the attachment portion 11 has a restoring force that allows it to return from its extended state, thereby securing the attachment portion 11 to the upper arm 100. This securing force secures the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 to the subject's upper arm 100.

[0073] When the electrocardiographic measurement device 1 is configured such that the electrodes 33 are detachably fixed to the connecting portion 34 , the subject releases the fixation between one electrode 33 among the plurality of electrodes 33 and the connecting portion 34 , for example.

[0074] Next, the subject wraps the mounting portion 11 and the device body 12 around the upper arm 100. Next, the subject secures the released electrodes 33 and the connecting portion 34. At this time, the subject pulls the mounting portion 11 against the upper arm 100, thereby extending the plurality of electrodes 33. By securing the released electrodes 33 and the connecting portion 34, the mounting portion 11 and the device body 12 form a ring shape. By securing the mounting portion 11 and the device body 12 in a ring shape, the mounting portion 11 secures the upper arm 100 by utilizing the restoring force of the plurality of electrodes 33. With the mounting portion 11 securing the upper arm 100, the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 is secured to the upper arm 100.

[0075] When the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 is thus fixed to the upper arm 100, the subject operates the operating unit 42, causing the control unit 48 to control various components and detect electrocardiogram signals via the two electrodes 33. The electrocardiogram information generation unit 45 then generates electrocardiogram information based on the electrocardiogram signals, and the electrocardiogram generation unit 46 generates electrocardiogram information based on the electrocardiogram information. The control unit 48 stores the electrocardiogram information and electrocardiogram information in the memory 47 and displays information such as the date and time and the electrocardiogram on the display unit 43. Furthermore, the control unit 48 can control the communication unit to transmit various information, such as the date and time, electrocardiogram information, and electrocardiogram information, to an external terminal.

[0076] In the electrocardiographic measurement device 1 thus configured, the lengths of the plurality of electrodes 33 can be varied along the circumferential direction of the upper arm 100 in accordance with the circumference of the upper arm 100 , thereby enabling the electrocardiographic measurement device 1 to be attached to the upper arm 100 of various subjects, and suppressing discomfort experienced by various subjects during the attachment process.

[0077] Furthermore, the plurality of electrodes 33 have the ability to recover from an extended state, thereby enabling the device body 12 to be fixed to the upper arm 100 via the attachment portion 11. Therefore, no additional fixing means for fixing the attachment portion 11 and the device body 12 to the upper arm 100 is required, thereby preventing an increase in the number of parts of the electrocardiographic measurement device 1.

[0078] It should be noted that, in the above example, the electrode 33 is described as being formed in a coil shape, but the invention is not limited thereto. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown in the modified example, the electrode 33 is configured as follows: it includes multiple conductive plate members 150 extending in one direction, and these multiple plate members 150 are movably connected by a spring or the like. The movement here refers to movement in a direction in which the distance between adjacent plate members 150 widens, and movement in a direction in which the distance between adjacent plate members 150 narrows. By movably connecting the multiple plate members 150 in this manner, the multiple electrodes 33 are configured to be extendable. Furthermore, the multiple electrodes 33 may also have a restoring force to recover from the extended state. Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram showing a portion of one electrode 33 and two connecting portions 34 connected to the electrode 33 . Figure 7 Yes Figure 6 The diagram shows an explanatory diagram of a state where the electrode 33 is extended.

[0079] Alternatively, you can Figure 8 and Figure 9 As in the other modified examples shown, the electrode 33 is formed of a conductive material in a bellows shape. The bellows-shaped electrode 33 may also have a restoring force to recover from the stretched state. Figure 8This is an explanatory diagram showing a portion of one electrode 33 and two connecting portions 34 to which the electrode 33 is connected. Figure 9 Yes Figure 8 The diagram shows an explanatory diagram of a state where the electrode 33 is extended.

[0080] In addition, in the above embodiment, as an example, the electrode 33 has a restoring force to return to its original length when stretched, but the present invention is not limited to this. In other examples, the electrode 33 may also have a structure that does not have a restoring force to contract from the stretched state. As an example, Figure 10 and Figure 11 As in the illustrated modification, the electrode 33 is constituted by, for example, a retractable link mechanism. Figure 10 It is an explanatory diagram showing a part of the electrode 33 and two connecting portions 34 to which the electrode 33 is connected. Figure 11 The electrode 33 and a portion of two connecting portions 34 connected to the electrode 33 are shown, and the electrode 33 and the connecting portion 34 are shown. Figure 10 The state shown is compared to the extended state.

[0081] [Second embodiment]

[0082] Next, use Figure 12 An electrocardiographic measurement device 1A according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Components identical to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment, and description thereof will be omitted. Figure 12 1A is an explanatory diagram showing a state where the electrocardiogram measurement device 1A is worn on the upper arm 100 .

[0083] In this embodiment, an example of a configuration is described in which a plurality of electrodes that contact the upper arm 100 to detect the potential of the upper arm 100 can change their length along the circumference of the upper arm 100 according to the circumference of the upper arm 100 by changing the length of the portion protruding relative to a reference position.

[0084] like Figure 12 As shown, the electrocardiographic measurement device 1A includes a mounting portion 11A having a plurality of electrodes 33A and mounted on the upper arm 100 with a portion of the upper arm 100 disposed inside; and a device body 12 for generating electrocardiographic information based on potentials detected by the plurality of electrodes 33A.

[0085] The electrocardiogram measurement device 1A functions as a so-called wearable device in which the mounting portion 11A is mounted on the upper arm 100 .

[0086] The attachment portion 11A is connected to the device body 12 and is formed integrally with the device body 12 in a ring shape. The attachment portion 11A is configured so that the upper arm 100 can be placed inside. The attachment portion 11A includes a plurality of electrodes 33A and a plurality of connection portions 34A.

[0087] The electrode 33A is configured to be deformable, for example, following the upper arm 100. The electrode 33A is configured by connecting a plurality of electrode pieces 140, for example.

[0088] The connection portion 34A is formed of an insulator. The connection portion 34A connects two adjacent electrodes 33A in an insulated manner. In addition, the plurality of connection portions 34A supports one of the two connected electrodes 33A so that it can move forward and backward relative to the connection portion 34A.

[0089] For example, the connection portion 34A is formed with a hole 141 that movably accommodates a portion of the electrode 33. The plurality of electrodes 33A are configured so that their lengths along the circumference of the upper arm 100 can be varied by varying the lengths of the portions exposed from the hole 141 of the connection portion 34A. In this configuration, the reference position is the edge of the hole 141.

[0090] Furthermore, when electrode 33A is stretched in the direction of exiting hole 141, connection portion 34A is configured to apply force to electrode 33A in the direction of pulling electrode 33A into hole 141. For example, the end of electrode 33A housed in the hole of connection portion 34A is secured within the hole of connection portion 34A by a spring. Furthermore, the length of the portion of electrode 33A that exits the hole of connection portion 34A can change as the spring expands and contracts.

[0091] According to this embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0092] It should be noted that, in the above example, the electrode 33A is described as being formed by connecting a plurality of electrode sheets 140, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In other examples, the electrode 33A may be a wire made of a conductive material. Furthermore, the connecting portion 34D may be a code reel connected to the wire-shaped electrode 33A.

[0093] [Third embodiment]

[0094] Next, use Figure 13 An electrocardiographic measurement device 1B according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Components identical to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment, and description thereof will be omitted. Figure 13 It is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the electrocardiogram measurement device 1B.

[0095] The electrocardiographic measurement device 1B includes a mounting portion 11B and a device body 12 . The mounting portion 11B includes a plurality of electrodes 33 , a plurality of connecting portions 34 , and an insulating portion 35 .

[0096] The insulating portion 35 is provided on the outer peripheral surface side of the plurality of electrodes 33 when the electrocardiographic measurement device 1B is worn on the upper arm 100. The insulating portion 35 covers the regions of the plurality of electrodes 33 that do not contact the upper arm 100. The insulating portion 35 is made of an insulator.

[0097] The insulating portion 35 is formed by, for example, fixing cover members formed of an insulator to each of the plurality of electrodes 33. Alternatively, the insulating portion 35 may be formed by coating or plating the electrodes 33 with an insulator.

[0098] The electrocardiogram measurement device 1B thus configured achieves the same advantages as the first embodiment. Furthermore, during potential measurement, the insulating portion 35 prevents the electrodes 33 from contacting any portion other than the upper arm 100. This improves the accuracy of the potential measurement of the upper arm 100 achieved by the electrocardiogram measurement device 1B.

[0099] [Fourth embodiment]

[0100] Next, use Figure 14 An electrocardiographic measurement device 1C according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Note that in this embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and their description will be omitted. Figure 14 It is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the electrocardiogram measurement device 1C.

[0101] like Figure 14 As shown, the electrocardiographic measurement device 1C includes a mounting portion 11C and a device body 12C.

[0102] The attachment portion 11C includes a plurality of electrodes 33, a plurality of connection portions 34, and a sub-device body 130. The plurality of electrodes 33 are fixed to the connection portions 34, the device body 12C, or the sub-device body 130, respectively.

[0103] In the present embodiment, the plurality of connection portions 34 are, for example, two connection portions 34. The two connection portions 34 have one end fixed to the other end of each of the two electrodes 33 of the device body 12C.

[0104] The sub-device body 130 is fixed with two electrodes 33. The sub-device body 130 measures the potential of the two fixed electrodes 33. The sub-device body 130 generates electrocardiographic information based on the measured potential and wirelessly transmits the generated electrocardiographic information to the external device 200. The external device 200 is, for example, a smartphone.

[0105] The sub-device body 130 includes, for example, a power supply unit 131 , an electrocardiographic information generation unit 132 , a signal transmission unit 133 , a memory 134 , and a control unit 135 . The sub-device body 130 also includes a ground electrode 136 .

[0106] The power supply unit 131 is a power source. For example, the power supply unit 131 is a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery. The power supply unit 131 is electrically connected to the control unit 135. Specifically, the power supply unit 131 supplies power to the control unit 135. The power supply unit 131 supplies driving power to the control unit 135, and in turn, supplies driving power to the electrocardiogram information generation unit 132, the signal transmission unit 133, and the memory 134 via the control unit 135.

[0107] The electrocardiographic information generating unit 132 is electrically connected to the two electrodes 33 fixed to the sub-device main body 130 and the ground electrode 136. The electrocardiographic information generating unit 132 calculates a potential difference from the potentials detected by the two electrodes 33 and generates electrocardiographic information.

[0108] The ECG information generating unit 132 is, for example, a processing circuit capable of executing the functions of the ECG information generating unit 132. The ECG information generating unit 132 is electrically connected to the control unit 135. It should be noted that the control unit 135 may include the processing circuit of the ECG information generating unit 132 and execute the functions of the ECG information generating unit 132 by executing a program stored in the memory 134.

[0109] Furthermore, for example, the electrocardiographic information generating unit 132 may include a low-pass filter, an amplifier, and an analog-to-digital converter. For example, the potential difference signal may be filtered to remove unnecessary noise components, amplified by an amplifier, and then converted to a digital signal by the analog-to-digital converter.

[0110] The signal transmission unit 133 is electrically connected to the electrocardiographic information generation unit 132. The signal transmission unit 133 wirelessly transmits the electrocardiographic information generated by the electrocardiographic information generation unit 132 to the external device 200.

[0111] Memory 134 includes, for example, a solid state drive (SSD), random access memory (RAM), and read-only memory (ROM) as storage media. Memory 134 stores programs required for executing various control processes. Memory 134 also stores detected electrocardiographic signals and generated electrocardiographic information. This information is stored in a time-series manner, for example.

[0112] The control unit 135 includes a single or multiple processors. The control unit 135 is formed of one or more processing circuits. For example, the control unit 135 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Based on the program stored in the memory 134, the control unit 135 executes the overall operation and specified operations (functions) of the electrocardiogram measurement device 1C. The control unit 135 performs specified calculations, analysis, and processing according to the read program. The control unit 135 controls the operation of the electrocardiogram information generation unit 132 and the signal transmission unit 133, transmits and receives signals, and supplies power.

[0113] The ground electrode 136 is formed so as to be in contact with the upper arm 100 when the electrocardiogram measurement device 1C is worn on the upper arm 100 .

[0114] The device body 12C calculates the potentials of the two electrodes 33 fixed to the device body 12C, generates electrocardiographic information, and transmits the electrocardiographic information to the external device 200. The device body 12C includes, for example, the components of the device body 12 of the electrocardiography measurement device 1 according to the first embodiment, excluding the electrocardiogram generation unit 46, and a transmission unit. The device body 12C transmits the information calculated by the electrocardiographic information generation unit 45 to the external device 200 via the transmission unit.

[0115] The external device 200 generates electrocardiogram information based on the signals received from the device body 12C and the sub-device body 130. Furthermore, the external device 200 may also display an electrocardiogram based on the generated electrocardiogram information.

[0116] It should be noted that the sub-device body 130 may also be configured to transmit electrocardiographic information to the device body 12C. In this case, the device body 12C may have the same configuration as the device body 12 of the electrocardiographic measurement device 1 according to the first embodiment. Furthermore, the electrocardiogram generation unit 46 of the device body 12C generates electrocardiogram information based on, for example, the electrocardiogram information generated by the electrocardiogram information generation unit 45 and the electrocardiogram information generated by the electrocardiogram information generation unit 132 of the sub-device body 130.

[0117] The electrocardiographic measurement device 1C can achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. Furthermore, the structure for generating electrocardiographic information based on the potentials detected by the plurality of electrodes 33 can be separated into the device main body 12C and the sub-device main body 130, thereby enabling the device main body 12C and the sub-device main body 130 to be miniaturized.

[0118] Furthermore, since the potential of the two electrodes 33 fixed to the sub-device body 130 is measured by the sub-device body 130, the two electrodes 33 do not need to be electrically connected to the device body 12C. Therefore, the wiring process for connecting to the plurality of electrodes 33 can be simplified.

[0119] It should be noted that, in the first to fourth embodiments described above, as an example, the configuration in which the two electrodes 33 are fixed to the device body 12 is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Figure 15 As in the modified example of the electrocardiographic measurement device 1 shown in FIG. 1 , both ends of the mounting portion 11 are formed by two connecting portions 34 .

[0120] Furthermore, as a modification of the first to fourth embodiments, one of the plurality of connecting portions 34 may be configured so that its length along the circumference of the upper arm 100 can be adjusted within a range where the plurality of electrodes 33 are maintained in a state of being extended from their shortest lengths when the electrocardiogram measuring device 1, 1A, 1B, 1C is worn on the upper arm 100. Figure 16 and Figure 17 This example will be described as a modification of the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 of the first embodiment.

[0121] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, one of the plurality of connecting portions 34 is configured as a length-adjustable belt. The one connecting portion 34 includes, for example, a first portion 110 , a second portion 111 , and a fixing ring 112 .

[0122] The first portion 110 is fixed to one of two adjacent electrodes 33, for example. The second portion 111 is fixed to the other electrode 33. The second portion 111 is formed in a strip shape. A hook-and-loop fastener 113 is provided on the second portion 111 as an example of a fixing method. The hook-and-loop fastener 113 includes a hook and a loop. A fixing ring 112 is fixed to the first portion 110. The second portion 111 is folded back at the fixing ring 112 and fixed by the hook-and-loop fastener 113.

[0123] The length of the connecting portion 34 can be adjusted by adjusting the folded position of the second portion 111 on the fixing ring 112. The length of the connecting portion 34 can be adjusted within a range where the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 is fixed to the upper arm 100 and the electrodes 33 remain extended.

[0124] In other words, when the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 is attached to the shortest upper arm 100 among the multiple subjects whose upper arms 100 are to be used by the electrocardiogram measurement device 1, with the connecting portion 34 at its longest length, the electrodes 33 remain extended. Therefore, the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 can be secured to the upper arm 100 by the tightening force generated by the restoring force of the electrodes 33, and the tightening force can be adjusted by adjusting the length of the connecting portion 34. As a result, the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 can be properly secured to the upper arm 100.

[0125] Furthermore, in this modified example, one of the multiple connecting portions 34 is configured as a belt, allowing the attachment portion 11 to be separated via this connecting portion 34. Therefore, when the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 is attached to the upper arm 100, the connecting portion 34 can be separated, allowing the attachment portion 11 and the device body 12 to be in a belt-like configuration. Consequently, the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 can be secured to the upper arm 100 by connecting the connecting portion 34 while the belt-like attachment portion 11 and the device body 12 are wrapped around the upper arm 100. As a result, securing the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 to the upper arm 100 is simplified.

[0126] In the above example, the device body 12 is fixed to the upper arm 100 via the mounting portion 11 by utilizing the restoring force of the plurality of electrodes 33, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Figure 18 As in the modified example of the electrocardiographic measurement device 1 of the first embodiment shown, a fixing tool 160 for fixing the device main body 12 to the upper arm is provided.

[0127] Figure 18 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a modified example of the electrocardiogram measuring device 1 being worn on the upper arm 100. Figure 18 As shown, the fixing member 160 is, for example, disposed outside the mounting portion 11 and fixed to the device body 12. The fixing member 160 is, for example, a belt.

[0128] The fixing member 160 includes, for example, a first portion 161, a second portion 162, and a fixing ring 163. The first portion 161 is fixed to the device body 12. The second portion 162 is fixed to the device body 12. A hook-and-loop fastener is provided on the second portion 162 as an example of a fixing method. A hook-and-loop fastener has a hook and a loop. The fixing ring 163 is provided at one end of the first portion 161.

[0129] After placing the upper arm 100 in the mounting portion 11, the person being measured inserts the second portion 162 through the fixing ring 163. The person then folds the second portion 162 back over the fixing ring 163 and stretches it. The stretching of the second portion 162 secures the fixing member 160 to the upper arm 100. At this point, the mounting portion 11 is also secured to the upper arm 100 via the fixing member 160.

[0130] For example, the plurality of electrodes 33 of the mounting portion 11 may be Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the case of a configuration without a restoring force as shown, the attachment portion 11 is fastened to the upper arm 100 by the fixing member 160 , whereby the lengths of the plurality of electrodes 33 are reduced according to the circumference of the upper arm 100 .

[0131] In this manner, the electrocardiogram measurement device 1 is fixed to the upper arm 100 via the fixing member 160 .

[0132] In addition, in the above-mentioned example, the structure in which the multiple electrodes 33 are retractable is described, but it is not limited to this. In other examples, not only the multiple electrodes 33 are retractable, but at least one of the multiple connecting parts 34 is also retractable. As an example of this structure, at least one of the multiple connecting parts 34 may also be a structure in which a restoring force acts in the direction of contraction from the extended state. As a specific example, the connecting part 34 may also be formed in a coil shape. Alternatively, the connecting part 34 may also be formed in a bellows shape. Alternatively, the connecting part 34 may also be a structure that does not have a restoring force in the direction of contraction from the extended state, and as a specific example, it may also be composed of a connecting rod mechanism.

[0133] Furthermore, in the above examples, the electrocardiogram measurement devices 1, 1A, 1B, and 1C are described as being mounted on the upper arm 100. However, they may be mounted on other parts of the body such as the chest, wrist, or leg.

[0134] Furthermore, in the above example, the plurality of electrodes 33 are configured to have variable lengths along the circumference of the upper arm 100, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, at least one of the plurality of electrodes 33 may be configured to have variable lengths along the circumference of the upper arm 100.

[0135] Furthermore, in the above example, the mounting portions 11, 11A, 11B, and 11C are described as being used in the electrocardiogram measurement device 1, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the mounting portion 11 may be used in a biological information measurement device for both electrocardiogram and blood pressure measurement. Specifically, the biological information measurement device may include not only the configuration of the above-described electrocardiogram measurement device 1 but also a pulse wave sensor and a processing circuit, wherein the processing circuit performs a blood pressure measurement function that generates a blood pressure value based on the pulse wave information detected by the pulse wave sensor. Such a biological information measurement device performs the following blood pressure measurement function: it calculates the pulse transit time (PTT) for each heartbeat, estimates blood pressure, and measures the blood pressure value. For example, such a biological information measurement device calculates the pulse transit time (PTT) for each heartbeat based on the time difference between the R wave peak RP detected from the electrocardiogram signal and the pulse wave rising edge PS for each heartbeat, which is one of the characteristic quantities of the pulse wave signal detected by the pulse wave sensor.

[0136] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the descriptions so far are merely illustrative of the present invention in all respects, and various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. In other words, when implementing the present invention, specific configurations corresponding to the various embodiments may be appropriately adopted.

[0137] Furthermore, the present invention can be constructed into various inventions by appropriately combining the multiple components disclosed in the above-mentioned embodiments. For example, some components can be deleted from all the components shown in each embodiment. Furthermore, components across different embodiments can be appropriately combined.

[0138] Description of Reference Numerals

[0139] 1: Electrocardiographic measuring device;

[0140] 1A: electrocardiographic device;

[0141] 1B: ECG device;

[0142] 1C: electrocardiographic device;

[0143] 1D: electrocardiographic device;

[0144] 11: Mounting part;

[0145] 11A: mounting part;

[0146] 11B: mounting part;

[0147] 11C: mounting part;

[0148] 11D: mounting part;

[0149] 12: device body;

[0150] 33: electrode;

[0151] 33B: electrode;

[0152] 33D: electrode;

[0153] 34: connecting part;

[0154] 34A: connecting portion;

[0155] 34C: connecting part;

[0156] 34D: connecting part;

[0157] 35: insulation part;

[0158] 41: housing;

[0159] 42: operation unit;

[0160] 42a: button;

[0161] 43: display unit;

[0162] 44: Power supply unit;

[0163] 45: ECG information generation unit;

[0164] 46: electrocardiogram generation unit;

[0165] 47: memory;

[0166] 48: Control Department;

[0167] 100: upper arm;

[0168] 110: Part I;

[0169] 111: Part II;

[0170] 112: fixing ring;

[0171] 113: hook and loop fasteners;

[0172] 130: auxiliary device body;

[0173] 131: Power supply unit;

[0174] 132: ECG information generation unit;

[0175] 133: signal sending unit;

[0176] 140: electrode sheet;

[0177] 150: Plate member;

[0178] 160: fixing parts;

[0179] 161: Part I;

[0180] 162: Part II;

[0181] 163: Fixed ring.

Claims

1. An electrocardiogram measuring device comprising: a plurality of electrodes whose lengths along the circumference of a living body can be changed according to the length of the circumference of the living body, and the plurality of electrodes detect a potential from the living body in contact; and The device body generates electrocardiographic information based on the potentials detected by the plurality of electrodes. The lengths of the plurality of electrodes along the circumferential direction of the living body are changed by changing the lengths of the portions of the electrodes protruding from the reference positions. The reference position is a surface of a member to which the electrode is fixed.

2. The electrocardiogram measuring device according to claim 1, wherein The plurality of electrodes are connected to an insulator, the device main body, or the sub-device main body to form a ring shape, and the sub-device main body generates electrocardiographic information based on the potential of the connected electrodes.

3. The electrocardiogram measuring device according to claim 2, wherein: The plurality of electrodes and the insulator or the sub-device body to which the plurality of electrodes are respectively connected fix the device body to the living body.

4. The electrocardiogram measuring device according to claim 1, wherein The outer peripheral surface side of the electrode is configured as an insulating portion.

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