Spinal alignment estimation device, spinal alignment estimation system, spinal alignment estimation method, program product, and computer-readable recording medium recording spinal alignment estimation program

Abstract

A spine alignment estimation device (1) includes an acquisition unit (11) that acquires a position of a person's head and an angle of the person's head measured based on a relationship with a visual object, and an estimation unit (12) that estimates a spine alignment of the person based on the position and the angle acquired by the acquisition unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology described herein relates to spinal alignment estimation devices, spinal alignment estimation systems, spinal alignment estimation methods, program products, and computer-readable recording media that record spinal alignment estimation programs. Background Technology

[0002] With the widespread use of visual display terminals (VDTs) such as computer monitors, the physical and mental symptoms caused by prolonged VDT work (VDT syndrome) are considered a problem.

[0003] People tend to adopt a forward-leaning posture, especially when using portable VDTs such as laptops and smartphones. This forward-leaning posture puts a strain on the muscles around the cervical spine that support the weight of the head, causing various symptoms such as shoulder pain and headaches.

[0004] As a device that monitors the position of a person's head and neck in the forward and backward direction over time when using a VDT, determines poor posture and issues warnings, there are known wearable devices that can be worn or attached to the body, and terminal devices that are incorporated into the VDT itself.

[0005] As an example of wearable technology, in a lensless frame equipped with a tilt sensor, the tilt angle of the frame in the front-back direction from the horizontal axis (viewing angle 0°) is measured, and a warning is issued when the tilt angle is outside the prescribed allowable range (see Patent Document 1).

[0006] As another example of wearable technology, in smart glasses equipped with multiple sensors, a warning is issued when the tilt angle and pitch angle of the user's head in the forward and backward directions, as measured by the inertial sensor, exceed the allowable set value, or when the distance between the user and an object, as measured by the distance sensor, is greater than a certain time but less than the set value (see Patent Document 2).

[0007] On the other hand, as an example of a terminal type, in a portable terminal with multiple built-in sensors, an accelerometer is used to calculate the angle in the front-back direction in the space of the portable terminal, and a range sensor is used to measure the distance between the screen and the user's eyes. Based on these two pieces of information, the user's posture is determined and a warning is issued (see Patent Document 3).

[0008] Existing technical documents

[0009] Patent documents

[0010] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2016 / 079585

[0011] Patent Document 2: Chinese Patent Publication No. 103479361

[0012] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-39472 Summary of the Invention

[0013] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0014] The aforementioned posture determination methods all focus solely on the head and neck, judging posture based on whether the tilt angle of the head and neck in the forward and backward direction and the distance between the head and neck and the VDT (Vibrational Throat) are within permissible ranges. However, especially in seated posture changes, not only the head and neck are involved, but also the positions of all limbs that make up the spine, including the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar vertebrae and the pelvis (see [reference]). Figure 1 and Figure 2 Therefore, posture determination based solely on information related to the head and neck may fail to accurately estimate a person's posture.

[0015] Typically, information about the alignment of a person's spine (spinal alignment) is obtained from 3D motion capture devices or X-ray images. However, motion capture devices require expensive and large equipment, which is not readily available to the average person. X-ray imaging involves radiation exposure and is generally not permitted unless there is a legitimate medical reason. Furthermore, it is impossible to obtain a person's posture dynamically while using a VDT (Vibration Therapy Device).

[0016] In one respect, the technique described herein aims to estimate the spinal alignment of a person in a seated position in a real-time, dynamic and accurate manner using a simple device.

[0017] Methods for solving problems

[0018] In one aspect, a spinal alignment estimation device includes an acquisition unit and an estimation unit, the acquisition unit acquiring the position and angle of a person's head measured using the relationship with a visual object, and the estimation unit estimating the person's spinal alignment based on the position and angle acquired by the acquisition unit.

[0019] The effects of the invention

[0020] As one aspect, it is possible to estimate the spinal alignment of a person in a sitting position in a timely, dynamic and accurate manner using a simple device. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a graph illustrating the metrics used to estimate a user's spinal alignment.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a graph illustrating the metrics used to estimate a user's spinal alignment.

[0023] Figure 3This is a diagram illustrating a spine alignment estimation system for one implementation.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the external structure of a measuring terminal worn on glasses as one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 5 It is a diagram illustrating the distance between the user's head and the VDT, as well as the angle of the user's head.

[0026] Figure 6 It is a diagram illustrating the changes in the spinal alignment of a user in a sitting posture.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a graph showing the relationship between the cervical spine tilt angle and the viewing distance.

[0028] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing the relationship between the cervical spine tilt angle and the head tilt angle.

[0029] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the results of a multiple regression analysis of the coefficients obtained using data from the device and measurements from a 3D motion analysis device, showing the arrangement of the various parts of the spine.

[0030] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a spine alignment estimation system in one embodiment.

[0031] Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a computer in one implementation. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the embodiments described below are merely illustrative, and various modifications can be made without departing from their spirit. It should be noted that, in the drawings used in the following embodiments, parts given the same reference numerals refer to the same or identical parts unless otherwise specified.

[0033] In this implementation, the directions used in the description are defined as follows. The horizontal direction is further subdivided into the front-back direction (represented by [F] and [B] in the diagram) and the left-right direction (represented by [L] and [R] in the diagram). Regarding the left-right direction, left and right are determined based on the state from back to front. In addition, the direction of gravity in the vertical direction is set as downward (represented by [D] in the diagram), and the opposite direction of downward is set as upward (represented by [U] in the diagram).

[0034] (1) One implementation method

[0035] (1-1) Definition of the human spine

[0036] Define the terms related to the human spine used in this application and the symbols used for illustration.

[0037] Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the indicators used to estimate the alignment of the human spine. The human spine consists of the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal vertebrae; the arrangement of these bones is called [spinal alignment]. The bones are represented alphabetically by their English names: cervical spine (C1-C7), thoracic spine (T1-T12), lumbar spine (L1-L5), sacrum (S), and coccyx (C0). In the techniques described in this specification, when estimating the posture of a user performing VDT in a seated position, a high midline of the body surface, corresponding to the 2nd cervical vertebra (C2), 7th cervical vertebra (C7), 3rd thoracic vertebra (T3), 8th thoracic vertebra (T8), 12th thoracic vertebra (T12), 3rd lumbar vertebra (L3), and sacrum (S), is used as the reference point. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The white circles (markers) indicate the positions of the bones corresponding to the user's posture while seated, and the corresponding body surface locations.

[0038] As described above, when the center of the white circle on the body surface, which is positioned at the reference point corresponding to the user's posture in a seated position (C2, C7, T3, T8, T12, L3, S), is connected by a straight line, a broken line is drawn along the user's back. This broken line simulates the alignment of the user's spine in the anterior-posterior direction. The angles formed by the straight line connecting each point with the horizontal or vertical line, as well as the angles formed by two adjacent straight lines, simulate the degree of tilt and curvature of different parts of the spine.

[0039] The angle represented in this section is the angle in the anteroposterior (sagittal plane) direction of the spine. Figure 1 In the diagram, Y1 represents the angle (C2-C7 vertical angle) between the line segment connecting C2 and C7 and the vertical line V1. Y1 is the angle representing the degree of cervical lordosis. Figure 1 In the diagram, the angle between the line segment connecting C7 and T3 and the vertical line V2 is denoted by Y2. Y2 simulates the T1 slope (inclination angle), an important indicator for determining cervical spine alignment. Figure 1 The angle between the upper surface of the first thoracic vertebra (T1) and the horizontal line H is shown. The T1 slope indicates the degree of inclination of the upper surface of the first thoracic vertebra relative to the horizontal plane, and is one of the indicators used clinically to determine the alignment of the cervical vertebrae.

[0040] exist Figure 2In the diagram, Y3 represents the acute angle formed by the line segment connecting C7 and T3 and the line segment extending upwards from the line segment connecting T3 and T8. Y3 simulates the kyphosis of the upper thoracic vertebrae, the so-called posterior convexity of the upper thoracic spine (upper thoracic kyphosis angle). Figure 2 In the diagram, Y4 represents the acute angle formed by extending the line segment connecting T3 and T8 downwards and the line segment connecting T8 and T12. Y4 simulates the kyphosis of the lower thoracic vertebrae, the so-called posterior convexity of the lower thoracic spine (lower thoracic kyphosis angle). Figure 2 In the diagram, Y5 represents the acute angle formed by the line segment connecting T12 and L3 and the line segment extending upwards from the line segment connecting L3 and S. Y5 simulates the lordosis of the lumbar spine, the so-called lordosis of the lumbar region, the curvature of the spine (lumbar lordosis angle). For example... Figure 2 As shown, the lumbar lordosis angle is usually represented by the angle formed by the extension of the upper surface of the L1 vertebral body and the upper surface of the S sacrum, and is an indicator related to the alignment of the lumbar vertebrae.

[0041] The cervical lordosis angle, T1 slope, upper thoracic kyphosis angle, middle and lower thoracic kyphosis angle, and lumbar lordosis angle, which serve as indicators of the spinal alignment shown above, were originally measured using X-ray images. Y1 to Y5 are simulated values ​​of these angles that would not be known without X-ray imaging, based on the aforementioned reference points on the body surface.

[0042] (1-2) Description of one implementation method

[0043] In this invention, the visual object includes not only books or paintings, but also any visual display terminal capable of measuring the distance between the object and the user, such as a television screen, computer monitor, or operating screen of a portable device. However, the distance between the visual object and the user is preferably within approximately 5 meters, which would affect the tilt of the user's head. The following explanation uses the operating screen of a computer monitor or similar terminal as an example.

[0044] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating a spine alignment estimation system 100 according to one embodiment. (See diagram for example.) Figure 3 As shown, the spinal alignment estimation system 100 may exemplarily include a spinal alignment estimation device 1, an operation terminal 2, and a measurement terminal 3.

[0045] The spinal alignment estimation system 100 is a system for estimating the spinal alignment of a user and is an example of an information processing system.

[0046] The spinal alignment estimation device 1, the operation terminal 2, and the measurement terminal 3 can be connected to each other via a network. Figure 3 An example of a wired connection is shown, but a wireless connection is also possible.

[0047] Operating terminal 2 is an example of an information processing terminal operated by a user (in other words, a person). Examples of operating terminal 2 include various computers such as PCs (Personal Computers) and smartphones.

[0048] like Figure 3 As shown, the operating terminal 2 may include a display unit 21 that displays information on an operating screen (visual object). The display unit 21 provides various information to the user via the operating screen. The information provided may include the position of the user's head measured by the first measurement unit 31 (described later), the angle of the user's head measured by the second measurement unit 32, and information output from the notification unit 13 of the spinal alignment estimation device 1.

[0049] The measurement terminal 3 is an example of a device unit that measures various data when worn by a user. The measurement terminal 3 can be worn (or detached) on items worn by the user, such as glasses, headbands, necklaces, or headphones, or it can be integrated with the user's wearable items (not detachable).

[0050] like Figure 3 As shown, the measurement terminal 3 may include a first measurement unit 31 and a second measurement unit 32. The first measurement unit 31 measures the position of the user's head in relation to the operation screen of the operation terminal 2. In other words, the first measurement unit 31 measures the distance between the operation screen of the operation terminal 2 and the user facing the operation screen. Alternatively, the first measurement unit 31 may use the position of the user's head at startup as the initial position and measure the change from the initial position as the distance.

[0051] The second measurement unit 32 measures the angle of the user's head. In other words, the second measurement unit 32 measures the tilt angle of the user's head relative to the operating screen of the operating terminal 2. When the operating terminal 2 is a personal computer, the angle of the operating screen is approximately constant, so the angle of the user's head can be interpreted as the angle in relation to the screen.

[0052] The measurement terminal 3 sends the position of the user's head measured by the first measurement unit 31 and the angle of the user's head measured by the second measurement unit 32 to the spinal alignment estimation device 1.

[0053] The spinal alignment estimation device 1 is an example of a data analysis device, information processing device, or computer that performs data analysis, generates display information, and manages files.

[0054] like Figure 3As shown, the spinal alignment estimation device 1 may include an acquisition unit 11, an estimation unit 12, and a notification unit 13. The acquisition unit 11 acquires the user's head position measured by the first measurement unit 31 and the user's head angle measured by the second measurement unit 32 from the measurement terminal 3. The estimation unit 12 estimates the user's spinal alignment based on the user's head position and angle acquired by the acquisition unit 11. The notification unit 13 notifies the user of any abnormal posture based on the estimation result of the estimation unit 12.

[0055] (1-3) Examples of the appearance and structure of the measuring terminal

[0056] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates the external structure of the measuring terminal 3 as one embodiment. Here, the measuring terminal 3, which can be worn on eyeglasses, will be described as an example. The measuring terminal 3 is mounted on the temple 40a of a typical-shaped pair of eyeglasses 4 used in daily life. The measuring terminal 3 has a housing 30a, on which hooks 30b for mounting on the temple 40a are provided. Here, the housing 30a is mounted on the outer side (left side) of the left temple 40a of the eyeglasses 4. The measuring terminal 3 is preferably positioned on the temple 40a close to the eyes of the user wearing the eyeglasses 4, i.e., near the temple.

[0057] The housing 30a houses the position measuring unit 30c and the angle measuring unit 30d. The position measuring unit 30c is an example of a device that measures the position of the user's head in relation to the operation screen of the operation terminal 2. In other words, the position measuring unit 30c is an example of the first measuring unit 31. Examples of position measuring units 30c include optical, radio-wave, and ultrasonic ranging sensors. Here, we will describe an example where the position measuring unit 30c uses a camera 30c.

[0058] The angle measuring device 30d is an example of a device that measures the angle of the user's head in relation to the operation screen of the operation terminal 2. In other words, the angle measuring device 30d is an example of the second measuring unit 32. Examples of angle measuring devices 30d include accelerometers, inertial sensors including gyroscopes, or tilt sensors. Here, the use of an accelerometer 30d as an example will be used for the explanation.

[0059] (1-4) Explanation of the estimation department

[0060] Next, an example of the processing of the estimation unit 12 of the above-described spinal alignment estimation device 1 will be described together with an example of a spinal alignment estimation system 100 using a measurement terminal 3 that can be worn on glasses 4 and a laptop computer 2 that serves as an operation terminal 2.

[0061] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the distance between the user's head and the VDT, as well as the angle of the user's head. For example... Figure 5As shown, in this embodiment, as a best example, the case where a user operates a laptop 2 while wearing glasses 4 equipped with a measuring terminal 3 and in a seated position (sitting position) is illustrated. A line extending along the back of the user's body represents the spine SC. Furthermore, black circles arranged along the spine SC on the user's back represent the skin surface positions corresponding to the bone positions related to the user's posture in a seated position. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The positions of the white circles in the text are consistent.

[0062] The camera (position measuring unit 30c) of the measuring terminal 3 measures the position of the user's head in relation to the operation screen 2a; in other words, it measures the distance d between the operation screen 2a of the laptop (operation terminal) 2 and the user's head. Since the measuring terminal 3 is installed near the user's temple, the distance d measured by the camera 30c can also be described as the viewing distance d from the user's eyes to the operation screen 2a.

[0063] The accelerometer sensor 30d of the measuring terminal 3 measures the angle θ of the user's head. S Angle θ S It is the inclination of the line connecting the upper edges of the user's head (eyes and ears) relative to a baseline (e.g., a horizontal line). If we use the horizontal line H to represent the position of temple 40a in a frontal posture and the virtual line I to represent the position of temple 40a in a tilted posture, then the angle θ is... S It can also be described as the angle between the horizontal line H and the virtual line I.

[0064] The estimation unit 12 estimates the position (viewing distance d) and angle (tilt angle θ) of the user's head obtained by the acquisition unit 11. S ), using the estimation unit 12 described later to store in the storage unit 10c (using Figure 11 The coefficients A1 to A5 (described later) are used to calculate the angles formed by the specified parts that constitute the spinal alignment, thereby estimating the user's spinal alignment.

[0065] The following experiment illustrates the correlation between spinal alignment and visual distance d and tilt angle θS.

[0066] (An experiment investigating the correlation between the motion analysis device and the measured values ​​of the measuring terminal 3)

[0067] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates the changes in spinal alignment of a user in a seated position. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between spinal alignment and visual distance (d) and tilt angle (θ). SThe correlation between them was investigated through experiments conducted under specified conditions. Specifically, a 3D motion analysis device using an infrared high-speed camera positioned at eight omnidirectional points was used to simultaneously acquire the spatial coordinates of the aforementioned spinal parameters and the head tilt angle θ measured using a measuring terminal 3. S The distance d was obtained. The 3D motion analysis device obtained coordinate information with a spatial resolution of 1 mm and a sampling rate of 120 Hz. In the measurement terminal 3, the head tilt angle θ was obtained with a sampling rate of 10 Hz. S And the visual distance d. The experiment was conducted on multiple subjects.

[0068] The subjects wore glasses 4 equipped with a measurement terminal 3. Simultaneously, a marker (black circle) for a 3D motion analysis device was installed on the back of the user. The marker and... Figure 1 and Figure 2 Similarly, the markings are affixed to the locations corresponding to the bone positions associated with the sitting subject's posture. The markings are affixed to seven locations corresponding to the second cervical vertebra (C2), the seventh cervical vertebra (C7), the third thoracic vertebra (T3), the eighth thoracic vertebra (T8), the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12), the third lumbar vertebra (L3), and the sacrum (S), as well as two locations at the front and rear of the measuring terminal 3 and one location on the laptop's operating screen 2a.

[0069] The subject took the posture of leaning forward and approaching the operating screen 2a as the initial posture. Figure 6 A), in conjunction with the point that moves up and down on the screen of operation screen 2a, causes the head and neck to move up and down, and gradually move away from the operation screen 2a to change the posture to a frontal posture. Figure 6 B). During this period, the angle, visual distance d, and tilt angle θ of the prescribed parts constituting the subject's spinal alignment are measured at any time. S .

[0070] In the experimental results, all angles at the locations constituting the spinal alignment were related to the visual distance d and the tilt angle θ. S A correlation was found between them. As an example, Figure 7 This is a graph showing the correlation between cervical spine tilt angle and visual distance. Figure 8 This graph shows the correlation between cervical spine tilt angle and head tilt angle. Under the condition of C2-C7 vertical angle (cervical spine tilt angle), a strong negative correlation was found between the C2-C7 vertical angle and the viewing distance d, and a correlation was found between the C2-C7 vertical angle and the tilt angle θ. S It has a strong positive correlation (refer to) Figure 7 , Figure 8 ).

[0071] Based on the aforementioned correlation, the angles (hereinafter also referred to as estimated simulated angles) Y1 to Y5 formed by the specified locations constituting the spinal alignment can be calculated using multiple regression analysis with regression coefficients A1 to A4 and intercept (coefficient) A5 obtained from data obtained from the measurement terminal 3 and actual measurement results of Y1 to Y5 obtained from the 3D motion analysis device. The regression analysis can be of order n (n is a natural number), preferably order 2 or less.

[0072] If we set the estimated simulated angles Y1 to Y5 as the object to be estimated (objective variable Y) m The factor that causes the estimated simulation angles Y1 to Y5 to vary is set as the head tilt angle θ measured by the measuring terminal 3. S Let (describe variable X1) and sight distance d (describe variable X2) be used to describe their relationship, for example, by the following linear approximation.

[0073] [Mathematical Expression 1]

[0074]

[0075] Equation 1 is a relational expression (multiple regression formula, model formula) for multiple regression analysis with multiple variables. A1 to A4 represent regression coefficients, and A5 represents the intercept.

[0076] Y m These are the angles formed by the prescribed locations constituting the alignment of the spine (estimated simulated angles), m=1~5. Since markers are attached to seven locations corresponding to the second cervical vertebra (C2), the seventh cervical vertebra (C7), the third thoracic vertebra (T3), the eighth thoracic vertebra (T8), the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12), the third lumbar vertebra (L3), and the sacrum (S), the estimated simulated angles Y1~Y5 here become simulated values ​​for the angles of cervical lordosis, T1 slope, upper thoracic kyphosis, thoracic kyphosis, and lumbar lordosis, which are important in posture. m The unit for X1 is [degrees], and the unit for X2 is [mm].

[0077] In addition, the calculated Y m The angles are not limited to those mentioned above. Depending on the purpose, they can be angles under different circumstances, or more angles can be found, or fewer angles can be found.

[0078] Coefficient A1 is the head tilt angle θ S The coefficient of the term, coefficient A3, is the tilt angle θ of the head. S The coefficients of the square term. Coefficient A2 is the coefficient of the sight distance d term, and coefficient A4 is the coefficient of the square term of sight distance d. Coefficient A5 is the intercept.

[0079] The coefficients A1 through A5 are set to different values ​​for each user. In other words, coefficients A1 through A5 are values ​​corresponding to user attributes. User attributes may include parameters such as age, gender, height, weight, and body type.

[0080] Coefficients A1 to A4 are based on the actual spinal alignment and head tilt angle θ of the specified subject, test subject, or user, calculated by a 3D motion analysis device. S The coefficient A5 is calculated based on the correlation between the sight distance d and the coefficient. A1 The coefficients for A1 to A5 are calculated during the process. The calculation methods for coefficients A1 to A5 will be described later.

[0081] Furthermore, the coefficients A1 to A5 of Equation 1 are set to values ​​corresponding to the angles formed by the specified locations constituting the spinal alignment. In other words, the values ​​of coefficients A1 to A5 differ according to Y1 to Y5. Therefore, the estimation unit 12 estimates the distance d and the tilt angle θ. S Substitute the user's attributes and the Y-value of the computed object into the input. m Equation 1, with corresponding coefficients A1 to A5, is used to calculate Y. m .

[0082] The estimation unit 12 obtains the viewing distance d and the tilt angle θ. S Then, referring to the information stored in the storage unit 10c, coefficients A1 to A5 are extracted. Figure 9 This refers to the viewing distance d and the angle θ of the user's head, measured using the measuring terminal 3 of the present invention. S This table presents an example of the results of multiple regression analysis, using the measured values ​​of Y1 to Y5 obtained from a 3D motion analysis device and the actual measured values ​​of Y1 to Y5. The table showing the results of the multiple regression analysis illustrates the coefficients and intercepts required to calculate the simulated estimated angle.

[0083] (Results of multiple regression analysis)

[0084] like Figure 9 As shown, the results table of multiple regression analysis can include, for example, [intercept A5] and [head tilt angle θ] on the vertical axis. S [Coefficient A1 of the term], [Coefficient A2 of the term for viewing distance d], [Head tilt angle θ] S The coefficients of the square term [A3] and the coefficients of the square term of the sight distance d [A4], as well as any [multiple correlation coefficient R] and [multiple determination coefficient R2]. Additionally, the horizontal axis may include items representing Y1 to Y5, such as [C2-C7 vertical angle], [T1 slope], [C7-T3-T8], [T3-T8-T12], and [T12-L3-S].

[0085] (Calculation of coefficients A1 to A5)

[0086] The experimental results show that all angles constituting the spinal positioning site are related to the visual distance d and the tilt angle θ. S The regression analysis in Equation 1 is expressed as follows. Therefore, in Equation 1, the data measured by measurement terminal 3 are substituted into X1 and X2, and the values ​​measured by the 3D motion analysis device at the same time as the measurement by measurement terminal 3 are substituted into Y. m Thus, coefficients A1 to A5 are obtained. Alternatively, the values ​​of coefficients A1 to A5 can be calculated by statistically applying multiple measurement results to an approximation formula.

[0087] Regression analysis was also performed using a first-order regression analysis (a first-order linear approximation), which resulted in biased results. In contrast, quadratic regression analysis (a quadratic linear approximation) yielded results with smaller bias.

[0088] like Figure 9 As shown in the [correlation coefficient R] section, the values ​​of the various correlation coefficients for this method range from 0.735 to 0.972. From this result, it can be seen that using the method based on Y... m Equation 1, which sets coefficients A1 to A5, uses the viewing distance d and tilt angle θ to... S Y is calculated by substituting X1 and X2. m It can be estimated with very high accuracy.

[0089] The estimation unit 12 compares the calculated values ​​of Y1 to Y5 with values ​​within a specified range. The specified range refers, for example, to the angles within a range considered the ideal correct posture from a medical perspective—that is, from the shape of the spine, without placing strain on the specified parts constituting the spinal alignment. If the comparison result indicates that the values ​​of Y1 to Y5 are outside the specified range, an evaluation message indicating poor posture is sent to the notification unit 13. In this case, it may also indicate which part of the spine is particularly under load.

[0090] The estimation unit 12 can evaluate (determine) poor posture based on the time or frequency at which the values ​​of Y1 to Y5 are outside the specified range. The estimation unit 12 is, for example, not limited to, viewing distance d and tilt angle θ. S The measurement time (instantaneous) can also be based on the cumulative value of the time or frequency during which the values ​​of Y1 to Y5 are outside the specified range within a certain time range. For example, if the time during which the values ​​of Y1 to Y5 are outside the specified range accounts for 5% per hour, or if it is counted 10 times in a day, the posture can be evaluated (judged) by comparing this proportion (value) with a specified threshold. Alternatively, machine learning can be used to analyze the values ​​of Y1 to Y5 in responses such as feeling body modulation or pain, or abnormal spinal sensations, in the results of questionnaires, etc., to determine the abnormal values ​​and use them for evaluation.

[0091] The estimation unit 12 generates a table of coefficients A1 to A5 obtained using the spinal alignment estimation system 100 and the 3D motion analysis device, and stores it in the storage unit 10c (using...). Figure 11 (To be continued).

[0092] This table can be an individual table for each user being measured, or it can be generated by machine learning from a large amount of measurement data and classifying it according to the subject's attributes. The table is selected and used by users of the spinal alignment estimation system 100 based on their attributes, such as gender, age, and body type. In the table, coefficients A1 to A5 are determined based on the combination of gender, age, and body type. By selecting their own attributes, users can easily estimate their own spinal alignment using the spinal alignment estimation system 100. For example, Figure 9 The coefficients A1 to A5 are "Gender: Male, Age: 20s, Body Type: Slender". These values ​​are used to create a table and stored in storage unit 10c. Alternatively, coefficients A1 to A5 can also be stored on an external server, etc.

[0093] Furthermore, the table not only determines the attributes but also the optimal coefficients A1 to A5 based on the user's state. State includes sitting posture in a chair, upright sitting posture, standing posture, supine posture, etc. By using the spinal alignment estimation system 100 to set their usage conditions, the user can estimate their spinal alignment in any state.

[0094] (1-5) Examples of actions

[0095] The following describes an example of the operation of the above-mentioned spinal alignment estimation system 100. Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a spine alignment estimation system 100 according to one embodiment.

[0096] The first measuring unit 31 of the measuring terminal 3 measures the line-of-sight distance d between the operating screen 2a and the user, and the second measuring unit 32 measures the tilt angle θ of the user's head facing the operating screen 2a of the operating terminal 2. S (Step S1).

[0097] The acquisition unit 11 of the spinal alignment estimation device 1 acquires the viewing distance d and tilt angle θ from the measuring terminal 3. S The estimation unit 12 will use the line-of-sight distance d and the tilt angle θ. S Substituting the coefficients A1 to A5 corresponding to the user's attributes into Equation 1, the angles Y1 to Y5 at specified locations of the user's spine are calculated (step S2). The estimation unit 12 also determines during the measurement whether the values ​​of angles Y1 to Y5 within a certain period of time are respectively within the specified range (step S3).

[0098] If the values ​​of angles Y1 to Y5 are determined to be outside the specified range (or the time or frequency of being outside the specified range exceeds the specified threshold), the notification unit 13 of the spinal alignment estimation device 1 notifies the operation terminal 2 of the poor posture estimated based on the user's spinal alignment, causing the operation terminal 2 to display a warning of poor posture (step S4). Then, the process ends.

[0099] On the other hand, in step S3, if it is determined that the values ​​of angles Y1 to Y5 are within the specified range, no warning is displayed in the operation terminal 2, and the process ends.

[0100] (1-6) Effects

[0101] As described above, the spinal alignment estimation system 100, spinal alignment estimation device, spinal alignment estimation system, spinal alignment estimation method, spinal alignment estimation program, and computer-readable recording medium recording the spinal alignment estimation program according to one embodiment can, for example, achieve the following effects.

[0102] The spinal alignment estimation device 1 estimates the spinal alignment based on the viewing distance d between the user and the operation screen 2a of the operation terminal 2, and the tilt angle θ of the user's head relative to the operation screen 2a. S This allows for the estimation of spinal alignment. Consequently, the user's spinal alignment can be easily, readily, and dynamically estimated based on two pieces of information without the need for large-scale devices.

[0103] The spinal alignment estimation device 1 estimates the user's spinal alignment by calculating the angles Y1 to Y5 formed by the specified parts constituting the spinal alignment. This allows for accurate estimation of the user's spinal alignment in a seated position.

[0104] Spinal alignment estimation device 1 based on Figure 6 The experiment shown calculates A1 to A5, and then calculates the angles Y1 to Y5 formed by the specified parts constituting the user's spinal alignment. This yields values ​​that are very close to (highly correlated with) the actual data obtained by the user's 3D motion analysis device. Therefore, the user's spinal alignment can be estimated more accurately.

[0105] When the angles Y1 to Y5 formed by the specified parts constituting the spinal alignment, as calculated by the estimation unit 12, are not within the specified range, the spinal alignment estimation device 1 notifies the user of a postural abnormality. As a result, the user can spontaneously correct their posture.

[0106] (1-7) Example of hardware structure of spinal alignment estimation device

[0107] Figure 11This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware (HW) structure of a computer 10 that implements the functions of the spinal alignment estimation device 1. When using multiple computers as HW resources to implement the functions of the spinal alignment estimation device 1, each computer may include... Figure 11 The HW structure shown.

[0108] like Figure 11 As shown, the computer 10, as an HW structure, can exemplarily include a processor 10a, a memory 10b, a storage unit 10c, an IF (Interface) unit 10d, an I / O (Input / Output) unit 10e, and a read unit 10f.

[0109] The processor 10a is an example of an arithmetic processing device that performs various control and calculation operations. The processor 10a can be communicatively connected to various modules within the computer 10 via the bus 10i. Furthermore, the processor 10a can be a multiprocessor containing multiple processors, a multi-core processor with multiple processor cores, or a structure with multiple multi-core processors.

[0110] As the processor 10a, for example, integrated circuits such as CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), ASIC (Application Specific IC), and FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) can be used. Furthermore, as the processor 10a, combinations of two or more of these integrated circuits can also be used.

[0111] Memory 10b is an example of HW that stores various data, programs, and other information. For example, memory 10b can be one or both of volatile memory such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and non-volatile memory such as PM (Persistent Memory).

[0112] Storage unit 10c is an example of a hardware device (HW) that stores various types of data, programs, and other information. Examples of storage units 10c include hard disk drives (HDDs), semiconductor drive devices (SSDs), and non-volatile memory. Examples of non-volatile memory include flash memory, storage class memory (SCM), and read-only memory (ROM).

[0113] Furthermore, the storage unit 10c can store all or part of the program 10g (e.g., a spinal alignment estimation program) that implements various functions of the computer 10. For example, the processor 10a of the spinal alignment estimation device 1 expands and executes the program 10g (e.g., a spinal alignment estimation program) stored in the storage unit 10c in the memory 10b, thereby enabling it to function as... Figure 3 The function of the illustrated spinal alignment estimation device 1.

[0114] The IF section 10d is an example of a communication IF that controls connections and communications with a network. For example, the IF section 10d may include an adapter based on a LAN such as Ethernet (registered trademark) or optical communication such as FC (Fibre Channel). This adapter may correspond to one or both wireless and wired communication methods. For example, the spinal alignment estimation device 1 can be connected to the operation terminal 2 and the measurement terminal 3 via the IF section 10d in a manner enabling mutual communication. Furthermore, for example, the program 10g (spinal alignment estimation program) can also be downloaded from the network to the computer 10 via this communication IF and stored in the storage section 10c.

[0115] The I / O unit 10e may include one or both of an input device and an output device. Examples of input devices include a keyboard, mouse, and touch panel. Examples of output devices include a monitor, projector, printer, and audio equipment.

[0116] The reading unit 10f is an example of a reader that reads data and program information recorded on the recording medium 10h. The reading unit 10f may include a connection terminal or device capable of connecting to or inserting into the recording medium 10h. Examples of reading units 10f include, for instance, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) based adapter, a drive device for accessing a recording disk, and a card reader for accessing flash memory such as an SD card. Furthermore, the program 10g (e.g., a spinal alignment estimation program) may be stored in the recording medium 10h, or the reading unit 10f may read the program 10g (e.g., a spinal alignment estimation program) from the recording medium 10h and store it in the storage unit 10c.

[0117] Examples of non-transitory, computer-readable recording media include magneto / optical disks and flash memory. Examples of magneto / optical disks include floppy disks, CDs (Compact Discs), DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs), Blu-ray discs, and HVDs (Holographic Versatile Discs). Examples of flash memory include semiconductor storage devices such as USB drives and SD cards.

[0118] The HW structure of the computer 10 described above is an example. Therefore, the HW within the computer 10 can be appropriately increased or decreased (e.g., adding or deleting arbitrary blocks), divided, combined in any way, or added or deleted buses. For example, in the spine alignment estimation device 1, at least one of the I / O unit 10e and the reading unit 10f can be omitted.

[0119] In addition, the operation terminal 2, which is an example of an information processing terminal, can be implemented using the same HW structure as the computer 10 described above.

[0120] For example, the processor 10a of the operating terminal 2 expands and executes the program 10g (e.g., a spinal alignment estimation program) stored in the storage unit 10c in the memory 10b, thereby enabling it to function as Figure 3 The functions of the operating terminal 2 shown.

[0121] in addition, Figure 3 The operating terminal 2 shown may include an input device, which is an example of the I / O unit 10e. In addition, the processor 10a of the operating terminal 2 can send information input by the user via the input device (e.g., user attributes) to the spinal alignment estimation device 1 via IF 10d.

[0122] (2) Other

[0123] The technology based on the above embodiments can be modified and changed as follows.

[0124] In one embodiment described above, the visual distance d is measured by the measuring terminal 3. However, if the operating terminal 2 has a built-in camera, the camera can also be used for measurement. Additionally, the visual distance d and the tilt angle θ... S The values ​​are measured by different devices, but for example, the values ​​can also be measured using only a 3-axis accelerometer.

[0125] Alternatively, the spinal alignment estimation device 1 can also be assembled within the operating terminal 2. In this case, the display unit 21 can also display the notification from the notification unit 13.

[0126] The spinal alignment estimation device 1 can be integrated with the measurement terminal 3. Abnormal posture can be displayed to the user on any of the spinal alignment estimation device 1, the operating terminal 2, and the measurement terminal 3. Furthermore, warnings can be issued using any method that can be detected by a person, in addition to visual and auditory methods.

[0127] The coefficients A1 to A5 are simply related to the head tilt angle θ calculated by the 3D motion analysis device. S The coefficients related to the viewing distance d are not limited to the values ​​obtained through the experiments described in one of the above embodiments. For example, coefficients A1 to A5 can be calculated by capturing the postures of multiple users on the operation screen 2a, sending the images to a designated mechanism, and performing 3D motion analysis.

[0128] View distance d, tilt angle θ S The values ​​of coefficients A1 to A5 and angles Y1 to Y5 can also be corrected according to various conditions such as measurement conditions.

[0129] Alternatively, it can be configured according to each user attribute, combining viewing distance d and tilt angle θ. S Substituting multiple patterns of coefficients A1 to A5 into Equation 1, the calculated angles Y1 to Y5 are pre-stored as data files in storage unit 10c. In this case, estimation unit 12 can estimate based on the obtained line-of-sight distance d and tilt angle θ. S Referring to the data file stored in storage unit 10c, extract the values ​​of angles Y1 to Y5 calculated using coefficients A1 to A5 corresponding to the user's attributes.

[0130] The coefficients A1 to A5 can also be set based on the visual object or the relationship between the visual object and the user. For example, if the visual object is a book or portable device, the relationship between the hand holding the visual object and the user's head can be determined by the position of the hand, thus allowing the setting of coefficients A1 to A5 corresponding to that situation. Furthermore, if the visual object is a fixed visual display terminal such as a computer monitor, the positional relationship between the user and the visual object does not change significantly when the user is seated facing the visual object, and the distance between the user and the visual object remains relatively constant. Conversely, there are situations where the distance between the user and the visual object changes depending on the user's seating position. In such cases, coefficients A1 to A5 can also be set based on the situation (positional relationship) between the user and the visual object.

[0131] Symbol Explanation

[0132] 100: Spinal Alignment Estimation System

[0133] 1: Spinal alignment estimation device

[0134] 10: Computer

[0135] 10a: Processor

[0136] 10b: Memory

[0137] 10c: Storage Division

[0138] 10d: IF Department

[0139] 10e: I / O section

[0140] 10f: Reading section

[0141] 10g: Program

[0142] 10h: Storage medium

[0143] 11: Acquisition Department

[0144] 12: Estimation Department

[0145] 13: Notification Department

[0146] 2: Operating terminal

[0147] 2a: Operation screen (visual objects)

[0148] 21: Display Section

[0149] 3: Measurement Terminal

[0150] 30a: Casing

[0151] 30b: Hook

[0152] 30c: Position detector, camera

[0153] 30d: Angle measuring device, accelerometer

[0154] 31: First Measurement Department

[0155] 32: Second Measurement Department

[0156] 4: Glasses

[0157] 40a: Temples

[0158] SC: Spine

[0159] d: sight distance, distance

[0160] θ S Tilt angle, head tilt angle, angle

[0161] C2: Second cervical vertebra

[0162] C7: 7th cervical vertebra

[0163] T3: 3rd thoracic vertebra

[0164] T8: 8th thoracic vertebra

[0165] T12: 12th thoracic vertebra

[0166] L3: the third lumbar vertebra

[0167] S: Sacrum

Claims

1. A spinal alignment estimation device for use in a spinal alignment estimation system, the spinal alignment estimation system having an operating terminal, a measuring terminal, and the spinal alignment estimation device, the spinal alignment estimation device comprising: The acquisition unit acquires the position and angle of a person's head, measured by the measuring terminal using the relationship between the measurement terminal and a visual object displayed on the display of the operating terminal; and The estimation unit estimates the spinal alignment of the person by calculating an estimated simulated angle based on the position and angle obtained by the acquisition unit. The estimated simulated angle is the angle formed by the specified parts constituting the spinal alignment of the person.

2. The spinal alignment estimation device according to claim 1, wherein, The specified locations include the cervical vertebrae, thoracic vertebrae, lumbar vertebrae, sacrum, and coccyx.

3. The spinal alignment estimation device according to claim 2, wherein, The estimation unit calculates the estimated simulated angle by using the position of the person's head, the angle of the person's head, and coefficients corresponding to the attributes of the person.

4. The spinal alignment estimation device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The spinal alignment estimation device also includes a notification unit that notifies the person of an abnormal posture when the estimated simulated angle is outside the specified range.

5. A spinal alignment estimation system, comprising an operation terminal, a measurement terminal, and a spinal alignment estimation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The operating terminal has a display unit that displays the operating screen as a visual object. The measurement terminal has the following features: A first measuring unit that measures the position of a person's head in relation to the operation screen; and The second measuring unit for measuring the angle of a person's head.

6. A method for estimating spinal alignment, wherein, Display visual objects on the display unit. The position of the person's head in the relationship between the measured object and the visual object. Measuring the angle of a person's head, The position and angle are obtained from the measuring terminal. Based on the obtained position and angle, the spinal alignment of the person is estimated by calculating an estimated simulated angle, which is the angle formed by the specified parts constituting the spinal alignment of the person.

7. The spinal alignment estimation method according to claim 6, wherein, The specified locations include the cervical vertebrae, thoracic vertebrae, lumbar vertebrae, sacrum, and coccyx.

8. The spinal alignment estimation method according to claim 7, wherein, The simulated angle is calculated using the position of the person's head, the angle of the person's head, and coefficients corresponding to the person's attributes.

9. The spinal alignment estimation method according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, If the calculated simulated angle is outside the specified range, the person is notified of the abnormal posture.

10. A program product comprising a spinal alignment estimation program that causes a computer to perform the following processing: The position and angle of a person's head are calculated using the relationship between the head and visual objects. Based on the obtained position and angle, the spinal alignment of the person is estimated by calculating an estimated simulated angle, which is the angle formed by the specified parts constituting the spinal alignment of the person.

11. The program product according to claim 10, wherein, The specified locations include the cervical vertebrae, thoracic vertebrae, lumbar vertebrae, sacrum, and coccyx.

12. The program product according to claim 11, wherein, The spinal alignment estimation program causes the computer to perform the following processing: The simulated angle is calculated using the position of the person's head, the angle of the person's head, and coefficients corresponding to the person's attributes.

13. The program product according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The spinal alignment estimation program causes the computer to perform the following processing: If the calculated simulated angle is outside the specified range, the person is notified of the abnormal posture.

14. A computer-readable recording medium that records a spinal alignment estimation procedure, wherein, The spinal alignment estimation program causes the computer to perform the following processing: The position and angle of a person's head are calculated using the relationship between the head and visual objects. Based on the obtained position and angle, the spinal alignment of the person is estimated by calculating an estimated simulated angle, which is the angle formed by the specified parts constituting the spinal alignment of the person.

15. The computer-readable recording medium recording a spinal alignment estimation procedure as described in claim 14, wherein, The spinal alignment estimation program causes the computer to perform the following processing: The specified locations include the cervical vertebrae, thoracic vertebrae, lumbar vertebrae, sacrum, and coccyx.

16. The computer-readable recording medium recording a spinal alignment estimation procedure as described in claim 15, wherein, The spinal alignment estimation program causes the computer to perform the following processing: The simulated angle is calculated using the position of the person's head, the angle of the person's head, and coefficients corresponding to the person's attributes.

17. The computer-readable recording medium recording a spinal alignment estimation procedure as described in claim 15 or 16, wherein, The spinal alignment estimation program causes the computer to perform the following processing: If the calculated simulated angle is outside the specified range, the person is notified of the abnormal posture.

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