Analysis device and analysis method

Abstract

The dining time of the subject is estimated. The analysis apparatus includes: an acquisition unit that acquires a pulse wave of a subject continuously measured by a wearable device during a first period after a dining period in which the subject takes food; a change detection unit that detects a pulse wave of the subject before having a meal; and an index estimation unit that estimates a change in a metabolic index relating to the hardness of the blood vessel of the subject.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an analysis device and the like for analyzing a pulse wave of a subject. Background Art

[0002] One of the purposes of meal therapy, which is one of the treatment methods for diabetes, is to suppress a steep change in blood sugar level after a meal. In order to continue meal therapy, it is important to make the subject understand the relationship between the content of the meal and the body's reaction when taking it.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique of acquiring a subject's pulse wave and estimating a blood sugar level based on a metabolic index calculated from the waveform of the acquired pulse wave.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: JP Patent No. 6807481 Summary of the invention

[0007] An analysis device involved in one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: an acquisition unit, which acquires a pulse wave of a subject measured continuously by a wearable device during a first period after a meal period in which the subject ingests food; a detection unit, which detects the pulse wave of the subject before the meal in the pulse wave acquired by the acquisition unit; and an index estimating unit, which estimates changes in a metabolic index related to the hardness of the subject's blood vessels based on changes in the pulse wave detected by the detection unit.

[0008] An analysis method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: an acquisition step of acquiring a pulse wave of a subject measured continuously by a wearable device during a first period after a meal period in which the subject ingests food; a detection step of detecting the pulse wave of the subject before the meal in the acquired pulse wave; and an index estimation step of estimating a change in a metabolic index related to the hardness of the subject's blood vessels based on a change in the detected pulse wave. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an example of the overall outline of the analysis system according to the present embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing a state in which a subject wears the measurement device on his body.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of an analysis system.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing an example of changes in the pulse wave detected by the analysis device.

[0013] Figure 5 It is a diagram showing a suggestion example presented by the analysis device.

[0014] Figure 6 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing another example of a suggestion presented by the analysis device.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing in the analysis device.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of an analysis system according to another embodiment.

[0017] Fig. 9 This is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of an analysis system according to still another embodiment.

[0018] Fig.10 This is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of an analysis system according to still another embodiment.

[0019] Fig.11 This is a diagram showing an example of the overall outline of an analysis system including a server.

[0020] Fig.12 This is a functional block diagram showing another configuration example of the analysis system.

[0021] Fig.13 This is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of an analysis system.

[0022] Fig.14 It is a diagram showing a suggestion example presented by the analysis device.

[0023] Fig.15 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing another example of a suggestion presented by the analysis device.

[0024] Fig.16 This is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing in the analysis device.

[0025] Fig.17 This is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of an analysis system according to another embodiment.

[0026] Fig.18 This is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of an analysis system according to still another embodiment.

[0027] Fig.19 This is a diagram showing an example of the overall outline of an analysis system including a server.

[0028] Fig. 20 This is a functional block diagram showing another configuration example of the analysis system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] It is not easy to make the subject realize the problem of his / her meal content and implement a suitable eating habit. In order to make the subject implement a suitable eating habit, it is effective to perform a correlation process according to the elapsed time from the meal period when the subject ingests food.

[0030] An analysis device according to one aspect of the present disclosure provides an analysis system or the like that can estimate a meal time at an arbitrary timing during a meal period of a subject.

[0031] According to an analysis device involved in one method of the present disclosure, it is possible to estimate the meal time of the subject without receiving active input from the subject. In addition, the analysis device can prompt the subject with the estimated meal time, prompting the subject to be aware of his or her own meal time, and can perform relevant processing on the subject in accordance with the elapsed time from the meal time. Furthermore, the analysis device can make the subject aware of the problem points of his or her own meal content (such as deviations in meal time, etc.), which helps to implement appropriate dining habits.

[0032] Furthermore, in order to make the subject develop appropriate eating habits, it is effective to make the subject recognize the relationship between the meal contents and the body's own reactions after taking food.

[0033] According to the analysis device involved in one method of the present disclosure, a message corresponding to the size of the change in the metabolic index of the subject after the meal is prompted to the subject. Since the metabolic index is an index related to the hardness of the blood vessels, the size of the change in the metabolic index of the subject after the meal can be said to be the size of the impact of the subject's meal on the subject. Therefore, the analysis device can establish a correlation between the meal content and the body's own reaction after ingesting food by prompting the subject with a message corresponding to the size of the change in the metabolic index. As a result, the analysis device can make the subject aware of the problem points of his or her own meal content, thereby helping to implement appropriate dining habits.

[0034] [Implementation method 1]

[0035] 〔summary〕

[0036] Insulin is a peptide hormone that plays an important role in sugar metabolism. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder caused by insufficient insulin action. In subjects with diabetes or those who are candidates for diabetes (i.e., those with insufficient insulin secretion), a significant increase in blood sugar levels can be seen after a meal. Here, the so-called meal refers to the overall intake of nutrients that affect the endocrine system involved in metabolism, and is the overall diet that also includes the intake of beverages including alcohol. In addition, meals are not limited to meal times such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

[0037] The inventors of the present application focused on the fact that the waveform of the pulse wave changes as a result of changes in the blood sugar level before and after a meal and the reaction of the secretory system such as insulin secretion. Furthermore, the inventors of the present application found that the blood sugar level of the subject and blood sugar-related indices (metabolic indices) affected by insulin secretion can be estimated based on the subject's pulse wave. Furthermore, the inventors of the present application invented an analysis device 10 and an analysis method that can implement their invention.

[0038] The analyzing device 10 obtains the pulse wave of the subject that is continuously measured during the first period after the meal period in which the subject ingests food, and detects the pulse wave of the subject before the meal in the obtained pulse wave. And, the analyzing device 10 estimates a metabolic index related to the hardness of the blood vessels of the subject based on the change of the detected pulse wave. In addition, the analyzing device 10 estimates the meal time of the subject based on the change of the estimated metabolic index. The so-called meal time refers to the period between the meal start time when the subject's meal starts and the meal end time when the meal ends, that is, the period when the subject eats, that is, any timing during the meal period. Here, the pulse wave of the subject in the first period is obtained using a wearable device (measuring device 20).

[0039] Thus, the analysis device 10 can estimate the metabolic index related to the hardness of the blood vessels generated by the meal for the subject who has ingested the food, and estimate the meal time based on the metabolic index. In addition, the analysis device 10 can perform relevant processing corresponding to the estimated meal time. The so-called relevant processing corresponding to the meal time can be, for example, prompting the subject of the meal time, or notifying the subject of the elapsed time from the meal time. Thus, the analysis device 10 can make the subject recognize the information related to his or her own meal time and the elapsed time from the meal time, and can urge the subject to make efforts to continue or improve his or her own meal content and dining habits.

[0040] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0041] 〔Analysis system 1〕

[0042] First, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 , an overview of an analysis system 1 including an analysis device 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall overview of the analysis system 1. Figure 2 This is a diagram showing a state in which the subject wears the measurement device 20.

[0043] Figure 3 1 is a functional block diagram showing a structural example of the analysis system 1. Figure 1As shown, the analysis system 1 includes an analysis device 10 and a measuring device 20. The analysis system 1 is a system that uses the analysis device 10 to analyze the pulse wave of the subject measured by the measuring device 20 and presents the result to the subject. The measuring device 20 and the analysis device 10 are described in detail below.

[0044] [Measurement device 20]

[0045] like Figure 3 As shown, the measurement device 20 includes a sensor unit 21 and a communication unit 22 .

[0046] The sensor unit 21 continuously detects the displacement of the body surface of the subject and obtains the pulse wave. The so-called pulse wave is a wave that captures the time change of the volume of the blood vessel caused by the inflow of blood from the body surface as a waveform. In this specification, the situation where the sensor unit 21 obtains the pulse wave is called measuring the pulse wave. Here, the so-called "continuous detection" refers to, for example, detecting the displacement of the body surface of the subject at a given fixed interval. The given fixed period can be set to, for example, 1 minute, 10 minutes, 30 minutes or 1 hour. The given fixed interval can be changed according to a given condition, for example.

[0047] Furthermore, the sensor unit 21 may detect the body surface of the subject at a higher measurement frequency in the first period than in other periods according to the instruction of the analyzer 10. The measurement frequency means, for example, the number of measurements in a given period.

[0048] The communication unit 22 performs wireless communication with the analysis device 10 , and transmits the pulse wave of the subject acquired by the sensor unit 21 to the analysis device 10 as pulse wave data.

[0049] The communication unit 22 can transmit the pulse wave data to the analyzing device 10 at a predetermined timing when the communication between the measuring device 20 and the analyzing device 10 is established. The predetermined timing can be a timing designated by the analyzing device 10.

[0050] For example, when the communication between the measuring device 20 and the analyzing device 10 is not established, the measuring device 20 stores the pulse wave obtained by the sensor unit 21 as pulse wave data in the storage unit (not shown). When the communication between the measuring device 20 and the analyzing device 10 is established, the measuring device 20 sends the pulse wave data stored so far to the analyzing device 10, and while the communication is established, the measuring device 20 sends the pulse wave data to the analyzing device 10 at a given timing.

[0051] In addition, instead of transmitting the pulse wave data itself, the communication unit 22 may process the pulse wave data so that it is easy to analyze in the analysis device 10, and transmit the processed pulse wave data to the analysis device 10. In the case where the capacity of the processed pulse wave data is smaller than the capacity of the pulse wave data, the capacity of the data transmitted to the analysis device 10 can be reduced.

[0052] The measuring device 20 is a wearable device that the subject can always wear on the body. Figure 1 As shown, the measurement device 20 may be in the shape of a ring that can be worn on the finger of the subject, for example. Figure 2 2 is a diagram showing an example of use of the measuring device 20. Figure 2 The subject is shown with the measuring device 20 in his right hand. Figure 2 As shown in the figure, by setting the measuring device 20 in the shape of a finger ring, the subject can always wear the measuring device 20 on the body without feeling uncomfortable, and there is no need to remove it every time for measurement. By using the measuring device 20, the analysis system 1 can reduce the possibility of forgetting to measure, etc. Here, as long as the measuring device 20 can continuously measure the pulse wave of the subject, it can be installed anywhere on the body of the subject, and is not limited to a wearable device equipped on the finger. For example, the measuring device 20 can also be a wristband type that can be equipped on the wrist, or a collar shape that can be equipped on the neck.

[0053] The measuring device 20 may include an acceleration sensor (not shown) and a temperature sensor (not shown). When the measuring device 20 includes an acceleration sensor, the measuring device 20 can detect the movement of the subject. In addition, when the measuring device 20 includes a temperature sensor, the measuring device 20 can measure the body temperature of the subject. For example, the analysis system 1 can determine the action of the subject (e.g., walking, sleeping, eating, etc.) based on the movement of the subject's finger detected by the measuring device 20. In addition, the analysis system 1 can determine the health status of the subject based on the body temperature of the subject measured by the measuring device 20.

[0054] [Analysis device 10]

[0055] Next, refer to Figure 3 The analysis device 10 is described below. Figure 3 As shown, the analysis device 10 includes an acquisition unit 11, a control unit 12, a presentation unit 13, and a storage unit 14. In addition, the control unit 12 includes a change detection unit (detection unit) 121, an index estimation unit 122, and a time estimation unit 123.

[0056] The acquisition unit 11 acquires the pulse wave data of the subject continuously measured by the measurement device 20 from the measurement device 20. The acquisition unit 11 can acquire the pulse wave data of the subject continuously measured during the period (first period) after the meal period when the subject ingests food. In this specification, "a given period after the subject actually eats" is referred to as "the first period". The first period can be, for example, a period from 30 minutes after the meal to one and a half hours after the meal, or a period from just after the meal to four hours. The analysis device 10 can continuously acquire the pulse wave data during the period in which the communication with the measurement device 20 is established. In this case, the pulse wave data acquired by the analysis device 10 includes the pulse wave data in the first period. As described later, after the subject eats a meal, a change in the pulse wave is induced. The analysis device 10 detects the change in the pulse wave caused by the meal by analyzing the pulse wave of the subject that is continuously measured. In addition, the analysis device 10 can infer that the timing of the change is in the "first period" by performing an analysis based on the change. Therefore, the analyzing device 10 can estimate the timing of the subject's meal, that is, the meal time, by acquiring and analyzing the pulse wave data in the period including the first period. As mentioned above, the first period is a convenient name for indicating the period in which the change of the pulse wave can be detected, and the analyzing device 10 does not need to grasp the first period.

[0057] The acquisition unit 11 may acquire the pulse wave data at a given frequency, and in this case, the acquisition frequency in the first period may be made higher than the acquisition frequency outside the first period. This allows rapid analysis of changes in the pulse wave after a meal.

[0058] The pulse wave of the subject acquired by the acquisition unit 11 may include the pulse wave measured during the subject's meal. By including the pulse wave measured during the subject's meal, the pulse wave measured during the meal can also be analyzed by the analyzer 10 .

[0059] Furthermore, the pulse wave of the subject acquired by the acquisition unit 11 may include the period before the subject's meal period (second period). The pulse wave of the subject before the meal period can be used when the change detection unit 121 (described later) detects changes in the pulse wave of the subject.

[0060] The control unit 12 performs control in the analysis device 10 , and as described above, includes a change detection unit 121 , an index estimation unit 122 , and a time estimation unit 123 .

[0061] The change detection unit 121 detects the pulse wave of the subject before the meal among the pulse waves acquired by the acquisition unit 11 , and detects the change from the pulse wave of the subject before the meal.

[0062] The change detection unit 121 can detect a change by comparing the pulse wave of each beat in the first period acquired by the acquisition unit 11 with the pulse wave of each beat before the subject's meal. In addition, the change detection unit 121 can detect a change by comparing the pulse wave of a given period (e.g., 10 minutes) in the first period with the pulse wave of the subject before the meal in the same period as the given period.

[0063] Here, when calculating the metabolic index (e.g., AI) described later, as the "amount per pulse wave", a representative pulse wave shape generated by averaging the pulse waveforms of one beat in a given period may be used to calculate the metabolic index. Alternatively, as the "amount per pulse wave", each metabolic index may be calculated from the pulse waveforms of each beat in a given period, and the average may be used as the metabolic index in the given period. More specifically, as the "amount per pulse wave", for example, when 70 pulse waves are obtained in 1 minute, each metabolic index may be calculated from the 70 pulse waves, and the average may be used as the metabolic index in the 1 minute.

[0064] When detecting changes in the pulse wave for each beat, the change detection unit 121 can detect changes from, for example, differences in peak values, differences in falling edge directions, and the like. Figure 4 Next, the change detection process performed by the change detection unit 121 will be described. Figure 4 1 is a diagram showing an example of changes in the pulse wave detected by the analyzing device 10 . Figure 4 Graph 401 is an example of a pulse wave before a meal, and graph 402 is an example of a pulse wave in the first period. It can be seen that, when comparing the peak value X1 of graph 401 and the peak value X2 of graph 402, the peak value X2 of graph 402 is greater than the peak value X1 of graph 401. In addition, it can be seen that, regarding the falling edge portion, the falling edge directions at point Y1 of graph 401 and point Y2 of graph 402 are also different. In this way, the change detection unit 121 detects the change of the pulse wave based on the difference between the peak values ​​X1 and X2 and the difference between the points Y1 and Y2.

[0065] Furthermore, the change in the pulse wave may be detected from the ratio Y1 / X1 of the second peak value Y1 to the first peak value X1 in the graph 401 and the ratio Y2 / X2 of the second peak value Y2 to the first peak value X2 in the graph 402. That is, the change detection unit 121 may detect the change in the pulse wave based on whether the ratio Y2 / X2 to the ratio Y1 / X1 changes by a predetermined value or more.

[0066] Back to Figure 3 When detecting a change from the pulse wave during a given period, the change detecting unit 121 may detect the change by comparing the pulse wave during the given period in the first period with the pulse wave during the given period of the subject before the meal.

[0067] The index estimation unit 122 estimates a metabolic index related to the hardness of the blood vessels of the subject based on the changes detected by the change detection unit 121. Examples of metabolic indexes include an index AI (Augmentation Index) represented by the ratio of the size of the waveform of the forward wave of the pulse wave to the size of the waveform of the reflected wave region that appears later than the forward wave, or an arrival time difference PTT (Pulse Transit Time) between the forward wave and the reflected wave of the pulse wave, but are not limited thereto.

[0068] The index estimating unit 122 estimates the metabolic index based on an estimation formula created by, for example, regression analysis. The estimation formula is stored in advance in the analyzing device 10 .

[0069] Here, the estimation theory related to the estimation of metabolic indicators based on pulse waves is explained. Due to the increase in blood sugar levels in the postprandial blood, the fluidity of the blood decreases (viscosity increases), the blood vessels dilate, and the amount of circulating blood increases. The vascular dynamics and blood dynamics are stabilized so that these states are balanced. The decrease in blood fluidity is caused, for example, by an increase in the viscosity of the plasma or a decrease in the deformability of red blood cells. In addition, the dilation of blood vessels is caused by the secretion of insulin, the secretion of digestive hormones, and the increase in body temperature. If the blood vessels dilate, the blood pressure is always lowered, and therefore the pulse rate increases. In addition, the increase in the amount of circulating blood compensates for the blood consumption for digestion and absorption. In addition, this also affects the hardness of the blood vessels.

[0070] Furthermore, changes in blood vessel dynamics and blood dynamics before and after a meal caused by these factors are also reflected in the pulse wave. Therefore, the index estimation unit 122 can estimate the metabolic index related to blood vessel hardness based on changes in the waveform of the pulse wave acquired by the acquisition unit 11.

[0071] An estimation formula for estimating metabolic indices based on the above estimation theory can be prepared by performing regression analysis based on the sampling data of metabolic indices and pulse waves obtained before and after meals from a plurality of subjects. When estimating, the metabolic indices of the subject can be estimated by applying the prepared estimation formula to the indices based on the pulse waves of the subject. In the preparation of the estimation formula, in particular, by performing regression analysis using sampling data whose deviation of the metabolic indices is close to a normal distribution, the metabolic indices of the subject to be examined can be estimated regardless of whether it is before or after a meal.

[0072] Metabolic indexes such as the value of index AI (AI value) tend to decrease after a meal and reach a bottom value peak after a while after a meal. That is, it is considered that the subject is eating at a certain time before the time when the metabolic index reaches the bottom value peak. Therefore, the time estimation unit 123 can estimate the time several tens of minutes before the time when the metabolic index reaches the bottom value peak as the subject's meal time by determining the time when the metabolic index reaches the bottom value peak.

[0073] The time estimation unit 123 obtains the metabolic index estimated by the index estimation unit 122, and estimates the meal time based on the change of the metabolic index. The time estimation unit 123 can determine the time point when the metabolic index changes greatly, and estimate the meal time based on the determined time point. For example, the time estimation unit 123 can determine the timing of the bottom value peak after the metabolic index rises from a value (reference value) that is pre-set as the reference for the change of the metabolic index, and estimate tens of minutes before the timing (for example, 90 minutes before) as the meal time. The time estimation unit 123 can prompt the prompting unit 13 with the estimated meal time. The time estimation unit 123 can also provide other information to the subject corresponding to the elapsed time from the estimated meal time to the time when the estimation is performed. In addition, the time estimation unit 123 can store the log data 142 containing the estimated meal time in the storage unit 14. In the log data 142, other data such as records of corresponding metabolic indexes, records of pulse waves, and information indicating the time at which the estimation was made may be associated with the estimated meal time.

[0074] In addition, the time estimation unit 123 can also estimate the meal time of the subject based on the relationship between the subject's past meal time and the information of the subject's state at the subject's past meal time in addition to the change of the metabolic index. In this case, in the log data 142, multiple correct answer data related to the subject's past meal time and the subject's pulse wave measured after each past meal time are stored in correspondence. The so-called correct answer data is information indicating the time when the subject actually eats. The correct answer data can be input by the subject himself or by the person who manages the subject's meals. The correct answer data can be recorded in correspondence with the subject's pulse wave at the meal time. The time estimation unit 123 can adjust the estimation parameters used to estimate the meal time based on the corresponding relationship between the recorded multiple correct answer data and the pulse wave corresponding to each correct answer data. The time estimation unit 123 can improve the estimation accuracy of the subject's meal time by using the adjusted estimation parameters in the estimation of the meal time based on the detected change of the metabolic index.

[0075] In addition, other information may be further associated with the correct answer data stored in the log data 142. For example, information indicating vibrations accompanying the subject's movements detected at the estimated meal time and information indicating the subject's body temperature may be associated with the subject's meal time as the correct answer data. In this case, the time estimation unit 123 may further use this information to adjust the estimation parameters. Thus, the estimation accuracy of the meal time performed by the time estimation unit 123 can be further improved.

[0076] The timing of inputting the correct answer data is not particularly limited. As an example, the correct answer data can be input by the subject operating the measuring device 20 at the timing when the subject is about to have a meal. In this case, the measurement value of the pulse wave can be recorded at a higher frequency in a given period after the correct answer data is input. In addition, the correct answer data can also be input by the subject at any timing after having a meal. In this case, the control unit 12 records the input correct answer data and the information of the subject's pulse wave at the time when the correct answer data is input, which has been recorded in the log data 142, in a corresponding manner.

[0077] In addition, the reference value of the change in the metabolic index can be the value during the period when the metabolic index is stable and low. For example, the time estimation unit 123 can use the metabolic index estimated based on the pulse wave when the subject wakes up or when fasting as a reference (first reference), and determine the meal time based on the change in the metabolic index relative to the reference. Here, the so-called "when the subject wakes up" can refer to, for example, when the subject wakes up from sleep, or can be defined by the sleep stage of sleep (such as REM sleep close to wakefulness, etc.). In addition, the so-called "when fasting" of the subject can refer to, for example, a situation where no meal is taken during a given period (for example, after a fasting period of more than 10 hours), or a situation where the amount of food eaten is obtained below a given reference.

[0078] The method for determining the time when the subject wakes up or when the subject is fasting is not particularly limited. As an example, the measuring device 20 may have an input unit (not shown) that can input the time when the subject wakes up or the time when the subject is fasting. In addition, as another example, the measuring device 20 can estimate the time when the subject falls asleep and wakes up based on the acceleration representing the change of the subject's pulse, posture, etc. and the body surface temperature. In addition, the fasting time can be automatically set to a given time after the meal is taken, and the fasting time can also be estimated based on the change of the pulse wave.

[0079] Alternatively, the time estimation unit 123 may use a metabolic index estimated based on a pulse wave measured in the past for the subject as a reference (first reference). This reference may be, for example, an average of values ​​of metabolic indexes estimated in the past during a period with relatively little change, or the lowest value of metabolic indexes estimated in the past.

[0080] Furthermore, the time estimation unit 123 may determine the meal time of the subject's last meal based on the change in the most recent metabolic index relative to the benchmark after determining the benchmark with reference to the log data 142 of the storage unit 14. By using the metabolic index based on the pulse wave measured in the past as the benchmark, it is possible to determine how the metabolic index changes over time relative to the past metabolic index, and manage the progression of chronic diseases such as diabetes.

[0081] The presenting unit 13 presents the subject with the meal time estimated by the time estimating unit 123. Examples of the presenting unit 13 include a display, a monitor, and the like. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of a suggestion presented by the analysis device 10. Figure 5 In the illustrated example of presentation, the area 131 of the presentation unit 13 presents meal times, the area 132 presents metabolic indicators, and the area 133 presents pulse wave data.

[0082] Figure 6 1 is a diagram showing another example of a suggestion provided by the analysis device 10. The analysis device 10 may also perform Figure 6 Tips as shown. Figure 6 601 is another example of a time slot for meals. Figure 6 In 601, the meal time is indicated in area 611, and information related to the AI ​​value as a metabolic index is indicated in area 612. Figure 6 602 is an example of a change in a metabolic index. Figure 6 Area 621 of 602 indicates an AI value as a metabolic index, and area 622 indicates a change state of the AI ​​value.

[0083] In addition, the analysis device 10 may further prompt other information. When the difference in meal times in a given period (e.g., one week) exceeds a preset reference value, an evaluation result indicating that the meal times are irregular may be prompted. Furthermore, in another example, when the interval between the subject's meal time at a certain time and the next meal time is too wide or too narrow, the analysis device 10 may prompt a message urging the subject to eat at an appropriate time interval.

[0084] The storage unit 14 stores data used in the analysis device 10 , including pulse wave data 141 and log data 142 .

[0085] The pulse wave data 141 is the data of the subject's pulse wave before the meal, which is used by the change detection unit 121 to detect the change of the pulse wave. This may be a pulse wave measured in advance or a pulse wave measured just before the meal. The log data 142 is data that associates the meal time estimated by the time estimation unit 123 with the pulse wave used in the estimation, and metabolic indicators, etc.

[0086] As described above, the analysis device 10 involved in the present disclosure includes: an acquisition unit 11, which acquires the pulse wave of the subject continuously measured by the wearable device (measuring device 20) during the first period after the meal period when the subject ingests food. In addition, the analysis device 10 includes: a change detection unit 121 (detection unit) that detects the pulse wave of the subject before the meal among the pulse waves acquired by the acquisition unit 11. In addition, the analysis device 10 includes: an index estimation unit 122, which estimates the change of the metabolic index related to the hardness of the blood vessels of the subject based on the change of the pulse wave detected by the change detection unit 121. In addition, the analysis device 10 includes: a time estimation unit 123, which estimates the meal time as an arbitrary fixed time during the meal period based on the change of the metabolic index.

[0087] Thus, the analysis device 10 can estimate the meal time of the subject without receiving active input from the subject. In addition, the analysis device 10 can prompt the subject with the estimated meal time, prompting the subject to be aware of his / her own meal time, and can perform relevant processing on the subject related to the elapsed time from the meal time. Furthermore, the analysis device 10 can make the subject recognize the problem points of his / her meal content (such as deviation of meal time, etc.), thereby helping to implement appropriate dining habits.

[0088] [Processing Flow]

[0089] Next, refer to Figure 7 The flow of processing in the analysis device 10 will be described. Figure 7 1 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing in the analysis device 10. Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , the acquisition unit 11 acquires the pulse wave continuously measured by the measurement device 20 during the first period (S101, acquisition step). Next, the change detection unit 121 detects the pulse wave before the meal among the pulse waves acquired by the acquisition unit 11 (S102, detection step). Then, the index estimation unit 122 estimates the metabolic index based on the change of the pulse wave detected by the change detection unit 121 (S103, index estimation step). Thereafter, the time estimation unit 123 estimates the meal time of the subject based on the change of the metabolic index estimated by the index estimation unit 122 (S104, time estimation step). Then, the prompting unit 13 prompts the meal time of the subject estimated by the time estimation unit 123 (S105, prompting step).

[0090] The above is the flow of processing in the analysis device 10 .

[0091] [Implementation method 2]

[0092] Other embodiments of the present disclosure are described below. For the sake of convenience, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are not repeated. In addition, the contents in this embodiment that are repeated in the above embodiments are omitted.

[0093] exist Figure 8 1A shows the main structure of the analysis system 1A according to the present embodiment. Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the analysis system 1A includes a measuring device 20A and an analysis device 10A. Figure 8 As shown, the measuring device 20A is different from the measuring device 20A in the first embodiment described above in that it includes an acceleration sensor 23 .

[0094] like Figure 8 As shown in the figure, the analysis device 10A includes a control unit 12A including a time estimation unit 123A. The analysis device 10A is different from the analysis device 10A in the above-mentioned embodiment 1 in that the control unit 12 is replaced with the control unit 12 and includes a time estimation unit 123A and an acceleration detection unit 124. In the analysis system 1A involved in this embodiment, the time estimation unit 123A of the analysis device 10A estimates the meal time of the subject based on a combination of a metabolic index and other indexes. As an example, the time estimation unit 123A estimates the meal time based on the metabolic index and the acceleration of the subject's body movement.

[0095] The acceleration sensor 23 is a sensor that can output an output value corresponding to the acceleration of the subject's body movement. The so-called body movement of the subject is, for example, the subject's movement, standing up, and sitting down. Alternatively, the acceleration sensor 23 can also be a sensor that can output an output value corresponding to the subject's body movement during a meal, such as the lifting and lowering of tableware or chewing.

[0096] The acceleration detection unit 124 obtains the output value corresponding to the acceleration of the subject's body movement from the acceleration sensor 23 via the acquisition unit 11, and detects what kind of movement the subject has made. For example, the acceleration detection unit 124 detects that the subject has made an action of moving and sitting down based on the obtained output value. The acceleration detection unit 124 outputs information indicating the detected movement of the subject to the time estimation unit 123A.

[0097] The time estimation unit 123A acquires information indicating the subject's movements detected by the acceleration detection unit 124 in addition to the information indicating the metabolic index estimated by the index estimation unit 122, and estimates the subject's meal time based on the information. In other words, the time estimation unit 123A estimates the subject's meal time based on the metabolic index and the acceleration of the body movement.

[0098] For example, when the metabolic index rises after the subject moves and sits down, the time estimation unit 123A estimates that the metabolic index rises because the subject sits down and eats, and estimates the meal time based on the change in the metabolic index. In this way, the time estimation unit 123A can improve the estimation accuracy of the subject's meal time by estimating other indicators in addition to the metabolic index. In addition, the subject's action used by the time estimation unit 123A to estimate the subject's meal time is not limited to moving and sitting down, but can be an action related to the subject's meal. The so-called action related to the subject's meal can be, for example, an action in which the subject stands still after walking and then walks again. When such an action is detected, the time estimation unit 123A sets the possibility that the subject has eaten at a certain time during the period of stillness, and combines the information representing the action with the subject's metabolic index to estimate the meal time.

[0099] In addition, the time estimation unit 123A can also estimate the meal time in further detail. For example, the time estimation unit 123A can estimate at least one of the meal start time and the meal end time of the subject based on the metabolic index and the acceleration of the body movement. More specifically, the time estimation unit 123A can also estimate the moment when the subject is detected to be seated based on the output value of the acceleration sensor 23 before the meal time estimated based on the metabolic index as the meal start time of the subject. In addition, the time estimation unit 123A can also estimate the moment when the subject is detected to stand up after the estimated meal time, or the moment when the subject's action accompanying the meal stops as the meal end time of the subject. In addition, the time estimation unit 123A can determine whether to estimate the meal time based on the acceleration of the subject's body movement. For example, when the metabolic index of the subject rises while moving, the time estimation unit 123A determines that the rise in the metabolic index is not due to the meal, and the meal time can be estimated without estimation.

[0100] (Variation Example)

[0101] In the analysis system 1A involved in this embodiment, the time estimation unit 123A of the analysis device 10A can use an index other than the acceleration of the subject's body movement as another index combined with the metabolic index. As an example, the time estimation unit 123A can estimate the meal time based on the metabolic index and the subject's body surface temperature. In this case, the measurement device 20A is equipped with a temperature sensor that can measure the subject's body surface temperature, and sends information indicating the subject's body surface temperature to the analysis device 10A. The control unit 12A of the analysis device 10A obtains information indicating the subject's body surface temperature in addition to the information indicating the subject's pulse wave. The time estimation unit 123A estimates the subject's meal time based on the information indicating the subject's body surface temperature in addition to the metabolic index estimated by the index estimation unit 122. Generally, when the subject has eaten, the subject's body surface temperature tends to rise after the meal. That is, when there is a change in the metabolic index and an increase in the subject's body surface temperature, it is highly likely that the subject has eaten in the time before the increase in the body surface temperature. Therefore, the time estimation unit 123A grasps the rising timing of the subject's body surface temperature, and can more accurately estimate the subject's meal time by performing an estimation in combination with the metabolic index. In addition, the time estimation unit 123A can also estimate the subject's meal time by combining the subject's metabolic index with two or more other indicators. For example, the time estimation unit 123A can also estimate the meal time by combining the subject's metabolic index, the acceleration of the subject's body movement, and the subject's body surface temperature.

[0102] [Implementation method 3]

[0103] Other embodiments of the present disclosure are described below. For the sake of convenience, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are not repeated. In addition, the contents in this embodiment that are repeated in the above embodiments are omitted.

[0104] exist Fig. 9 1B shows the main structure of the analysis system 1B according to the present embodiment. Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the analysis system 1B includes an analysis device 10B and a measuring device 20. The analysis system 1B is different from the analysis system 1 in the first embodiment described above in that the analysis device 10 is replaced with an analysis device 10B. Fig. 9As shown in FIG. 1 , the analysis device 10B includes a control unit 12B and a storage unit 14B. The analysis device 10B is different from the analysis device 10 in the first embodiment described above in that the control unit 12 including the time estimation unit 123 is replaced with a control unit 12B including a time estimation unit 123B. In addition, the analysis device 10B is different from the analysis device 10 in that the storage unit 14B stores action record data 143 and an estimation model 144 in addition to the data stored in the storage unit 14.

[0105] The action record data 143 is data representing the action of the subject, such as the subject's meal time, meal start time, meal end time, meal period, and the period from the end of one meal to the start of the next meal. The subject's action record data 143 may be data input to the analysis device 10B by the subject or another person, or may be data representing the action detected by a sensor that can detect the subject's action, such as a temperature sensor or an acceleration sensor (not shown). In addition, the analysis device 10B may obtain the subject's action record data from an external device that stores the subject's action record data and use it. The inference model 144 is a learned inference model that has been learned based on the subject's past action record, such as each data included in the subject's action record data 143.

[0106] When estimating the metabolic index, the time estimation unit 123B determines the subject's behavior, such as the subject's meal time, based on changes in the metabolic index using the estimation model 144. That is, the time estimation unit 123B estimates the meal time based on a combination of the metabolic index and the learning result based on the subject's past behavior record.

[0107] Furthermore, the time estimating unit 123B may estimate at least one of the meal start time and the meal end time based on a combination of the metabolic index and a learning result based on the subject's past action records.

[0108] [Implementation method 4]

[0109] The following describes still other embodiments of the present disclosure. For the sake of convenience, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are not repeated. In addition, the contents in this embodiment that are repeated in the above embodiments are omitted.

[0110] exist Fig.10 1C shows the main structure of the analysis system 1C involved in this embodiment. Fig.10As shown in FIG. 1 , the analysis system 1C includes an analysis device 10C and a measuring device 20. The analysis system 1C is different from the analysis system 1 in the first embodiment described above in that the analysis device 10 is replaced with an analysis device 10C. Fig.10 As shown, the analysis device 10C includes a control unit 12C including an alarm unit 125 and a transmitter 15. The analysis device 10C is different from the analysis device 10 in the first embodiment described above in that the control unit 12C includes the alarm unit 125 and the transmitter 15.

[0111] The alarm unit 125 generates various alarms from the alarm unit 15 in accordance with the preset conditions. The preset conditions may be conditions related to the estimated metabolic index or meal time of the subject, for example.

[0112] The alarm unit 125 outputs an alarm urging food intake when the metabolic index is low or when the metabolic index is expected to be low. As an example, the alarm unit 125 obtains an estimated metabolic index and outputs a predetermined alarm to the subject when the metabolic index is lower than a preset second reference.

[0113] The second criterion may be, for example, a criterion such that, when the metabolic index represents a blood sugar level, it can be evaluated that the subject is in a hypoglycemic state if the metabolic index is lower than the criterion.

[0114] The content of the alarm output by the alarm unit 125 may be at least one of a notification of a status to the subject or a destination designated by the subject and a message urging attention. More specifically, the alarm may be, for example, a message such as "The metabolic index is lower than the baseline value.", "How about taking in light meals or water to supplement nutrition?", or "The metabolic index is lower than the baseline value. How about taking in light meals or water to supplement nutrition?". In addition, the alarm unit 125 may output an alarm urging food intake to the subject when the time from the estimated meal time is higher than the third benchmark, in other words, when a certain amount of time has passed since the previous meal. In the case of a low metabolic index, or when time has passed since the previous meal, by outputting an alarm, the subject himself can realize that it is preferable to take in food even if he does not feel unwell.

[0115] The third criterion may be, for example, a criterion in which, when the metabolic index indicates a blood sugar level, it can be estimated that the subject is in a hypoglycemic state if no food is consumed during a period exceeding the criterion.

[0116] Furthermore, the alarm unit 125 may output advice on the next meal when the estimated metabolic index is lower than a fourth predetermined criterion. The next meal may be lunch corresponding to breakfast on a certain day or breakfast on the next day.

[0117] The fourth criterion may be, for example, a criterion that, when the metabolic index is a value related to the meal contents, if the metabolic index is lower than the criterion, it can be said that the meal contents of the subject have an adverse effect on health.

[0118] The content of the suggestion may be, for example, a message such as "The possibility of exercising after a meal has been detected. Avoid exercising immediately after a meal." In addition, the analysis system 1C may have an acceleration sensor (not shown) that can detect whether the subject is exercising, and make suggestions to associate the subject's exercise with the timing of meals. For example, when the subject's meal time is detected and the subject's movement is detected after the meal time, a message such as "Motion is detected. You may feel hungry, so chew slowly and eat more than usual to move your body." may be prompted to the subject as a suggestion.

[0119] The transmitter 15 transmits an alarm according to the instruction of the alarm unit 125. The transmitter 15 may output the alarm by sound, or may output the alarm by emitting a color such as red or yellow to attract the attention of the subject. The transmitter 15 may also output a message based on text or sound as an alarm. In addition, the transmitter 15 may be formed integrally with the prompt unit 13. The transmitter 15 may also be provided in the measuring device 20. In this case, the alarm unit 125 instructs the transmitter 15 via the communication unit 22 of the measuring device 20 to cause the transmitter 15 to output the alarm.

[0120] (Variation 1)

[0121] Fig.11 1D is a diagram showing an example of the overall outline of an analysis system 1D including a server 30. Fig.11 As shown, the analysis system 1D includes a server 30 in addition to the above-mentioned analysis device 10 and measurement device 20 .

[0122] The analysis device 10 and the server 30 are communicably connected via a network.

[0123] The server 30 performs a part or all of the analysis processing performed by the analysis device 10. By having the server 30 perform the analysis processing, the processing load in the analysis device 10 can be reduced.

[0124] [Variant 2]

[0125] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the pulse wave measured by the measuring device 20 is analyzed by the analyzing device 10. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the measuring device 20 may share part of the function of the analyzing device 10. Fig.12 An analysis system 1E having such a structure will be described. Fig.121E is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of the analysis system 1E. The measurement device 20E of the analysis system 1E measures and analyzes the pulse wave, and the analysis device 10E obtains the analysis result obtained from the measurement device 20E and presents it to the presentation unit 13.

[0126] like Fig.12 As shown, the measuring device 20E includes the control unit 12 (change detection unit 121, index estimation unit 122, time estimation unit 123) and the storage unit 14 (pulse wave data 141, log data 142) in addition to the sensor unit 21 and the communication unit 22. The measuring device 20E analyzes the measured pulse wave and estimates the meal time of the subject. The measuring device 20E sends the measured pulse wave, the analysis result, the estimated meal time, etc. to the analysis device 10E.

[0127] The analysis device 10E includes at least a presentation unit 13 that presents the pulse wave, analysis results, and determined messages received from the measurement device 20E. That is, in the analysis system 1E, the analysis device 10E functions as a presentation device that presents the pulse wave, analysis results, and determined messages.

[0128] This can produce the same effects as those of the above-mentioned analysis system 1 .

[0129] In the analysis system 1E, the analysis device 10E may include a part of the functions of the control unit 12 (e.g., the time estimation unit 123) and a part of the storage unit 14 (i.e., the log data 142). In the case of adopting this structure, the measurement device 20E performs analysis processing on the measured pulse wave and sends the measured pulse wave and the analysis result to the analysis device 10E. The analysis device 10E presents information such as the meal time based on the analysis result received from the measurement device 20D.

[0130] [Implementation method 5]

[0131] The following describes still other embodiments of the present disclosure. For the sake of convenience, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are not repeated. In addition, the contents in this embodiment that are repeated in the above embodiments are omitted.

[0132] The analysis device 10F according to the present embodiment acquires the pulse wave of the subject that is continuously measured during the first period after the meal period during which the subject ingests food, and detects the pulse wave of the subject before the meal in the acquired pulse wave. Then, the analysis device 10F estimates a metabolic index related to the hardness of the blood vessels of the subject based on the change in the detected pulse wave, and presents a message corresponding to the magnitude of the change in the estimated metabolic index during the first period to the subject.

[0133] Thus, the analyzing device 10F estimates the metabolic index related to the hardness of the blood vessels generated by the meal for the subject who has taken the meal, and prompts the subject with a message corresponding to the magnitude of the change in the estimated metabolic index during the first period. Thus, the analyzing device 10F can associate the meal content with the body's own reaction after taking the food so that the subject can recognize it, and can urge the subject to make an effort to continue or improve his or her own meal content and eating habits.

[0134] 〔Analysis system 1〕

[0135] refer to Fig.13 , an overview of an analysis system 1F including an analysis device 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. Fig.13 1F is a functional block diagram showing a structural example of an analysis system 1F. Fig.13 As shown, the analysis system 1F includes an analysis device 10F and a measurement device 20 .

[0136] [Measurement device 20]

[0137] like Fig.13 As shown, the measurement device 20 includes a sensor unit 21 and a communication unit 22 .

[0138] The sensor unit 21 acquires the pulse wave of the subject. More specifically, the sensor unit 21 acquires the pulse wave of the subject by detecting the volume change (expansion or contraction) of the blood vessels based on the reflected light of the light irradiated to the blood vessels of the subject. The light irradiated to the blood vessels of the subject can use, for example, light of infrared wavelength.

[0139] Furthermore, the sensor unit 21 may measure the pulse wave of the subject at a higher measurement frequency in the first period than in other periods according to the instruction of the analyzer 10F. The measurement frequency may indicate, for example, the number of measurements in a given period.

[0140] [Analysis device 10F]

[0141] Next, refer to Fig.13 The analysis device 10F is described below. Fig.13 As shown, the analysis device 10F includes an acquisition unit 11 , a control unit 12F, a presentation unit 13 , and a storage unit 14F. The control unit 12F also includes a change detection unit (detection unit) 121 , an index estimation unit 122 , and a message determination unit 126 .

[0142] The acquisition unit 11 acquires the pulse wave data of the subject continuously measured by the measurement device 20 from the measurement device 20. The first period can be set by the user from a given option or can be set arbitrarily. In addition, the first period can also be automatically set based on past pulse wave data. Alternatively, the first period can also be automatically set based on past pulse wave data when the user does not make a selection.

[0143] The control unit 12F performs control in the analysis device 10F, and includes the change detection unit 121 , the index estimation unit 122 , and the message determination unit 126 as described above.

[0144] The message determination unit 126 determines a message according to the magnitude of the change in the metabolic index estimated by the index estimation unit 122 during the first period.

[0145] For example, when the change in the metabolic index during the first period exceeds the negative evaluation criterion (fifth criterion), the message determination unit 126 may determine the message that will be a negative evaluation of the meal content consumed by the subject to be a message corresponding to the size of the change. The message may be in language or in numbers, or in combination thereof. The determined message may be, for example, in language, such as "still a little short", "what a pity", or "regrettable", and in numbers, such as "20 points" or "20 / 100 points". In addition, it may be a statement such as "The score has dropped significantly. Please eat something for dinner." that can specifically reiterate the examination of the subject's dietary life.

[0146] As a negative evaluation criterion, for example, the post-meal ratio is less than half of the pre-meal ratio. Figure 4 Let's explain the ratio before and after meals. Figure 4 Graph 401 is an example of a pulse wave before a meal, and graph 402 is an example of a pulse wave during the first period. The so-called pre-meal ratio is the ratio Y1 / X1 of the second peak value Y1 to the first peak value X1 of graph 401. In addition, the so-called post-meal ratio is the ratio Y2 / X2 of the second peak value Y2 to the first peak value X2 of graph 402.

[0147] Back to Fig.13 , when the change in the metabolic index during the first period does not exceed the positive evaluation criterion (the sixth criterion), the message determination unit 126 may determine the message that is a positive evaluation of the meal content ingested by the subject to be a message corresponding to the magnitude of the change. The message may be a language, a number, or a combination of these. For example, the determined message may be a language such as "great", "good", or "very good" if it is a language, and a number such as "85 points" or "85 / 100 points" if it is a number.

[0148] An example of a positive evaluation criterion is when the post-meal ratio exceeds one-half of the pre-meal ratio.

[0149] In addition, the message determination unit 126 may determine the message including information related to the way the metabolic index changes as a message corresponding to the magnitude of the change. The so-called way the metabolic index changes is, for example, the rising edge direction, the slope, the height of the peak, the absolute amount, etc. In addition, as an example of a message including information related to the way the metabolic index changes, "The shape of the pulse wave changes abruptly. Is the content of the meal consumed appropriate?" can be cited.

[0150] Furthermore, the message determining unit 126 may determine a message including an index indicating the state of the subject other than the metabolic index as a message according to the magnitude of the change. The state of the subject may be, for example, the physical condition of the subject.

[0151] For example, the message determination unit 126 may determine a message such as “It seems that you did not exercise much today. Combine meals with exercise” as the subject's state, using the subject's exercise level obtained from the acceleration sensor.

[0152] Alternatively, the message determination unit 126 may determine a message such as “I feel tired today” as the subject's condition based on the heart rate and the subject's body temperature acquired from the body temperature sensor.

[0153] Furthermore, the message determination unit 126 may determine a message such as “The time from eating a meal to starting sleeping seems to be a little short” based on the detection result of the acceleration sensor or the like.

[0154] For example, the analyzing device 10F determines that the subject's body has not fully recovered, based on the subject's heart rate obtained a few days ago and the detection results of the acceleration sensor, etc., because the subject's resting heart rate was high last night, or the sleep time was short, or the estimated sitting time in one day was long (sitting all the time and not moving much), etc. If the analyzing device 10F determines that the subject's body has not fully recovered, it determines and displays the above-mentioned message.

[0155] The presentation unit 13 presents the message determined by the message determination unit 126 to the subject. Fig.14 10F is a diagram showing an example of a suggestion presented by the analysis device 10F. Fig.14 In the illustrated example of presentation, a message is presented in area 134 of the presentation unit 13 , a metabolic index is presented in area 132 , and pulse wave data is presented in area 133 .

[0156] Fig.15 10F is a diagram showing another example of a suggestion provided by the analysis device 10F. Fig.15 Tips as shown. Fig.15 1501 is an example of a suggestion that includes a review of a meal. Fig.15In 1501, the evaluation of the meal is improved in area 1511, and information related to the AI ​​value as a metabolic index is presented in area 1512. In addition, Fig.15 1502 is an example of changes in metabolic indicators. Fig.15 Area 1521 of 1502 indicates an AI value as a metabolic index, and area 1522 indicates a change state of the AI ​​value.

[0157] The storage unit 14F stores data used in the analysis device 10F, including pulse wave data 141 and message data 145 .

[0158] The message data 145 is data used by the message determination unit 126 to determine a message.

[0159] As described above, the analysis device 10F involved in the present disclosure includes: an acquisition unit 11, which acquires the pulse wave of the subject continuously measured by the wearable device during the first period after the meal period when the subject ingests food. In addition, it includes: a change detection unit 121, which detects the pulse wave of the subject before the meal in the pulse wave acquired by the acquisition unit 11. In addition, it includes: an index estimation unit 122, which estimates a metabolic index related to the hardness of the blood vessels of the subject based on the change of the pulse wave detected by the change detection unit 121. In addition, it includes a message determination unit 126, which determines a message corresponding to the size of the change in the metabolic index estimated by the index estimation unit 122 during the first period. In addition, it includes: a prompting unit 13, which prompts the message determined by the message determination unit 126 to the subject.

[0160] Thus, the reaction of the body after the meal content and the intake of food can be established in a related manner so that the subject can recognize it. In addition, the problem of the meal content can be recognized by the subject, which can help to implement a suitable dining habit.

[0161] [Processing Flow]

[0162] Next, refer to Fig.16 The flow of processing in the analysis device 10F will be described. Fig.16 This is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing in the analysis device 10F. Fig.16 The processing of S201 to S203 shown in FIG. Figure 7 The processing of S101 to S102 shown is the same, so the description is omitted. After the processing of S203 is performed, the message determination unit 126 determines a message corresponding to the magnitude of the change in the metabolic index in the first period estimated by the index estimation unit 122 (S204, message determination step). Then, the presentation unit 13 presents the message determined by the message determination unit 126 (S205, presentation step).

[0163] The above is the flow of processing in the analysis device 10F.

[0164] [Implementation method 6]

[0165] Other embodiments of the present disclosure are described below. For the sake of convenience, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are not repeated.

[0166] Fig.17 1 is a functional block diagram showing a main part configuration example of an analysis system 1G according to the present embodiment. The analysis system 1G includes a measuring device 20 and an analysis device 10G. Fig.17 As shown, the analyzing device 10G is different from the analyzing device 10F in the fifth embodiment described above in that the control unit 12G includes an alarm unit 125G and the analyzing device 10G includes a transmitter 15 .

[0167] When the metabolic index estimated by the index estimation unit 122 exceeds the alarm criterion (the seventh criterion), the alarm unit 125G outputs an alarm to the subject from the alarm transmission unit 15. The seventh criterion is, for example, a criterion that, when the metabolic index is a value related to the content of a meal, if the metabolic index exceeds the criterion, it can be said that the content of the meal of the subject has an adverse effect on health.

[0168] [Implementation method 7]

[0169] For the sake of convenience, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0170] Fig.18 1 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of an analysis system 1H according to the present embodiment. The analysis system 1H includes a measuring device 20 and an analysis device 10H. Fig.18 As shown, the analyzing device 10H is different from the analyzing device 10F in the fifth embodiment in that the control unit 12H includes a recording control unit 127, the storage unit 14H stores meal evaluation data 146, and the analyzing device 10H includes an input unit 16.

[0171] The input unit 16 receives input of meal contents taken by the subject from the subject. The meal contents can be input by inputting text or by selecting from pre-prepared options. In addition, it is also possible to select previously input meal contents. It is also possible to input the meal contents together with the time of taking the meal. The input meal contents can be items such as "rice, vegetables, miso soup" or specific names such as "white rice, lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, kelp, tofu". In addition, it is also possible to record the order of taking.

[0172] The input unit 16 may receive input of meal contents from the subject at a predetermined timing after the meal, or may receive input before the meal.

[0173] The recording control unit 127 associates the input meal content with the metabolic index estimated by the index estimation unit 122 and stores them in the storage unit 14H as meal evaluation data 146 .

[0174] Furthermore, the message determination unit 126 may determine, based on the change in the metabolic index during the first period, a message including the evaluation of the subject's meal as a message to be presented to the subject. The message including the evaluation of the subject's meal may be, for example, "The meal time may be short. Eating slowly will result in a smooth change in sugar metabolism, which is ideal." using the length of the meal time estimated from the detection result of the acceleration sensor.

[0175] In addition, the message determination unit 126 may determine a message including an evaluation result regarding the subject's meal-related behavior and a message of advice corresponding to the evaluation result as a message to be presented to the subject. For example, the message determination unit 126 may determine a message such as "Sugars seem to be high. Control the amount of sugars in a meal, and it is also important to start with vegetables" in accordance with the meal content input by the subject. The relationship between meal content and nutrients may be stored in advance.

[0176] [Variant 3]

[0177] Fig.19 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall outline of an analysis system 1I including a server 30. Fig.19 As shown, the analysis system 1I includes a server 30 in addition to the above-mentioned analysis device 10F and measurement device 20 .

[0178] The analyzing device 10F and the server 30 are communicatively connected via a network.

[0179] The server 30 performs a part or all of the analysis processing performed by the analysis device 10F. By performing the analysis processing in the server 30, the processing load in the analysis device 10F can be reduced.

[0180] [Variant 4]

[0181] In the above-described embodiment, the pulse wave measured by the measuring device 20 is analyzed by the analyzing device 10F. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the measuring device 20 may share part of the functions of the analyzing device 10F. Fig. 20 An analysis system 1J adopting such a structure will be described. Fig. 201 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of the analysis system 1J. The measurement device 20J of the analysis system 1J measures and analyzes the pulse wave, and the analysis device 10J obtains the analysis result obtained from the measurement device 20J and presents it to the presentation unit 13.

[0182] like Fig. 20 As shown, the measuring device 20J includes a control unit 12F (change detection unit 121, index estimation unit 122, message determination unit 126), and a storage unit 14F (pulse wave data 141, message data 145) in addition to the sensor unit 21 and the communication unit 22. The measuring device 20J performs analysis processing on the measured pulse wave and determines a message to be presented by the analyzing device 10J based on the analysis result. The measuring device 20J transmits the measured pulse wave, the analysis result, and the determined message to the analyzing device 10J.

[0183] The analysis device 10J includes at least a presentation unit 13 that presents the pulse wave, analysis results, and determined message received from the measurement device 20J. That is, in the analysis system 1J, the analysis device 10J functions as a presentation device that presents the pulse wave, analysis results, and determined message.

[0184] This can produce the same effects as those of the above-mentioned analysis system 1F.

[0185] In the analysis system 1J, the analysis device 10J may include a part of the functions of the control unit 12F (for example, the message determination unit 126) and a part of the storage unit 14F (that is, the message data 145). When this configuration is adopted, the measurement device 20J performs analysis processing on the measured pulse wave and transmits the measured pulse wave and the analysis result to the analysis device 10J. The analysis device 10J determines a message to be presented based on the analysis result received from the measurement device 20J, and presents the message.

[0186] 〔Software-based implementation example〕

[0187] The functions of the analysis devices 10, 10A to 10J and the measuring devices 20E, 20J (hereinafter referred to as "devices") are programs for enabling a computer to function as the devices, and can be achieved by programs for enabling a computer to function as the control blocks of the devices (particularly the parts contained in the control units 12, 12A, 12B, 12C, 12F, 12G, and 12H).

[0188] In this case, the device includes a computer having at least one control device (e.g., a processor) and at least one storage device (e.g., a memory) as hardware for executing the program. The functions described in the embodiments are realized by executing the program by the control device and the storage device.

[0189] The program may be recorded in one or more recording media readable by a non-pipelined computer. The device may or may not have the recording medium. In the latter case, the program may be supplied to the device via any transmission medium, whether wired or wireless.

[0190] In addition, part or all of the functions of each control block can also be implemented by a logic circuit. For example, an integrated circuit that forms a logic circuit that functions as each control block is also included in the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, for example, the functions of each control block can also be implemented by a quantum computer.

[0191] In addition, each process described in each embodiment may be executed by artificial intelligence (AI). In this case, the artificial intelligence may be operated in the control device or in another device (for example, an edge computer or a cloud server).

[0192] The invention involved in the present disclosure is described above based on the drawings and embodiments. However, the invention involved in the present disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. That is, the invention involved in the present disclosure can be subjected to various changes within the scope shown in the present disclosure, and the embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the means of the techniques respectively disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the invention involved in the present disclosure. That is, it is to be noted that it is easy for a person skilled in the art to make various modifications or corrections based on the present disclosure. In addition, it is to be noted that these modifications or corrections are included in the scope of the present disclosure.

[0193] 〔Summary〕

[0194] The analyzing devices 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10F, 10G, 10H, 10I and measuring devices 20E, 20J involved in mode 1 of the present disclosure include: an acquisition unit 11, which acquires the pulse wave of the subject continuously measured by the wearable device (measuring device 20, 20A, 20E, 20J) during a first period after the meal period when the subject ingests food; a change detection unit 121 (detection unit) which detects the pulse wave of the subject before the meal in the pulse wave acquired by the acquisition unit 11; and an index estimation unit 122 which estimates the change of the metabolic index related to the hardness of the blood vessels of the subject based on the change of the pulse wave detected by the change detection unit 121.

[0195] The analyzing apparatus 10 , 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D and the measuring apparatus 20E according to the second aspect of the present disclosure may include, in the first aspect, a time estimating unit 123 that estimates a meal time as an arbitrary timing in the meal period based on a change in the metabolic index.

[0196] In the analysis device 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D and the measuring device 20E according to the third aspect of the present disclosure, in the second aspect, the time estimating unit 123 may estimate at least one of the meal start time and the meal end time of the subject based on a combination of the metabolic index and other indexes.

[0197] In the analyzing device 10 , 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D and the measuring device 20E according to the fourth aspect of the present disclosure, in the third aspect, the other index may be at least one of the acceleration of the subject's body movement and the subject's body surface temperature.

[0198] In the analyzing device 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D and the measuring device 20E involved in the fifth aspect of the present disclosure, in any of the second to fourth aspects, the time estimating unit 123 may estimate the meal time based on a combination of the metabolic index and a learning result based on the subject's past behavior record.

[0199] In any of the above-mentioned methods 2 to 5, the analyzing device 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D and the measuring device 20E involved in method 6 of the present disclosure may be such that the time estimation unit 123 estimates the meal time of the subject based on the relationship between the subject's past meal time and the information on the subject's state indicating the subject's past meal time, in addition to the change in the metabolic indicator.

[0200] In any of the above methods 2 to 6, the analyzing device 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D and the measuring device 20E involved in method 7 of the present disclosure may also have the time estimation unit 123 estimate the meal time based on a change in the metabolic index based on a first benchmark, which is estimated based on the pulse wave of the subject when waking up or fasting measured in the past.

[0201] The analyzing device 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D and the measuring device 20E involved in mode 8 of the present disclosure, in any one of the modes 2 to 7, further includes: an alarm unit 125, which outputs a given alarm to the subject when the metabolic index estimated by the index estimating unit 122 is lower than a second reference.

[0202] The analyzing device 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D and the measuring device 20E involved in the method 9 of the present disclosure may also include in any of the methods 2 to 8: an alarm unit 125, which outputs an alarm urging food intake to the subject when the time elapsed from the meal time estimated by the time estimation unit 123 is higher than the third benchmark.

[0203] The analyzing device 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D and the measuring device 20E involved in the mode 10 of the present disclosure may also include, in any of the modes 2 to 9, an alarm unit 125 which outputs suggestions for the next meal to the subject when the metabolic index estimated by the index estimation unit 122 is lower than the fourth benchmark.

[0204] The analyzing devices 10F, 10G, 10H, 10I and the measuring device 20J involved in the method 11 of the present disclosure may also include, in the method 1,: a message determining unit 126, which determines a message corresponding to the size of the change in the metabolic index estimated by the index estimating unit 122 during the first period; and a prompting unit 13, which prompts the message determined by the message determining unit 126 to the subject.

[0205] In the analyzing devices 10F, 10G, 10H, 10I and the measuring device 20J involved in the method 12 of the present disclosure, in the method 11, the message determined by the message determining unit 126 may be a message that constitutes a negative evaluation of the meal content consumed by the subject when the change in the metabolic index during the first period exceeds the fifth benchmark.

[0206] In the analyzing device 10F, 10G, 10H, 10I and the measuring device 20J involved in the method 13 of the present disclosure, in the method 11 or 12, the message determined by the message determining unit 126 is a message that constitutes a positive evaluation of the meal content consumed by the subject when the change in the metabolic indicator during the first period does not exceed the sixth benchmark.

[0207] In the analyzing devices 10F, 10G, 10H, 10I and the measuring device 20J according to the aspect 14 of the present disclosure, in any one of the aspects 11 to 13, the pulse wave of the subject acquired by the acquiring unit 11 may include the meal period of the subject.

[0208] In the analyzing devices 10F, 10G, 10H, 10I and the measuring device 20J according to the fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, in any one of the aspects 11 to 14, the pulse wave of the subject acquired by the acquisition unit 11 may include a second period before the meal period.

[0209] In the analyzing devices 10F, 10G, 10H, 10I and the measuring device 20J according to the aspect 16 of the present disclosure, in any of the aspects 11 to 15, the message determined by the message determining unit 126 may include information on the manner of change of the metabolic index.

[0210] In the analyzing devices 10F, 10G, 10H, 10I and the measuring device 20J according to aspect 17 of the present disclosure, in any of aspects 11 to 16, the message determined by the message determining unit 126 may include an index indicating the state of the subject other than the metabolic index.

[0211] The analyzing device 10G according to the eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure may include, in any one of the eleventh to seventeenth aspects, an alarm unit 124 that outputs an alarm to the subject when the metabolic index estimated by the index estimating unit 122 exceeds a seventh criterion.

[0212] In the analysis device 10H according to the nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, in any one of the above aspects 11 to 18, the message determined by the message determination unit 126 may include an evaluation of the meal based on a change in the metabolic index during the first period.

[0213] The analyzing device 10H according to aspect 20 of the present disclosure may further include a recording control unit 127 that records the content of the meal and the metabolic index estimated based on the pulse wave of the first period in association with each other in any one of aspects 11 to 19.

[0214] The analyzing device 10H according to the aspect 21 of the present disclosure, in any one of the aspects 11 to 20, may include an input unit 16 that receives an input of the content of the meal from the subject.

[0215] In the analysis device 10H according to aspect 22 of the present disclosure, in any of aspects 11 to 21, the message determined by the message determination unit 126 may include an evaluation result of the subject person's behavior related to eating and advice of content corresponding to the evaluation result.

[0216] The analysis method involved in mode 23 of the present disclosure includes: an acquisition step, acquiring the pulse wave of the subject continuously measured by the wearable device (measuring device 20, 20A, 20E, 20J) during the first period after the subject's meal period when the subject ingests food; a detection step, detecting the pulse wave of the subject before the meal in the acquired pulse wave; and an indicator estimation step, estimating the change of the metabolic indicator related to the hardness of the blood vessels of the subject based on the change of the detected pulse wave.

[0217] The analysis method according to aspect 24 of the present disclosure, in aspect 23, includes a time estimation step of estimating a meal time as an arbitrary timing in the meal period based on a change in the metabolic index.

[0218] The analysis method involved in mode 25 of the present disclosure, in the above-mentioned mode 23, includes: a message determination step for determining a message corresponding to the magnitude of the change in the metabolic indicator estimated in the above-mentioned indicator estimation step during the above-mentioned first period; and a prompting step for prompting the above-mentioned message determined in the above-mentioned message determination step to the above-mentioned subject.

[0219] Description of Reference Numerals

[0220] 1. 1A~1J Analysis System

[0221] 10, 10A~10J Analytical device

[0222] 11 Acquisition Department

[0223] 12 Control Unit

[0224] 121 Change Detection Unit (Detection Unit)

[0225] 122 Index Estimation Department

[0226] 123, 123A, 123B Time estimation unit

[0227] 124 Acceleration detection unit

[0228] 125, 125G Alarm Department

[0229] 126 News Decision Department

[0230] 127 Recording Control Unit

[0231] 13. Tips

[0232] 14 Storage

[0233] 141 Pulse Data

[0234] 142 Log data

[0235] 143 Action Record Data

[0236] 144 Estimation Model

[0237] 145 message data

[0238] 146 dining evaluation data

[0239] 15. Transmission Department

[0240] 16 Input section

[0241] 20, 20A, 20E, 20J measuring device

[0242] 21Sensor unit

[0243] 22Ministry of Communications

[0244] 23 Acceleration sensor

[0245] 30 servers.

Claims

1. An analysis device comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires the pulse wave of the subject that is continuously measured by the wearable device during a first period after a meal period in which the subject ingests food; a detection unit that detects the pulse wave of the subject before a meal among the pulse waves acquired by the acquisition unit; and An index estimating unit estimates a change in a metabolic index related to the hardness of a blood vessel of the subject based on the change in the pulse wave detected by the detecting unit.

2. The analysis device according to claim 1, wherein The analysis device comprises: The time estimating unit estimates a meal time which is an arbitrary timing in the meal period based on the change in the metabolic index.

3. The analysis device according to claim 2, wherein: The time estimating unit estimates at least one of a meal start time and a meal end time of the subject based on a combination of the metabolic index and other indexes.

4. The analysis device according to claim 3, wherein: The other index is at least one of an acceleration of a body movement of the subject and a body surface temperature of the subject.

5. The analysis device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein The time estimating unit estimates the meal time based on a combination of the metabolic index and a learning result based on a past action record of the subject.

6. The analysis device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein: The time estimating unit estimates the meal time of the subject based on a relationship between the past meal time of the subject and information indicating the state of the subject at the past meal time of the subject, in addition to the change in the metabolic index.

7. The analysis device according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein: The time estimating unit estimates the meal time based on a change in the metabolic index using as a first reference a metabolic index estimated based on a pulse wave of the subject when waking up or when fasting, which was measured in the past.

8. The analysis device according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein: The analysis device further comprises: An alarm unit outputs a predetermined alarm to the subject when the metabolic index estimated by the index estimating unit is lower than a second reference.

9. The analysis device according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein: The analysis device further comprises: The alarm unit outputs an alarm urging the subject to take in food when the time elapsed from the meal time estimated by the time estimating unit exceeds a third reference.

10. The analysis device according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein: The analyzing device further includes an alarm unit configured to output advice on a next meal to the subject when the metabolic index estimated by the index estimating unit is lower than a fourth reference.

11. The analysis device according to claim 1, wherein The analysis device comprises: a message determination unit that determines a message according to the magnitude of the change in the metabolic index estimated by the index estimation unit during the first period; and A presenting unit presents the message determined by the message determining unit to the subject person.

12. The analysis device according to claim 11, wherein The message determined by the message determination unit is a message that is a negative evaluation of the meal consumed by the subject when the change in the metabolic index during the first period exceeds a fifth criterion.

13. The analysis device according to claim 11 or 12, wherein: The message determined by the message determination unit is a message that is a positive evaluation of the meal consumed by the subject when the change in the metabolic index during the first period does not exceed a sixth criterion.

14. The analysis device according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: The pulse wave of the subject acquired by the acquisition unit includes the meal period of the subject.

15. The analysis device according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein: The pulse wave of the subject acquired by the acquisition unit includes a second period before the meal period.

16. The analysis device according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein: The message determined by the message determination unit includes information on a change pattern of the metabolic index.

17. The analysis device according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein: The message determined by the message determination unit includes an index indicating a state of the subject other than the metabolic index.

18. The analysis device according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein: The analysis device comprises: The alarm unit outputs an alarm to the subject when the metabolic index estimated by the index estimating unit is higher than a seventh reference.

19. The analysis device according to any one of claims 11 to 18, wherein: The message determined by the message determination unit includes an evaluation of the meal based on a change in the metabolic index during the first period.

20. The analysis device according to any one of claims 11 to 19, wherein: The analysis device further comprises: A recording control unit records the content of the meal and the metabolic index estimated based on the pulse wave in the first period in association with each other.

21. The analysis device according to any one of claims 11 to 20, wherein: The analysis device comprises: An input unit receives an input of the content of the meal from the subject person.

22. The analysis device according to any one of claims 11 to 21, wherein: The message determined by the message determination unit includes an evaluation result of an action of the subject person related to eating and advice of content corresponding to the evaluation result.

23. An analysis method comprising: an acquisition step of acquiring a pulse wave of the subject measured continuously by the wearable device during a first period after a meal period in which the subject ingests food; a detection step of detecting a pulse wave of the subject before a meal among the acquired pulse waves; and The index estimating step estimates a change in a metabolic index related to the hardness of the blood vessels of the subject based on the detected change in the pulse wave.

24. The analytical method according to claim 23, wherein: The analysis method comprises: The time estimating step estimates a meal time which is an arbitrary timing in the meal period based on the change in the metabolic index.

25. The analytical method according to claim 23, wherein: The analysis method comprises: an analysis method for determining a message corresponding to the magnitude of the change in the metabolic index estimated in the index estimating step during the first period; and A presenting step of presenting the message determined in the message determining step to the subject.

Images