Biological information measurement device and biological information measurement system

Abstract

A biological information measurement system is provided with: a biological information measurement device that is provided with a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode, and that measures biological information by using the potential of the third electrode as a reference potential; biological information of the measurement object is measured on the basis of the potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode; and an information processing terminal that communicates with the biological information measurement device, the biological information measurement system being provided with: a first contact signal output means; a second contact signal output unit; a contact state classification unit that classifies the levels of the contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement target into at least three levels on the basis of the signals output by the first contact sensing unit and the second contact sensing unit; and a notification unit that notifies the contact state of each of the first electrode and the second electrode such that the level can be recognized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field related to medical care, and in particular relates to a biological information measuring device and a biological information measuring system. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, it has become common to measure personal body / health-related information (hereinafter also referred to as biological information) such as blood pressure and electrocardiogram waveforms using measuring devices, and to record and analyze the measurement results using information processing terminals to manage health.

[0003] As an example of such a measuring device, a portable electrocardiogram measuring device has been proposed (e.g., Patent Document 1) that immediately measures the electrocardiogram waveform when abnormalities such as chest pain and palpitations occur in daily life, with the hope of contributing to the early detection and appropriate treatment of heart disease.

[0004] Patent document 1 discloses a portable electrocardiogram recording device that measures and records electrocardiogram waveforms using a pair of electrodes in contact with the skin of the right hand and chest. An electrical circuit is used to detect whether the contact resistance between the skin and the electrodes is sufficiently small. If the contact resistance is not small enough, the person measuring the device is notified of the poor contact through a display, sound, or the like.

[0005] According to this technology, when the contact resistance between the skin and the electrode is not small enough (that is, when the electrode contact is in a state where normal measurement cannot be performed), this state can be notified to the measurer. Therefore, the measurer can record a normal electrocardiogram after taking measures such as readjusting the electrodes and applying water.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-234689 Summary of the Invention

[0009] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0010] However, even with the technology described in Patent Document 1, the examiner can only identify whether the electrode contact is poor, leaving them with a problem of not knowing how much pressure to apply to the skin. Consequently, excessive pressure applied to the skin can cause excessive force, superimposing myoelectric noise on the ECG signal and potentially preventing accurate ECG recording.

[0011] In view of the above-mentioned prior art, the present invention aims to provide a technology capable of notifying the contact state between the electrodes and the measurement object in three or more levels when measuring biological information using a biological information measuring device equipped with electrodes.

[0012] Solutions for solving problems

[0013] In order to solve the above technical problems, one solution of the present invention adopts the following structure.

[0014] A living body information measuring device includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode. The living body information measuring device uses the potential of the third electrode as a reference potential and measures living body information of a measurement subject based on the potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode. The living body information measuring device comprises:

[0015] a first contact signal output unit configured to output a signal related to a contact state of the first electrode with respect to the measurement object based on a potential of the first electrode that varies according to a contact state of the first electrode with the measurement object;

[0016] a second contact signal output unit configured to output a signal related to a contact state of the second electrode with respect to the measurement object based on a potential of the second electrode that varies according to a contact state of the second electrode with the measurement object;

[0017] a contact state classification unit that classifies the contact state levels of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object into at least three levels based on the signals output by the first contact sensing unit and the second contact sensing unit;

[0018] a notification unit configured to notify the respective contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object in a manner that allows identification of the level classified by the contact state classification unit; and

[0019] The control unit executes a process of measuring the biological information.

[0020] According to such a structure, the respective contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with the contact object can be displayed at three or more levels, and the user can feel how much force should be used to adjust the contact state of each electrode with the skin according to the current level of the electrode contact state.

[0021] Alternatively, the notification unit may include a sound output unit for providing a sound-based notification. Alternatively, the notification unit may include a vibration unit for providing a vibration-based notification. Alternatively, the notification unit may include a display unit for providing a display-based notification. Depending on the device's usage environment, the user's characteristics, and the timing of the notification, the preferred method of sensing the contact status information varies, and ideally, notifications can be provided using various output methods.

[0022] Furthermore, the notification unit may indicate the level by displaying a numerical value on the display unit, the number of multiple display segments activated, the size of the activated display area, or a difference in color and transparency of the display area. This allows the user to easily understand the level of contact between each electrode and the skin.

[0023] Furthermore, the notification unit may notify the user of the contact status of the first electrode and the second electrode relative to the measurement object before and / or during measurement of the biological information. This allows the user to understand the contact status not only before measurement but also during measurement, thereby enabling the user to more stably maintain good contact and perform accurate measurements.

[0024] Furthermore, the present invention can also be understood as a biological information measurement system.

[0025] A biological information measuring system, comprising: a biological information measuring device having a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode, wherein the biological information measuring device uses the potential of the third electrode as a reference potential and measures biological information of a measurement object based on a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode; and an information processing terminal that communicates with the biological information measuring device. In the biological information measuring system,

[0026] The biological information measuring device comprises:

[0027] a control unit for executing a process for measuring the biological information;

[0028] a first contact sensing unit that outputs a signal related to a contact state of the first electrode with respect to the measurement object based on a potential of the first electrode that varies according to a contact state of the first electrode with the measurement object; and

[0029] The second contact sensing unit outputs a signal related to the contact state of the second electrode with respect to the measurement object based on the potential of the second electrode that changes according to the contact state of the second electrode with the measurement object,

[0030] At least one of the biological information measuring device and the information processing terminal includes a contact state classification unit that classifies the contact state levels of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object into at least three levels based on the signals output by the first contact sensing unit and the second contact sensing unit.

[0031] The information processing terminal includes a notification unit configured to notify the respective contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object so that the levels classified by the contact state classification unit can be identified.

[0032] In this way, by providing the means for notifying the contact level between the electrode and the measurement object at another terminal, the degree of freedom of the notification scheme can be increased, and notification with higher usability can be performed.

[0033] Furthermore, in the biological information measurement system, the notification unit may include a display unit for providing notification via display. Furthermore, the notification unit may indicate the level by displaying a numerical value on the display unit, the number of activated display segments, the size of the activated display area, or a difference in color or transparency of the display area. Furthermore, the notification unit may provide notification of the contact status of the first and second electrodes with respect to the measurement object before and / or during measurement of the biological information.

[0034] Furthermore, the above-mentioned configurations and processes can be combined with each other to constitute the present invention as long as no technical contradiction occurs.

[0035] Effects of the Invention

[0036] According to the present invention, when measuring biological information using a biological information measuring device including electrodes, the contact state between the electrodes and the measurement object can be notified in three or more levels. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the outline of the living body information measurement system according to the first embodiment.

[0038] Figure 2 (A) is a front view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 (B) is a rear view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 (C) is a left side view showing the structure of the portable electrocardiograph according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 (D) is a right side view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 (E) is a plan view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 (F) is a bottom view showing the structure of the portable electrocardiograph according to the first embodiment.

[0039] Figure 3This is a circuit diagram schematically showing an electric circuit including electrodes of the portable electrocardiograph according to the first embodiment.

[0040] Figure 4 This is a flowchart showing a part of the flow of each process when the portable electrocardiograph and the smartphone are communicatively connected in the biological information measurement system according to the first embodiment.

[0041] Figure 5 This is a flowchart showing a part of the flow of each process when the portable electrocardiograph and the smartphone are communicatively connected in the biological information measurement system according to the first embodiment.

[0042] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing a part of the flow of each process when the portable electrocardiograph and the smartphone are communicatively connected in the biological information measurement system according to the first embodiment.

[0043] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing a subroutine of processing when the portable electrocardiograph according to the first embodiment performs BLE communication.

[0044] Figure 8 (A) is a first diagram showing an example of display of the electrode contact level in the living body information measuring system according to the first embodiment. Figure 8 (B) is a second diagram showing an example of display of the electrode contact level in the living body information measuring system according to the first embodiment. Figure 8 (C) is a third diagram showing an example of display of the electrode contact level in the living body information measuring system according to the first embodiment.

[0045] Figure 9 (A) is a first diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a smartphone during electrocardiogram measurement in the biological information measurement system according to the first embodiment. Figure 9 (B) is a second diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a smartphone during electrocardiogram measurement in the biological information measurement system according to the first embodiment. Figure 9 (C) is a third diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a smartphone during electrocardiogram measurement in the biological information measurement system according to the first embodiment.

[0046] Figure 9 (D) is a fourth diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a smartphone during electrocardiogram measurement in the biological information measurement system according to the first embodiment.

[0047] Figure 10 (A) is a first diagram showing a modified example of displaying the electrode contact level in the living body information measuring system according to the first embodiment. Figure 10(B) is a second diagram showing a modified example of the display of the electrode contact level in the living body information measuring system according to the first embodiment. Figure 10 (C) is a third diagram showing a modification of the display of the electrode contact level in the living body information measuring system according to the first embodiment.

[0048] Figure 11 (A) is a front view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to the second embodiment. Figure 11 (B) is a rear view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to the second embodiment. Figure 11 (C) is a left side view showing the structure of the portable electrocardiograph according to the second embodiment. Figure 11 (D) is a right side view showing the structure of the portable electrocardiograph according to the second embodiment. Figure 11 (E) is a plan view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to the second embodiment. Figure 11 (F) is a bottom view showing the structure of the portable electrocardiograph according to the second embodiment.

[0049] Figure 12 This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a portable electrocardiograph according to the second embodiment.

[0050] Figure 13 This is a flowchart showing the flow of electrocardiographic waveform measurement processing in the portable electrocardiograph according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] <Implementation Method 1>

[0052] However, unless otherwise specified, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative arrangements of the components described in this embodiment are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention to these dimensions.

[0053] (System Configuration)

[0054] Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the biological information measurement system 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 1 As shown, the biological information measurement system 1 includes a portable electrocardiograph 10 as an example of a biological information measurement device and a smartphone 20 as an example of an information processing terminal, and these are configured to be communicatively connected.

[0055] (About Portable Electrocardiographs)

[0056] Figure 2 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph 10 according to this embodiment. Figure 2 (A) is a front view showing the front of the main body. Similarly, Figure 2 (B) is the rear view, Figure 2 (C) is the left view, Figure 2 (D) is the right view, Figure 2 (E) is the top view, Figure 2 (F) is a bottom view.

[0057] The bottom surface of the portable electrocardiograph 10 is provided with a left electrode 12a, which contacts the left side of the body during electrocardiogram measurement. Similarly, the top surface of the opposite side includes a first right electrode 12b, which contacts the middle segment of the right index finger, and a second right electrode 12c, which contacts the base of the right index finger. It should be noted that the first right electrode 12b functions as a GND electrode.

[0058] During electrocardiographic measurement, the user holds the portable electrocardiograph 10 in their right hand and places their right index finger on the upper surface of the portable electrocardiograph 10, properly contacting the first right electrode 12b and the second right electrode 12c. Then, the left electrode 12a is brought into contact with the skin at a location corresponding to the desired measurement method. For example, when measuring using the so-called lead I, the left electrode 12a is brought into close contact with the palm of the left hand. When measuring using the so-called lead V4, the left electrode 12a is brought into contact with the skin on the left chest, slightly to the left of the pit of the stomach or below the nipple.

[0059] Various operating units and indicators are located on the left side of the portable electrocardiograph 10. Specifically, they include a power switch 16, a power LED (light-emitting diode) 16a, a BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) communication button 17, a BLE communication LED 17a, a memory remaining indicator LED 18, and a battery replacement LED 19.

[0060] Furthermore, a measurement status notification LED 13 and an analysis result notification LED 14 are provided on the front surface of the portable electrocardiograph 10 , and a battery storage port and a battery cover 15 are provided on the back surface of the portable electrocardiograph 10 .

[0061] In addition, Figure 1 A block diagram showing the functional configuration of the portable electrocardiograph 10 is shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown, the portable electrocardiograph 10 is configured to include functional units including a control unit 101, an electrode unit 12, an amplifier 102, an A / D (Analog to Digital) converter 103, a timing unit 104, a storage unit 105, a display unit 106, an operation unit 107, a power supply unit 108, a communication unit 109, a contact sensing unit 111, and an A / D converter 112.

[0062] The control unit 101 is responsible for controlling the portable electrocardiograph 10 and is configured to include, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Upon receiving user operations via the operation unit 107, the control unit 101 controls the various components of the portable electrocardiograph 10 so that various processes, such as electrocardiogram measurement and information communication, are executed according to predetermined programs. The predetermined programs are stored in and read from the storage unit 105 (described later).

[0063] The control unit 101 also includes an analysis unit 110 for analyzing the ECG waveform and a contact state classification unit 113 as functional modules. The analysis unit 110 analyzes the measured ECG waveform to determine whether the waveform is distorted, and outputs at least a result indicating whether the measured ECG waveform is normal. Furthermore, the contact state classification unit 113 classifies the contact state of the left electrode 12a and the first right electrode 12b, as detected by the contact sensor 111, into four levels. Contact state detection and level classification will be described later.

[0064] The electrode unit 12, consisting of a left electrode 12a, a first right electrode 12b, and a second right electrode 12c, functions as a sensor for detecting ECG waveforms. Specifically, the second right electrode 12c serves as a ground (GND) electrode, and the ECG waveform is acquired by continuously measuring the potential difference between the left electrode 12a's potential relative to a reference potential and the potential of the first right electrode 12b. The specific circuit configuration for ECG waveform detection will be described later.

[0065] As will be described later, the amplifier 102 has a function of amplifying a signal representing an electrocardiographic waveform output from the electrode unit 12 . The A / D converter 103 has a function of converting the analog signal amplified by the amplifier 102 into a digital signal and transmitting the digital signal to the controller 101 .

[0066] The timing unit 104 measures time by referring to an RTC (Real Time Clock). For example, as described below, during electrode contact sensing, the timing unit 104 counts the time that all of the left electrode 12a, the first right electrode 12b, and the second right electrode 12c remain in contact with the body. Alternatively, during electrocardiogram measurement, the timing unit 104 may count and output the time until the measurement is completed.

[0067] The storage unit 105 is configured as a main storage device including RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory), and stores various information such as application programs, measured ECG waveforms, and analysis results. In addition to RAM and ROM, the storage unit 105 may also include long-term storage media such as flash memory.

[0068] The display unit 106 includes a measurement status notification LED 13, an analysis result notification LED 14, a power LED 16a, a BLE communication LED 17a, a memory remaining display LED 18, and a battery replacement LED 19. The display unit 106 communicates the device's status to the user by lighting or flashing the LEDs. Furthermore, the operation unit 107 includes a power switch 16, a communication button 17, and other components. The operation unit 107 receives user input and causes the control unit 101 to execute processing corresponding to the input.

[0069] The power supply unit 108 includes a battery for supplying power required for operating the device. The battery may be a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery, or a primary battery.

[0070] The communication unit 109 includes an antenna for wireless communication and has at least a function of communicating with other devices such as an information processing terminal described later via BLE communication. Alternatively, the communication unit 109 may include a terminal for wired communication.

[0071] The contact sensor 111 includes an electrical circuit connected to the left electrode 12a and the first right electrode 12b. It senses the contact between the left electrode 12a and the first right electrode 12b and the skin surface of the subject and outputs a signal corresponding to the level of contact. The A / D converter 112 converts the analog signal output by the contact sensor 111 into a digital signal and transmits it to the control unit 101.

[0072] (Electrical circuit configuration)

[0073] The following is based on Figure 3 , contact state sensing and electrocardiographic waveform measurement in the portable electrocardiograph 10 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 3 1 is a circuit diagram schematically showing an electric circuit including electrodes of the portable electrocardiograph 10 .

[0074] like Figure 3As shown, the second right electrode 12c is connected to the reference potential GND and functions as a ground electrode. Furthermore, the first right electrode 12b is connected to the power supply potential V1 via the right pull-up resistor 911. Furthermore, the left electrode 12a is connected to the power supply potential V1 via the left pull-up resistor 921. The power supply potential V1 is set to a potential higher than the reference potential GND to ensure sufficient bias (e.g., 4V).

[0075] Therefore, when the power is on and both the first right electrode 12b and the second right electrode 12c are in proper contact with the skin, current flows through the body's impedance to the second right electrode 12c, which has a lower potential than the first right electrode 12b, causing the potential of the first right electrode 12b to fluctuate. This potential fluctuation corresponds to the contact state between the first right electrode 12b (and the second right electrode 12c) and the skin surface.

[0076] That is, the more firmly the first right electrode 12b contacts the skin, the lower the potential is. Therefore, the contact state of the first right electrode 12b and the skin can be determined based on this potential. The same is true for the left electrode 12a. It should be noted that Figure 3 The circuit indicated by the dotted line in FIG. 1 shows the path of the current via the impedance of the human body.

[0077] Furthermore, in order to ensure the accuracy of the detected electrocardiographic waveform, the right pull-up resistor 911 and the left pull-up resistor 921 are set to have sufficiently high resistance values ​​(eg, 200 MΩ, preferably 300 MΩ or higher).

[0078] In addition, Figure 3 The circuit shown includes five amplifiers: a right non-inverting amplifier 912 , a right buffer amplifier 913 , a left non-inverting amplifier 922 , a left buffer amplifier 923 , and a differential amplifier 94 .

[0079] like Figure 3 As shown, the potential of the first right electrode 12b is input to the +input terminal of the right non-inverting amplifier 912. Then, the right amplified signal, amplified at the amplification factor defined by the first amplification factor determining resistor 931 and the third amplification factor determining resistor 933, is output from the output terminal of the right non-inverting amplifier 912 and input to the -terminal of the differential amplifier 94. Meanwhile, a signal having the same potential as that input to the +input terminal of the right non-inverting amplifier 912 is input to the +input terminal of the right buffer amplifier 913 via the right non-inverting amplifier 912. In other words, the right non-inverting amplifier 912 functions both as a normal amplifier (signal amplifier) ​​and as a buffer (voltage follower).

[0080] The right buffer amplifier 913 functions as a buffer and outputs a signal having the same potential as the potential input to the + input terminal from the output terminal. The output signal is input to the A / D converter 112 as the right contact state signal 915, converted into a digital signal, and transmitted to the control unit 101.

[0081] Furthermore, the potential of the left electrode 12a is input to the +input terminal of the left non-inverting amplifier 922. The left amplified signal, amplified at the amplification factor defined by the second amplification factor determining resistor 932 and the third amplification factor determining resistor 933, is then output from the output terminal of the left non-inverting amplifier 922 and input to the +terminal of the differential amplifier 94. Meanwhile, a signal having the same potential as the potential input to the +input terminal of the left non-inverting amplifier 922 is input to the +input terminal of the left buffer amplifier 923 via the left non-inverting amplifier 922. In other words, the left non-inverting amplifier 922, like the right non-inverting amplifier 912, functions both as a normal amplifier and as a buffer. It should be noted that the resistance values ​​of the first amplification factor determining resistor 931 and the second amplification factor determining resistor 932 are set to the same value.

[0082] The left buffer amplifier 923 functions as a buffer and outputs a signal having the same potential as the potential input to the + input terminal from the output terminal. The output signal is input to the A / D converter 112 as the left contact state signal 925, converted into a digital signal, and transmitted to the control unit 101.

[0083] It should be noted that the contact state classification unit 113, a functional module of the control unit 101, uses the right contact state signal 915 and the left contact state signal 925, which have been digitally converted by the A / D conversion unit 112, to classify the level of contact between the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a and the skin into four levels: "good contact," "slightly poor contact," "poor contact," and "no contact." The threshold used to classify the digitized signals can be set by the user based on factors such as contact resistance and ECG recording quality. The classified contact state levels are stored in the storage unit 105. As the right contact state signal 915 and the left contact state signal 925 fluctuate over time, the contact state classification changes to reflect these fluctuations. Therefore, information indicating the classified contact state levels is recorded in the storage unit 105 as time-series data.

[0084] The differential amplifier 94 amplifies the difference between the potential of the first right electrode 12b input to its -input terminal, amplified and output by the right non-inverting amplifier 912, and the potential of the left electrode 12a input to its +input terminal, amplified and output by the left non-inverting amplifier 922. Specifically, the differential amplifier 94 is included in the amplifier 102, and the signal output from the differential amplifier 94 is the electrocardiographic signal of the subject being measured. This electrocardiographic signal is further input to the A / D converter 103, and the digitally converted signal is transmitted to the control unit 101, where it is recorded as an electrocardiographic waveform in the storage unit 105.

[0085] (About smartphones)

[0086] The information processing terminal may be, for example, a smartphone 20 having a touch panel display 23. Figure 1 As shown, the smartphone 20 includes functional units such as a control unit 21 , a communication unit 22 , a display unit 231 , an operation unit 232 , a storage unit 24 , a sound output unit 25 , and a vibration unit 26 .

[0087] The control unit 21 is responsible for controlling the smartphone 20 and includes, for example, a CPU. It executes various programs stored in the storage unit 24 to perform corresponding functions. The communication unit 22 includes an antenna for wireless communication and performs the function of communicating with other devices such as the portable electrocardiograph 10 and wireless base stations. Alternatively, a terminal for wired communication may be provided.

[0088] The display unit 231 includes a touch-panel display 23 and displays various information. When a communication connection is established with the portable electrocardiograph 10, as described later, the touch-panel display 23 can display information such as the contact state level after classification sent from the portable electrocardiograph 10. This is an example of a notification unit. Furthermore, the operation unit 232 includes a touch-panel display 23 and accepts various inputs from the user via input images.

[0089] The storage unit 24 is configured to include a long-term storage medium such as a flash memory in addition to a main storage device such as a RAM, and stores various information such as application programs, measured electrocardiographic waveforms, and analysis results.

[0090] The sound output unit 25 includes a speaker (not shown) and can notify the classified contact state level transmitted from the portable electrocardiograph 10 by sound even when communication with the portable electrocardiograph 10 is established as described later.

[0091] The vibration unit 26 includes a vibrator (not shown) and, when communication with the portable electrocardiograph 10 is established as described later, can notify the classified contact state level transmitted from the portable electrocardiograph 10 by vibration (different patterns thereof).

[0092] (Flow of measurement processing in the system)

[0093] The portable electrocardiograph 10 can measure electrocardiograms, analyze the measured data, and display the analysis results on its own. However, its convenience is further enhanced by connecting it to an information processing terminal for communication. The following describes how the portable electrocardiograph 10 is used in a communication connection with a smartphone 20.

[0094] Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the flow of each process and the timing of information transmission between the devices when the portable electrocardiograph 10 and the smartphone 20 cooperate through BLE communication to perform electrocardiogram measurement.

[0095] First, if Figure 4 As shown, when the user operates the power switch 16 of the portable electrocardiograph 10 to turn on the power, the portable electrocardiograph 10 executes a subroutine process for BLE communication ( S101 ). Figure 7 It is a flowchart showing the process of the processing of the subroutine. When the power is set to be on, the control unit 101 of the portable electrocardiograph 10 sends a notification signal for BLE communication from the communication unit 109 (S901). Then, the control unit 101 determines whether a connection request for BLE communication is received from other information processing terminals (S902). Here, when it is determined that the connection request for BLE communication is not received, the same processing is repeated until the processing of BLE communication is canceled by a prescribed time or by the operation of the operating unit 107. On the other hand, in the case where it is determined that a connection request for BLE communication is received, step S903 is entered to establish a BLE connection with the device that sent the connection request. When the BLE communication connection is established, the control unit 101 ends the subroutine. It should be noted that the start trigger of the subroutine is not limited to being based on power on, for example, it can also be based on the operation of the BLE communication button 17.

[0096] Meanwhile, the user sets the smartphone 20 to a state enabling BLE communication with the portable electrocardiograph 10. Specifically, the user operates the touch-panel display 23 and sets the BLE connection setting to ON using a setting menu or the like. Alternatively, the user can set the BLE connection setting to ON by activating a dedicated application for cooperating with the portable electrocardiograph 10.

[0097] Refer again Figure 4 When the BLE connection setting is turned on, the control unit 21 of the smartphone 20 receives a notification signal for BLE communication via the communication unit 22 (S201) and transmits a BLE connection request to the portable electrocardiograph 10 (S202). Then, the control unit 21 establishes a BLE connection with the portable electrocardiograph 10 (S203, corresponding to S903 above) and transmits a communication start request (S204).

[0098] The user holds the portable electrocardiograph 10 with his right hand, places his right index finger in contact with the first right electrode 12b and the second right electrode 12c, and places the left electrode 12a in contact with the skin of the area to be measured, for electrocardiographic measurement. Figure 5 As shown, the portable electrocardiograph 10 detects the contact status of the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a with the skin, and classifies the level of the detected contact status into the four levels mentioned above (S102). After that, the portable electrocardiograph 10 determines whether the BLE connection has been made (S103). Here, when it is determined that the BLE connection has been made, information indicating the level of the electrode contact status (classification completed) is sent to the smartphone 20 (S104), and the information is received in the smartphone 20 (S205). It should be noted that, assuming that it is determined in step S103 that the BLE connection has not been made, the portable electrocardiograph 10 skips the processing of step S104 and enters S105 to perform a determination process on whether the electrode contact status is "good".

[0099] In the smartphone 20 that has received the information on the electrode contact state, information indicating the level of the electrode contact state is displayed on the touch panel display 23 ( S206 ). Figure 8 (A) to Figure 8 (C) shows an example of a display of the touch panel display 23 including information indicating the level of such electrode contact state. Figure 8 (A) to Figure 8 As shown in (C), the screen displays an image simulating a user having an electrocardiogram measured using the portable electrocardiograph 10 with an IV lead, and an electrode contact level display LI, which is an area indicating the level of the electrode contact status, is displayed on the left side of the screen. The electrode contact level display LI has three display segments indicating the contact level of the first right electrode 12b displayed on the upper side, and three display segments indicating the contact level of the left electrode 12a displayed on the lower side.

[0100] The contact level of each electrode is indicated by the number of activated segments in the three display segments. Zero activated segments indicates "no contact," while all three segments indicate "good contact." Note that if only one segment is activated, it indicates "poor contact," while two indicates "slightly poor contact."

[0101] In addition, if Figure 8 As shown in (B), in the electrode contact level display LI, the contact levels of the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a are displayed separately. Figure 8 In the example of (B), the contact level of the first right electrode 12b indicates "poor contact", and the contact level of the left electrode 12a indicates "good contact". Figure 8 In the example of (C), the contact level of any electrode is shown to be "good".

[0102] It should be noted that, in addition to the electrode contact level display LI, the touch panel display 23 may also display information that advises the user to set (maintain) the contact state to a "good" state. Figure 8 When the first right electrode 12b is in a "slightly poor contact" state as shown in (B), the display "Please keep the electrode on the finger side in close contact" can be performed. Figure 8 When the contact state of any electrode is "good" as shown in (C), a display of "Please maintain this state" can be performed.

[0103] Refer again Figure 5 In the process of step S105, the portable electrocardiograph 10 determines whether any of the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a are in a "good" contact state (S105). Here, when it is determined that the contact state of at least any one electrode is not "good", the process proceeds to step S106 to determine whether a prescribed time has passed in this state (S106). Regarding the prescribed time here, a corresponding time (for example, 5 seconds) is set in order to wait for the user to set the contact state of the electrode to a "good" state. In the case of determining in step S106 that the prescribed time has not passed, the portable electrocardiograph 10 returns to step S102 and repeats the subsequent process. On the other hand, in step S106, when it is determined that the prescribed time has passed, the portable electrocardiograph 10 proceeds to step S108.

[0104] On the other hand, in step S105, when it is determined that the contact state of any electrode is "good", the portable electrocardiograph 10 performs a process to determine whether a prescribed time has passed in this state (S107). Regarding the prescribed time here, a corresponding time (for example, 3 seconds) is set in order to determine whether the state in which the contact state of any electrode is "good" is stable rather than temporary. In step S107, if it is determined that the prescribed time has not passed, the portable electrocardiograph 10 returns to step S102 and repeats the subsequent processing. On the other hand, in step S107, if it is determined that the prescribed time has passed, the process proceeds to step S108.

[0105] In step S108, the portable electrocardiograph 10 performs electrocardiographic measurement processing and measures / records the electrocardiographic waveform (S108). Specifically, the electrocardiographic signal output from the differential amplifier 94 and input to the control unit 101 via the A / D conversion unit 103 is stored in the storage unit 105 at any time. In addition, the portable electrocardiograph 10 performs the process of determining whether the BLE connection has been established again (actually in parallel) following step S108 (S109). Here, if it is determined that the BLE connection has been established, Figure 6 As shown, the portable electrocardiograph 10 transmits ECG measurement information, such as the measured ECG waveform, electrode contact status, and the elapsed time from the start of measurement (or the remaining time until the end of measurement), to the smartphone 20 (S110), which then receives this information (S207). Following step S110, the portable electrocardiograph 10 determines whether a predetermined time period (e.g., 30 seconds) for ECG measurement has elapsed (S111). It should be noted that if it is determined in step S109 that a BLE connection has not been established, the portable electrocardiograph 10 skips step S110 and proceeds to step S111.

[0106] In the smartphone 20 that has received the electrocardiographic measurement information, the information is displayed on the touch panel display 23 ( S208 ). Figure 9 (A) to Figure 9 (D) shows an example of a screen displayed on the touch panel display 23 during the execution of the electrocardiogram measurement process. Figure 9 (A) to Figure 9 As shown in (D), when a BLE communication connection is established, the touch panel display displays a number indicating the remaining measurement time (seconds), an electrocardiogram waveform, and an electrode contact level display LI indicating the level of the electrode contact status. Moreover, the display of the seconds is counted down as the measurement time passes, and the display segments arranged in a circle around the seconds are gradually disabled. In addition, the electrode contact level display LI also shows the contact status of the electrode and the skin in real time, as shown in FIG. Figure 9As shown in (C), when the contact state of the electrodes deteriorates, the number of activated segments is reduced, and a message urging correction of the contact state with the electrodes is displayed (Please keep the electrodes on the chest side in close contact). In addition, if the acquired electrocardiogram waveform is disturbed, this will also be reflected in the display of the touch panel display 23.

[0107] The portable electrocardiograph 10 determines in step S111 whether the prescribed time for electrocardiographic measurement has elapsed. If it is determined that it has not elapsed, the process returns to step S108 and repeats the subsequent processing. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S111 that the prescribed measurement time has elapsed, the process of determining whether a BLE connection has been established is executed (S112). If it is determined in step S112 that a BLE connection has not been established, the series of processes is directly terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S112 that a BLE connection has been established, the portable electrocardiograph 10 sends a notification to the smartphone 20 stating that the measurement has been completed (S113).

[0108] The smartphone 20, having received the measurement completion notification, then transmits a BLE communication termination request to the portable electrocardiograph 10 (S209), disconnects the BLE connection (S210), and completes the series of processing on the smartphone 20 side. It should be noted that various information received by the smartphone 20, such as the electrode contact status and ECG waveform data, can be stored in the storage unit 24 for appropriate and effective use. Furthermore, the portable electrocardiograph 10, having received the communication termination request in step S209 from the smartphone 20, disconnects the BLE connection (S114), completing the series of processing.

[0109] As described above, the portable electrocardiograph 10 and biological information measurement system 1 described in this embodiment can automatically detect the contact status between the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a and the skin, and can display the contact status level to the user by grading before and during electrocardiographic measurement. Furthermore, by cooperating with an information processing terminal such as a smartphone 20, not only can the contact status level be displayed, but various information such as recommendations for achieving good electrode contact and electrocardiographic waveform data can also be displayed on the display for viewing. This allows the user to intuitively identify the proper degree of electrode pressure against the skin and obtain electrocardiographic waveforms with good contact and minimal myoelectric noise. Furthermore, data received by the smartphone 20 can be saved and effectively utilized using applications, etc.

[0110] On the other hand, the portable electrocardiograph 10 can independently perform, together with the smartphone 20, measurement and storage of electrocardiographic waveforms, detection, classification, and storage of electrode contact levels, analysis of electrocardiographic waveform data, and display and storage of analysis results. Therefore, even if a communication connection with the smartphone 20 cannot be established, electrocardiographic measurement can be performed at a desired timing.

[0111] (Variation)

[0112] It should be noted that, in the above embodiment, an example is shown in which the contact level between the skin and each electrode is classified into four levels. However, the contact state classification unit 113 may classify the electrode contact level more finely, and may classify it into three levels, which is less than four levels. In addition, the electrode contact level display LI is not limited to the activation of the display area of ​​multiple (divided) display segments, and various display schemes may be adopted. Figure 10 (A) to Figure 10 (C) shows a modified example of such an electrode contact level display LI. Figure 10 The electrode contact level display LI2 shown in (A) shows the electrode contact level for each of the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a by showing the size of the area where the display of the display area is activated on a continuous bar.

[0113] also, Figure 10 The electrode contact level display LI3 shown in (B) is an example of showing the degree of contact with the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a in numerical values ​​(percentage display). Figure 10 The electrode contact level display LI4 shown in (C) is an example of indicating the contact status of the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a using color and transparency, respectively. For example, a display scheme may be employed in which transparency decreases and the color becomes darker as the contact level increases, or a display scheme in which transparency decreases and the color becomes darker as the same contact level continues. When the transparency reaches 0, the contact level is determined.

[0114] It should be noted that in the above-described embodiment, information such as electrode contact status and ECG measurement time and ECG signals (waveform data) can be transmitted and received using different transmission and reception methods. Specifically, information such as electrode contact status and ECG measurement time, which have a relatively small data capacity, can be transmitted and received in a streaming format, while ECG waveform data, which has a large data capacity, can be transmitted and received using high-speed data communication.

[0115] <Implementation Method 2>

[0116] Then, based on Figures 11 to 13 , a second embodiment of the present invention is described. Figure 11 (A) to Figure 11(F) is a diagram showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph 30 according to this embodiment. Figure 11 (A) is a front view showing the front of the main body. Similarly, Figure 11 (B) is the rear view, Figure 11 (C) is the left view, Figure 11 (D) is the right view, Figure 11 (E) is the top view, Figure 11 (F) is a bottom view. In addition, Figure 12 This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the portable electrocardiograph 30. Note that the portable electrocardiograph 30 of this embodiment has most of the same configuration as the portable electrocardiograph 10 of the first embodiment, and therefore, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same configuration, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0117] (Device Configuration)

[0118] The portable electrocardiograph 30 is configured on the premise that it does not communicate with other devices, and in this respect it has a different configuration from the portable electrocardiograph 10. Specifically, Figure 11 As shown in (C), on the left side of the portable electrocardiograph 30, there is no BLE communication button 17 and BLE communication LED 17a, but on the other hand, there is an analysis result notification LED 14. Figure 11 As shown in FIG. 1A , the front of the portable electrocardiograph 30 includes, in addition to the measurement status notification LED 13, a left electrode contact level display LED 31a and a right electrode contact level display LED 31b. Each of these three LEDs indicates the contact level of each electrode to the user by the number of LEDs that light up.

[0119] like Figure 12 As shown, the portable electrocardiograph 30 does not have the communication unit 109 compared to the portable electrocardiograph 10, but has functional units such as a sound output unit 131 and a vibration unit 132. The sound output unit 131 is configured to include a speaker (not shown) and can notify information such as the contact state level classified by the contact state classification unit 113 through sound. In addition, the vibration unit 132 is configured to include a vibrator (not shown) and can notify information such as the contact state level classified by the contact state classification unit 113 through vibration (differentiation of its pattern). In other respects, the electrical circuit configuration, including the electrical circuit configuration for detecting the potential difference between electrodes, is the same as that of the portable electrocardiograph 10.

[0120] (Measurement Process Flow)

[0121] Then, based on Figure 13 The flow of processing when the portable electrocardiograph 30 performs electrocardiographic measurement will be described. Figure 13This is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of electrocardiographic measurement processing performed by the portable electrocardiograph 30 .

[0122] Before taking a measurement, the user first operates the power switch 16 to turn on the portable electrocardiograph 30. The power LED then lights up, indicating that the power is on. The user then holds the portable electrocardiograph 30 with their right hand, places their right index finger in contact with the first right electrode 12b and the second right electrode 12c, and places the left electrode 12a in contact with the skin at the site to be measured. The control unit 101 then detects the contact status of each electrode with the skin via the contact sensor 111 and the A / D converter 112 (S1101).

[0123] Next, the control unit 101 (contact state classification unit 113) classifies the detected contact state into four levels: "good", "slightly poor contact", "poor contact", and "no contact", and notifies the user of the classified contact level (S1102). Specifically, the contact state of the left electrode 12a and the first right electrode 12b is indicated by the number of lit LED display lights of the left electrode contact level display LED 31a and the right electrode contact level display LED 31b. For example, in the case of "no contact", the number of lit lights of any display light is set to 0, in the case of "poor contact", the number of lit lights of the display light is set to 1, in the case of "slightly poor contact", the number of lit lights of the display light is set to 2, and in the case of "good", the number of lit lights of the display light is set to 3.

[0124] Next, the control unit 101 determines whether the contact state of either the first right electrode 12b or the left electrode 12a is "good" (S1103). If it is determined that the contact state of at least one electrode is not "good," the process proceeds to step S1104 to determine whether a predetermined time has elapsed in this state (S1104). The predetermined time here is set to a certain time (e.g., 5 seconds) to wait for the user to set the contact state of the electrode to "good."

[0125] If it is determined in step S1104 that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the control unit 101 returns to step S1011 and repeats the subsequent processing. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1104 that the predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit 101 proceeds to step S1106.

[0126] On the other hand, when it is determined in step S1103 that the contact state of any electrode is "good", the control unit 101 determines whether a prescribed time has passed in this state (S1105). Regarding the prescribed time here, a corresponding time (for example, 3 seconds) is set in order to determine whether the state in which the contact state of any electrode is "good" is stable rather than temporary. When it is determined in step S1105 that the prescribed time has not passed, the control unit 101 returns to step S1101 and repeats the subsequent processing. On the other hand, when it is determined in step S1105 that the prescribed time has passed, the process proceeds to step S1106.

[0127] When performing electrocardiographic measurement, the control unit 101 flashes the measurement status notification LED 13 on the front of the device at a predetermined rhythm to indicate that electrocardiographic measurement is in progress (S1106). Furthermore, the control unit 101 continuously stores the electrocardiographic signal output from the differential amplifier 94 and acquired via the A / D converter 103 in the storage unit 105 (S1107). It should be noted that the classified electrode contact level is also stored in the storage unit along with the electrocardiographic signal. The stored electrocardiographic signal and electrode contact level information are stored in the storage unit 105 in association with the time at which each piece of information was acquired.

[0128] Next, in step S1108, the control unit 101 executes a process to determine whether a predetermined time period (e.g., 30 seconds) for electrocardiogram measurement has elapsed (S1108). If it is determined that the predetermined time period has not elapsed, the process returns to step S1107 and the subsequent processes are repeated. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1108 that the predetermined measurement time period has elapsed, the measurement status notification LED 13 is turned off, and notification of the electrode contact level is terminated (S1109), thereby terminating the series of electrocardiogram measurement processes.

[0129] According to the portable electrocardiograph 30 of this embodiment, even when the electrocardiograph is used alone, the user can be notified of the contact status of the electrodes in a graded manner, and electrocardiographic measurement processing can be performed to record electrocardiographic waveform data. Furthermore, the classified contact status levels are stored along with the electrocardiographic waveform data. Therefore, when the stored electrocardiographic waveform is later displayed on a monitor for verification, the contact status levels of the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a at the time the waveform was sensed can be confirmed simultaneously with the electrocardiographic waveform.

[0130] (Variation)

[0131] It should be noted that while the measurement processing flow in the second embodiment above describes an example in which the contact status of the electrodes with the skin is notified using the left electrode contact level indicator LED 31a and the right electrode contact level indicator LED 31b, the contact status can also be notified using sound or vibration instead of or in addition to these indicators. In this case, if vibration or sound output continues during electrocardiographic measurement, it indicates that there is a problem with the measurement. Therefore, it is also possible to provide notification using sound or vibration only before the measurement process.

[0132] Alternatively, a portable electrocardiograph may be provided that displays various information using a display unit such as a liquid crystal display, instead of using a display unit based on various LED display lights such as the left electrode contact level display LED 31a and the right electrode contact level display LED 31b. In such a case, the notification of the electrode contact level can also be provided using the display scheme described in Embodiment 1 and its variations.

[0133] <Other>

[0134] The descriptions of the above examples are merely illustrative of the present invention and are not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Various modifications and combinations of the present invention are possible within the scope of its technical concept. For example, a communication unit can be provided in the portable electrocardiograph shown in the second embodiment to enable communication with an information processing terminal. In this way, even a single electrocardiograph can notify the user of the contact level, and by cooperating with the information processing terminal, the contact level notification can be made with a more usable solution.

[0135] Furthermore, the communication unit is not limited to BLE communication and may also be an antenna capable of other wireless communications, such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and infrared communication. Furthermore, it may be connected to other information processing terminals via a wired connection. Furthermore, while the present invention has been described above as being applied to a portable electrocardiograph, the present invention can also be applied to non-portable electrocardiographs and to biological information measuring devices other than electrocardiographs.

[0136] Furthermore, the information processing terminal is not limited to a smartphone, and may be other mobile information processing terminals such as a tablet terminal, or may be a fixed-type terminal.

[0137] Description of Reference Numerals

[0138] 1: Biological information measurement system;

[0139] 10, 30: Portable electrocardiograph;

[0140] 13: Measurement status notification LED;

[0141] 14: Analysis result notification LED;

[0142] 15: Battery cover;

[0143] 16: Power switch;

[0144] 16a: Power LED;

[0145] 17: Communication button;

[0146] 17a: BLE communication LED;

[0147] 18: Memory remaining display LED;

[0148] 19: Battery replacement LED;

[0149] 31a: Left electrode contacts the horizontal display LED;

[0150] 31b: right electrode contacts the horizontal display LED;

[0151] 911: right pull-up resistor;

[0152] 912: right non-inverting amplifier;

[0153] 913: right buffer amplifier;

[0154] 915: right contact status signal;

[0155] 921: left pull-up resistor;

[0156] 922: Left non-inverting amplifier;

[0157] 923: Left buffer amplifier;

[0158] 925: left contact status signal;

[0159] 931: The first amplification factor determines the resistance;

[0160] 932: The second amplification factor determines the resistance;

[0161] 933: The third amplification factor determines the resistance;

[0162] 94: differential amplifier;

[0163] 941: ECG signal;

[0164] GND: reference potential;

[0165] V1: power supply potential;

[0166] LI, LI2, LI3, LI4: Electrode contact level display.

Claims

1. A biological information measuring device comprising a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode, wherein the biological information measuring device uses the potential of the third electrode as a reference potential and measures biological information of a measurement subject based on a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode, the biological information measuring device comprising: a first contact signal output unit configured to output a signal related to a contact state of the first electrode with respect to the measurement object based on a potential of the first electrode that varies according to a contact state of the first electrode with the measurement object; a second contact signal output unit configured to output a signal related to a contact state of the second electrode with respect to the measurement object based on a potential of the second electrode that varies according to a contact state of the second electrode with the measurement object; a contact state classification unit that classifies the contact state levels of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object into at least three levels based on the signals output by the first contact signal output unit and the second contact signal output unit; a notification unit configured to notify the respective contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object in a manner that allows identification of the levels classified by the contact state classification unit; and The control unit executes a process of measuring the biological information.

2. The biological information measuring device according to claim 1, wherein The notification unit includes a sound output unit for performing notification by sound.

3. The biological information measuring device according to claim 1, wherein The notification unit includes a vibration unit that performs notification based on vibration.

4. The biological information measuring device according to claim 1, wherein The notification unit includes a display unit that performs notification through display.

5. The biological information measuring device according to claim 4, wherein The notification unit indicates the level by at least one of displaying a numerical value on the display unit, the number of multiple display segments whose display is activated, the size of the area whose display is activated, and the difference in color and transparency of the display area.

6. The biological information measuring device according to claim 1, wherein The notification unit notifies the respective contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object before and / or during measurement processing of the biological information.

7. A biological information measurement system, comprising: A biological information measuring device comprising a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode, wherein the biological information measuring device uses the potential of the third electrode as a reference potential and measures biological information of a measurement object based on a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode; and an information processing terminal, wherein the information processing terminal communicates with the biological information measuring device, wherein in the biological information measuring system, The biological information measuring device comprises: a control unit for executing a process for measuring the biological information; a first contact signal output unit configured to output a signal related to a contact state of the first electrode with respect to the measurement object based on a potential of the first electrode that varies according to a contact state of the first electrode with the measurement object; and The second contact signal output unit outputs a signal related to the contact state of the second electrode with respect to the measurement object based on the potential of the second electrode that varies according to the contact state of the second electrode with respect to the measurement object, and at least one of the biological information measuring device and the information processing terminal includes a contact state classification unit that classifies the contact state levels of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object into at least three levels based on the signals output by the first contact signal output unit and the second contact signal output unit. The information processing terminal includes a notification unit configured to notify the contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object so that the levels classified by the contact state classification unit can be identified.

8. The biological information measuring system according to claim 7, wherein: The notification unit includes a display unit that performs notification through display.

9. The biological information measuring system according to claim 8, wherein The notification unit indicates the level by at least one of displaying a numerical value on the display unit, the number of multiple display segments whose display is activated, the size of the area whose display is activated, and the difference in color and transparency of the display area.

10. The biological information measuring system according to claim 7, wherein The notification unit notifies the respective contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object before and / or during measurement processing of the biological information.

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