Wrist-worn sensor device

Abstract

A wrist-mounted sensor device (500) is provided with: a sensor array (510) having a first sensor array unit (520) disposed on at least a portion of a user's wrist on the palm side of the user, and a second sensor array unit (530) disposed on at least a portion of the user's wrist on the back side of the user; and a processing module (540) that calculates biological information of the user on the basis of the detection results of the sensor array (510).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a wrist-worn sensor device. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, various methods have been proposed for detecting hand movement. Among them, some methods detect hand movement based on wrist pressure detection (e.g., see Patent Documents 1 to 3). For example, Patent Document 3 discloses a technique for capturing the tension of various tendons in the wrist.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-142736

[0006] Patent Document 2: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0045956

[0007] Patent Document 3: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0215768 Summary of the Invention

[0008] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0009] In this technology, it is hoped that various types of information intended by a user to input can be accurately conveyed to a device through detected hand movements (motions). Furthermore, information related to a user's input intentions is contained not only in hand movements but also in the force exerted by the hand. Devices and the like are also desired that can accurately detect biological information about the user, such as hand movements and force.

[0010] The present disclosure provides a wrist-worn sensor device capable of detecting biological information of a user with high accuracy.

[0011] Means for solving problems

[0012] A wrist-worn sensor device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a sensor array having a first sensor array portion and a second sensor array portion, wherein the first sensor array portion is arranged on at least a portion of a palm side of the user's wrist, and the second sensor array portion is arranged on at least a portion of a back side of the user's wrist; and a processing module for calculating the user's biological information based on the detection results of the sensor array.

[0013] Effects of the Invention

[0014] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a wrist-worn sensor device capable of detecting biological information of a user with high accuracy. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor device according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 It is a diagram schematically showing the arrangement of the pressure sensor according to the embodiment.

[0017] Figure 3 It is a diagram schematically showing the arrangement of the pressure sensor according to the embodiment.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a wrist-worn sensor device according to an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 5 It is a diagram showing a specific example of hand movement.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing the processing steps of the wrist-worn sensor according to the embodiment.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor according to Modification 1.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor according to Modification 2.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor according to Modification 3.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor according to Modification 4.

[0025] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor according to Modification 5.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor according to Modification 6.

[0027] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor according to Modification 7.

[0028] Figure 14 This is a block diagram showing the basic configuration of a wrist-worn sensor device according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 15 This is a flowchart showing the basic processing steps of the wrist-worn sensor device according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the embodiment described below represents a specific example of the present disclosure. Therefore, the numerical values, shapes, materials, components, configuration positions of components, and connection methods shown in the following embodiment are examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Therefore, among the components in the following embodiment, the components that are not described in the independent claims are described as arbitrary components.

[0031] In addition, each figure is a schematic diagram and does not necessarily illustrate the exact diagram. In addition, in each figure, the same reference numerals are attached to substantially the same structure, and repeated descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0032] (Implementation Method)

[0033] [structure]

[0034] First, the configuration of the wrist-worn sensor device 10 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0035] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor device 10 according to an embodiment. Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 Schematically shows the configuration of the pressure sensor 130 according to the embodiment. Specifically, Figure 2 : is a diagram schematically showing the arrangement of the pressure sensor 130 on the back of the user's hand when the wrist-worn sensor device 10 is worn on the user's wrist. Specifically, Figure 3 1 is a diagram schematically showing the arrangement of the pressure sensor 130 when the wrist-worn sensor device 10 is worn on the user's wrist and when the user's wrist is viewed in section. Figure 2 and Figure 3 , a portion of the plurality of pressure sensors 130 included in the pressure sensor array 100 is schematically shown. The size and number of the pressure sensors 130 can be arbitrarily set.

[0036] The wrist-worn sensor device 10 detects hand (specifically, finger) movements based on pressure (pressure distribution) detected by a pressure sensor array 100 worn on the wrist. Specifically, the wrist-worn sensor device 10 calculates the angles of specific finger joints and the forces applied to the specific fingers based on the detection results of the pressure sensor array 100.

[0037] Furthermore, the specific finger and the joint of the finger can be selected arbitrarily. In addition, the hand (specifically, the wrist) on which the wrist-worn sensor device 10 is worn can be the right hand or the left hand.

[0038] The pressure sensor array 100 includes a plurality of pressure sensors 130 arranged in a matrix. In this embodiment, the plurality of pressure sensors 130 are arranged separately into an array unit 150 and an array unit 160, which are connected by a telescopic member 170. One of the array units 150 and 160 is an example of a first array unit, and the other is an example of a second array unit.

[0039] The telescopic member 170 is a member that connects the array unit 150 and the array unit 160. The telescopic member 170 can be formed of any material, such as rubber, as long as it is elastic. For example, the telescopic member 170 connects the array unit 150 and the array unit 160 on the back of the hand.

[0040] The user wears the wrist-worn sensor device 10 on their wrist, for example, by engaging the locking member 400 with the locking member 410. The pressure sensor array 100 is disposed on a stretchable member (wearing device) (not shown), such as a wristband. When the wrist-worn sensor device 10 is worn on the wrist, the pressure sensor 130 is pressed against the wrist by the wearing device, thereby detecting pressure corresponding to hand movement.

[0041] In addition, if Figure 3 As shown, the pressure sensor array 100 is disposed on both the palm side and the dorsal side of the wrist. Specifically, the pressure sensors 130 included in the pressure sensor array 100 are disposed on at least a portion of the palm side and at least a portion of the dorsal side of the wrist.

[0042] Furthermore, in this specification, when the wrist-worn sensor device 10 is worn on the user's wrist, the portion of the pressure sensor array 100 located on the palm side of the wrist is referred to as the first pressure sensor array section 110, and the portion located on the back side of the wrist is referred to as the second pressure sensor array section 120. For example, the second pressure sensor array section 120 includes an array section 150 including a plurality of pressure sensors 130 and an array section 160 including a plurality of pressure sensors 130 different from the array section 150. In this case, the wrist-worn sensor device 10 includes a stretchable member 170 that connects the array section 150 and the array section 160.

[0043] In addition, Figure 3 The side of the wrist is omitted in the Figure 3 Although the pressure sensor 130 is not shown in the figure (horizontally on the paper), the pressure sensor 130 can be configured on the side of the wrist or not.

[0044] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the structure of the wrist-worn sensor device 10 according to the embodiment. Figure 4 In FIG, some components of the wrist-worn sensor device 10 , such as the telescopic member 170 , are omitted from illustration.

[0045] The wrist-worn sensor device 10 includes a pressure sensor array 100, a circuit unit 200, and wiring 420. The pressure sensor array 100 and the circuit unit 200 are electrically connected via the wiring 420. Detection results of the pressure sensor array 100 are output to the circuit unit 200 via the wiring 420.

[0046] The pressure sensor array 100 is a sensor array for detecting wrist pressure and includes a plurality of pressure sensors 130 .

[0047] The pressure sensor 130 is a sensor for detecting pressure. Figure 3 As shown, pressure sensor 130 includes an elastic body 300 and electrodes 310 sandwiching elastic body 300. Elastic body 300 is an example of a first elastic body. In pressure sensor 130, elastic body 300 deforms in response to hand movement, causing the resistance between electrodes 310 to change. Pressure is calculated (detected) based on this change.

[0048] The pressure sensor array 100 includes a first pressure sensor array section 110 and a second pressure sensor array section 120 .

[0049] The first pressure sensor array unit 110 is a sensor array disposed on at least a portion of the palm side of the wrist.

[0050] The second pressure sensor array unit 120 is a sensor array disposed on at least a portion of the back of the wrist.

[0051] The first pressure sensor array unit 110 and the second pressure sensor array unit 120 each include a plurality of pressure sensors 130 .

[0052] The pressure sensor 130 included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110 is also referred to as a first pressure sensor. The pressure sensor 130 included in the second pressure sensor array unit 120 is also referred to as a second pressure sensor.

[0053] The circuit unit 200 is a module that performs various processes executed by the wrist-worn sensor device 10. The circuit unit 200 is implemented, for example, by a microcomputer. For example, the circuit unit 200 is implemented by a communication interface for communicating with a server device (not shown), a non-volatile memory for storing programs, a volatile memory as a temporary storage area for executing programs, and a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) for executing programs.

[0054] The circuit unit 200 includes a communication unit 210 , a processing module 220 , a battery 230 , and a connector 240 .

[0055] The communication unit 210 is a communication interface for communicating with an external server device, etc. The communication unit 210 is implemented by, for example, a wireless communication circuit, etc.

[0056] The processing module 220 is a processing unit that executes the processing in the circuit unit 200. The processing module 220 obtains the detection results of the pressure sensor array 100 and calculates the angle of the joint of a specific finger and the force applied to the specific finger based on the detection results of the pressure sensor array 100. For example, the processing module 220 calculates the angle of the joint of the specific finger based on the pressure distribution detected by the second pressure sensor array unit 120, and calculates the force applied to the specific finger based on the calculated angle of the joint of the specific finger and the pressure distribution detected by the first pressure sensor array unit 110.

[0057] Figure 5 : is a diagram showing a specific example of hand movement. Specifically, Figure 5 (a) is a diagram schematically showing the user's arm. Figure 5 (b) is a diagram for explaining the force applied to the user's finger when the user presses the object A with his finger. Figure 5 In the figure, joints are schematically represented by double circles, and bones are schematically represented by thick lines.

[0058] For example, suppose the user moves by an angle θ relative to an axis along the horizontal direction (reference axis) so that the force f θ (N) is applied to object A. Therefore, a force f is applied to the finger θ (N) acts as resistance from object A. The fingers move through the action of the extensor muscles or flexor muscles. For example, when bending the fingers, the flexor muscles contract and deform, and when extending the fingers, the extensor muscles contract and deform. For example, when bending the fingers to press object A, the flexor muscles contract and deform. Figure 5 The shape shown by the dotted line in (b) is deformed into the shape shown by the solid line. Therefore, when the extensor or flexor muscles are active, the detection result of the pressure sensor 130 changes. In other words, the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 130 changes. In addition, in this case, the force f' applied to the flexor side of the finger θ (N) so that the flexor muscles are stretched. Figure 5 In (b), the force f' is expressed by the direction of the force applied by the finger θ (N). By calculating the force f' θ (N) can detect the force applied to the finger, that is, the direction in which the finger is moved. Therefore, even when the angle θ is very small, it is possible to detect how the user moves the finger.

[0059] For example, the processing module 220 calculates the angle of the joint of a specific finger and the force applied to the specific finger based on the correspondence information.

[0060] Correspondence information is information indicating the relationship between the pressure distribution and the angle of the finger joint at the time the pressure distribution is detected. Specifically, for example, processing module 220 calculates the angle of a specific finger joint and the force applied to the specific finger based on the correspondence information indicating the relationship between the pressure distribution and the angle of the finger joint at the time the pressure distribution is detected and the detection results of pressure sensor array 100. For example, while the wrist-worn sensor device 10 is being worn and no force is being applied to the finger, such as when the finger is not pressing an object, the pressure distribution detected by pressure sensor array 100 and the angle of each finger at that time are pre-measured to generate the correspondence information.

[0061] The corresponding information is stored in advance in a memory included in the processing module 220 , for example.

[0062] For example, the processing module 220 transmits the detection results and calculation results of the pressure sensor array 100 to a server device or the like via the communication unit 210 .

[0063] Furthermore, processing module 220 can also determine whether the user's action (finger movement) was intentional or unintentional based on the calculated force applied to the finger. For example, even if the finger angle changes, if there is no force applied to the finger (or if there is very little force applied), the user's action is likely unintentional. Therefore, for example, if the user performs an action such as pressing a button, processing module 220 can determine whether the user pressed the button intentionally or unintentionally based on the force applied to the finger. Processing module 220 can also output this determination result to a server device, etc., via communication unit 210.

[0064] In addition, the processing module 220 may also calibrate the corresponding information when calculating the angle of the joint of a specific finger and the force applied to the specific finger.

[0065] For example, processing module 220 corrects correspondence information based on the pressure at a given location in the pressure distribution detected by pressure sensor array 100. Depending on the situation, the wrist-worn sensor device 10 may be worn on the wrist without the pressure sensor 130 being positioned appropriately. The position of pressure sensor 130 ensures that the same pressure is always detected regardless of the user's hand movements. Therefore, for example, processing module 220 corrects correspondence information based on the position of pressure sensor 130 that detects this pressure.

[0066] The predetermined position is, for example, a joint of the little finger, but may be set arbitrarily.

[0067] In addition, for example, the processing module 220 may also correct the corresponding information based on the motion history of the user equipped with the pressure sensor array 100 .

[0068] For example, when a user repeatedly moves their wrist, the wrist muscles become fatigued. Even if the user moves their wrist in the same manner as when the muscles are not fatigued, the pressure sensor array 100 detects a different pressure than when the muscles are not fatigued. Therefore, for example, the processing module 220 corrects the corresponding information based on information pre-stored in the memory of the processing module 220 indicating the relationship between muscle fatigue (fatigue level) and the detection results of the pressure sensor array 100, and the user's motion history.

[0069] Furthermore, the type of motion history record can be arbitrarily determined. For example, the motion history record may be information indicating the time the user has worn the wrist-worn sensor device 10. The circuit unit 200 may include a timekeeping unit such as an RTC (Real Time Clock) that measures time. Alternatively, the motion history record may be information indicating the angle at which the user moved their finger and / or the force applied to the finger. Alternatively, the motion history record may be information indicating the number of times the user moved their wrist and / or fingers. For example, the processing module 220 determines fatigue based on these motion history records and adjusts the corresponding information based on the determined fatigue level. For example, the longer the user wears the wrist-worn sensor device 10, the greater the fatigue level determined by the processing module 220. Alternatively, for example, the greater the angle at which the user moved their finger and / or the force applied to the finger, the greater the fatigue level determined by the processing module 220. Alternatively, for example, the greater the number of times the user moved their wrist and / or fingers, the greater the fatigue level determined by the processing module 220.

[0070] The processing module 220 is implemented by, for example, a processor and a memory such as a semiconductor memory that stores various information such as a control program executed by the processor and corresponding information.

[0071] The battery 230 is a rechargeable battery for operating the wrist-worn sensor device 10. The wrist-worn sensor device 10 operates by supplying power from the battery 230 to each component of the pressure sensor array 100 and the circuit unit 200.

[0072] Connector 240 is a terminal for charging battery 230. For example, battery 230 is charged by being supplied with electric power from an external commercial power source or the like through connector 240.

[0073] [Processing steps]

[0074] Next, the processing procedure of the wrist-worn sensor device 10 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0075] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the wrist-worn sensor device 10 according to the embodiment.

[0076] First, the processing module 220 obtains the corresponding information ( S110 ). For example, the processor included in the processing module 220 obtains the corresponding information from the memory included in the processing module 220 . The processing module 220 may also obtain the corresponding information and user information from a server device or the like via the communication unit 210 .

[0077] Next, the processing module 220 obtains calibration information (S120). Calibration information may include, for example, information indicating pressure at a given location and / or the user's motion history (e.g., information indicating the user's muscle fatigue, positional deviation of the wrist-worn sensor device 10, or force applied to the wrist-worn sensor device 10 from outside the wrist-worn sensor device 10). For example, the processor included in the processing module 220 obtains calibration information from a memory included in the processing module 220. Alternatively, the processing module 220 may obtain calibration information from a server device, etc., via the communication unit 210. Alternatively, the processing module 220 may obtain, as calibration information, information indicating the time the user has worn the wrist-worn sensor device 10 from a timer, etc.

[0078] Next, the processing module 220 corrects the corresponding information based on the correction information ( S130 ).

[0079] Next, the processing module 220 obtains the detection results from the pressure sensor array 100. Specifically, the processing module 220 obtains the detection results from the dorsal pressure sensor 130, namely, Ax, which is the detection result from the second pressure sensor array unit 120 ( S140 ). Furthermore, the processing module 220 obtains the detection results from the palm pressure sensor 130, namely, By, which is the detection result from the first pressure sensor array unit 110 ( S150 ).

[0080] Next, the processing module 220 calculates θx and θy based on the correspondence information ( S160 ). θx is an angle calculated based on Ax, and θy is an angle calculated based on By.

[0081] Next, the processing module 220 determines the smaller of the calculated θx and θy as the angle θ of the finger ( S170 ).

[0082] Next, the processing module 220 calculates the force f' based on the calculated difference between θx and θy. θ(N) (S180). For example, the processing module 220 calculates the force f' by multiplying the difference between θx and θy by a given coefficient. θ (N). The given coefficient can be determined arbitrarily and is not particularly limited.

[0083] Next, the processing module 220 calculates the force f' θ (N), to infer the user's intention (for example, whether there is an intention to press a button, etc.) (S190).

[0084] Next, the processing module 220 outputs the estimation result of step S190 ( S200 ).

[0085] Furthermore, the processing module 220 may estimate the extension and contraction of the extensor and flexor muscles based on the detection results of the pressure sensor array 100. Furthermore, the correspondence information may be information indicating the correspondence between the extension and contraction of the extensor and flexor muscles and the angle of the joint.

[0086] [Modification]

[0087] Next, a modified example of the wrist-worn sensor device 10 according to the embodiment will be described. The description of this modified example will focus on the differences from the wrist-worn sensor device 10. Components identical to those of the wrist-worn sensor device 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description will be simplified or omitted.

[0088] <Variation 1>

[0089] Figure 7 1 is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor device 11 according to Modification 1.

[0090] The wrist-worn sensor device 11 includes a pressure sensor 131 .

[0091] As described above, for example, the plurality of pressure sensors included in the wrist-worn sensor device 10 may include pressure sensors having elastic bodies with different thicknesses.

[0092] The pressure sensor 131 includes an elastic body 301 that is thicker than the elastic body 300 and electrodes 310 that sandwich the elastic body 301. The elastic body 301 is an example of a first elastic body. For example, the pressure sensor 131 is included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110.

[0093] For example, the first pressure sensor array unit 110 and the second pressure sensor array unit 120 each include a pressure sensor 130 having an elastic body 300 and electrodes 310 sandwiching the elastic body 300. Here, for example, at least one of the multiple pressure sensors 130 included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110 (e.g., pressure sensor 131) includes a thicker elastic body (e.g., elastic body 301) than the multiple pressure sensors 130 included in the second pressure sensor array unit 120. For example, the multiple pressure sensors 130 included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110 include at least one pressure sensor 131. On the other hand, for example, the multiple pressure sensors 130 included in the second pressure sensor array unit 120 do not include a pressure sensor 131.

[0094] Furthermore, the thickness of the elastic body 300 and the thickness of the elastic body 301 may be arbitrary as long as the elastic body 301 is thicker than the elastic body 300 .

[0095] Furthermore, the number of pressure sensors 131 included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110 may be one or more. Furthermore, all pressure sensors included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110 may be pressure sensors 131. That is, the first pressure sensor array unit 110 may include multiple pressure sensors 131, and the second pressure sensor array unit 120 may include multiple pressure sensors 130.

[0096] <Variation 2>

[0097] Figure 8 1 is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor device 12 according to Modification 2.

[0098] The wrist-worn sensor device 12 includes an elastic body 302. Specifically, in addition to the configuration of the wrist-worn sensor device 10, the wrist-worn sensor device 12 further includes an elastic body 302 having a higher elastic modulus than the elastic body 301 on the wrist side of the pressure sensor 130 included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110. The elastic body 302 is an example of a second elastic body.

[0099] Elastic body 302 functions as a so-called pressing element. Elastic body 302 is disposed between the wrist and pressure sensor 130, making contact with each of the wrist and pressure sensor 130. Furthermore, for example, elastic body 302 is configured so that the area of ​​the portion in contact with the wrist is larger than the area of ​​the portion in contact with pressure sensor 130. In other words, elastic body 302 contacts the wrist over a wider area than when pressure sensor 130 is in direct contact with the wrist.

[0100] The material used for the elastic body 302 is, for example, a resin material such as a rubber material, but is not particularly limited as long as it has elasticity.

[0101] <Variation 3>

[0102] Figure 9 1 is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor device 13 according to Modification 3.

[0103] The wrist-worn sensor device 13 includes an elastic body 303 disposed in contact with the plurality of pressure sensors 130. Specifically, in the wrist-worn sensor device 13, the elastic body 303 is disposed so as to contact two or more of the plurality of pressure sensors 130 included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110. That is, unlike the elastic body 302, the plurality of pressure sensors 130 are disposed on the elastic body 303. In other words, the elastic body 303, functioning as a pressing member, overlaps with the plurality of pressure sensors 130.

[0104] The material used for the elastic body 303 is, for example, a resin material such as a rubber material, but is not particularly limited as long as it has elasticity.

[0105] <Variation 4>

[0106] Figure 10 1 is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor device 14 according to Modification 4.

[0107] In the wrist-worn sensor device 14, the multiple pressure sensors 130 included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110 and the multiple pressure sensors 132 included in the second pressure sensor array unit 120 have different sensor pitches. For example, the multiple pressure sensors 130 and 132 included in the wrist-worn sensor device 14 are arranged so that the sensor pitch P2, which represents the spacing between the multiple pressure sensors 132 included in the second pressure sensor array unit 120, is narrower than the sensor pitch P1, which represents the spacing between the multiple pressure sensors 130 included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110.

[0108] Pressure sensor 132 is smaller than pressure sensor 130. For example, when in contact with the wrist, the contact area of ​​pressure sensor 132 is smaller than that of pressure sensor 130. With pressure sensor 132, for example, a larger number of pressure sensors can be arranged within the same area as pressure sensor 130, thereby enabling detection of a finer pressure distribution.

[0109] For example, in the wrist-worn sensor device 14, the first pressure sensor array unit 110 includes a plurality of pressure sensors 130 (first pressure sensors), and the second pressure sensor array unit 120 includes a plurality of pressure sensors 132 (second pressure sensors). The sensor pitch P2 between the plurality of second pressure sensors is narrower than the sensor pitch P1 between the plurality of first pressure sensors.

[0110] Furthermore, the pressure sensor 132 included in the second pressure sensor array unit 120 of the wrist-worn sensor device 14 may also be the pressure sensor 130 .

[0111] <Variation 5>

[0112] Figure 11 1 is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor device 15 according to Modification 5.

[0113] The wrist-worn sensor device 15 includes an elastic body 304. Specifically, the wrist-worn sensor device 15 includes an elastic body 304 that is disposed between the plurality of pressure sensors 130 and has a higher elastic modulus than the elastic body 300. The elastic body 304 is an example of a third elastic body.

[0114] The elastic body 304 is disposed, for example, so as to be in contact with both adjacent pressure sensors 130. Furthermore, for example, the elastic body 304 is disposed so as to be worn on the wrist when the wrist-worn sensor device 15 is worn on the wrist.

[0115] In addition, Figure 11 In the width direction ( Figure 11 Although the pressure sensors 130 are arranged between adjacent pressure sensors 130 in the direction horizontal to the paper (in the horizontal direction of the paper), they may be arranged between adjacent pressure sensors 130 in the direction from the elbow toward the fingertips (in the direction from the wrist toward the fingertips).

[0116] In this modification, the elastic body 304 is disposed between the plurality of pressure sensors 130 included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110 . The elastic body 304 may also be disposed between the plurality of pressure sensors 130 included in the second pressure sensor array unit 120 .

[0117] As described above, in addition to the configuration of the wrist-worn sensor device 10 , the wrist-worn sensor device 15 further includes the elastic body 304 , which is disposed between the plurality of pressure sensors 130 and has a higher elastic modulus than the elastic body 300 .

[0118] The material used for the elastic body 304 is, for example, a resin material such as a rubber material, but is not particularly limited as long as it has elasticity.

[0119] <Variation 6>

[0120] Figure 12 1 is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor device 16 according to Modification 6.

[0121] The wrist-worn sensor device 16 does not have, for example, Figure 1 The telescopic member 170 shown. In addition, the distance between the pressure sensors 130 of the wrist-worn sensor device 16 is in the direction from the wrist toward the fingertips ( Figure 12 The vertical direction of the paper) and the width direction of the wrist ( Figure 12 Specifically, regarding the sensor pitch of the plurality of pressure sensors 130, the sensor pitch P4 in the width direction of the wrist is narrower than the sensor pitch P3 in the direction from the wrist toward the fingertips.

[0122] Thus, in the wrist-worn sensor device 16, the second pressure sensor array unit 120 has a plurality of pressure sensors 130 arranged in a matrix, and the sensor pitch of the plurality of pressure sensors 130 is narrower in the width direction of the wrist than in the direction from the wrist toward the fingertips.

[0123] In addition, regarding the first pressure sensor array unit 110, similar to the second pressure sensor array unit 120, the sensor spacing of the multiple pressure sensors 130 can be narrower in the width direction of the wrist than in the direction from the wrist toward the fingertips, or the sensor spacing can be the same.

[0124] <Variation 7>

[0125] Figure 13 1 is a diagram showing a wrist-worn sensor device 17 according to Modification 7.

[0126] In the wrist-worn sensor device 17 , the first pressure sensor array unit 110 and the second pressure sensor array unit 120 have different sizes of the range in contact with the wrist, in other words, the area where pressure on the wrist is detected.

[0127] In this variation, the first pressure sensor array unit 110 and the second pressure sensor array unit 120 have different numbers of pressure sensors 130. Specifically, in the wrist-worn sensor device 17, the first pressure sensor array unit 110 includes multiple pressure sensors 130, and the second pressure sensor array unit 120 includes multiple pressure sensors 130. The multiple pressure sensors 130 included in the second pressure sensor array unit 120 are distributed more widely toward the fingertips (specifically, in the direction from the wrist toward the fingertips) than the multiple pressure sensors 130 included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110.

[0128] In addition, for example, Figure 13In the example shown, the back of the hand has more pressure sensors 130 on the fingertips. For example, the size of the pressure sensors 130 included in the second pressure sensor array unit 120 (for example, the contact area with the wrist) may be larger than that of the pressure sensors 130 included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110, so that the multiple pressure sensors 130 included in the second pressure sensor array unit 120 are distributed more widely toward the fingertips than the multiple pressure sensors 130 included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110.

[0129] [Effects, etc.]

[0130] Hereinafter, the techniques obtained from the disclosure of this specification will be exemplified, and the effects and the like obtained from the exemplified techniques will be described.

[0131] Technology 1 is a wrist-worn sensor device comprising: a pressure sensor array 100 having a first pressure sensor array portion 110 disposed on at least a portion of the palm side of the wrist and a second pressure sensor array portion 120 disposed on at least a portion of the back side of the wrist; and a processing module 220 for calculating the angle of a joint of a specific finger and the force applied to the specific finger based on the detection results of the pressure sensor array 100.

[0132] The wrist-worn sensor device is, for example, the wrist-worn sensor devices 10 to 17 .

[0133] Specifically, the wrist-worn sensor monitors both the extensor and flexor muscles on the wrist's surface (the palm side) and back (the dorsal side) that move the movable parts (joints) of the fingers. Specifically, the wrist-worn sensor is equipped with pressure sensors corresponding to both the extensor and flexor muscles, detecting changes in pressure in both the extensor and flexor muscles. Using these detection results, it is not only possible to detect the angles of the joints corresponding to finger movements (gestures) but also to distinguish and detect the forces applied to the fingers (in other words, the forces applied by the fingers to objects). Therefore, the wrist-worn sensor device can accurately detect hand (specifically, finger) movements and forces. Information on the force applied to the fingers makes it possible to determine whether even small finger movements were intentional or unintentional. For example, if a user performs an action such as pressing a button, information on the force applied to the finger makes it possible to accurately determine whether the user pressed the button intentionally or unintentionally. Therefore, by calculating the force applied to a specific finger, the wrist-worn sensor device can obtain information used to accurately determine whether the user's action was intentional. For example, the wrist-worn sensor device determines whether the user's action was intentional based on the calculated force applied to the specific finger and outputs the determination result to a server device, etc. via communication unit 210. Based on this determination result, the server device can determine whether, for example, if a button is pressed by the user, the button is treated as pressed and subsequent processing is performed, or whether the button is treated as not pressed and subsequent processing is performed.

[0134] Technology 2 is based on the wrist-worn sensor described in Technology 1, wherein the first pressure sensor array unit 110 and the second pressure sensor array unit 120 respectively have a pressure sensor 130, and the pressure sensor 130 has a first elastomer and an electrode clamping the first elastomer, and at least one of the multiple pressure sensors 130 of the first pressure sensor array unit 110 has a first elastomer that is thicker than the multiple pressure sensors 130 of the second pressure sensor array unit 120.

[0135] The first elastic body is, for example, the elastic body 300 included in the pressure sensor 130 or the elastic body 301 included in the pressure sensor 131. The wrist-worn sensor device referred to here is, for example, the wrist-worn sensor device 11.

[0136] If the thickness of the first elastic body is increased, the range of pressure that can be detected is expanded. On the other hand, if the thickness of the first elastic body is increased, the ability to detect small pressures may be reduced. Here, the tendons on the palm side of the wrist overlap a lot, making it difficult to distinguish the tendons. In addition, the tendons on the palm side of the wrist are easily aligned in the vertical direction (for example, Figure 7(the vertical direction of the paper). Therefore, a pressure sensor with a thick first elastic member (e.g., pressure sensor 131) is placed on the palm side, where the pressure variation is expected to be greater, while a pressure sensor with a thin first elastic member (e.g., pressure sensor 130) is placed on the back side, where the pressure is expected to be relatively smaller. This allows for highly accurate pressure detection based on the position of the pressure sensors.

[0137] Technique 3 is the wrist-worn sensor device described in Technique 2, wherein a second elastic body having a higher elastic modulus than the first elastic body is further provided on the wrist side of the pressure sensor 130 included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110 .

[0138] The second elastic body is, for example, the elastic body 302 or the elastic body 303. The wrist-worn sensor device mentioned here is, for example, the wrist-worn sensor devices 12 and 13.

[0139] In the pressure sensor array 100, it is impossible to detect the pressure applied to the gaps between the multiple pressure sensors 130. Therefore, by providing a second elastic body with a high elastic modulus, i.e., a hard body such as a rigid body, as a so-called pressing member, the pressure applied to the gaps between the multiple pressure sensors 130 is concentrated on the pressure sensors 130. This makes it possible to easily detect pressure across a wide range of the wrist.

[0140] Technique 4 is the wrist-worn sensor device described in Technique 3, wherein the second elastic body is arranged to contact two or more pressure sensors 130 among the plurality of pressure sensors 130 included in the first pressure sensor array unit 110 .

[0141] The second elastic body is, for example, the elastic body 302. The wrist-worn sensor device referred to here is, for example, the wrist-worn sensor device 13.

[0142] That is, the second elastic body, functioning as a pressure member, overlaps with the plurality of pressure sensors 130. This allows the pressure vector to be calculated based on the pressure distribution. Therefore, based on the detection results of the pressure sensor array 100, it is possible to calculate information identifying, for example, which of the overlapping tendons (muscles) contributes to the detected pressure.

[0143] Technology 5 is based on the wrist-worn sensor device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 4, wherein the first pressure sensor array unit 110 has multiple first pressure sensors, the second pressure sensor array unit 120 has multiple second pressure sensors, and the sensor spacing between the multiple second pressure sensors is narrower than the sensor spacing between the multiple first pressure sensors.

[0144] The wrist-worn sensor device mentioned here is, for example, the wrist-worn sensor device 14. The first pressure sensor is, for example, the pressure sensor 130. The second pressure sensor is, for example, the pressure sensor 132.

[0145] The tendons on the back of the hand have less overlap and are distributed in a flat pattern. In addition, the tendons on the back of the hand tend to overlap in a flat pattern (e.g. Figure 10 The second pressure sensor is displaced in the horizontal direction of the paper (in the horizontal direction of the paper). Specifically, since the tendon on the back of the hand moves in a planar manner, the sensor pitch of the second pressure sensor is reduced. This allows for highly accurate detection of tendon movement by detecting information used to accurately determine the presence or absence of the tendon directly below the second pressure sensor.

[0146] Technology 6 is based on the wrist-worn sensor device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 5, wherein the second pressure sensor array unit 120 has multiple pressure sensors 130 arranged in a matrix, and the sensor spacing of the multiple pressure sensors 130 is narrower in the width direction of the wrist than in the direction from the wrist toward the fingertips.

[0147] The wrist-worn sensor device referred to here is, for example, the wrist-worn sensor device 16 .

[0148] For example, with Figure 12 Compared to the fingertip direction shown, the wrist structure varies greatly in the width direction due to the presence or absence of tendons. Therefore, by reducing the pitch of the pressure sensors 130 in the width direction, the movement of each tendon can be easily detected.

[0149] Furthermore, the pressure sensor 130 included in the second pressure sensor array unit 120 may also be the pressure sensor 132 .

[0150] Technology 7 is based on the wrist-worn sensor device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 6, wherein the first pressure sensor array unit 110 has multiple first pressure sensors, and the second pressure sensor array unit 120 has multiple second pressure sensors, and the multiple second pressure sensors are distributed more widely toward the fingertip side than the multiple first pressure sensors.

[0151] The wrist-worn sensor device referred to here is, for example, the wrist-worn sensor device 17 .

[0152] The tendons in the wrist tend to change more significantly as they move toward the fingertips. Therefore, by distributing more pressure sensors on the fingertip side, the movement of the tendons can be detected with high precision. In addition, the muscles inside the hand act to perform two-dimensional finger movements other than flexion and extension, such as opening and closing of the fingers. Such two-dimensional finger movements are detected with high precision by detecting the pressure on the back of the hand. Therefore, by distributing the multiple second pressure sensors of the second pressure sensor array unit more widely toward the fingertips, the movement of the hand can be detected with higher precision.

[0153] Technology 8 is based on the wrist-worn sensor device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 7, wherein the second pressure sensor array unit has: a first array unit, including multiple pressure sensors; and a second array unit, including multiple pressure sensors different from the first array unit, and the wrist-worn sensor device 10 also has: a telescopic member 170, which connects the first array unit and the second array unit and has telescopicity.

[0154] The first array unit is, for example, one of the array unit 150 and the array unit 160 , and the second array unit is the other.

[0155] On the back of the hand, at the fingertips, tendons are dispersed in a flat manner. Therefore, on the back of the hand, it is easy to correctly identify each tendon based on the detection results of the pressure sensor array 100. However, on the back of the hand, the position of the pressure sensor 130 is easily shifted due to the movement of the wrist. Therefore, for example, Figure 1 As shown, the pressure sensor 130 on the back of the hand is separated into two places, and a telescopic member 170 is provided between them, thereby alleviating such positional deviation. Thus, even if the user moves his wrist while wearing the wrist-worn sensor device, the telescopic member 170 can make it difficult for the position of the pressure sensor to deviate from a position suitable for pressure detection. In addition, on the back of the hand, on the finger side closer to the ulnar styloid process, pressure changes are suppressed by the extensor retinaculum, while on the elbow side, pressure changes are easily generated. Therefore, for example, the pressure sensor array 100 is configured so that the pressure on the finger side and the elbow side of the extensor retinaculum can be detected (for example, Figure 1 As shown, pressure sensors 130 are arranged on both the finger side and the elbow side, sandwiching the extensor retinaculum).

[0156] Technology 9 is based on the wrist-worn sensor device described in any one of Technologies 2 to 4, wherein the pressure sensor array 100 has multiple pressure sensors 130, and the wrist-worn sensor device further has: a third elastic body, which is arranged between the multiple pressure sensors 130 and has an elastic modulus higher than that of the first elastic body.

[0157] The third elastic body is, for example, the elastic body 304. The wrist-worn sensor device referred to here is, for example, the wrist-worn sensor device 15.

[0158] The pressure sensor array 100 is placed in close contact with the wrist, for example, by using a wearable device such as a wristband that presses the pressure sensor array 100 against the wrist. The third elastic body equalizes the external force (external force) applied to maintain close contact between the pressure sensor and the skin, thereby reducing the noise component caused by the nonuniformity of the external force included in the pressure distribution detected by the pressure sensor array 100.

[0159] Technology 10 is based on the wrist-worn sensor device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 9, wherein the processing module 220 calculates the angle of the joint of a specific finger based on the pressure distribution detected by the second pressure sensor array unit, and calculates the force applied to the specific finger based on the calculated angle of the joint of the specific finger and the pressure distribution detected by the first pressure sensor array unit.

[0160] Thereby, the angle of the joint of a specific finger and the force applied to the specific finger can be appropriately calculated.

[0161] Technology 11 is based on the wrist-worn sensor device described in any one of Technologies 1 to 10, wherein the processing module 220 calculates the angle of the joint of a specific finger and the force applied to the specific finger based on corresponding information representing the relationship between the pressure distribution and the angle of the finger joint when the pressure distribution is detected, and the detection results of the pressure sensor array 100.

[0162] Thereby, the angle of the joint of a specific finger and the force applied to the specific finger can be appropriately calculated.

[0163] Technique 12 is based on the wrist-worn sensor device described in Technique 11, wherein the processing module 220 corrects the corresponding information based on the pressure at a given position in the pressure distribution detected by the pressure sensor array 100.

[0164] Thus, even if the user moves their wrist while wearing the wrist-worn sensor device and the position of the pressure sensor array 100 shifts from a desired position, the angle of a specific finger joint and the force applied to the specific finger can be calculated with high accuracy.

[0165] Technique 13 is based on the wrist-worn sensor device described in Technique 11 or 12, wherein the processing module 220 corrects the corresponding information based on the motion history of the user equipped with the pressure sensor array 100.

[0166] As a result, even if the user uses the wrist-worn sensor device for a long time, for example, the angle of a specific finger joint and the force applied to the specific finger can be calculated with high accuracy.

[0167] Technique 14 is the wrist-worn sensor device according to any one of Techniques 1 to 13, further comprising: a battery 230 for operating the wrist-worn sensor device; and a connector 240 for charging the battery 230 .

[0168] Thus, battery 230 can be charged from an external commercial power source or the like via connector 240 , and thus the wrist-worn sensor device can be used repeatedly without replacing battery 230 .

[0169] In addition, these general or specific technical solutions can be implemented through systems, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs or non-temporary recording media such as computer-readable CD-ROMs, or through any combination of systems, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs and recording media.

[0170] (Representative example)

[0171] Next, a representative example of a wrist-worn sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0172] [structure]

[0173] Figure 14 This is a block diagram showing the basic configuration of a wrist-worn sensor device 500 according to the embodiment.

[0174] The wrist-worn sensor device 500 includes a sensor array 510 and a processing module 540 .

[0175] Specific examples of wrist-worn sensor device 500 include the aforementioned wrist-worn sensor devices 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17. Furthermore, a specific example of sensor array 510 is the aforementioned pressure sensor array 100. Furthermore, a specific example of processing module 540 is the aforementioned processing module 220.

[0176] The wrist-worn sensor device 500 calculates the user's biological information based on the detection results of the sensor array 510. For example, like the wrist-worn sensor device 10, the wrist-worn sensor device 500 calculates the user's biological information, such as the angle of a specific finger joint and the force applied to the specific finger, based on the detection results such as pressure (pressure distribution) detected by the sensor array 510 worn on the wrist.

[0177] Biometric information refers to information related to the user. Specific examples of biometric information include information indicating at least one of the angle of a specific finger joint and the force applied to the specific finger, information indicating the user's pulse wave and blood pressure related to the user's cardiopulmonary function, information indicating the force exerted by tension related to the user's autonomic nervous system, and information indicating edema related to the function of the user's endocrine system.

[0178] The sensor array 510 is placed on the user's wrist and senses (detects) various types of information. For example, the sensor array 510 detects pressure (pressure distribution) like the pressure sensor array 100 .

[0179] For example, the sensor array 510 includes pressure sensors (eg, the pressure sensors 130 , 131 , 132 described above) that sense pressure.

[0180] Alternatively, instead of detecting pressure, sensor array 510 may detect electromyography, surface displacement, electrical resistance, light transmission, light reflection, vibration, or magnetism. Furthermore, sensor array 510 may detect two or more of pressure, electromyography, surface displacement, electrical resistance, light transmission, light reflection, vibration, and magnetism. For example, sensor array 510 may include multiple sensors (specifically, multiple first sensors and multiple second sensors) that detect these types of information.

[0181] The sensor array 510 includes a first sensor array section 520 and a second sensor array section 530 .

[0182] A specific example of the first sensor array unit 520 is the first pressure sensor array unit 110 . A specific example of the second sensor array unit 530 is the second pressure sensor array unit 120 .

[0183] The first sensor array unit 520 is a sensor array disposed on at least a portion of the user's wrist on the palm side of the user.

[0184] The second sensor array unit 530 is a sensor array disposed on at least a portion of the back of the user's wrist.

[0185] For example, the first sensor array unit includes a plurality of first sensors, and the second sensor array unit includes a plurality of second sensors. Specific examples of the first and second sensors are pressure sensors 130 , 131 , and 132 .

[0186] The first sensor and the second sensor detect pressure, for example, but may also detect myoelectricity, surface displacement, resistance, light transmission, light reflection, vibration, magnetism, or the like.

[0187] The arrangement of the plurality of first sensors and the plurality of second sensors is, for example, the same as that of the pressure sensors 130 , 131 , and 132 described above.

[0188] For example, the sensor spacing of the plurality of second sensors is narrower than the sensor spacing of the plurality of first sensors. In addition, for example, the plurality of second sensors are distributed more widely in the short-side direction of the user's arm than the plurality of first sensors. The short-side direction is, for example, a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the user's arm extends. For example, when looking down at the user's wrist from the back of the hand or the palm side, the short-side direction is a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the user's arm extends. For example, the plurality of second sensors are configured so that the area when viewed from above is larger in the short-side direction of the user's arm than the plurality of first sensors. In addition, for example, the plurality of second sensors are configured so that the number of sensors in the short-side direction of the user's arm is greater than that of the plurality of first sensors. In addition, for example, the plurality of second sensors are distributed more widely toward the fingertips of the user than the plurality of first sensors.

[0189] The processing module 540 is a module that calculates the biological information of the user based on the detection results of the sensor array 510. A specific example of the processing module 540 is the processing module 220. The processing module 540 includes, for example, a processor and a memory, and performs various information processing. For example, the processing module 540 obtains the detection results of the sensor array 510, and calculates the biological information of the user based on the obtained detection results. Specifically, like the processing module 220, the processing module 540 calculates the angle of the joint of a specific finger and the force applied to the specific finger contained in the biological information based on the detection results of the sensor array 510. In addition, for example, the processing module 540 transmits the calculated biological information of the user via the communication unit 210 (for example, referring to Figure 2 ) and other outputs.

[0190] In addition, the wrist-worn sensor device 500 can also have a telescopic member 170, a communication unit 210, a battery 230, a connector 240, elastomers 300, 301, 302, 303, 304, electrodes 310, locking parts 400, 410, wiring 420, etc. like the wrist-worn sensor devices 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17.

[0191] For example, the second sensor array unit 530 may have a first array unit including multiple sensors and a second array unit including multiple sensors different from the first array unit, and the wrist-worn sensor device 500 may also have a telescopic member 170 that connects the first array unit and the second array unit and has telescopic properties.

[0192] [Processing steps]

[0193] Next, a basic processing procedure of the wrist-worn sensor device 500 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0194] Figure 15 This is a flowchart showing a basic processing procedure of the wrist-worn sensor device 500 according to the embodiment. For example, the processor included in the processing module 540 included in the wrist-worn sensor device 500 performs the following processing using a memory.

[0195] First, the processing module 540 obtains the detection result of the sensor array 510 from the sensor array 510 ( S10 ).

[0196] Next, the processing module 540 calculates the user's biological information based on the detection results of the sensor array 510 ( S20 ).

[0197] For example, the processing module 540 transmits the calculated biological information to an external computer or the like via the communication unit 210 or the like.

[0198] [Effects, etc.]

[0199] As described above, the wrist-worn sensor device 500 includes: a sensor array 510, having a first sensor array unit 520 configured on at least a portion of the palm side of the user's wrist and a second sensor array unit 530 configured on at least a portion of the back side of the user's wrist; and a processing module 540, which calculates the user's biological information based on the detection results of the sensor array 510.

[0200] Thus, the wrist-worn sensor device 500 can calculate the user's biological information using the detection results of both the palm side and the back side of the wrist by the sensor array 510. Therefore, the wrist-worn sensor device 500 can detect the user's biological information with higher accuracy than, for example, a device having sensors on only one of the palm side and the back side of the wrist.

[0201] Furthermore, for example, the sensors included in the sensor array 510 may be arranged only on the palm side and the back side of the wrist, and not on the sides of the wrist (both sides in the aforementioned short-side direction of the wrist).

[0202] Thus, the sensor array 510 can efficiently detect information for calculating biological information.

[0203] Furthermore, for example, the sensor array 510 includes pressure sensors 130 , 131 , and 132 that sense pressure, like the pressure sensor array 100 described above.

[0204] For example, the processing module 540 calculates the angle of the joint of a specific finger and the force applied to the specific finger included in the biological information based on the detection results of the sensor array 510 , as in the processing module 220 .

[0205] This makes it possible to detect the user's hand movement and force with high accuracy.

[0206] Furthermore, for example, the first sensor array unit 520 includes a plurality of first sensors, and the second sensor array unit 530 includes a plurality of second sensors, and the plurality of second sensors are distributed more widely in the short side direction of the user's arm than the plurality of first sensors.

[0207] This makes it possible to detect hand movements with higher accuracy.

[0208] In addition, these general or specific technical solutions can be implemented through systems, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs or computer-readable C non-temporary recording media, or through any combination of systems, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs and recording media.

[0209] (Supplementary explanation)

[0210] The following techniques are disclosed through the description of the above embodiments.

[0211] [Technology 1] A wrist-worn sensor device comprises: a sensor array having a first sensor array portion and a second sensor array portion, wherein the first sensor array portion is arranged on at least a portion of the palm side of the user's wrist, and the second sensor array portion is arranged on at least a portion of the back side of the user's wrist; and a processing module for calculating the user's biological information based on the detection results of the sensor array.

[0212] [Technique 2] The wrist-worn sensor device according to Technique 1, wherein the sensor array includes a pressure sensor that senses pressure.

[0213] [Technology 3] A wrist-worn sensor device according to Technology 1 or 2, wherein the processing module calculates the angle of a joint of a specific finger and the force applied to the specific finger contained in the biological information based on the detection results of the sensor array.

[0214] [Technology 4] A wrist-worn sensor device according to any one of Technologies 1 to 3, wherein the first sensor array unit has a plurality of first sensors, the second sensor array unit has a plurality of second sensors, and the sensor pitch of the plurality of second sensors is narrower than the sensor pitch of the plurality of first sensors.

[0215] [Technology 5] A wrist-worn sensor device according to any one of Technologies 1 to 4, wherein the second sensor array unit has a plurality of sensors arranged in a matrix, and the sensor spacing of the plurality of sensors is narrower in the width direction of the user's wrist than in the direction from the user's wrist toward the user's fingertips.

[0216] [Technology 6] A wrist-worn sensor device according to any one of Technologies 1 to 5, wherein the first sensor array unit has a plurality of first sensors, the second sensor array unit has a plurality of second sensors, and the plurality of second sensors are distributed more widely in the short side direction of the user's arm than the plurality of first sensors.

[0217] [Technology 7] A wrist-worn sensor device according to any one of Technologies 1 to 6, wherein the first sensor array unit has a plurality of first sensors, the second sensor array unit has a plurality of second sensors, and the plurality of second sensors are distributed more widely toward the fingertips of the user than the plurality of first sensors.

[0218] [Technology 8] A wrist-worn sensor device according to any one of Technologies 1 to 7, wherein the second sensor array unit has: a first array unit including a plurality of sensors; and a second array unit including a plurality of sensors different from the first array unit, and the wrist-worn sensor device further has: a telescopic member connecting the first array unit and the second array unit and having telescopic properties.

[0219] [Technology 9] A wrist-worn sensor device according to Technology 2, wherein the first sensor array unit and the second sensor array unit respectively have a plurality of the pressure sensors, the pressure sensors have a first elastomer and electrodes clamping the first elastomer, and at least one of the plurality of pressure sensors provided by the first sensor array unit has a first elastomer that is thicker than the plurality of pressure sensors provided by the second sensor array unit.

[0220] [Technology 10] The wrist-worn sensor device according to Technology 9, wherein the pressure sensor provided in the first sensor array unit further includes a second elastic body having an elastic modulus higher than that of the first elastic body on the user's wrist side.

[0221] [Technique 11] In the wrist-worn sensor device according to Technique 10, the second elastic body is configured to be in contact with two or more of the plurality of pressure sensors included in the first sensor array unit.

[0222] [Technology 12] A wrist-worn sensor device according to any one of Technologies 9 to 11, wherein the sensor array includes a plurality of pressure sensors, and the wrist-worn sensor device further includes: a third elastic body, arranged between the plurality of pressure sensors, and having an elastic modulus higher than that of the first elastic body.

[0223] [Technology 13] A wrist-worn sensor device according to any one of Technologies 2, 9 to 12, wherein the processing module calculates the angle of a joint of a specific finger contained in the biological information based on the pressure distribution detected by the second sensor array unit, and calculates the force applied to the specific finger contained in the biological information based on the calculated angle of the joint of the specific finger and the pressure distribution detected by the first sensor array unit.

[0224] [Technology 14] A wrist-worn sensor device according to Technology 13, wherein the processing module calculates the angle of the joint of the specific finger and the force applied to the specific finger based on corresponding information representing the relationship between the pressure distribution and the angle of the finger joint when the pressure distribution is detected, and the detection result of the sensor array.

[0225] [Technology 15] The wrist-worn sensor device according to Technology 14, wherein the processing module corrects the corresponding information based on the pressure at a given position in the pressure distribution detected by the sensor array.

[0226] [Technology 16] The wrist-worn sensor device according to Technology 15, wherein the processing module corrects the corresponding information based on the action history of the user configured with the sensor array.

[0227] (Other implementations, etc.)

[0228] While the embodiments have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. Therefore, the components described in the drawings and detailed descriptions include not only components necessary to solve the problems but also components not necessary to solve the problems for the purpose of illustrating the above-described technology. Therefore, simply because these non-essential components are described in the drawings and detailed descriptions should not be considered essential.

[0229] For example, the wrist-worn sensor device may not include the connector 240. In other words, the wrist-worn sensor device may not be a rechargeable device.

[0230] Furthermore, for example, the structures of the above-described embodiment and modifications 1 to 7 may be implemented in any combination. For example, the wrist-worn sensor device may include elastic members 302 to 304 in any combination, or may include elastic members 302 to 304 and pressure sensor 131, and the spacing between the pressure sensors may be adjusted as in wrist-worn sensor devices 14 and 16. Furthermore, the wrist-worn sensor device may also include any combination of these structures, and the number and arrangement of pressure sensors may be adjusted as in wrist-worn sensor device 17.

[0231] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, each process executed by the processing module 220 can be implemented by a single device or distributed across two or more devices. The order of the processes executed by the processing module 220 can also be changed, and multiple processes can be executed in parallel. For example, the processes of the processing module 220 can also be implemented by a processor configured in a wearable device worn on the wrist and a computer communicating with the processor. For example, the processing module 220 can be configured in a wearable device used to wear the pressure sensor array 100 on the wrist, or it can be configured in a computer that obtains detection results from the pressure sensor array 100 by communicating with a communication module (communication unit 210) configured in the wearable device.

[0232] In the above embodiment, the processing module 220 may be implemented by executing a software program suitable for the processing module 220. The processing module 220 may also be implemented by a program execution unit such as a CPU or a processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or a semiconductor memory.

[0233] Alternatively, the processing module 220 may be implemented in hardware. The processing module 220 may also be a circuit (or integrated circuit). These circuits may constitute a single circuit as a whole, or may be separate circuits. Furthermore, these circuits may be general-purpose circuits or dedicated circuits.

[0234] Furthermore, the overall or specific technical solutions of the present disclosure may also be implemented by systems, devices, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs, or non-transitory recording media such as computer-readable CD-ROMs. Furthermore, they may also be implemented by any combination of systems, devices, methods, integrated circuits, computer programs, and recording media.

[0235] For example, the present disclosure may be implemented as a calculation method executed by a computer. For example, the present disclosure may be implemented as the following calculation method: detection results of a pressure sensor array including a first pressure sensor array portion disposed on at least a portion of the palm side of the wrist and a second pressure sensor array portion disposed on at least a portion of the dorsal side of the wrist are obtained, and the angle of a specific finger joint and the force applied to the specific finger are calculated based on the obtained detection results.

[0236] Furthermore, the present disclosure may be implemented as a program for causing a computer to execute the calculation method, or as a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium having such a program recorded thereon.

[0237] Furthermore, the present disclosure also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications that would be conceived by those skilled in the art to the embodiments, or forms achieved by arbitrarily combining the components and functions in the embodiments without departing from the gist of the present disclosure.

[0238] Industrial applicability

[0239] The present disclosure is useful as a sensor device that includes a pressure sensor and is worn on a wrist.

[0240] Description of Reference Signs

[0241] 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 500 wrist-worn sensor devices

[0242] 100 pressure sensor array

[0243] 110 first pressure sensor array unit

[0244] 120 second pressure sensor array unit

[0245] 130, 131, 132 pressure sensors

[0246] 150, 160 array unit

[0247] 170 Telescopic components

[0248] 200 circuit units

[0249] 210 Ministry of Communications

[0250] 220 processing module

[0251] 230 batteries

[0252] 240 connector

[0253] 300, 301, 302, 303, 304 elastomers

[0254] 310 electrode

[0255] 400, 410 locking parts

[0256] 420 Wiring

[0257] 510 sensor array

[0258] 520 first sensor array unit

[0259] 530 Second sensor array unit

[0260] 540 processing module.

Claims

1. A wrist-worn sensor device comprising: a sensor array having a first sensor array portion and a second sensor array portion, wherein the first sensor array portion is arranged on at least a portion of a user's wrist on a palm side of the user, and the second sensor array portion is arranged on at least a portion of a user's wrist on a back side of the user's hand; and The processing module calculates the biological information of the user based on the detection results of the sensor array.

2. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The sensor array includes a pressure sensor that senses pressure.

3. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The processing module calculates the angle of a joint of a specific finger and the force applied to the specific finger included in the biological information based on the detection result of the sensor array.

4. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The first sensor array unit has a plurality of first sensors. The second sensor array unit has a plurality of second sensors. A sensor pitch of the plurality of second sensors is narrower than a sensor pitch of the plurality of first sensors.

5. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 1, wherein The second sensor array unit has a plurality of sensors arranged in a matrix. The sensor pitch of the plurality of sensors is narrower in a width direction of the user's wrist than in a direction from the user's wrist toward the user's fingertips.

6. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The first sensor array unit has a plurality of first sensors. The second sensor array unit has a plurality of second sensors. The plurality of second sensors are distributed more widely in a short-side direction of the user's arm than the plurality of first sensors.

7. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The first sensor array unit has a plurality of first sensors. The second sensor array unit has a plurality of second sensors. The plurality of second sensors are distributed more widely toward the fingertips of the user than the plurality of first sensors.

8. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The second sensor array unit has: a first array portion comprising a plurality of sensors; and The second array portion includes a plurality of sensors different from those of the first array portion, The wrist-worn sensor device further comprises: The telescopic member connects the first array portion and the second array portion and has telescopic properties.

9. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 2, wherein: The first sensor array unit and the second sensor array unit each include a plurality of the pressure sensors, each of which includes a first elastic body and electrodes sandwiching the first elastic body. At least one of the plurality of pressure sensors included in the first sensor array unit includes the first elastic body which is thicker than the plurality of pressure sensors included in the second sensor array unit.

10. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 9, wherein: The pressure sensor included in the first sensor array unit further includes a second elastic body having an elastic modulus higher than that of the first elastic body on the user's wrist side.

11. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 10, wherein: The second elastic body is arranged so as to be in contact with two or more of the plurality of pressure sensors included in the first sensor array unit.

12. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 9, wherein: The sensor array includes a plurality of the pressure sensors. The wrist-worn sensor device further comprises: The third elastic body is arranged between the plurality of pressure sensors and has an elastic modulus higher than that of the first elastic body.

13. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 2, wherein: The processing module performs the following processing: Based on the pressure distribution detected by the second sensor array unit, the angle of the joint of the specific finger included in the biological information is calculated, The force applied to the specific finger included in the biological information is calculated based on the calculated angle of the joint of the specific finger and the pressure distribution detected by the first sensor array unit.

14. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 13, wherein: The processing module calculates the angle of the joint of the specific finger and the force applied to the specific finger based on the corresponding information representing the relationship between the pressure distribution and the angle of the joint of the finger when the pressure distribution is detected, and the detection result of the sensor array.

15. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 14, wherein: The processing module corrects the correspondence information based on a pressure at a given position in the pressure distribution detected by the sensor array.

16. The wrist-worn sensor device according to claim 15, wherein: The processing module corrects the corresponding information based on a motion history of the user equipped with the sensor array.

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