Blood pressure information measuring device cuff and blood pressure information measuring device equipped therewith

Abstract

Blood pressure information measuring device cuff, which has: a fluid bellows (34) for applying pressure to a body part; a band-shaped outer cover (30) including a first main surface (31) and a second main surface (32) facing the body part by being wrapped around the body part in a circular shape, which includes the fluid bladder (34) on an end portion (30a) of the outer cover (30); a first guide member (36) provided closer to the one end portion (30a) of the outer cover (30) than the position in which the fluid bellows (34) is provided, which includes a portion formed in a circular shape, to pass through and fold back another end portion (30b) of the outer cover (30); and a second guide member (38) provided on the first main surface (31) of the outer cover (30), which includes a portion formed in a circular shape to pass through the other end portion (30b) of the outer cover (30) passed through the first guide member (36).

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to blood pressure information measuring device cuffs which are used while being worn on a measuring surface when measuring blood pressure information such as a blood pressure value, and to blood pressure information measuring devices equipped with such cuffs. Background of the state of the art

[0002] Blood pressure information measuring devices receive blood pressure information from a subject. The blood pressure information obtained by such blood pressure information measuring devices includes various types of information related to the circulatory system, such as a systolic blood pressure value (a maximum blood pressure value), a diastolic blood pressure value (a minimum blood pressure value), an average blood pressure value, a sphygmogram, a pulse, an AI (augmentation index) value, and the like of the subject. The load on the heart, changes in arterial hardness, and the like can be understood based on this blood pressure information. A blood pressure information measuring device is used in the early detection, prevention, treatment, and so on of conditions of the circulatory system.

[0003] Generally, a blood pressure information measuring device cuff (hereinafter referred to simply as "cuff") is used for measuring blood pressure information (see JP H05-39504U Patent Literature 1). The cuff includes a fluid bladder for applying pressure to a body part (an artery). The cuff is a band-shaped member having an internal cavity and can be wrapped around a part of a body part, such as an upper arm.

[0004] In a blood pressure information measuring device used to measure blood pressure values such as a systolic blood pressure value or a diastolic blood pressure value (hereinafter simply referred to as a "blood pressure monitor"), the cuff is wrapped around the surface of a part of the body. A fluid such as air, a liquid, or the like is injected into or discharged from the fluid bladder enclosed in the cuff. The fluid bladder is filled by injecting a fluid into the fluid bladder. On the other hand, the fluid bladder is deflated by expelling the fluid from the fluid bladder. Changes in pressure within the fluid bladder, which are generated when the fluid bladder is filled or deflated, are recorded as an arterial sphygmogram or a blood pressure value.

[0005] A typical boot includes an air bladder serving as a fluid bladder and a band-shaped outer cover. The outer cover contains the air bladder. A surface fastening member is provided on the surface of the outer cover. A loop-shaped ring is attached to one end of the outer cover in the longitudinal direction thereof. The boot is formed into a ring shape by passing the other end of the outer cover through the loop-shaped ring and folding back this other end of the outer cover.

[0006] The measuring surface is then inserted into the surface of the outer cover, which has been formed into a ring shape. The cuff is then wrapped around the measuring surface. The outer cover is pulled down onto the measuring surface and secured in a fixed state by the surface attachment member. As a result of this fixed state, the air bladder is anchored to the measuring surface. The cuff and a blood pressure monitor equipped with it are capable of measuring blood pressure information.

[0007] Occasionally, with a typical cuff, it's easy to rotate the outer cover in the circumferential direction when the outer cover is tightened to the measuring surface. If the outer cover rotates circumferentially, it's necessary to rotate the outer cover in the opposite direction to the original rotation and then tighten the outer cover back down to achieve the desired tightened state of the cuff. Typically, the rotation in the circumferential direction and the rotation in the opposite direction to that rotation are repeated many times.

[0008] Since the rotation in the circumferential direction and the rotation in the direction opposite to the circumferential direction are repeated many times, it becomes difficult to recreate a predetermined tightened state for the cuff, for example, when measuring blood pressure on a day-to-day basis. As a result, variations occur in the measured values obtained from day-to-day measurements, making it difficult to measure blood pressure information accurately and stably. Citation listPatent literature

[0009] Patent Literature 1: JP H05-39504U

[0010] US 2008 / 0 119 744 A1 describes a cuff structure for blood pressure monitors or sphygmomanometers. The invention comprises a cuff wrapped around an inflatable airbag, with three consecutive adhesive surfaces. These adhesive surfaces consist of different materials arranged to ensure secure adhesion when the cuff is wrapped around a user's arm. Furthermore, the cuff includes a retaining ring, which serves to adjust the cuff to the diameter of the arm being wrapped. Summary of the inventionTechnical problem

[0011] It is an object of the present invention to provide a blood pressure information measuring device cuff which, when fastened around a measuring surface, can repeatedly and easily restore the same fastened state, and a blood pressure information measuring device incorporating such a cuff. Solution to the problem

[0012] A blood pressure information measuring device cuff according to the present invention includes: a fluid bladder, an outer cover, a first guide member, and a second guide member. The fluid bladder pressurizes a body part. The outer cover is band-shaped. The outer cover contains the fluid bladder on one end portion thereof. The outer cover has a first main surface and a second main surface. The second main surface faces the body part by wrapping around the body part in a circular shape. The first guide member is closer to the one end portion side of the outer cover than the position at which the fluid bladder is provided. The first guide member has a portion formed in a circular shape to pass through another end portion of the outer cover and be folded back.The second guide member is provided on the first main surface of the outer cover. The second guide member has a portion formed in a circular shape to pass through the outer end portion of the outer cover guided by the first guide member.

[0013] In a blood pressure information measuring device cuff based on another aspect of the invention, the outer cover is anchored to the body part in a state in which an area of the surface of the body part in which the distance to an artery within the body part is the shortest and the fluid bladder are disposed opposite to each other.

[0014] In a blood pressure information measuring device cuff based on another aspect of the invention, the body part is an upper arm, and the second guide member is provided on the first main surface placed toward the triceps of the upper arm when the blood pressure information measuring device cuff is anchored to the upper arm.

[0015] In a blood pressure information measuring device cuff based on another aspect of the invention, the body part is one of the upper arms, and the second guide member is provided on the first main surface placed toward the other upper arm when the blood pressure information measuring device cuff is anchored to the upper arm.

[0016] A blood pressure information measuring device cuff based on another aspect of the invention further includes a fastening member. The fastening member is provided on the first main surface. The fastening member is positioned between the second guide member and the first guide member, and is closer to the second guide member in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover when the outer cover is in an unrolled state.

[0017] A blood pressure information measuring device cuff based on another aspect of the invention further includes a third guide member. The third guide member is provided on the first main surface. The third guide member is positioned between the second guide member and the first guide member in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover when the outer cover is in an unrolled state. The other end portion, which has been passed through the second guide member, is guided by the third guide member.

[0018] In a blood pressure information measuring device cuff based on another aspect of the invention, the other end portion which has been passed through the third guide member is folded back in the third guide member and is then passed through the second guide member again.

[0019] A blood pressure information measuring device cuff based on another aspect of the invention further includes a third guide member. The third guide member is provided on the first main surface. The third guide member is placed between the second guide member and the other end portion in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover when the outer cover is in an unrolled state. The outer end portion guided by the second guide member is guided by the third guide member after being returned to the second guide member.

[0020] A blood pressure information measuring device based on the present invention includes one of the listed blood pressure information measuring device cuffs, an inflating / deflating mechanism that inflates / deflates the fluid bladder, and a blood pressure information acquiring unit that acquires the blood pressure information. Advantageous effects of the invention

[0021] According to the present invention, it is possible to achieve a blood pressure information measuring device cuff capable of repeatedly restoring the same attached state with ease when the cuff is attached to a measuring surface, and a blood pressure information measuring device equipped with such a cuff. Short description of the drawings Fig. 1 is a drawing showing the overall configuration of a blood pressure monitor according to a first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cuff according to the first embodiment. Fig. 3 is a drawing illustrating the cuff according to the first embodiment attached to an upper arm (a left arm). Fig. 4 is a functional block diagram illustrating the blood pressure monitor according to the first embodiment. Fig. 5 is a drawing illustrating the process flow performed by the blood pressure monitor according to the first embodiment. Fig. 6 is a first cross-sectional view illustrating the attachment of the cuff according to the first embodiment to an upper arm over time. Fig. 7 is a second cross-sectional view illustrating the attachment of the cuff according to the first embodiment to an upper arm over time. Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cuff according to a first variation of the first embodiment. Fig. 9 is a partial perspective view illustrating a cuff according to a second variation of the first embodiment. Fig. 10 is a partial perspective view illustrating a cuff according to a third variation of the first embodiment. Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cuff according to a second embodiment. Fig. 12 is a plan view showing the cuff according to the second embodiment in an unrolled state. Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cuff according to a variation of the second embodiment. Fig. 14 is a plan view showing the cuff according to the variation of the second embodiment in an unrolled state. Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cuff according to a third embodiment. Fig. 16 is a plan view showing the cuff according to the third embodiment in an unrolled state. Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a cuff according to a fourth embodiment. Fig. 18 is a plan view showing the cuff according to the fourth embodiment in an unrolled state. Fig. 19 is a first cross-sectional view illustrating the attachment of a cuff according to a comparative example to an upper arm over time. Fig. 20 is a second cross-sectional view illustrating the attachment of a second cuff according to the comparative example to an upper arm over time. Fig. 21 is a third cross-sectional view illustrating the attachment of a cuff according to the comparative example to an upper arm over time. Description of the embodiments

[0022] A blood pressure information measuring device cuff and a blood pressure information measuring device equipped therewith according to embodiments of the present invention will be described hereinafter with reference to the drawings.

[0023] In the following embodiments, a sphygmomanometer cuff used by wrapping it around an upper arm will be described as an example of the blood pressure information measuring device cuff. A sphygmomanometer capable of measuring blood pressure values such as a systolic blood pressure value and a diastolic blood pressure value using the sphygmomanometer cuff will be described as an example of the blood pressure information measuring device equipped with the blood pressure information measuring device cuff.

[0024] When discussing numbers, amounts, etc. in the following embodiment, it should be noted that, unless expressly stated otherwise, the scope of the present invention is not necessarily limited to these numbers, amounts, etc. In the embodiment described below, identical and corresponding components may be designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof may be omitted. First embodiment

[0025] A blood pressure monitor 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to 7. Blood pressure monitor configuration 1

[0026] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the blood pressure monitor 1 includes a main body 10, a cuff 20A, and an air tube 80. The main body 10 is a box-shaped case. A display unit 12 and an operation unit 15 are provided in the upper surface of the main body 10. During measurement, the main body 10 is used by placing it on a table or the like.

[0027] The cuff 20A includes: an outer cover 30; an air bellows 34 (see Fig. 2) contained within the outer cover 30 as a fluid bellows; a surface fastening member 41 (a fastening member); a surface fastening member 42; a first loop-shaped ring 36 (first guide member); and a second loop-shaped ring 38 (second guide member).

[0028] The outer cover 30 has a front surface 31 (first main surface), a rear surface 32 (second main surface), an end portion 30a and another end portion 30b.

[0029] The outer cover 30 is configured as a bellows-shaped member in which a member configuring the front surface 31 and a member configuring the rear surface 32 are overlapped, and the outer edges thereof are joined together (e.g., sewn, fused, or the like). The cuff 20A is arranged so that the rear surface 32 of the outer cover 30 and a body part, such as an upper arm, face each other.

[0030] Preferably, a member capable of sufficiently stretching is used as the member configuring the side of the rear surfaces 32 of the outer cover 30 so that the pressurizing force applied to the upper arm by the inflation of the air bladder 34 is not hindered.

[0031] A member less capable of stretching than the member configuring the rear surface 32 side of the outer cover 30 is used as the member configuring the front surface 31 side of the outer cover 30. Accordingly, a material configured from synthetic fibers such as polyamide (PA), polyester, or the like, whose stretchability can be relatively easily adjusted, is used as the member configuring the front surface 31 side of the outer cover 30.

[0032] As in Fig. 2, the air bladder 34 is connected to the air hose 80. The air bladder 34 is connected to the air hose 80 contained within the outer cover 30. The air bladder 34 is configured from a bag-shaped member and has a space therein which can be inflated and deflated, or from which air can be released. Preferably, the air bladder 34 is configured using plastic films. The air bladder 34 may be formed into a bag shape, for example, by superimposing two plastic films and welding the edges thereof together.

[0033] Any material can be used for the plastic sheets that configure the air bellows 34, as long as the material is stretchable and there are no leaks for filling / deflating the space after welding is performed. Preferably, the material for the plastic sheets that configure the air bellows 34 is ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), soft polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), natural rubber (NR), or the like.

[0034] An artery 71 runs through the interior of an upper arm 70. On the surface of the upper arm 70, a surface 70a is defined in which a distance L71 between the surface of the upper arm 70 and the artery 71 is the shortest. It is preferable for the outer cover 30 to be anchored to the upper arm 70 in a state where the fixed surface 70a and the air bladder 34 are arranged to oppose each other. Furthermore, it is preferable for the outer cover 30 to be anchored to the upper arm in a state where the fixed surface 70a and a position 34c located at approximately the center of the air bladder 34 are arranged to oppose each other.

[0035] Returning to Fig. 1, the air tube 80 connects the main body 10, which is separately configured, to the air bladder 34 contained within the cuff 20A. The air bladder 34 is inflated as a result of fluid being injected therein from the main body 10 via the air tube 80. The air bladder 34 deflates as a result of fluid being expelled through the air tube 80. By inflating and deflating, the air bladder 34 can apply pressure to a body part such as the upper arm (not shown). It is preferable, when the outer cover 30 (the cuff 20A) is anchored to the upper arm 70, that the air tube 80 be provided in a position placed toward the biceps surface of the upper arm (the upper surface in the drawing).

[0036] The surface fixing member 41 is provided on the front surface 31 of the outer cover 30 in a nearly rectangular shape. The surface fixing member 41 is provided at a predetermined location which is between the one end portion 30a and the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 in the longitudinal direction thereof.

[0037] Returning to Fig. 2, it is preferable that the surface fastening member 41 is disposed between the second loop-shaped ring 38 (details will be given later) and the first loop-shaped ring 36 toward the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover 30 when the outer cover 30 is in an unrolled state. It is further preferable that the surface fastening member 41 is provided at a position between the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the first loop-shaped ring 36, which is adjacent, in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover 30 when the outer cover 30 is in an unrolled state, to a fastening cover 33a for fastening the second loop-shaped ring 38.

[0038] The surface fastening member 42, similar to the surface fastening member 41, is provided on the front surface 31 of the outer cover 30. The surface fastening member 42 is provided toward the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30. The surface fastening member 41 and the surface fastening member 42 are capable of mutually engaging with each other.

[0039] As in Fig. 1, the surface fixing member 42 is provided in a partial manner on the front surface 31 of the outer cover 30. In other words, the surface fixing member 42 and the member configuring the front surface 31 side of the outer cover 30 are configured from separate members. Instead of providing the surface fixing member as a separate member on the front surface 31, the entirety of a member configuring the front surface 31 side of the outer cover 30 may serve as a member engageable with the surface fixing member 41. It is further preferable that only the member specifically configuring the other side of the end portion 30b of the front surface 31 side of the outer cover 30 serves as a member engageable with the surface fixing member 41.

[0040] The first loop-shaped ring 36 is fixed near one end portion 30a of the outer cover 30. The first loop-shaped ring 36 has an insertion opening 36a into which a portion of the outer cover 30 on the other side of the end portion 30b thereof can be inserted. It is preferable that the first loop-shaped ring 36 be configured from a member that does not easily generate friction with the outer cover 30, such as a metallic member.

[0041] The first loop-shaped ring 36 is fixed to the outer cover 30 by first passing a portion of the outer cover 30 on the one end portion 30a thereof through the insertion opening 36a of the first loop-shaped ring 36 and then folding back and then joining the portion of the outer cover 30 on the one side of the end portion 30a thereof.

[0042] The outer cover 30 is formed into a ring shape by passing the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 through the insertion opening 36a of the first loop-shaped ring 36. The portion of the outer cover 30 on the other end portion 30b side thereof is passed through the insertion opening 36a and is then folded back, central to the first loop-shaped ring 36, along the circumferential direction of the insertion opening 36a in the outer cover 30.

[0043] The second loop-shaped ring 38 is fixed to the front surface 31 of the outer cover 30. The second loop-shaped ring 38 has an insertion opening 38a into which both a portion of the outer cover 30 on the other end portion 30b side thereof and the fixing cover 30a can be inserted. Similar to the first loop-shaped ring 36, it is preferable that the second loop-shaped ring 38 be configured from a member that does not easily create friction with the outer cover 30, such as a metallic member.

[0044] The fixing cover 33a is joined to the front surface 31 of the outer cover 30, which has been passed through the insertion hole 38a of the second loop-shaped ring 38. The second loop-shaped ring 38 is fixed to the front surface 31 of the outer cover 30 by being sandwiched between the fixing cover 33a and the outer cover 30.

[0045] With reference to Fig. 2, it is preferable that the second loop-shaped ring 38 is provided on the area of the front surface 31 which is positioned on the right side of the upper arm (the right side in Fig. 2) when the cuff 20A is anchored on the left upper arm 70. It is further preferable that the second loop-shaped ring 38 is provided on the area of the front surface 31 which is on the right side of the upper arm (the right side in Fig. 2) when the cuff 20A is anchored to the left upper arm 70. It is further preferable that the second loop-shaped ring 38 be provided on the area of the front surface 31 which is positioned furthest to the right side of the upper arm when the cuff 20A is anchored to the left upper arm 70.

[0046] The second loop-shaped ring 38 may be provided in a position in which the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the air bellows 34 overlap (ie, shifted longitudinally) when viewed from above, or may be provided in a position in which there is no overlap.

[0047] The other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30, which has been inserted into the first loop-shaped ring 36 and folded back, is superimposed along the outer side (the side of the front surfaces 31) of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in the circular shape. The other end portion 30b is inserted into the insertion opening 38a of the second loop-shaped ring 38 and is discharged toward the outer side of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in the circular shape.

[0048] With reference to Fig. 3, when measuring a blood pressure value using the sphygmomanometer 1 configured as described so far, for example, the left upper arm 70 of the subject is inserted into the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape. The other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is pulled in the direction indicated by an arrow AR1 by the subject's right hand (not shown). The outer cover 30 is then secured to the upper arm 70.

[0049] The surface attachment member 41 and the surface attachment member 42 are secured to each other by overlapping, thereby holding the outer cover 30 on the upper arm 70 in a secured state. The air bladder contained in the outer cover 30 is thus anchored to the upper arm 70, and blood pressure information can then be measured. Functional blocks of the blood pressure monitor 1

[0050] The functional blocks of the blood pressure monitor 1 are described with reference to Fig. 4. The main body 10 of the blood pressure monitor 1 includes, in addition to the aforementioned display unit 12 and the operation unit 15, a control unit 11, a storage unit 13, a power supply unit 14, a pressure pump 16a, an outlet valve 16b, a pressure sensor 16c, a pressure pump drive circuit 17a, an outlet valve drive circuit 17b, and an oscillation circuit 17c.

[0051] The pressure pump 16a, the outlet valve 16b, and the pressure sensor 16c correspond to an air system component 16 of the blood pressure monitor 1. The pressure pump 16a and the outlet valve 16b correspond to an inflation / deflation mechanism in the blood pressure monitor 1 for inflating and deflating the air bladder 34.

[0052] The air bladder 34 has an inflation / deflation chamber serving as a cavity inside it, as described above. The air bladder 34 is connected to the pressure pump 16a, the discharge valve 16b, and the pressure sensor 16c via the air hose 80, respectively.

[0053] The control unit 11 is configured, for example, with a CPU (central processing unit). The control unit 11 controls the entire blood pressure monitor. The display unit 12 is configured, for example, with an LCD (liquid crystal display). The display unit 12 displays the measurement results and the like.

[0054] The storage unit 13 is configured from a processing memory 13a and a data memory 13b. Using the processing memory 13a and the data memory 13b, the storage unit 13 stores programs for causing the control unit 11 to execute the blood pressure measurement processes, stores the measurement results, and the like.

[0055] The power supply unit 14 supplies electricity as a power source to the control unit 11. The operation unit 15 is configured with a power switch 15a, a measurement switch 15b, a stop switch 15c, and a recording call switch 15d. The operation unit 15 accepts operations of the switches 15a to 15d from a measurement operator or the like and inputs commands from the outside to the control unit 11 or the power supply unit 14.

[0056] The control unit 11 inputs control signals for driving the pressure pump 16a and the discharge valve 16b to the pressure pump drive circuit 17a and the discharge valve drive circuit 17b, respectively. The control unit 11 inputs a blood pressure value, which serves as a measurement result, to the storage unit 13 or the display unit 12.

[0057] The control unit 11 includes a blood pressure information acquisition unit (not shown) that acquires a blood pressure value of the subject based on a pressure value detected by the pressure sensor 16c. The blood pressure value acquired by the blood pressure information acquisition unit is input to the aforementioned storage unit 13 or the display unit 12 as a measurement result.

[0058] The blood pressure monitor 1 may also include a separate output unit that outputs a blood pressure value to an external device (e.g., a PC (personal computer), a printer, or the like) as the measurement result. For example, a serial communication line, a device that writes to various types of recording media, or the like may be used as the output unit.

[0059] The inflation / deflation operations performed by the pressure pump 16a are controlled by the pressure pump drive circuit 17a based on the control signal input from the control unit 11. The pressure pump 16a increases the pressure within the air bladder 34 (hereinafter referred to as "cuff pressure") by supplying a fluid such as air to the inner cavity of the air bladder 34.

[0060] The opening / closing operations of the exhaust valve 16b are controlled by the exhaust valve drive circuit 17b based on the control signal input from the control unit 11. The exhaust valve 16b maintains the cuff pressure, relieves the cuff pressure by opening the inner cavity of the air bladder 34 to the outside, and so on.

[0061] The pressure sensor 16c inputs an output signal based on the pressure within the air bladder 34 to the oscillation circuit 17c. The oscillation circuit 17c generates an oscillation frequency signal corresponding to the signal input from the pressure sensor 16c and inputs the generated signal to the control unit 11. Processing flow of the blood pressure monitor 1

[0062] A processing flow executed by the blood pressure monitor 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5. A program following the flow of processing performed by the blood pressure monitor 1 is previously stored in the storage unit 13. The processing of the blood pressure monitor 1 is executed by the control unit 11 by reading the program from the storage unit 13 and executing the program.

[0063] When measuring a blood pressure value, the person taking the blood pressure first attaches the cuff 20A to his or her upper arm. In this state, the person taking the blood pressure first manipulates the operation unit 15 (the power switch 15a) provided in the main body 10 and turns on the blood pressure monitor 1 (step ST1).

[0064] Electricity serving as a power source is supplied from the power supply unit 14 to the control unit 11, thereby operating the control unit 11. The control unit 11 then initializes the storage unit 13 (step ST2). Next, the control unit 11 initializes the pressure sensor 16c (step ST3).

[0065] The control unit 11 is then ready for an instruction to start the measurement from the measurement operator. As an instruction to start the measurement, the measurement operator manipulates the control unit 15 (the measurement switch 15b) (step ST4). The control unit 11 closes the outlet valve 16b and drives the pressure pump 16a. Inflation of the air bladder 34 is started (step ST5).

[0066] The cuff pressure in the air bladder 34 increases. The cuff pressure in the air bladder 34 then becomes greater than or equal to a predetermined cuff pressure required for blood pressure measurement (step ST6). The control unit then stops the pressure pump 16a and opens the outlet valve 16b, which was closed. The air within the air bladder 34 is released, and the air bladder 34 gradually begins to deflate (step ST7).

[0067] The blood pressure monitor 1 measures the blood pressure while the cuff pressure gradually decreases. The blood pressure monitor 1 calculates a blood pressure value, such as a systolic blood pressure value, a diastolic blood pressure value, or the like, using the control unit 11 (step ST8).

[0068] The control unit 11 extracts the sphygmogram information based on an oscillation frequency obtained from the oscillation circuit 17c while the cuff pressure of the air bladder 34 gradually decreases. The control unit 11 determines the blood pressure value based on the extracted sphygmogram information (step ST9).

[0069] Once the blood pressure value is determined, the control unit 11 opens the air bladder 34 and completely releases the air from within the air bladder 34 (step ST10). The control unit 11 then displays the blood pressure value, which serves as a measurement result, on the display unit 12 (step ST11). The control unit 11 then stores the blood pressure value in the storage unit 13 and records this value as data (step ST12).

[0070] The measuring person then operates the operation unit 15 (the power switch 15a) provided in the main body 10 and turns off the blood pressure monitor 1. By turning off the blood pressure monitor 1, the operations thereof end (step ST13).

[0071] The measurement method described so far is known as an air discharge measurement method, which detects a sphygmogram while the air is discharged from the air bladder 34. However, the measurement method for the blood pressure monitor 1 is not limited to the air discharge measurement method, and what is known as an inflation measurement method, which detects a sphygmogram while the air bladder 34 is inflated, can also be applied. Actions and effects

[0072] Actions and effects of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 described. Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 are cross-sectional views illustrating the fastening (the fastening process) of the blood pressure monitor cuff 20A according to the present embodiment to the upper arm 70 over time. The state shown in Fig. 6, proceeds to the state shown in Fig. 7 is shown. In the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, the air bellows 34 is not shown. In actuality, the air bellows 34 is arranged in the manner shown in Fig. 2 is shown.

[0073] As in Fig. 6, in the cuff 20A, for example, the left upper arm 70 of the subject is inserted into the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape. After the upper arm 70 is inserted, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is grasped with the right hand. The grasped other end portion 30b is then pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1. Since the second loop-shaped ring 38 is provided on the front surface 31 in a position placed toward the right upper arm side (the right side in the drawings), the subject can easily pull the other end portion 30b using his or her right hand.

[0074] When the other end portion 30b is pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1, the second loop-shaped ring 38 is also pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1 by the other end portion 30b side of the outer cover 30. A gap H is formed between the upper arm 70 and the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape toward the side in which the second loop-shaped ring 38 is provided.

[0075] To achieve a desired tightened state of the cuff 20A, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is pulled with the right hand in the direction indicated by arrow AR1. The diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 is formed in a circular shape, which gradually decreases. The gap H also gradually decreases.

[0076] When the diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape gradually decreases, the portion on the side of the outer cover 30 to be inserted into the first loop-shaped ring 36 (the side toward the lower side in the drawings) slides against the surface of the upper arm 70 (toward the left in the drawings), making contact with the upper arm 70.

[0077] As a result, the portion of the outer cover 30 on the side where the second loop-shaped ring 38 is provided (which is substantially the right half of the outer cover 30 in the drawings) is pulled toward the first loop-shaped ring 36 and attempts to rotate in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the clockwise direction). A force attempting to rotate the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the clockwise direction) acts on the second loop-shaped ring 38.

[0078] Here, as described above, a force attempting to rotate the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the direction indicated by arrow AR1 also acts on the second loop-shaped ring 38. This force acts to continually position the second loop-shaped ring 38 on the rightmost side of the upper arm 70. This force acts in the direction indicated by arrow A2 (the counterclockwise direction), reactively, counter to the force attempting to rotate the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the clockwise direction).

[0079] In other words, two forces act on the second loop-shaped ring 38: the force that tends to rotate the second loop-shaped ring 38 clockwise, and the force that reacts against this force counterclockwise. These forces cancel each other out, and thus, the circumferential position of the second loop-shaped ring 38 relative to the upper arm 70 undergoes almost no change. Accordingly, the diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape can be reduced, and the circumferential position of the second loop-shaped ring 38 relative to the upper arm 70 undergoes almost no change.

[0080] As in Fig. 7, the outer cover 30 and the upper arm 70 can come into tight contact with each other, thus substantially eliminating the gap H. This completes the securing of the cuff 20A to the upper arm 70.

[0081] Here, the second loop-shaped ring 38 is provided on the front surface 31 of the outer cover 30. The first loop-shaped ring 36 is passed through the insertion opening 38a of the second loop-shaped ring 38, and the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30, which has been folded back, is passed through the first loop-shaped ring 36. The portion of the outer cover 30 in which the fixing cover 33a is provided is continuous with the portion of the outer cover 30 containing the air bladder 34. As a result, the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the air bladder 34 move with respect to each other (i.e., in tandem) in the circumferential direction.

[0082] As described above, the position of the second loop-shaped ring 38 relative to the upper arm 70 undergoes virtually no change between before and after the outer cover 30 is secured to the upper arm 70. Therefore, the position of the air bladder 34 relative to the upper arm 70 also undergoes virtually no change between before and after the outer cover 30 is secured to the upper arm 70.

[0083] As initially described, the rotation in the circumferential direction and the rotation in the opposite direction of this rotation are not repeated from the time the sphygmomanometer cuff 20A is secured until the time after the sphygmomanometer cuff 20A is secured. Even when the cuff 20A is secured to the upper arm 70 on a daily basis, the second loop-shaped ring 38 is repeatedly disposed in almost the same position near the rightmost side of the upper arm 70 due to the design. Accordingly, the air bladder 34 can be repeatedly disposed in almost the same position due to the design. This makes it possible to repeatedly restore a predetermined tightened state for the cuff 20A.

[0084] According to the cuff 20A and the blood pressure monitor 1 provided therewith, the occurrence of measurement errors caused by shifts in the attachment position is reduced, which makes it possible to measure the blood pressure information in an accurate and stable manner without variations in the measured values occurring.

[0085] As in Fig. 2, and as described above, it is preferable that the surface fastening member 41 be positioned between the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the first loop-shaped ring 36 and toward the second loop-shaped ring 38. With this configuration, the surface fastening member 41 is positioned more toward the one end portion 30a of the outer cover 30 than the second loop-shaped ring 38. The surface fastening member 41 and the surface fastening member 42 are thus able to mesh with each other with ease. First variation of a first embodiment

[0086] A cuff 20Aa according to a first variation of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. The second loop-shaped ring 38 may be provided on a surface of the front surface 31 which is positioned on the triceps 72 side of the upper arm (ie, the lower side in the drawings) when the cuff 20Aa is anchored to the upper arm.

[0087] For example, in the cuff 20Aa, the left upper arm 70 of the subject is inserted into the circular-shaped portion of the outer cover 30. After the upper arm 70 is inserted, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is grasped with the right hand. The other grasped portion 30b is then pulled in the direction indicated by an arrow AR1a.

[0088] When the other end portion 30b is pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1a, the second loop-shaped ring 38 is also pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1a by the other end portion 39b side of the outer cover 30.

[0089] When the diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape gradually decreases, the portion on the side of the outer cover 30 to be inserted into the first loop-shaped ring 36 (the side toward the left in the drawings) slides against the surface of the upper arm 70 (upward in the drawings) while making contact with the upper arm 70.

[0090] As a result, the portion of the outer cover 30 on the side where the second loop-shaped ring 38 is provided (which is essentially the lower half of the outer cover 30 in the drawings) is pulled toward the first loop-shaped ring 36 and attempts to rotate in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the clockwise direction). A force attempting to rotate the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the clockwise direction) acts on the second loop-shaped ring 38.

[0091] Here, as described above, a force attempting to rotate the second looped ring 38 in the direction indicated by arrow AR1a also acts on the second looped ring 38. This force acts to continuously position the second looped ring 38 furthest toward the triceps 72 side of the upper arm 70. This force reactively acts in the direction indicated by arrow A2 (the counterclockwise direction) against the force attempting to rotate the second looped ring 38 in the direction indicated by arrow A1a (the clockwise direction).

[0092] In other words, two forces act on the second loop-shaped ring 38: the force that tends to rotate the second loop-shaped ring in the clockwise direction, and the force that reacts against that force in the counterclockwise direction. These forces cancel each other out, and thus, the circumferential position of the second loop-shaped ring 38 relative to the upper arm 70 undergoes almost no change. Accordingly, the diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape can be reduced, while the circumferential position of the second loop-shaped ring 38 relative to the upper arm undergoes almost no change.

[0093] As in the aforementioned first embodiment, the portion of the outer cover 30 in which the fixing cover 33a is provided is continuous with the portion of the outer cover 30 containing the air bladder 34. The position of the air bladder 34 relative to the upper arm 70 also undergoes almost no change between before and after the outer cover 30 is secured to the upper arm 70.

[0094] As described above, the rotation in the circumferential direction and the rotation in the opposite direction to this rotation are not repeated before and after the sphygmomanometer cuff 20Aa is secured. This allows the cuff 20Aa to be repeatedly restored to a predetermined tightened state.

[0095] According to the cuff 20Aa and the blood pressure monitor 1 equipped therewith, the occurrence of measurement errors caused by shifts in the attachment position is reduced, which makes it possible to measure the blood pressure information in an accurate and stable manner without variations occurring in the measured values. Second variation of a first embodiment

[0096] As in Fig. 1, the cuff 20A in the first embodiment includes the outer cover 30, the air bellows 34 (see Fig. 2), the surface fastening member 41 and the surface fastening member 42, the first loop-shaped ring 36 (first guide member) and the second loop-shaped ring 38 (second guide member).

[0097] Meanwhile, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, a cuff 20Ab according to a second variation of the first embodiment differs from the cuff 20A according to the first embodiment in that the surface fastening members 41 and 42 are not provided. The cuff 20Ab includes an anchoring member 50 serving as the second guide member. The outer cover 30 is held in a secured state by the anchoring member 50.

[0098] The anchoring member 50 includes a support frame 52, a first rolling member 54, a second rolling member 56, and a predetermined engagement device (details of which will be given later). The anchoring member 50 is attached to the front surface 31 of the outer cover 30. Specifically, the support frame 52 of the anchoring member 50 is attached to the front surface 31 of the outer cover 30.

[0099] The support frame 52 is formed by performing a pressing process on both ends of, for example, a metallic plate-shaped member. The support frame 52 has sidewall portions 52a and 52a on both sides thereof in the longitudinal direction (the direction following the width direction of the cuff 20Ab). An oval-shaped shaft support hole 52a1 is provided on each sidewall portion 52a. Furthermore, a circular shaft support hole 52b1 is provided on each sidewall portion 52a.

[0100] The first rolling member 54 is provided so as to extend along the width direction of the cuff 20Ab. Each end of the first rolling member 54 is inserted into a respective shaft support hole 52a1. The first rolling member 54 is supported in a rotatable state by the side wall portions 52a (the shaft support holes 52a1) in the support frame 52.

[0101] The second rolling member 56 is provided similarly to the first rolling member 54 so as to extend along the width direction of the cuff 20Ab. Each end of the second rolling member 56 is inserted into a respective shaft support hole 52b1. The second rolling member 56 is supported in a rotatable state by the side wall portions 52a (the shaft support holes 52b1).

[0102] The side of the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 can be passed through an insertion opening defined by the side wall portions 52a and 52a of the support frame 52, the first rolling member 54 and the second rolling member 56.

[0103] The other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30, which has been passed through the first loop-shaped ring 36 (see Fig. 1) is superimposed along the outer side (the front surface 31 side) of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape. The other end portion 30b is interposed between the first rolling member 54 and the second rolling member 56 and is guided outward toward the outer side of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in the circular shape.

[0104] The outer cover 30 is secured to the base part by the other end part portion 30b of the outer cover 30 being pulled in the direction away from the anchoring member 50.

[0105] It is preferable that the engagement means for holding the outer cover 30 in a secured state against the base be configured, for example, so as to bias the first rolling member 54 toward the second rolling member 56. Alternatively, the engagement means may be configured so that the first rolling member 54 can only rotate in the direction indicated by an arrow AR54 and the second rolling member 56 can only rotate in the direction indicated by an arrow AR56.

[0106] By employing the anchoring member 50 as the engaging means, the anchoring member 50 holds the outer cover 30 in a secured state against the base member.

[0107] According to the sleeve 20Ab, it is not necessary to provide the surface fastening members.

[0108] As initially described, the rotation in the circumferential direction and the rotation in the opposite direction to this rotation are not repeated as such before and after the sphygmomanometer cuff 20Ab is secured. Even when the cuff 20Ab is secured to the upper arm on a daily basis, the anchoring member 50 is repeatedly disposed at almost the same position near the rightmost side of the upper arm due to the design. Thus, the air bladder 34 can be repeatedly disposed in almost the same position due to the design. This makes it possible to repeatedly restore a predetermined tightened state for the cuff 20Ab.

[0109] According to the cuff 20Ab and a blood pressure monitor equipped with it, the occurrence of measurement errors caused by shifting in the attachment position is reduced, which makes it possible to measure the blood pressure information in an accurate and stable manner, without variations occurring in the measured values. Third variation of the first embodiment

[0110] A cuff 20Ac according to a third variation on the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Here, the differences between the cuff 20Ac and the cuff 20Ab according to the second variation of the first embodiment will be described.

[0111] The sleeve 20Ac includes an anchoring member 50a, which serves as the second guide member. The anchoring member 50a includes the second rolling member 56. The anchoring member 50a does not include the first rolling member 54 (see Fig. 9).

[0112] The other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30, which has been passed through the first loop-shaped ring 36 (see Fig. 1) is superimposed along the outer side (the front surface 31 side) of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape. The other end portion 30b is interposed between the second rolling member 56 and the support frame 52 and is guided toward the outer side of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape.

[0113] The outer cover 30 is secured to the base portion 30b of the outer cover 30 while being pulled in the direction away from the anchor member 50a.

[0114] It is preferable that the configuration be such that the second rolling member 56 can only rotate in the direction indicated by arrow AR56 to keep the outer cover 30 secured against the base. The collar 20Ac may, as in the aforementioned first embodiment, include a surface fastening member (not shown) as the engaging means.

[0115] According to the cuff 20Ac and also a blood pressure monitor equipped with it, the occurrence of measurement errors caused by shifts in the fastening position is reduced, which makes it possible to measure the blood pressure information in an accurate and stable manner without the occurrence of changes in the measured values. Second embodiment

[0116] A blood pressure monitor according to a second embodiment is described with reference to Fig. 11 and Fig. 12. Only the differences from the first embodiment are described here. The difference between the first embodiment and the present embodiment is that a cuff 20B further includes a third loop-shaped ring 39. In Fig. 12, the air bellows 34 is not shown. In actuality, the air bellows 34, as shown in Fig. 11, contained within the outer cover 30. The same applies to the Fig. 14, Fig. 16 and Fig. 18, which will be described later.

[0117] The third loop-shaped ring 39 is fixed to the front surface 31 of the outer cover 30. The third loop-shaped ring 39 is configured in substantially the same manner as the second loop-shaped ring 38. Specifically, the third loop-shaped ring 39 includes a portion on the side of the outer end part 30b of the outer cover 30 and an insertion opening through which a fixing cover 33b can be passed. It is preferable that the third loop-shaped ring 39 be configured from a member that does not easily generate friction with the outer cover 30, such as a metallic member.

[0118] The fixing cover 33b is joined to the front surface 31 of the outer cover 30, which has been passed through the insertion hole of the third loop-shaped ring. The third loop-shaped ring 39 is fixed to the front surface 31 of the outer cover 30 by being sandwiched between the fixing cover 33b and the outer cover 30.

[0119] As in Fig. 12, the third loop-shaped ring 39 is placed between the first loop-shaped ring 36 and the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover 30 when the outer cover 30 is in an unrolled state.

[0120] As in Fig. As shown in Fig. 11, the outer end portion 30b of the outer cover 30, which is guided by the first loop-shaped ring 36, is superimposed along the outer side (the front surface 31 side) of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape. The outer end portion 30b is guided by the insertion opening 38a of the second loop-shaped ring 38.

[0121] The other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30, which is passed through the insertion opening 38a of the second loop-shaped ring 38, is superimposed along the outer side (the side of the front surface 31) of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape. The outer end portion 30b is passed through the insertion opening of the third loop-shaped ring 39 and is guided outward toward the outer side of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in the circular shape. Actions and effects

[0122] In the cuff 30B, for example, the left upper arm 70 of the subject is inserted into the circular-shaped portion of the outer cover 30. After the upper arm 70 is inserted, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is grasped with the right hand (not shown). The grasped other end portion 30b is then pulled in the direction indicated by arrow AR1.

[0123] When the other end portion 30b is pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1, the third loop-shaped ring 39 is also pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1 by the other end portion 30b side of the outer cover 30.

[0124] To achieve a desired tightened state for the cuff 20B, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is pulled with the right hand in the direction indicated by arrow AR1. The diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape gradually decreases.

[0125] The portion of the outer cover 30 on the side where the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39 are provided (which is substantially the right half of the outer cover 30 in the drawings) is pulled toward the first loop-shaped ring 36 and attempts to rotate in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (clockwise direction). A force attempting to rotate the third loop-shaped ring 39 in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (clockwise direction) acts on the third loop-shaped ring 39.

[0126] Here, as described above, a force attempting to rotate the third loop-shaped ring 39 in the direction indicated by arrow AR1 also acts on the third loop-shaped ring 39. This force acts to continuously position the third loop-shaped ring 39 on the rightmost side of the upper arm 70. This force reactively acts in the direction indicated by arrow A2 (the counterclockwise direction) against the force attempting to rotate the third loop-shaped ring 39 in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the clockwise direction).

[0127] In other words, two forces act on the third loop-shaped ring 39: the force that tends to rotate the third loop-shaped ring 39 clockwise, and the force that reacts against that force counterclockwise. These forces cancel each other out, and thus, the circumferential position of the third loop-shaped ring 39 relative to the upper arm undergoes almost no change. Accordingly, the diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape can be reduced, and the circumferential position of the third loop-shaped ring 39 relative to the upper arm 70 undergoes almost no change.

[0128] The outer cover 30 and the upper arm 70 come into firm contact with each other, thus completing the securing of the cuff 20B to the upper arm 70.

[0129] Here, the third loop-shaped ring 39 is placed between the first loop-shaped ring 36 and the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the longitudinal direction. The portion of the outer cover 30 in which the fixing cover 33b is provided is continuous with the portion of the outer cover 30 containing the air bellows 34. As a result, the third loop-shaped ring 39 and the air bellows 34 move relative to each other (i.e., in tandem) in the circumferential direction.

[0130] As described above, the position of the third loop-shaped ring 39 relative to the upper arm 70 undergoes almost no change between before and after the outer cover 30 is secured to the upper arm 70. Therefore, the position of the air bladder 34 relative to the upper arm 70 also undergoes almost no change between before and after the outer cover 30 is secured to the upper arm 70.

[0131] As initially described, the rotation in the circumferential direction and the rotation in the opposite direction to this rotation are not repeated before and after the sphygmomanometer cuff 20B is secured. Even when the cuff 20B is secured to the upper arm 70 on a daily basis, the third loop-shaped ring 39 is repeatedly disposed in almost the same position near the rightmost side of the upper arm 70 due to the design. The air bladder 34 can also be repeatedly disposed in almost the same position due to the design, which makes it possible to repeatedly restore a predetermined tightened state for the cuff 20B.

[0132] According to the cuff 20B and a blood pressure monitor equipped therewith, the occurrence of measurement errors caused by shifts in the attachment position is reduced, which makes it possible to measure blood pressure information in an accurate and stable manner without variations in the measured values occurring. Variation on the second embodiment

[0133] A blood pressure monitor according to a variation of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 13 and Fig. 14. Only the differences from the second embodiment are described here.

[0134] As in Fig. As shown in Fig. 13, the difference between the second embodiment and the present variation lies in the other end portion 30b passed through the third loop-shaped ring 39, which is passed once again through the second loop-shaped ring 38 after being folded back into the third loop-shaped ring 39. The other end portion 30b is passed through the insertion opening of the second loop-shaped ring 38 and is guided outward toward the outer side of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in the circular shape.

[0135] As in Fig. 14, as in the cuff 20B according to the aforementioned second embodiment, the third loop-shaped ring 39 is placed between the first loop-shaped ring 36 and the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover 30 when the outer cover 30 is in an unrolled state. Actions and effects

[0136] In the cuff 20Ba according to the present variation, the left upper arm 70 of the subject, for example, is inserted into the circular-shaped portion of the outer cover 30. After the upper arm is inserted, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is grasped with the right hand (not shown). The grasped other end portion 30b is then pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1.

[0137] When the other end portion 30b is pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1, the second loop-shaped ring 38 is also pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1 by the other end portion 30b side of the outer cover 30.

[0138] To achieve a desired tightened state for the cuff 20Ba, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is pulled with the right hand in the direction indicated by arrow AR1. The diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed into a circular shape gradually decreases.

[0139] The portion of the outer cover 30 on the side on which the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39 are provided (which is substantially the right half of the outer cover 30 in the drawings) is pulled toward the first loop-shaped ring 36 and tries to rotate in the direction indicated by the arrow A1 (the clockwise direction).

[0140] Here, as described above, a force attempting to rotate the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the direction indicated by arrow A1 also acts on the second loop-shaped ring 38. This force acts to continuously position the second loop-shaped ring 38 on the rightmost side of the upper arm 70. This force acts reactively against the force attempting to rotate the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39 in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the clockwise direction).

[0141] In other words, two forces act on the second looped ring 38 and the third looped ring 39: the force that tends to rotate the rings in the clockwise direction, and the force that reacts against that force in the counterclockwise direction. These forces cancel each other out, and thus the circumferential positions of the second looped ring 38 and the third looped ring 39 relative to the upper arm 70 undergo virtually no change.

[0142] Accordingly, the first loop-shaped ring 36 is gradually pulled in the direction indicated by arrow A2. The diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape gradually decreases. The diameter of the portion of the outer cover formed in a circular shape can be reduced, and the circumferential position of the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39 relative to the upper arm 70 undergoes almost no change.

[0143] After the other end portion 30b, which is passed through the third loop-shaped ring 39, is folded back into the third loop-shaped ring 39, the other end portion 30b is again passed through the second loop-shaped ring 38. The outer cover 30 is doubly passed through the second loop-shaped ring 38 and is folded back into the third loop-shaped ring 39. According to this configuration, the outer cover 30 can be held in a secured state against the upper arm 70 even when an engaging device, e.g., a surface fastening member, is not used.

[0144] Note that a so-called coiler-shaped elastic member 40 may be provided between the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39 in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover 30 when the outer cover 30 is in an unrolled state. The elastic member 40 is anchored to a surface of the outer cover 30 positioned between the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39. The elastic member 40 may be covered with an anchor cover (not shown) or the like. The elastic member 40 maintains a constant gap between the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39. By providing the elastic member 40, the outer cover 30 can be easily secured to the upper arm 70. Third embodiment

[0145] A blood pressure monitor according to a third embodiment is described with reference to Fig. 15 and Fig. 16. Only the differences from the second embodiment will be described here. The difference between the second embodiment and the present invention lies in the location where the third loop-shaped ring 39 is attached.

[0146] As in Fig. 16, the third loop-shaped ring 39 is placed between the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover 30 when the outer cover 30 is in an unrolled state.

[0147] As in Fig. As shown in Fig. 15, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30, which is guided by the first loop-shaped ring 36, is superimposed along the outer side (the front surface 42 side) of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape. The other end portion 30b is guided through the insertion opening of the third loop-shaped ring 39.

[0148] The other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30, which is inserted into the insertion opening of the third loop-shaped ring 39, is superimposed along the outer side (the front surface 31 side) of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in the circular shape. The other end portion 30b is inserted into the insertion opening 38a of the second loop-shaped ring 38 and is directed outward toward the outer side of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in the circular shape. Actions and effects

[0149] For example, in the cuff 20C, the left upper arm 70 of the subject is inserted into the circular-shaped portion of the outer cover 30. After the upper arm 70 is inserted, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is grasped with the right hand (not shown). The grasped other end portion 30b is then pulled in the direction indicated by arrow AR1.

[0150] When the other end portion 30b is pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1, the second loop-shaped ring 38 is also pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1 by the other end portion 30b side of the outer cover 30.

[0151] To achieve a desired tightened state for the cuff 20C, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is further pulled with the right hand in the direction indicated by arrow AR1. The diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape gradually decreases.

[0152] The portion of the outer cover 30 on the side where the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39 are provided (which is substantially the right half of the outer cover 30 in the drawings) is pulled toward the first loop-shaped ring 36 and attempts to rotate in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the clockwise direction). A force attempting to rotate the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the clockwise direction) acts on the second loop-shaped ring 38.

[0153] Here, as described above, a force that tends to move the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the direction indicated by arrow AR1 also acts on the second loop-shaped ring 38. This force acts to continuously position the second loop-shaped ring 38 on the rightmost side of the upper arm 70. This force reactively acts in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the counterclockwise direction) against the force that tends to rotate the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the clockwise direction).

[0154] In other words, two forces act on the second loop-shaped ring 38: the force that tends to rotate the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the clockwise direction, and the force that reactively counteracts this force. These forces cancel each other out, and thus, the position of the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the circumferential direction relative to the upper arm 70 undergoes almost no change. Accordingly, the diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape can be reduced, while the position of the second loop-shaped ring 38 in the circumferential direction relative to the upper arm 70 undergoes almost no change.

[0155] The outer cover 30 and the upper arm 70 come into firm contact with each other, thereby completing the securing of the cuff 20C to the upper arm 70.

[0156] Here, the third loop-shaped ring 39 is placed between the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover 30 when the outer cover 30 is in an unrolled state. The portion of the outer cover 30 in which the fixing cover 33a is provided is continuous with the portion of the outer cover 30 containing the air bellows 34. As a result, the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the air bellows 34 move relative to each other (i.e., in tandem) in the circumferential direction.

[0157] As described above, the position of the second loop-shaped ring 38 relative to the upper arm 70 undergoes virtually no change between before and after the outer cover 30 is secured to the upper arm 70. Therefore, the position of the air bladder 34 relative to the upper arm also undergoes virtually no change between before and after the outer cover 30 is secured to the upper arm 70.

[0158] As initially described, the rotation in the circumferential direction and the rotation in the opposite direction to that rotation are not repeated before and after the sphygmomanometer cuff 20C is secured. Even when the cuff 20C is secured to the upper arm 70 on a daily basis, the second loop-shaped ring 38 is repeatedly arranged in almost the same position near the rightmost side of the upper arm 70 due to the design. The air bladder 34 can also be repeatedly arranged in almost the same position due to the design, which makes it possible to repeatedly restore a predetermined tightened state of the cuff 20C.

[0159] According to the 20C cuff and a blood pressure monitor equipped with it, the occurrence of measurement errors caused by shifts in the attachment position is reduced, which makes it possible to measure blood pressure information in an accurate and stable manner without variations occurring in the measured values. Fourth embodiment

[0160] A blood pressure monitor according to a fourth embodiment is described with reference to Fig. 17 and Fig. 18. Only the differences from the second embodiment will be described here. The difference between the second embodiment and the present embodiment lies in the location where the third loop-shaped ring 39 is attached.

[0161] As in Fig. 18, the third loop-shaped ring 39 is provided on the rear surface 32 of the outer cover 30. The third loop-shaped ring 39 is placed between the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover 30 when the outer cover 30 is in an unrolled state.

[0162] As in Fig. As shown in Fig. 17, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30, which has been passed through the first loop-shaped ring 36, is superimposed along the outer side (the front surface 31 side) of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape. The other end portion 30b is passed through the insertion opening 38a of the second loop-shaped ring 38 and folded back.

[0163] The other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30, which has been passed through the second loop-shaped ring 38 and folded back, is superimposed along the outer side (the rear surface 32 side) of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in the circular shape. The other end portion 30b is passed through the insertion opening of the third loop-shaped ring 39 and is led out toward the outer side of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in the circular shape. Actions and effects

[0164] For example, in the cuff 20D, the left upper arm 70 of the subject is inserted into the circular-shaped portion of the outer cover 30. After the upper arm 70 is inserted, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is grasped with the right hand (not shown). The grasped other end portion 30b is then pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1.

[0165] When the other end portion 30b is pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1, the third loop-shaped ring 39 is also pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1 by the other end portion 30b side of the outer cover 30.

[0166] The portion of the outer cover 30 in which the third loop-shaped ring 39 is provided is pulled toward the second loop-shaped ring 38 and rotates in the direction indicated by arrow A2 (the counterclockwise direction). The portion of the outer cover 30 in which the second loop-shaped ring 38 is provided is pulled toward the third loop-shaped ring 39 and rotates in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the clockwise direction).

[0167] To achieve a desired tightened state for the cuff 20D, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is pulled by the right hand in the direction indicated by arrow AR1. The diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape gradually decreases.

[0168] The second looped ring 38 and the third looped ring 39 approach each other. The second looped ring 38 and the third looped ring 39 then become adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction, essentially functioning as a single unit.

[0169] When the other portion 30b is pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1, the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39 are also pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1 by the side of the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 while functioning substantially as a single unit.

[0170] At the same time, the portion of the outer cover 30 on the side where the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39 are provided (which is substantially the right half of the outer cover 30 in the drawings) is pulled toward the first loop-shaped ring 36 and attempts to rotate in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the clockwise direction). A force attempting to rotate the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39 in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the clockwise direction) acts on the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39.

[0171] Here, as described above, a force that tends to move the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39 in the direction indicated by arrow AR1 also acts on the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39. This force acts to continuously position the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39 on the rightmost side of the upper arm 70. This force reactively acts in the direction indicated by arrow A2 (the counterclockwise direction) against the force that tends to rotate the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39 in the direction indicated by arrow A1 (the clockwise direction).

[0172] In other words, two forces act on the looped ring 38 and the third looped ring 39: the force that tends to rotate the second looped ring 38 and the third looped ring 39 in the clockwise direction, and the force that reactively counteracts that force. These forces cancel each other out, and thus the circumferential positions of the second looped ring 38 and the third looped ring 39 relative to the upper arm 70 undergo virtually no change.

[0173] Accordingly, after the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39 become adjacent to each other, the diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape can be reduced, with the position of the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the third loop-shaped ring 39 in the circumferential direction relative to the upper arm 70 undergoing almost no change.

[0174] Here, the second loop-shaped ring 38 is provided on the front surface 31 of the outer cover 30. The portion of the outer cover 30 in which the fixing cover 33a is provided is continuous with the portion of the outer cover 30 including the air bellows 34. As a result, the second loop-shaped ring 38 and the air bellows 34 move relative to each other (ie, in tandem) in the circumferential direction.

[0175] As described above, from the time before the outer cover 30 is secured to the upper arm 70 until the time after the outer cover 30 is secured to the upper arm, the second loop-shaped ring 38 moves in the clockwise direction (the direction indicated by arrow A1) by a predetermined distance until the second loop-shaped ring 38 becomes adjacent to the third loop-shaped ring 39. As a result, from the time before the outer cover 30 is secured to the upper arm 70 until the time after the outer cover 30 is secured to the upper arm 70, the position of the air bladder 34 relative to the upper arm also moves in the clockwise direction (the direction indicated by arrow A1) by a predetermined distance.

[0176] In the sphygmomanometer cuff 20D according to the present embodiment, although the air bladder 34 moves in the clockwise direction by a predetermined distance, the rotation in the circumferential direction and the rotation in the direction opposite to that rotation are not repeated during the process of securing the cuff 20D as initially described. Even when the cuff 20D is secured to the upper arm on a daily basis, the third loop-shaped ring 39 is repeatedly disposed in almost the same position near the rightmost side of the upper arm 70 due to the design.

[0177] As a result, although the air bladder 34 moves in the clockwise direction by a predetermined distance, the position of the air bladder 34 is repeatedly located in almost the same position due to the design, and thus it is possible to repeatedly restore a predetermined tightened state for the cuff 20D.

[0178] According to the 20D cuff and a blood pressure monitor equipped with it, the occurrence of measurement errors caused by shifts in the attachment position is reduced, which makes it possible to measure blood pressure information in an accurate and stable manner without causing variations in the measured values. Comparable example

[0179] Securing a cuff 100A according to a comparable example on the upper arm 70 is described with reference to Fig. 19 to 21. The cuff 100A according to the comparative example differs from the aforementioned first to fourth embodiments in that only the first loop-shaped ring 36 is provided as a guide member. Fig. 19 to 21 the air bellows 34 is not shown.

[0180] The Fig. 19 to 21 are cross-sectional views showing the fastening (the process of fastening) of the cuff 100A according to the comparative example to the upper arm 70 over time. The state shown in Fig. 19, goes to the state shown in Fig. 20 and then continues with the state shown in Fig. 21. The configuration of the cuff 100A according to the present comparative example is substantially the same as the configuration published in JP H5-39504U (Patent Literature 1).

[0181] As in Fig. 19, in the cuff 100A, for example, the left upper arm 70 of the subject is inserted into the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape.

[0182] After the upper arm 70 is inserted into the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is grasped with the right hand. The other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is pulled with the right hand in the direction indicated by an arrow AR2a.

[0183] The first loop-shaped ring 36 is pulled in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2a through the other end portion 30b side of the outer cover 30. The gap H is formed between the upper arm 70 and the outer cover 30 on the side where the first loop-shaped ring 36 is provided.

[0184] To achieve a desired tightened state for the cuff 100A, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is pulled with the right hand in the direction indicated by arrow AR2a. The diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape gradually decreases, and as a result, the gap H also decreases.

[0185] As the gap H decreases at the area where the outer cover 30 and the upper arm 70 contact, the side of the outer cover 30 to be guided by the first loop-shaped ring 36 tries to slide along the surface of the upper arm 70 while making contact with the upper arm 70.

[0186] However, a large amount of friction is generated between the outer cover 30 and the upper arm 70, and thus the outer cover 30 largely cannot slide along the surface of the upper arm 70. Due to this friction, the direction in which the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is pulled with the right hand rotates in the direction indicated by an arrow A3. As shown in Fig. 20, the force acting in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2a (see Fig. 19) in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2b (see Fig. 20). When the direction in which the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is pulled changes to the direction indicated by the arrow AR2b, the outer cover 30 also rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2b (the counterclockwise direction). At this time, there are cases where the measuring person rotates the outer cover 30 in the clockwise direction to return the outer cover 30, which has rotated in the counterclockwise direction, to its original position.

[0187] To achieve a desired tightened state for the cuff 100A, the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is pulled with the right hand in the direction indicated by arrow AR2b. The diameter of the portion of the outer cover 30 formed in a circular shape gradually decreases, and as a result, the gap H also decreases.

[0188] However, a large amount of friction is generated between the outer cover 30 and the upper arm 70, and thus the outer cover 30 largely cannot slide along the surface of the upper arm 70. Due to this friction, the direction in which the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is pulled by the right hand rotates in the direction indicated by an arrow A4.

[0189] As in Fig. 21, the force acting in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2b (see Fig. 20) in the direction indicated by an arrow AR2c (see Fig. 21). When the direction in which the other end portion 30b of the outer cover 30 is pulled changes to the direction indicated by the arrow AR2c, the outer cover 30 rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow A4 (see Fig. 20; the counterclockwise direction). At this time, there are cases where the measuring person further rotates the outer cover 30 in the clockwise direction to return the outer cover 30, which has rotated in the counterclockwise direction, to its original position.

[0190] Finally, the outer cover 30 and the upper arm 70 come into tight contact with each other, thus substantially eliminating the gap H. This completes the securing of the cuff 100A to the upper arm 70.

[0191] The cuff 100A according to the present comparative example is fixed to the measuring surface by repeatedly rotating in the circumferential direction and rotating in the direction opposite to the circumferential direction. According to the cuff 100A, in the case where a blood pressure value is measured on a daily basis, for example, it is difficult to restore the cuff to the predetermined tightened state. As a result, variations occur in the measured values obtained over the measurements from day to day, making it difficult to measure blood pressure information accurately and stably.

[0192] In contrast, with the cuffs (20A to 20D) and the blood pressure monitors equipped therewith according to the aforementioned first to fourth embodiments, a predetermined tightened state can be repeatedly restored. This reduces the occurrence of measurement errors caused by shifts in the fastening position, making it possible to measure blood pressure information accurately and stably without causing variations in the measured values.

[0193] Although embodiments for carrying out the present invention have been described thus far, it should be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein are exemplary in all respects and are not limiting. The scope of the present invention is defined by the scope of the appended claims, and all changes that fall within substantially the same spirit of the scope of the claims are intended to be embraced therein as well.

[0194] Although the first to fourth embodiments describe, as an example, a so-called upper arm type sphygmomanometer in which the cuff is attached to the upper arm when measuring a blood pressure value, and a sphygmomanometer cuff provided therein, the present invention is not particularly limited thereto.

[0195] It is also possible to apply configurations of the first to fourth embodiments to a so-called wrist-type blood pressure monitor in which the cuff is attached to the wrist when measuring a blood pressure value, and a blood pressure monitor cuff provided therein.

[0196] The configurations of the first to fourth embodiments can also be applied to a so-called ankle-type sphygmomanometer in which the cuff is attached to the ankle when a blood pressure value is measured, and a sphygmomanometer cuff provided therein.

[0197] Although the first to fourth embodiments describe examples in which the configurations are applied to a sphygmomanometer capable of measuring a systolic blood pressure value, a diastolic blood pressure value, and so on, and a sphygmomanometer cuff provided therein, the present invention is not particularly limited thereto.

[0198] The configurations of the first to fourth embodiments can also be applied to a blood pressure information measuring device capable of measuring other blood pressure information besides blood pressure values such as a systolic blood pressure value and a diastolic blood pressure value (e.g., an average blood pressure value, a sphygmogram, a pulse, an AI (augmentation index) value, and so on), and a blood pressure information measuring device cuff provided therein. List of reference symbols 1 blood pressure monitor 10 Main part 11 Control unit 12 Display unit 13 Storage unit 13a Processing memory 13b Data storage 14 Measuring device unit 15 Control unit 15a circuit breaker 15b Measuring switch 15c Stop switch 15d Recording call switch 16 Air system component 16a pressure pump 16b Release valve 16c pressure sensor 17a Pressure pump driver circuit 17b Exhaust valve driver circuit 17c Oscillation circuit 20, 20A, 20Aa, 20Ab, 20Ac, 20B, 20Ba, 20C, 20D, 100A cuff 30 outer cover 30a an end section 30b other end section 31 front surface 32 rear surface 33a, 33b Mounting cover 34 air bellows 34c position 36 first loop-shaped ring 36a, 38a insertion opening 38 second loop-shaped ring 39 third loop-shaped ring 40 Anchoring link 41, 42 Surface fastening element 50, 50a anchoring link 52 support frames 52a Side wall section 52a1, 52b1 Shaft support opening 54 first rolling link 56 second rolling link 70 upper arm 70a, R area 71 Artery 72 Upper arm triceps 80 air hose A1 to A4, AR1, AR1a, AR2a, AR2b, AR2c, AR54, AR56 arrow L71 distance H gap ST1 to ST13 step

Claims

[1] Blood pressure information measuring device cuff, which comprises: a fluid bellows (34) for applying pressure to a body part; a band-shaped outer cover (30) including a first main surface (31) and a second main surface (32) facing the body part by being wrapped around the body part in a circular shape, which includes the fluid bladder (34) on an end portion (30a) of the outer cover (30); a first guide member (36) provided closer to the one end portion (30a) of the outer cover (30) than the position in which the fluid bellows (34) is provided, which includes a portion formed in a circular shape, to pass through and fold back another end portion (30b) of the outer cover (30); and a second guide member (38) provided on the first main surface (31) of the outer cover (30), which includes a portion formed in a circular shape to pass through the other end portion (30b) of the outer cover (30) passed through the first guide member (36). [2] The blood pressure information measuring device cuff according to claim 1, wherein the outer cover (30) is anchored to the body part in a state in which an area (70a) of the surface of the body part, in which the distance to an artery within the body part is the shortest, and the fluid bladder (34) are arranged opposite to each other. [3] Blood pressure information measuring device cuff according to claim 1, wherein the body part is an upper arm; and the second guide member (38) is provided on the first main surface (31) which is placed towards the triceps of the upper arm when the blood pressure information measuring device cuff is anchored to the upper arm. [4] Blood pressure information measuring device cuff according to claim 1, wherein the body part is an upper arm; and the second guide member (38) is provided on the first main surface (31) which is placed toward the other upper arm when the blood pressure information measuring device cuff is anchored to the upper arm. [5] The blood pressure information measuring device cuff according to claim 1, further comprising: a fastening member (41) provided on the first main surface (31), wherein the fastening member (41) is placed between the second guide member (38) and the first guide member (36), and closer to the second guide member (38), in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover (30), when the outer cover (30) is in an unrolled state. [6] The blood pressure information measuring device cuff according to claim 1, further comprising: a third guide member (39) provided on the first main surface (31) which is arranged between the first guide member (36) and the second guide member (38) in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover (30) is placed when the outer cover (30) is in an unrolled state, wherein the other end portion (30b) which was guided by the second guide member (38) is guided by the third guide member (39). [7] The blood pressure information measuring device cuff according to claim 6, wherein the other end portion (30b) which has been guided by the third guide member (39) is folded back into the third guide member (39) and then guided again by the second guide member (38). [8] The blood pressure information measuring device cuff according to claim 1, further comprising: a third guide member (39) provided on the first main surface (31), which is placed between the second guide member (38) and the other end portion (30b) in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover (30) when the outer cover (30) is in an unrolled state, wherein the other end portion (30b), which has been guided and folded back by the first guide member (36), is guided by the second guide member (38), after being guided by the third guide link (39). [9] The blood pressure information measuring device cuff according to claim 1, further comprising: a third guide member (39) provided on the second main surface (32), which is placed between the second guide member (38) and the other end portion (30b) in the longitudinal direction of the outer cover (30) when the outer cover (30) is in an unrolled state, wherein the other end portion (30b) which has been guided by the second guide member (38) is guided by the third guide member (39) after being folded back into the second guide member (38). [10] Blood pressure information measuring device, which comprises: the blood pressure information measuring device cuff (20A) according to claim 1; a filling / deflating or inflation / deflating mechanism (16a, 16b) which fills / deflates or inflates / deflates the fluid bladder; and a blood pressure information acquiring unit (11) which acquires the blood pressure information.

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