SPHYGMOMANOMETER

Abstract

Sphygmomanometer (100) measuring the blood pressure of a part to be measured, the sphygmomanometer (100) comprising: a body (100M); a cuff (20) which is attached to the part to be measured; a pump (32) installed in the body (100M) which is configured to supply fluid to the cuff (20) via a flow path (38, 39); an electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E, 33) wherein the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E, 33) is installed in the body (100M) and is arranged between the pump (32) or the flow path (39) and an atmosphere (900); a pressure control unit (110) that controls the pressure of the cuff (20) by supplying the fluid to the cuff (20) through the flow path (38, 39) with the pump (32) and / or draining the fluid from the cuff (20) through the electronic valve (33); and a blood pressure calculation unit (110) that calculates the blood pressure based on the pressure of the fluid stored in the cuff (20); wherein the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E) allows or blocks fluid flow and wherein the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E) comprises: a yoke (3) with an end plate section (3b) having an annular circumferential edge and a side plate section (3c) which is connected to the circumferential edge of the end plate section (3b) and surrounds a space (SP1) adjoining a side of the end plate section (3b) in an annular manner; a pole piece (4) orthogonal to the end plate section (3b) of the yoke (3) and extending in a direction from an end section (4e) located in the space (SP1) of one side to the other end section (4f) of the opposite side, wherein the pole piece (4) has an opening (4o) at one end section (4e) and has a first fluid inlet / outlet (11) at the other end section (4f) which is connected to the opening (4o) through an interior of the pole piece (4); a magnetic coil (7) which is housed in an annular space (SP1) between the pole piece (4) and the side plate section (3c) of the yoke (3); a membrane (6) made of a disk-shaped magnetic material, which is opposite the end plate section (3b) of the yoke (3) across the space (SP1) and has a dimension extending over an annular edge (3e) of the side plate section (3c) of the yoke (3); and a helical spring (5) that biases the diaphragm (6) in one direction away from one end section (4e) of the pole piece (4), so that the diaphragm (6) is moved translationally in one direction; and a housing (10) which together covers the yoke (3), a section (4b) of the pole piece (4) which extends into the space (SP1) of one side, the magnet coil (7), the diaphragm (6) and the helical spring (5), wherein the other end section (4f) of the pole piece (4) is exposed to the outside, where the coil spring (5) is arranged along an annular space (SP2) between the side plate section (3c) of the yoke (3) and an annular outer circumferential wall (10-3) of the housing (10) facing the side plate section (3c), and is in an annular contact with a circumferential edge section of a surface (6b) of the membrane (6) facing the end plate section (3b); a gap (CG) is provided in a radial direction between the annular outer circumferential wall (10-3) of the housing (10) and a circumferential edge section (6e) of the membrane (6), an elastic body (8) for closing the opening (4o) is integrally attached to a section of the membrane (6) which faces the opening (4o) at one end section (4e) of the pole piece (4), and the elastic body (8) has a flat end surface (8e) which projects in a column-like shape from the membrane (6) towards the opening (4o) at one end section (4e); the pole piece (4) having an end section (4e) with a recess (4d) having a flat bottom (4d1) open towards the elastic body (8) attached to the membrane (6), and the opening (4o) on the bottom (4d1) of the recess (4d) is open, During a rest period in which the solenoid coil (7) is in a de-energized state, the diaphragm (6) is separated by a preload force (f2) of the helical spring (5), which causes the end face (8e) of the elastic body (8) to be separated from the opening (4o), from one end section (4e) of the pole piece (4), so that the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E) comes into an open state in which the opening (4o) is open, and During an operating time in which the solenoid coil (7) is in the energized state, the diaphragm (6) approaches one end section (4e) of the pole piece (4) against the preload force (f2) of the helical spring (5) by a magnetic force (F0) generated by the solenoid coil (7), so that the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E) can come into a closed state in which the opening (4o) is closed with the end surface (8e) of the elastic body (8).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present invention relates to a sphygmomanometer with an electronic valve which is opened and closed by a magnetic force of a solenoid coil. RELATED FACTS

[0002] An electronic valve used for a blood pressure monitor (also called a sphygmomanometer) is conventionally known, as disclosed, for example, in patent literature 1 (Japanese patent publication JP H08-203730A). The electronic valve consists of a U-shaped frame and a yoke mounted to close the open end of the frame. A substantially cylindrical coil former (coil frame) and a solenoid coil wound around the coil former are housed within it. Furthermore, a rod-shaped movable iron core is slidably inserted into the coil former. A fixed iron core, provided with a flow orifice, through which a fluid flows, is arranged on the base plate of the frame facing the yoke. One end of the movable iron core faces the flow orifice of the fixed iron core. At rest, i.e.,During non-operating periods, when the solenoid coil is de-energized, one end of the movable iron core is separated from the flow opening of the fixed iron core by the preload of a spring. During operating periods, when the solenoid coil is energized, the movable iron core within the coil body is moved by the magnetic force generated by the solenoid coil against the preload of the spring, and one end of the movable iron core closes the flow opening of the fixed iron core. This opens and closes the electronic valve.Furthermore, for example, DE 16 50 579 A describes an electromechanical actuator in which a magnetic armature is arranged opposite a stationary magnetic coil, the armature being mechanically movable relative to the coil under the influence of the coil's magnetic field, and the armature being held at one end of a bellows, the other end of which is rigidly fixed, and which is designed to surround an end face of the magnetic coil. DE 692 04 643 T2 further describes an electromagnetic valve which, in a conventional manner, has a coil wound around a base, wherein an external magnetic circuit surrounds the coil, and wherein at least one fixed core is provided inside the base and a movable, displaceable core, in particular movable against the force of a spring along the axis of the coil, the movable core serving to close at least one fluid passage.to open, depending on its axial position, includes. BIBLIOGRAPHY PATENT LITERATURE

[0003] Patent literature 1: Japanese published patent JP H08 - 203 730 A SUMMARY OF INVENTIONAL PROBLEMS

[0004] Due to the recent health-oriented boom, there is now a growing demand for blood pressure measurements using a sphygmomanometer, which, like a wristwatch, is always worn on the wrist. In this case, it is desirable to reduce the size of components such as an electronic valve as much as possible.

[0005] However, in a general electronic valve disclosed in patent literature 1, there is a problem in that the size (in particular the size along the longitudinal direction of the movable iron core) of the electronic valve increases because the movable iron core is rod-shaped and moves along its longitudinal direction.

[0006] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a sphygmomanometer with an electronic valve that can be designed in a small size. SOLUTIONS FOR THE PROBLEMS

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned problem, a sphygmomanometer with the features according to claim 1 is provided.

[0008] In the present specification, a "yoke" and a "pole piece" are elements that each serve to guide magnetic force lines as known in the field of electromagnets, and they are each made of a magnetic material (ferromagnetic materials such as iron are particularly preferred).

[0009] The circumferential edge of the end plate part of the yoke is largely ring-shaped, such as circular or rounded square. This also applies to the ring shape of the side plate part of the yoke.

[0010] The “ring-shaped edge” of the side plate part of the yoke refers to the edge on the side opposite the end plate section.

[0011] The “other end” of the pole piece, i.e., pole shoe, can protrude from the end plate section of the yoke or stop at an outer surface of the end plate section (the surface facing the opposite side of the space of one side from the two surfaces of the end plate section).

[0012] The open / closed state of the valve is an intermediate state between the closed state and the open state, in which a flow rate is controlled according to the amount of current of the electromagnet (i.e. the solenoid).

[0013] In the disclosed electronic valve, during the rest period when the solenoid coil is de-energized, the diaphragm is separated from one end of the pole piece by the preload force of the helical spring, which causes the end face of the elastic body to be separated from the opening. This brings the electronic valve into an open state, in which the opening is open. In the open state, the fluid can flow through the interior of the pole piece. This electronic valve is a normally open (closed) valve.

[0014] During operation, when the solenoid coil is energized, the diaphragm approaches one end of the pole piece against the preload of the coil spring due to a magnetic force generated by the solenoid coil, allowing the electronic valve to close, with the opening being closed by the end face of the elastic body. Specifically, when the solenoid coil is energized (during operation), magnetic field lines generated by the solenoid coil circulate along a path (magnetic circuit) which, for example,The magnetic field reaches the circumferential edge of the end plate section of the yoke through the side plate section, an orthogonal position between the end plate section and the pole piece is reached from the circumferential edge of the end plate section through the end plate section, the pole piece reaches one end section through the pole piece from the orthogonal position, an approach section between one end section and the diaphragm is reached from one end section, and the annular edge of the side plate section of the yoke is reached through the diaphragm. If the direction of current supply to the magnetic coil is reversed, the magnetic field lines generated by the magnetic coil circulate in the opposite direction along this path. In this way, the magnetic coil generates a magnetic force for the diaphragm opposite to the preload force of the coil spring.This magnetic force causes the elastic body attached to the diaphragm to approach one end of the pole piece (thus ensuring a stable characteristic curve of the supply current versus the flow rate), and the opening can close with the end face of the elastic body. In the closed state, the flow of fluid through the interior of the pole piece is blocked. As described, the electronic valve can be open or closed depending on whether the solenoid coil is de-energized (during rest) or energized (during operation). This makes it possible to allow or block the flow of fluid through the pole piece (i.e., the electronic valve).

[0015] In this electronic valve, a plate-shaped diaphragm is configured to move translationally in one direction to allow or block fluid flow, approaching or moving away from one end section of the pole piece in a position aligned with the end plate section of the yoke. That is, unlike the conventional example (where the movable iron core is in the form of a rod and moves along its longitudinal axis), in this electronic valve the plate-shaped diaphragm moves in a direction perpendicular to the diaphragm's surface. Therefore, the size of the electronic valve can be reduced with respect to the direction in which the diaphragm moves. Consequently, the electronic valve can be manufactured in a smaller size.

[0016] It should be noted that the elastic body is preferably attached to the membrane by pressing, gluing, or overmolding. This allows for a simple and one-piece, i.e., integral, attachment of the elastic body to the membrane.

[0017] In one embodiment of the electronic valve, the pole piece and the yoke are formed in one piece.

[0018] In this particular embodiment of the electronic valve, the magnetic resistance between the pole piece and the yoke is low because they are formed as a single piece, thus increasing the efficiency of the magnetic circuit running through them. The improved airtightness between the pole piece and the yoke prevents air leakage.

[0019] In one embodiment of the electronic valve, the magnetic material forming the diaphragm is Permalloy.

[0020] Here, "Permalloy" refers to an alloy of Ni-Fe.

[0021] Since the diaphragm is plate-shaped and made of Permalloy, the diaphragm in the electronic valve of this particular embodiment can be configured to be lighter than, for example, a rod-shaped movable iron core. In this case, if the position (direction) of the electronic valve changes differently relative to the vertical direction, the characteristic curve (e.g., the characteristic curve of the supply current versus the flow rate) is hardly affected by the position of the electronic valve.

[0022] If the element driven to open and close the valve is a rod-shaped movable iron core that has a relatively large weight, when the position (direction) of the electronic valve changes differently with respect to the vertical direction, a gravitational component that the movable iron core receives along the sliding direction changes significantly to strongly influence the characteristic, i.e., the characteristic curve of the electronic valve.

[0023] In the electronic valve of one embodiment of the sphygmomanometer, the elastic body attached to the diaphragm, when closed, seals the opening in a state where it is housed, i.e., received, in the recess at one end of the pole piece. Therefore, the elastic body can stably close the opening.

[0024] In the electronic valve according to one embodiment of the sphygmomanometer The housing is a sealing housing that together fluidly covers the yoke, a section of the pole piece extending into the space of one side, the magnet coil, the diaphragm and the helical spring, with the other end section of the pole piece exposed to the outside; and comprises a second fluid inlet / outlet provided through an outer wall of the sealing housing.

[0025] The electronic valve, according to one embodiment of the sphygmomanometer, is suitable for insertion into the flow path to allow or block fluid flow through the flow path. When the electronic valve is in the open state, fluid can flow, for example, from the second fluid inlet / outlet to the first fluid inlet / outlet through the opening (which is open when the diaphragm is separated from one end section) at one end section of the pole piece, or in the opposite direction through the electronic valve. When the electronic valve is in the closed state, because the opening (which is closed when the diaphragm approaches one end section) has been blocked, no fluid flows between the second fluid inlet / outlet and the first fluid inlet / outlet through the electronic valve.

[0026] In the electronic valve according to one embodiment of the sphygmomanometer, The sealing housing includes: a first end wall along an outer surface of the end plate section of the yoke, a second end wall along a rear surface of the membrane, facing a side opposite the end plate section, and the ring-shaped outer circumferential wall, which connects a circumferential edge section of the first end wall and a circumferential edge section of the second end wall.

[0027] The "outer surface" or "external surface" of the endplate section refers to a surface facing the opposite side of the space from one side of the two widened surfaces of the endplate section. The "rear surface" of the membrane refers to a surface facing the opposite side of the endplate section of the yoke from the two surfaces of the membrane.

[0028] In the electronic valve of this particular embodiment of the sphygmomanometer, it is possible to achieve a flattened outer shape along the first and second end walls by reducing the size of the sealing housing from the first to the second end wall. Such an outer shape is suitable for mounting the electronic valve (sealing housing), for example, along a printed circuit board, so that both the electronic valve (sealing housing) and the circuit board are completely flattened.

[0029] In the electronic valve according to one embodiment of the sphygmomanometer, the other end section of the pole piece, which is provided with the first fluid inlet / outlet, is arranged projecting outwards from the first end wall of the sealing housing.

[0030] In the electronic valve of this particular embodiment of the sphygmomanometer, the flow path is easily connected to the first fluid inlet / outlet, allowing the fluid or liquid to flow.

[0031] In the electronic valve according to one embodiment of the sphygmomanometer, the second fluid inlet / outlet is arranged projecting outwards from the first end wall, the second end wall or the outer circumferential wall of the sealing housing.

[0032] In the electronic valve of this particular embodiment of the sphygmomanometer, the flow path is easily connected to the second fluid inlet / outlet, allowing the fluid to flow. In particular, if the second fluid inlet / outlet is arranged to project outwards from the outer circumferential wall of the sealing housing, it can be prevented from projecting outwards from the second end wall of the sealing housing, and the electronic valve can be manufactured in a thinner size. If the second fluid inlet / outlet is arranged to project outwards from the first end wall of the sealing housing, the second fluid inlet / outlet can project in the same direction as the first fluid inlet / outlet. Therefore, for example,A mounting structure is formed in which the sealing housing is mounted on the top of the circuit board, and the second fluid inlet / outlet and the first fluid inlet / outlet both extend downwards through the circuit board.

[0033] In the sphygmomanometer described in this disclosure, the body and cuff are typically attached together to the part being measured. In this attached state, the pressure control unit regulates the cuff pressure by supplying fluid to the cuff via the flow path using the pump to pressurize it and / or releasing fluid from the cuff via the electronic valve. The blood pressure calculation unit calculates the blood pressure based on the pressure of the fluid stored in the cuff (oscillometric method). In this sphygmomanometer, the electronic valve is designed to be small, as described in this disclosure. This allows not only the main body but also the entire sphygmomanometer to be manufactured in a smaller size. ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0034] As can be seen from the above explanations, the sphygmomanometer of the present invention can be designed in a small size. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an external view of an electronic valve. Fig. Figure 2 is a view showing the electronic valve in its disassembled state at an angle. Fig. 3 is a view that shows the object of Fig. 2 shows it viewed from a different direction. Fig. Figure 4 is a view showing an example of a cross-sectional structure when the electronic valve is cut in a plane with fluid inlets / outlets. Fig. Figure 5 is a view showing a planar form of a diaphragm provided in a housing of the electronic valve. Fig. Figure 6 shows a fluid flow through the electronic valve when the electronic valve is in an open state. Fig. Figure 7 illustrates a force exerted on each section of the electronic valve when the electronic valve is in a closed state. Fig. Figure 8 is a diagram showing a block configuration of a sphygmomanometer according to an embodiment of the present invention, which includes the electronic valve as an on / off valve. Fig. 9A is a diagram showing the operating sequence of the sphygmomanometer. Fig. 9B is a diagram that illustrates the operational process of Fig. 9A illustrates the current included in the print speed control. Fig. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between a driving force and the opening of the electronic valve. Fig. 11A and Fig. Figure 11B shows an example of an electronic valve formed by modifying the housing of the electronic valve. Fig. 12A and Fig. Figure 12B shows another example of an electronic valve formed by modifying the housing of the electronic valve. DESCRIPTION OF EXECUTION FORMS

[0035] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0036] Fig. Figure 1 shows an external view of an electronic valve (the whole is designated by reference numeral 2) in oblique view. Fig. Figure 2 shows the electronic valve 2 in its disassembled state. Fig. Figure 3 shows another view of the object. Fig. 2. For better understanding, the following are included: Fig. 1 to 3, the Fig. 4 to 7 and the Fig. Figures 11 and 12, which are described later, also show Cartesian XYZ coordinates. For simplicity, the Z-direction can be referred to below as the thickness direction and the XY-direction as a plane direction. (Electronic valve configuration)

[0037] As from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the electronic valve 2 contains a housing 10 as an enclosure. The housing 10 consists of a cover housing 10A, which is arranged in the thickness direction on one side (+Z-side), and a main housing 10B, which is arranged in the thickness direction on the opposite side (-Z-side). In this example, the cover housing 10A has a disk-shaped second end wall 10-2, which forms an outer wall, and a cylindrical section 10a (which forms a second fluid inlet / outlet 12 to allow fluid to pass through) that projects outwards (+Z-side) from the center of the second end wall 10. The main housing 10B has a rectangular (in this example, square) plate-shaped first end wall 10-1 and a substantially cylindrical outer circumferential wall 10-3 that adjoins the first end wall 10-1. As shown in Figure 1, the cover housing 10A has a disk-shaped second end wall 10-2, which forms an outer wall 10-2, and a main housing 10-3, which adjoins the first end wall 10-1. Fig. As shown in Figure 3, a through-hole 10w is provided in the center of the first end wall 10-1, into which a pole piece 4, to be described later, is inserted. One side (in this example, the side on the -Y side) of the first end wall 10-1 is provided with a through-hole 10u through which the wiring (supply wires not shown) runs. Connection terminals 71, 72, 73, 74 (references) made of metal (copper, etc.) are integrally provided at four corners of the outer surface of the first end wall 10-1.

[0038] In this example, the cover housing 10A is formed by integral casting of a non-magnetic plastic material. The main housing 10B is formed by integral casting (overmolding) of a non-magnetic plastic material together with the connecting ports 71, 72, 73, 74. In this example, the second end wall 10-2 of the cover housing 10A is welded to the outer circumferential wall 10-3 of the main housing 10B. However, the present invention is not limited to this; the second end wall 10-2 can also be screwed to the outer circumferential wall 10-3.

[0039] As from Fig. 2 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, a housing 10 of the electronic valve 2 contains a yoke 3, a pole piece 4 which is attached orthogonally to the yoke 3 (an end plate section 3b of the yoke 3), a solenoid coil 7, a helical spring 5 as a preload unit, a diaphragm 6 and an elastic body 8 which is formed integrally with the diaphragm 6.

[0040] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the yoke 3 contains an end plate section 3b with an annular (in this example circular) circumferential edge and a side plate section 3c, which is connected to the circumferential edge of the end plate section 3b and annularly surrounds a space SP1 that adjoins a side (+Z-side) of the end plate section 3b. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, a through-hole 3w is formed in the center of the end plate section 3b, and the pole piece 4 is fitted into the through-hole 3w. A through-hole 3u, through which the wiring (supply wires not shown) is routed, is provided in a section corresponding to the through-hole 10u of the first end wall 10-1 of the main housing 10B from the circumferential edge section of the end plate section 3b. It should be noted that the shape of the circumferential edge of the end plate section 3b of the yoke 3 is not limited to a round shape, but can have a rounded square (rounded square) shape. This also applies to the ring shape of the side wall section of the side plate section 3c.

[0041] In this example, the outer diameter of the side plate section 3c of the yoke 3 is set smaller than the inner diameter of the outer circumferential wall 10-3 of the main housing 10B. In the assembled state, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, an annular space SP2 is formed between the side plate section 3c of the yoke 3 and the outer circumferential wall 10-3 of the main housing 10B to accommodate the coil spring 5.

[0042] As from Fig. 2 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the pole piece 4 has an essentially cylindrical shape overall. The pole piece 4 includes a projection 4a, which is fitted axially (Z-direction) into the through-hole 3w of the yoke 3 and projects outwards, and a main section 4b with an outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the projection 4a. That is, the pole piece 4 extends in one direction (Z-direction) from one end section 4e, located in space SP1 on one side (+Z-side), to the other end section 4f on the opposite side (-Z-side), perpendicular to the end plate section 3b of the yoke 3. In this example, the pole piece 4 has a recess 4d in the form of a circular plane, which opens towards the elastic body 8 of the membrane 6 at one end section 4e. A circular opening 4o is open at the bottom of the recess 4d.A circular first fluid inlet / outlet 11, which is connected to the opening 4o through the inside of the pole piece 4, is provided at the other end section 4f of the pole piece 4.

[0043] In this example, the yoke 3 and the pole piece 4 are each made of the magnetic material SUM 24L (sulfur-reinforced free-cutting steel). In this example, the projection 4a of the pole piece 4 is pressed into the through-hole 3w of the yoke 3, and the yoke 3 and the pole piece 4 are configured as a single unit. This results in low magnetic resistance between the pole piece 4 and the yoke 3, improving the efficiency of a magnetic circuit passing through the pole piece 4 and the yoke 3. Air leakage can be prevented by improved airtightness between the pole piece 4 and the yoke 3. It should be noted that the yoke 3 and the pole piece 4 can be designed as a single, continuous, integral body.

[0044] As from Fig. 2 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the magnetic coil 7 has a cylindrical outer shape with a compressive strength. The dimensions of the magnetic coil 7 are such that it can be accommodated in the annular space SP1 between the pole piece 4 and the side plate section 3c of the yoke 3. A pair of connecting wires (not shown) extend from the magnetic coil 7.

[0045] The coil spring 5 has a substantially cylindrical contour. In its assembled state, which is in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the helical spring 5 is arranged along the annular space SP2 between the side plate section 3c of the yoke 3 and the outer circumferential wall 10-3 of the main housing 10B and presses the diaphragm 6 in a direction (i.e., in the +Z direction) that separates it from one end section 4e of the pole piece 4, so that the diaphragm 6 is moved translationally in one direction (Z direction). Fig. 4 is a preload force f2 with which the helical spring 5 preloads the diaphragm 6, schematically represented by an arrow. The preload unit can easily be manufactured from a small number of components (i.e., helical spring 5).

[0046] As in Fig. 2 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the membrane 6 has an essentially disc-shaped outer form. As can be seen from Figure 3, the membrane 6 has a generally disc-shaped outer form. Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5 (to illustrate the planar shape of the membrane 6), in this example four circular through-holes 6s, 6t, 6u, 6v are provided between a center 6c and a circumferential edge section 6e in the radial direction of the membrane 6 and with the same angular spacing (in this example a spacing of 90°) in the circumferential direction. This allows the fluid to flow through the through-holes 6s, 6t, 6u, 6v between the side of the rear surface (a surface facing the +Z side) 6a and the side of the inner surface (a surface facing the -Z side) 6b of the membrane 6.

[0047] As from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the diaphragm 6 has a dimension that extends over an annular edge 3e of the side plate section 3c of the yoke 3. Consequently, the outer diameter of the diaphragm 6 is essentially equal to the outer diameter of the helical spring 5. A small gap is provided between the outer diameter of the diaphragm 6 and the inner diameter of the outer circumferential wall 10-3 of the main housing 10B, so that the diaphragm 6 can move translationally within the outer circumferential wall 10-3 in one direction (Z-direction).

[0048] In this example, the diaphragm 6 is essentially disc-shaped as described above and consists of Permalloy (a Ni-Fe alloy) as the magnet material. Therefore, the diaphragm 6 can be configured to be lighter than, for example, a rod-shaped movable iron core. In this case, if the position or orientation (direction) of the electronic valve 2 changes differently relative to the vertical direction, the characteristic curve (e.g., the characteristic curve of supply current to flow rate) is hardly affected by the position or orientation of the electronic valve 2.

[0049] As from Fig. 2 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, an essentially cylindrical elastic body 8 is integrally connected to the center of the membrane 6 for blocking the opening 4o, while facing the opening 4o, which is formed in the recess 4d of one end section 4e of the pole piece 4. In this example, the elastic body 8 is made of silicone rubber. However, the elastic body 8 can also be made of other elastic materials (a flexible material), such as nitrile rubber (NBR) and ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM). The outer diameter of the elastic body 8 is set larger than the diameter of the opening 4o and smaller than the inner diameter of the recess 4d. This allows the elastic body 8 to reliably close the opening 4o in a closed state, as described below, while being housed (i.e., received) in a recess 4d on one end section 4e of the pole piece 4.

[0050] In this example, the elastic body 8 is integrally attached to the membrane 6 by overmolding. This allows for a simple and integral attachment of the elastic body 8 and the membrane 6. However, the present invention is not limited to this; the elastic body 8 can also be connected to the membrane 6 by pressing, bonding, or similar methods. (Procedure for assembling the electronic valve)

[0051] The electronic valve 2 is assembled using the following procedure, e.g., from the parts listed in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 represented states (a decomposed state). i) First, the yoke 3 and the pole piece 4 are placed in the main housing 10B. At this point, the projection 4a of the pole piece 4 is inserted and fitted into the through-hole 10w of the first end wall 10-1 of the main housing 10B. Furthermore, the through-hole 3u of the end plate section 3b of the yoke 3 is aligned with the through-hole 10u of the first end wall 10-1 of the main housing 10B. ii) Next, the magnetic coil 7 is placed in the annular space SP1 between the pole piece 4 and the side plate part 3c of the yoke 3. At this point, a pair of lead wires (not shown) extending from the magnetic coil 7 are pulled out through the through-hole 3u of the end plate section 3b of the yoke 3 and the through-hole 10u of the first end wall 10-1 of the main housing 10B to the outside of the main housing 10B. iii) The extracted wire pair is then soldered successively to any two of the four connection terminals 71, 72, 73, 74 provided on the outer surface of the first end wall 10-1. It should be noted that the remaining two of the four connection terminals 71, 72, 73, 74 remain as dummy terminals. iv) Next, the yoke 3 is connected or glued to the main housing 10B, and the solenoid coil 7 is connected or glued to the yoke 3, creating an airtight seal using an adhesive. At this point, the airtight seal is achieved by filling the through-hole 3u of the end plate section 3b of the yoke 3 and / or the through-hole 10u of the first end wall 10-1 of the main housing 10B, through which the conductor wire pair passes, with the adhesive. v) Next, the coil spring 5 is placed in the annular space SP2 (see below). Fig. 4) located between the side plate section 3c of the yoke 3 and the outer circumferential wall 10-3 of the main casing 10B. vi) The diaphragm 6 is then positioned so that it faces the end plate section 3b of the yoke 3 from one side (+Z-side) of the helical spring 5 through the space SP1. Furthermore, while the diaphragm 6 is pressed against the preload force f2 of the helical spring 5 with the cover housing 10A, the second end wall 10-2 of the cover housing 10A is hermetically welded to the outer circumferential wall 10-3 of the main housing 10B by an ultrasonic welding process.

[0052] In this way, as in Fig. Figure 4 shows the electronic valve 2 assembled.

[0053] In the Fig. In the assembled state shown in Figure 4, the housing 10 acts as a sealing housing, covering the yoke 3, the main section 4b of the pole piece 4, the magnetic coil 7, the diaphragm 6 (and the elastic body 8) and the helical spring 5 together in an airtight manner in a state in which the projection 4a (it encompasses the other end section 4f) of the pole piece 4 is exposed to the outside. While the first end wall 10-1 of the main housing 10B is located along the outer surface (the surface facing the -Z side) of the end plate section 3b of the yoke 3, the second end wall 10-2 of the cover housing 10A is located along the rear surface (the surface facing the +Z side) 6a of the diaphragm 6. In particular, in this example, the projection 4a of the pole piece 4, which forms the first fluid inlet / outlet 11, projects outwards from the first end wall 10-1, and the cylindrical section 10a, which forms the second fluid inlet / outlet 12, projects outwards from the second end wall 10-2.Therefore, the first fluid inlet / outlet 11 and the second fluid inlet / outlet 12 can easily be connected, for example, to a downstream and an upstream side of the flow path, allowing the fluid to flow through them. Therefore, the electronic valve 2 can be easily inserted into the flow path. (Opening / closing process of the electronic valve)

[0054] When using the electronic valve 2, the electronic valve 2 is inserted into the flow path by connecting the first fluid inlet / outlet 11 and the second fluid inlet / outlet 12 to the downstream and upstream sides of the flow path, respectively, so that the fluid can flow as described above. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, in the electronic valve 2, during the rest period when the solenoid coil 7 is de-energized, the diaphragm 6 is separated from one end section 4e of the pole piece 4 by the preload force f2 of the helical spring 5, thereby separating the elastic body 8 from the opening 4o of the one end section 4e of the pole piece 4 and bringing the electronic valve into an open state in which the opening 4o is open. That is, the electronic valve 2 is a normally open valve (i.e., a closing valve).

[0055] In this open state, fluid can flow through the electronic valve 2. For example, when the electronic valve 2 is in the open state, the fluid enters from the second fluid inlet / outlet 12, as indicated by arrow LC1. As indicated by arrows LC2s, LC2u, the fluid flows through the through-holes 6s, 6t, 6u, 6v of the diaphragm 6, then passes through the gap between the recess 4d of one end section 4e of the pole piece 4 and the elastic body 8, passes through the opening 4o of one end section 4e, and flows outwards from the first fluid inlet / outlet 11, as indicated by arrows LC3. As described in this way, the fluid can flow through the electronic valve 2 from the second fluid inlet / outlet 12 to the first fluid inlet / outlet 11 or in the opposite direction.

[0056] During operating time, when the solenoid coil 7 is supplied with power, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the diaphragm 6 approaches one end section 4e of the pole piece 4 against the preload force f2 due to the helical spring 5 and a repulsive force f2' that the elastic body 8 receives from the recess 4d of one end section 4e of the pole piece 4 (a resultant force of these f2 and f2' is expressed as the resistive force F2), by a magnetic force F0 (a resultant force of the magnetic forces f0, f0,..., exerted on the respective sections of the diaphragm 6) generated by the solenoid coil 7, thereby bringing the electronic valve 2 into the closed state in which the opening 40 of one end section 4e of the pole piece 4 is closed by the elastic body 8. More precisely, when the solenoid coil 7 is in the energized state (during operation), as shown by a two-point catenary M in Figure 7, the valve 6 is closed. Fig. As indicated in Figure 7, the magnetic field lines generated by the magnetic coil 7 circulate along a path (magnetic circuit) that primarily reaches the circumferential edge of the end plate section 3b through the side plate section 3c of the yoke 3, reaches the orthogonal position between the end plate section 3b and the pole piece 4 through the end plate section 3b from the circumferential edge of the end plate section 3b, reaches one end section 4e of the pole piece 4 through the pole piece 4 from the orthogonal position, reaches the approach section between one end section 4e and the diaphragm 6 from one end section 4e, and reaches the annular edge 3e of the side plate section 3c of the yoke 3 through the diaphragm 6. If the current direction to the magnetic coil 7 is reversed, the magnetic field lines generated by the magnetic coil 7 circulate along this path in the opposite direction.The solenoid coil 7 generates the magnetic force F0 for the diaphragm 6 against the preload force f2 exerted by the coil spring 5. Due to the magnetic force F0, the diaphragm 6 approaches one end section 4e of the pole piece 4, and the electronic valve 2 enters the closed state, in which the opening 4o is sealed by the elastic body 8. In the closed state, the flow of fluid through the interior of the pole piece (also called pole shoe) 4 is blocked. As described above, the electronic valve 2 can enter the open or closed state depending on whether the solenoid coil 7 is in the de-energized state (during rest) or the energized state (during operation). This allows the flow of fluid in the pole piece 4, i.e., the flow of fluid through the electronic valve 2, to be permitted or blocked.

[0057] In the Fig. In the closed state shown in Figure 7, the inner surface 6b of the membrane 6 comes into contact with a circumferential end surface 4e1 of one end section 4e of the pole piece 4. However, as indicated by the arrows LX2s, LX2u, the fluid can pass through the through-holes 6s, 6t, 6u, 6v of the membrane 6, between the inner surface 6b of the membrane 6 and the circumferential end surface 4e1, and enter the gap between the recess 4d of one end section 4e of the pole piece 4 and the elastic body 8. This reduces the influence of the pressure (backside pressure) P0 of the fluid exerted on the back surface 6a of the membrane 6 on the characteristic curve of the supply current (or control voltage) versus the flow rate.

[0058] Fig. Figure 10, for example, shows the relationship between the magnetic force F0 generated by the solenoid coil 7 and the valve opening of the electronic valve 2. The valve opening is 100% when the valve is fully open and 0% when the valve is fully closed. For the sake of simplicity, a description is given that disregards the intermediate state between the open and closed states of each valve.

[0059] It is assumed that the electronic valve 2 is initially at point ST21 where the magnetic force F0 = 0, and thus the valve opening is 100%. If the supply quantity or current to the solenoid coil 7 is increased to increase the magnetic force F0, as illustrated in this example by the solid line XQ1, the state changes from the open state to the closed state when the magnetic force F01 is applied. In this example, the magnetic force F0 is temporarily stopped at point ST22 where the magnetic force F0 is slightly greater than F01. If, at this point, the current to the solenoid coil 7 is reduced in the electronic valve 2 to decrease the magnetic force F0, the electronic valve 2 reverses along the solid line XQ1 and returns to the open state when approximately the magnetic force F01 is applied. The electronic valve 2 then returns to the initial point ST21.

[0060] For example, the resistance force of the coil spring 5 or similar is given by F2 = 5.0 × 10 -2 [N] is assumed. Then, under the conditions of backside pressure P0 = 0 mmHg and opening-side pressure (the pressure of the fluid applied to opening 40 from the side of the first fluid inlet / outlet 11) P1 = 0 mmHg, the magnetic force at the time of the shift from the open to the closed state along arrow XQ1 is Fig. 10 (or conversely, at the time of the shift from the closed to the open state) to F01 ≈ F2 = 5.0 × 10 -2 [N]. Even under the conditions of backside pressure P0 = 300 mmHg and opening-side pressure P1 = 300 mmHg, F01 ≈ F2 = 5.0 × 10 -2[N] is fulfilled in the same way. It should be noted that the diameter of the opening 4o is set to Φ = 0.5 mm and the diameter of the recess 4d at one end section 4e of the pole piece 4 is set to Φa = 1.2 mm. Then, for example, under the conditions of backside pressure P0 = 0 mmHg and opening-side pressure P1 = 300 mmHg, a pressure force (assumed to be F1) on the diaphragm 6 due to the opening-side pressure P1 is F1 = 7.84 × 10 -3 [N], because the area (assumed to be S0) of the opening 4o S0 = πΦ 2 / 4. Therefore, F01 ≈ F1 + F2 = 5.8 × 10 -2 [N].

[0061] Similar to the open / closed state of the electronic valve 2, there is an intermediate state between the closed and open states in which the flow rate, i.e., the flow quantity, is controlled according to the current applied by the electromagnet. When the state transitions from the open to the closed state, the elastic body 8 of the diaphragm 6 approaches the opening 4o at one end section 4e of the pole piece 4. This allows a stable characteristic curve of the supply current (or the control voltage) versus the flow rate to be achieved.

[0062] In this electronic valve 2, the plate-shaped diaphragm 6 is configured to move translationally in one direction (Z-direction) to allow or block fluid flow, approaching or moving away from one end section 4e of the pole piece 4 in a position relative to the end plate section 3b of the yoke 3. That is, unlike the conventional example (the movable iron core has the shape of a rod and moves along its longitudinal direction), in this electronic valve 2 the plate-shaped diaphragm 6 moves in one direction (Z-direction) perpendicular to the plate surface of the diaphragm 6. Therefore, the size of the electronic valve 2 can be reduced with respect to the direction (Z-direction) in which the diaphragm 6 moves. Consequently, the electronic valve 2 can be manufactured in a smaller size.

[0063] In particular, with the electronic valve 2, it is possible to obtain a flattened outer shape along the first and second end walls 10-1, 10-2 by reducing the size of the housing 10 from the first end wall 10-1 to the second end wall 10-2. Such an outer shape is suitable for mounting the electronic valve 2 (housing 10) along a printed circuit board, for example, so that the electronic valve 2 (housing 10) and the printed circuit board are completely flattened.

[0064] In this example, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the thickness (dimension in the z-direction) H of the housing 10 is set to approximately 2.5 mm. The dimensions W1 and W2 (dimensions in the XY-direction) of the housing 10 in the plane direction are each set to approximately 5.5 mm. In this way, the housing 10 has a flattened outer shape. In this example, the dimension of the cylindrical part 10a of the cover housing 10A, which projects from the second end wall 10-2 towards the +Z side, is set to approximately 1.6 mm. The outer diameter and inner diameter of the cylindrical part 10a are set to approximately 1.3 mm and approximately 0.8 mm, respectively. The dimension of the projection 4a of the pole piece 4, which projects from the first end wall 10-1 of the main housing 10B towards the -Z side, is set to approximately 1.6 mm. The outer and inner diameters of the projection 4a of the pole piece 4 are set at approximately 1.3 mm and approximately 0.5 mm, respectively. As described, the electronic valve 2 can be manufactured in a small size.

[0065] The electronic valve 2 can be made lighter because it can be manufactured in a smaller size. Specifically, instead of the rod-shaped movable iron core of the conventional electronic valve, the electronic valve 2 is equipped with a plate-shaped diaphragm 6 made of Permalloy, thus reducing its weight. Furthermore, even when the position of the electronic valve 2 changes differently relative to the vertical direction, the change in the characteristic curve (e.g., supply current (or control voltage) versus flow rate) is minimal. This ensures stable and reliable opening and closing of the electronic valve 2. (Application on sphygmomanometers)

[0066] Fig. Figure 8 shows a schematic block configuration of an electronic sphygmomanometer (the entire arrangement is designated by reference numeral 100) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The sphygmomanometer 100 is roughly provided with a cuff 20, which is attached to a part to be measured, such as a wrist or an upper arm, and a body 100M.

[0067] The cuff 20 contains a fluid bag 22 for compressing the part to be measured. The fluid bag 22 and the main body 100M are connected in such a way that the fluid can flow through a flexible air tube 38.

[0068] The main body 100M contains a control unit 110, a display unit 50, a memory 51 serving as a storage unit, an operating unit 52, a power supply unit 53, a pressure sensor 31, a pump 32, and an outlet valve 33, which consists of the electronic valve 2 described above. The main body 100M also contains a resonant circuit 310 for converting an output signal from the pressure sensor 31 into a frequency, a pump control circuit 320 for controlling the pump 32, and a valve actuator circuit 330 for controlling the outlet valve 33. The pressure sensor 31, the pump 32, and the outlet valve 33 are connected to the air hose 38 via a common air tube 39 provided in the main body 100M, allowing fluid to flow. In this example, the second fluid inlet / outlet 12 is connected to the air pipe 39 in the outlet valve 33, and the first fluid inlet / outlet 11 is open to the atmosphere 900°.

[0069] The display unit 50 includes a display, an indicator and similar components and displays predefined information (e.g. blood pressure measurement results) in accordance with a control signal from the control unit 110.

[0070] The operating unit 52 contains a power switch 52A for receiving a command to switch the power supply unit 53 on or off, a measuring switch 52B for receiving a command to start the blood pressure measurement, and a stop switch 52C for receiving a command to end the measurement. These switches 52A, 52B, and 52C input operating signals according to the instructions of a user of the control unit 110.

[0071] Memory 51 stores data from a program for controlling the sphygmomanometer 100, data intended for controlling the sphygmomanometer 100, setting data for adjusting various functions of the sphygmomanometer 100, data from blood pressure measurements, and the like. Memory 51 is used as working memory during program execution.

[0072] The control unit 110 contains a central processing unit (CPU) and controls the entire operation of the sphygmomanometer (blood pressure measuring device) 100. Specifically, the control unit 110 serves as a pressure control unit according to the program for controlling the sphygmomanometer 100, which is stored in memory 51, and executes the control to drive the pump 32 and the outlet valve 33 according to an operating signal from the operating or control unit 52. The control unit 110 also serves as a blood pressure calculation unit for calculating a blood pressure value and controls the display unit 50 and the memory 51. A specific procedure for measuring blood pressure is described later.

[0073] The power supply unit 53 supplies electrical energy to the control unit 110, the pressure sensor 31, the pump 32, the outlet valve 33, the display unit 50, the storage unit 51, the resonating circuit 310, the pump drive circuit 320 and the valve drive circuit 330.

[0074] The pump 32 supplies air as a fluid to the fluid bag 22 to pressurize the fluid bag 22, which is contained within the cuff 20. The outlet valve 33 opens to release air from the fluid bag 22 or closes to retain air in the fluid bag 22, thus controlling the cuff pressure. The pump drive circuit 320 drives the pump 32 based on a control signal provided by a control unit 110. The valve drive circuit 330 opens or closes the outlet valve 33 based on a control signal supplied by the control unit 110.

[0075] The pressure sensor 31 and the resonant circuit 310 serve as a pressure sensing unit that detects the pressure of the cuff. The pressure sensor 31 is, for example, a piezoresistive pressure sensor and detects the pressure (cuff pressure) in the fluid bag 22 contained in the cuff 20 via the air tube 39 and the air hose 38. In this example, the resonant circuit 310 oscillates in accordance with an electrical signal value, which is based on a change in electrical resistance due to a piezoresistive effect from the pressure sensor 31, and outputs a frequency signal with a frequency corresponding to the electrical signal value of the pressure sensor 31 to the control unit 110.

[0076] Fig. Figure 9A illustrates an operating procedure when the user performs a blood pressure measurement with the Sphygmomanometer 100.

[0077] When the user initiates the start of the measurement using the control unit 52 provided in the main body 100M with the cuff 20 attached to the part to be measured, the control unit 110 performs the initial setting (step S1 of Fig. 9A). Specifically, the control unit 110 initializes the processing memory area, switches off (stops) the pump 32 and sets the pressure sensor 31 to 0 mmHg (setting the atmospheric pressure to 0 mmHg), with the outlet valve 33 open.

[0078] The control unit 110 then closes the outlet valve 33 via the valve drive circuit 330 and then switches on (activates) the pump 32 via the pump drive circuit 320 to pressurize the cuff 20 (the fluid bag 22) (step S2). The control unit 110 controls the pressurization rate based on the output of the pressure sensor 31, while supplying air from the pump 32 to the fluid bag 22 via the air tube 39 and the air hose 38 (step S3).

[0079] Specifically, in this example, control unit 110 determines how the pressure application rate control process proceeds in Fig. 9B shows whether the pressurization rate matches a target rate or not (step S81 of Fig. 9B). If the pressurization rate matches the target rate (YES in step S81), the process returns to the sequence of Fig. 9A back. If, on the other hand, the pressurization rate does not match the target rate (NO in step S81 of Fig. 9B), the process proceeds to step S82 in Fig. Step 9B determines whether the pressurization rate is greater than the target rate. If the pressurization rate is greater than the target rate (YES in step S82), the drive voltage of pump 32 is reduced from a current control voltage by a constant value β [V] (step S83). Conversely, if the pressurization rate is less than the target rate (NO in step S82), the drive voltage of pump 32 is increased from a current control voltage by a constant value β [V] (step S84). The sequence then returns to the sequence of Fig. 9A back.

[0080] Next, in step S4 in Fig. 9A, the control unit 110 serves as a blood pressure calculation unit and attempts to calculate a blood pressure value (systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP)) using a known oscillometric method based on a pulse wave signal (fluctuation components due to pulse waves contained in the output of the pressure sensor 31) detected at that time.

[0081] If the blood pressure value cannot be calculated at this time due to missing data (NO in step S5), the processing of steps S3 to S5 is repeated, unless the cuff pressure has reached the upper limit pressure (preset for safety, e.g. 300 mmHg).

[0082] After the blood pressure value has been calculated in this way (YES in step S5), the control unit 110 displays the blood pressure measurement result on the display unit 50. Furthermore, the control unit 110 executes the control to switch off the pump 32, opens the outlet valve 33 (step S6) and releases the air from the cuff 20 (the fluid bag 22).

[0083] The control unit 110 then displays the calculated blood pressure value on the display unit 50 (step S7) and controls the storage of the blood pressure value in memory 51.

[0084] It should be noted that the blood pressure calculation can be carried out in a pressure relief process instead of in a pressure application process via the cuff 20 (the fluid bag 22).

[0085] In the Sphygmomanometer 100, the outlet valve 33 consists of a small and lightweight electronic valve 2. This allows not only the main body 100M, but also the entire Sphygmomanometer 100 to be manufactured with small dimensions and low weight. Furthermore, even if the position or orientation of the outlet valve 33 (the electronic valve 2) changes differently in the vertical direction, the change in the characteristic curve (e.g., supply current (or drive voltage) versus flow rate) is minimal. Consequently, the outlet valve 33 can be opened and closed stably and reliably, thus stabilizing the operation of the Sphygmomanometer 100. (Modifications related to the housing)

[0086] In the example above, the second fluid inlet / outlet 12 of the electronic valve 2 is formed from the cylindrical part 10a that projects outwards (+Z-side) from the second end wall 10-2 of the cover housing 10A. In this case, it is easy to insert the electronic valve 2 into the straight flow path. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

[0087] The Fig. 11A and Fig. Figure 11B shows, for example, an example of an electronic valve 2D obtained by modifying the housing 10 of the electronic valve 2. Fig. Figure 11A illustrates the electronic valve 20 as seen from the +Z side. Fig. Figure 11B shows a cross-sectional structure viewed from the bottom (-Y-side) in Fig. 11A. As can be seen from this figure, in the electronic valve 2D a cylindrical part 10b, which forms the second fluid inlet / outlet 12, is arranged projecting outwards (+X-side) from the outer circumferential wall 10-3 of the main housing 10B. In other respects, the electronic valve 2D is configured in the same way as the electronic valve 2 (In Fig. 11B is the structure of membrane 6 for the sake of simplicity compared to Fig. 4, Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 simplified representation. This also applies to Fig. 12B, which is described below).

[0088] When the electronic valve 2D is in the open state, fluid enters from the second fluid inlet / outlet 12, as indicated by an arrow LD1. Fig. 11B. As indicated by arrow LD2, the fluid flows through the gap between the inner surface 6b of the diaphragm 6 and the annular edge 3e of the side plate section 3c of the yoke 3, the gap between the inner surface 6b of the diaphragm 6 and one end section 4e of the pole piece 4, and the gap between the recess 4d of one end 4e of the pole piece 4 and the elastic body 8 in this order, and flows from the first fluid inlet / outlet 11 outwards through the opening 4o of one end section 4e, as indicated by arrow LD3. In this way, the fluid can flow from the second fluid inlet / outlet 12 to the first fluid inlet / outlet 11 or in the opposite direction through the electronic valve 2D.

[0089] When the electronic valve 2D is in the closed state, as with electronic valve 2, the diaphragm 6 approaches one end section 4e of the pole piece 4, and the opening 4o is closed with the elastic body 8.

[0090] In this electronic valve 2D, it is possible to prevent the cylindrical part 10b, which forms the second fluid inlet / outlet 12, from protruding outwards (+Z-side) from the second end wall 10-2 of the cover housing 10A. This allows the electronic valve to be made thin. For example, the main housing 10B is attached along the top surface of the circuit board (not shown), and the projection 4a, which forms the first fluid inlet / outlet 11, extends downwards through the circuit board, so that the electronic valve 2D and the circuit board can be made completely flat.

[0091] The Fig. 12A and Fig. Figure 12B shows another example of an electronic valve 2E formed by modification of the housing 10 of the electronic valve 2. Fig. Figure 12A shows the electronic valve 2E as seen from the +Z side. Fig. Figure 12B shows a cross-sectional structure viewed from the bottom (-Y-side) in Fig. 12A. As can be seen from this figure, in the electronic valve 2E a cylindrical section 10c, which forms the second fluid inlet / outlet 12, is arranged projecting outwards (-Z-side) from the first end wall 10-1 of the main housing 10B. In other respects, the electronic valve 2E is configured in the same way as the electronic valve 2.

[0092] When the electronic valve 2E is in the open state, fluid from the second fluid inlet / outlet 12 enters Fig.12B, as indicated by arrow LE1. As indicated by arrow LE2, the fluid flows through the gap between the outer circumferential wall 10-3 of the main housing 10B and the side plate section 3c of the yoke 3, the gap between the inner surface 6b of the membrane 6 and the annular edge 3e of the side plate section 3c of the yoke 3, the gap between the inner surface 6b of the membrane 6 and one end section 4e of the pole piece 4, and the gap between the recess 4d of one end section 4e of the pole piece 4 and the elastic body 8 in this order, and flows from the first fluid inlet / outlet 11 through the opening 4o of one end section 4e to the outside, as indicated by arrow LE3. In this way, the fluid can flow from the second fluid inlet / outlet 12 to the first fluid inlet / outlet 11 or in the opposite direction through the electronic valve 2E.

[0093] When the electronic valve 2E is in the closed state, as with electronic valve 2, the diaphragm 6 approaches one end section 4e of the pole piece 4, and the opening 4o is closed with the elastic body 8.

[0094] In this electronic valve 2E, similar to the electronic valve 2D, the cylindrical part 10c, which forms the second fluid inlet / outlet 12, can be prevented from protruding outwards (+Z-side) from the second end wall 10-2 of the cover housing 10A. This allows the electronic valve to be manufactured in a thinner size. Furthermore, in the electronic valve 2E, the cylindrical part 10c, which forms the second fluid inlet / outlet 12, can protrude in the same direction (-Z-direction) as the projection 4a, which forms the first fluid inlet / outlet 11. For example, if the main housing 10B is mounted along the top surface of the circuit board (not shown), the cylindrical section 10c and the projection 4a both extend downwards through the circuit board, allowing the electronic valve 2E and the circuit board to be manufactured completely flat.In this case, a flow path connected to the electronic valve 2E can only be arranged below the circuit board. (Device application)

[0095] In the embodiment described above, the electronic valve of the present invention was applied to the sphygmomanometer, but the present invention is not limited to this. The electronic valve of the present invention can be applied to various other devices besides the sphygmomanometer. The electronic valve of the present invention can also be applied to a device that includes functional units for performing a blood pressure measurement function and various other functions. In this case, the device can be manufactured in a small size and with low weight. Even if the orientation, i.e., the position or orientation of the electronic valve in the vertical direction, changes in various ways, the change in the characteristic curve (e.g., supply current versus flow rate) is small, making it possible to open and close the electronic valve stably and reliably and to stabilize the operation of the device.

[0096] The above embodiment is exemplary, and various modifications can be made without deviating from the scope of the present invention. Each of the above embodiments can be implemented independently, but combinations of the embodiments are also possible. Furthermore, different features in different embodiments can also be implemented independently, but combinations of features in different embodiments are also possible. Reference symbol list 2, 2D, 2E electronic valve 3 yoke 4 pole pieces 5 coil springs 6 Membran 7 Magnetic coil 8 elastic bodies 10 cases 10-1 first end wall 10-2 second end wall 10-3 outer perimeter wall 11 First fluid inlet / outlet 12 Second fluid inlet / outlet 100 Sphygmomanometer

Claims

[1] Sphygmomanometer (100) measuring the blood pressure of a part to be measured, the sphygmomanometer (100) comprising: a body (100M); a cuff (20) which is attached to the part to be measured; a pump (32) installed in the body (100M) which is configured to supply fluid to the cuff (20) via a flow path (38, 39); an electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E, 33) wherein the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E, 33) is installed in the body (100M) and is arranged between the pump (32) or the flow path (39) and an atmosphere (900); a pressure control unit (110) that controls the pressure of the cuff (20) by supplying the fluid to the cuff (20) through the flow path (38, 39) with the pump (32) and / or draining the fluid from the cuff (20) through the electronic valve (33); and a blood pressure calculation unit (110) that calculates the blood pressure based on the pressure of the fluid stored in the cuff (20); wherein the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E) allows or blocks fluid flow and wherein the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E) comprises: a yoke (3) with an end plate section (3b) having an annular circumferential edge and a side plate section (3c) which is connected to the circumferential edge of the end plate section (3b) and surrounds a space (SP1) adjoining a side of the end plate section (3b) in an annular manner; a pole piece (4) orthogonal to the end plate section (3b) of the yoke (3) and extending in a direction from an end section (4e) located in the space (SP1) of one side to the other end section (4f) of the opposite side, wherein the pole piece (4) has an opening (4o) at one end section (4e) and has a first fluid inlet / outlet (11) at the other end section (4f) which is connected to the opening (4o) through an interior of the pole piece (4); a magnetic coil (7) which is housed in an annular space (SP1) between the pole piece (4) and the side plate section (3c) of the yoke (3); a membrane (6) made of a disk-shaped magnetic material, which is opposite the end plate section (3b) of the yoke (3) across the space (SP1) and has a dimension extending over an annular edge (3e) of the side plate section (3c) of the yoke (3); and a helical spring (5) that biases the diaphragm (6) in one direction away from one end section (4e) of the pole piece (4), so that the diaphragm (6) is moved translationally in one direction; and a housing (10) which together covers the yoke (3), a section (4b) of the pole piece (4) which extends into the space (SP1) of one side, the magnet coil (7), the diaphragm (6) and the helical spring (5), wherein the other end section (4f) of the pole piece (4) is exposed to the outside, where the coil spring (5) is arranged along an annular space (SP2) between the side plate section (3c) of the yoke (3) and an annular outer circumferential wall (10-3) of the housing (10) facing the side plate section (3c), and is in an annular contact with a circumferential edge section of a surface (6b) of the membrane (6) facing the end plate section (3b); a gap (CG) is provided in a radial direction between the annular outer circumferential wall (10-3) of the housing (10) and a circumferential edge section (6e) of the membrane (6), an elastic body (8) for closing the opening (4o) is integrally attached to a section of the membrane (6) which faces the opening (4o) at one end section (4e) of the pole piece (4), and the elastic body (8) has a flat end surface (8e) which projects in a column-like shape from the membrane (6) towards the opening (4o) at one end section (4e); the pole piece (4) having an end section (4e) with a recess (4d) having a flat bottom (4d1) open towards the elastic body (8) attached to the membrane (6), and the opening (4o) on the bottom (4d1) of the recess (4d) is open, During a rest period in which the solenoid coil (7) is in a de-energized state, the diaphragm (6) is separated by a preload force (f2) of the helical spring (5), which causes the end face (8e) of the elastic body (8) to be separated from the opening (4o), from one end section (4e) of the pole piece (4), so that the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E) comes into an open state in which the opening (4o) is open, and During an operating time in which the solenoid coil (7) is in the energized state, the diaphragm (6) approaches one end section (4e) of the pole piece (4) against the preload force (f2) of the helical spring (5) by a magnetic force (F0) generated by the solenoid coil (7), so that the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E) can come into a closed state in which the opening (4o) is closed with the end surface (8e) of the elastic body (8). [2] Sphygmomanometer (100) according to claim 1, wherein the pole piece (4) and the yoke (3) are integrally configured in the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E). [3] Sphygmomanometer (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E) contains a magnetic material called Permalloy forming the diaphragm (6). [4] Sphygmomanometer (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein in the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E): the housing (10) is a sealing housing which together fluidly covers the yoke (3), the section (4b) of the pole piece (4) extending into the space (SP1) on one side, the magnet coil (7), the diaphragm (6) and the helical spring (5), with the other end section (4f) of the pole piece (4) being exposed to the outside; and a second fluid inlet / outlet (12) provided through an outer wall of the sealing housing. [5] Sphygmomanometer (100) according to claim 4, wherein the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E) comprises the sealing housing: a first end wall (10-1) along an outer surface of the end plate section (3b) of the yoke (3), a second end wall (10-2) along a rear surface (6a) of the membrane (6) which faces a side opposite the end plate section (3b), and the ring-shaped outer circumferential wall (10-3) which connects a circumferential edge section of the first end wall (10-1) and a circumferential edge section of the second end wall (10-2). [6] Sphygmomanometer (100) according to claim 5, wherein in the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E) the other end section (4f) of the pole piece (4) which is provided with the first fluid inlet / outlet (11) is arranged such that it projects outwards from the first end wall (10-1) of the sealing housing. [7] Sphygmomanometer (100) according to claim 5 or 6, in which the second fluid inlet / outlet (12) in the electronic valve (2, 2D, 2E) is arranged such that it projects outwards from the first end wall (10-1), the second end wall (10-2) or the outer circumferential wall (10-3) of the sealing housing.

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