Biological information measuring device and biological information measuring system

Abstract

To provide a technology to notify the state of contact between an electrode and a measurement target in the level of three or more stages when measuring biological information using a biological information measuring device equipped with an electrode.SOLUTION: A biological information measuring device having a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode, and measures biological information on a measurement target on the basis of a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode with an electric potential of the third electrode as a reference electric potential. A biological information measuring system includes an information processing terminal for performing communication with the biological information measuring device. The biological information measuring device includes: first contact signal output means; second contact signal output means; contact state classification means for classifying the level of each contact state of the first electrode and the second electrode for the measurement target into a level of at least three stages on the basis of each signal output by first contact detection means and second contact detection means; and notification means for notifying each contact state of the first electrode and the second electrode so that the level can be identified.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a healthcare-related technical field, and in particular to a bioinformation measuring device and a bioinformation measuring system. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, it has become common to use measuring devices to measure information relating to an individual's physical and health, such as blood pressure and electrocardiogram waveforms, and to record and analyze the measurement results on an information processing terminal to manage health.

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

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses that in a portable electrocardiogram recording device that measures and records electrocardiogram waveforms using a pair of electrodes placed in contact with the skin of the right hand and chest, an electrical circuit detects whether the contact resistance between the skin and the electrodes is sufficiently small, and if the contact resistance is not sufficiently small, the person being measured is notified of poor contact by a display, sound, etc.

[0005] With this technology, when the contact resistance between the skin and the electrodes is not small enough (i.e., when the electrode contact state does not allow normal measurement), the person taking the measurement can be notified of this condition, so that the person can take measures such as repositioning the electrodes or applying water, and then record a normal electrocardiogram. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-234689 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] However, even if the technology described in Patent Document 1 is adopted, the problem is that the measurer cannot know how hard to press the electrodes against the skin because he or she can only recognize whether the contact state of the electrodes is poor or not. As a result, excessive force is applied when trying to press the electrodes against the skin more than necessary, which may result in electromyographic noise being added to the electrocardiogram signal, and ultimately make it impossible to record the electrocardiogram correctly.

[0008] In view of the above-described conventional technology, the present invention aims to provide a technology that can notify the contact condition between an electrode and a measurement subject in three or more levels when measuring bioinformation using a bioinformation measuring device equipped with electrodes. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to solve the above problems, one embodiment of the present invention employs the following configuration. A biological information measuring device comprising a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode, the biological information measuring device measuring biological information of a measurement target based on a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode, the potential of the third electrode being set as a reference potential, a first contact signal output means for outputting a signal related to a contact state of the first electrode with the measurement object based on a potential of the first electrode that varies depending on a contact state of the first electrode with the measurement object; a second contact signal output means for outputting a signal related to a contact state of the second electrode with the measurement target based on a potential of the second electrode that varies depending on a contact state of the second electrode with the measurement target; a contact state classification means for classifying the levels of the contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement target into at least three levels based on the signals output by the first contact detection means and the second contact detection means; a notification means for notifying a contact state of each of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object in a manner such that the level classified by the contact state classification means can be identified; A control means for executing a process of measuring the biological information; The biological information measuring device has the following features.

[0010] With this configuration, the contact state between the first electrode and the second electrode and the contact object can be displayed in three or more levels, and the user can intuitively understand how much pressure to use to adjust the contact state between each electrode and the skin depending on the level of the current electrode contact state.

[0011] The notification means may include a voice output means and may notify by voice. The notification means may include a vibration means and may notify by vibration. The notification means may include a display means and may notify by display. Depending on the environment in which the device is used, the characteristics of the user, and the timing of the notification, there are various ways in which the contact state information should be perceived, and it is desirable to be able to notify by various output methods.

[0012] The notification means may indicate the level by at least one of the following on the display means: a numerical value, a number of display segments whose display is activated, a size of an area whose display is activated, or a difference in color and transparency of the display area. This allows the user to easily grasp the level of contact between each electrode and the skin.

[0013] The notification means may notify the contact state of each of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object before and / or during the measurement process of the biological information. By being able to grasp the level of the contact state not only before the start of measurement but also during measurement, the user can maintain a more stable and good contact state, and perform accurate measurement.

[0014] The present invention can also be understood as a biological information measuring system as follows. A biological information measuring system including a biological information measuring device including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode, the biological information measuring device measuring biological information of a measurement target based on a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode with a potential of the third electrode as a reference potential, and an information processing terminal communicating with the biological information measuring device, The biological information measuring device includes: A control means for executing a process of measuring the biological information; a first contact detection means for outputting a signal related to a contact state of the first electrode with the measurement target based on a potential of the first electrode that varies depending on a contact state of the first electrode with the measurement target; a second contact detection means for outputting a signal relating to a contact state of the second electrode with the measurement target based on a potential of the second electrode that varies depending on a contact state of the second electrode with the measurement target, At least one of the bioinformation measuring device and the information processing terminal, Based on the signals output from the first contact detection means and the second contact detection means, the levels of the contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object are determined at a low level. A contact state classification means for classifying the contact state into at least three stages, The information processing terminal includes: The biological information measuring system includes a notification means for notifying the contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object in a manner that distinguishes the levels classified by the contact state classification means.

[0015] In this way, by providing a means for notifying the level of contact between the electrode and the measurement object as a separate terminal, the freedom of the notification mode can be increased, making it possible to provide notifications with higher usability.

[0016] In the bioinformation measuring system, the notification means may include a display means and may notify by display. The notification means may indicate the level by at least one of the following: a numerical value displayed on the display means, a number of display segments whose display is activated, a size of an area whose display is activated, or a difference in color and transparency of the display area. The notification means may notify a contact state of each of the first electrode and the second electrode with the measurement target before and / or during measurement processing of the bioinformation.

[0017] Furthermore, the above configurations and processes can be combined with each other to constitute the present invention as long as no technical contradiction occurs. Effect of the Invention

[0018] According to the present invention, when measuring biological information using a biological information measuring device equipped with electrodes, the contact state between the electrodes and a measurement subject can be notified in three or more levels. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an overview of a biological information measuring system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] Fig. 2A is a front view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to embodiment 1. Fig. 2B is a rear view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to embodiment 1. Fig. 2C is a left side view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to embodiment 1. Fig. 2D is a right side view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to embodiment 1. Fig. 2E is a plan view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to embodiment 1. Fig. 2F is a bottom view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to embodiment 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram showing an outline of an electric circuit including each electrode of the portable electrocardiograph according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a part of the flow of each process when the portable electrocardiograph and the smartphone are communicatively connected in the biological information measurement system according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a part of the flow of each process when the portable electrocardiograph and the smartphone are communicatively connected in the biological information measurement system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a part of the flow of each process when the portable electrocardiograph and the smartphone are communicatively connected in the biological information measuring system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of processing when the portable electrocardiograph according to the first embodiment performs BLE communication. [Figure 8] Fig. 8A is a first diagram showing an example of the display of the electrode contact level in the biological information measuring system according to embodiment 1. Fig. 8B is a second diagram showing an example of the display of the electrode contact level in the biological information measuring system according to embodiment 1. Fig. 8C is a third diagram showing an example of the display of the electrode contact level in the biological information measuring system according to embodiment 1. [Figure 9] Fig. 9A is a first diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a smartphone during electrocardiogram measurement in the biological information measurement system according to embodiment 1. Fig. 9B is a second diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a smartphone during electrocardiogram measurement in the biological information measurement system according to embodiment 1. Fig. 9C is a third diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a smartphone during electrocardiogram measurement in the biological information measurement system according to embodiment 1. Fig. 9D is a fourth diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a smartphone during electrocardiogram measurement in the biological information measurement system according to embodiment 1. [Figure 10] Fig. 10A is a first diagram showing a modified example of the display of the electrode contact level in the biological information measuring system according to embodiment 1. Fig. 10B is a second diagram showing a modified example of the display of the electrode contact level in the biological information measuring system according to embodiment 1. Fig. 10C is a third diagram showing a modified example of the display of the electrode contact level in the biological information measuring system according to embodiment 1. [Figure 11] FIG. 11A is a front view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to embodiment 2. FIG. 11B is a rear view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to embodiment 2. FIG. 11C is a left side view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to embodiment 2. FIG. 11D is a right side view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to embodiment 2. FIG. 11E is a plan view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to embodiment 2. FIG. 11F is a bottom view showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to embodiment 2. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the portable electrocardiograph according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of electrocardiogram waveform measurement processing in the portable electrocardiograph according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] <Embodiment 1> Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, unless otherwise specified, the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative positions, and the like of the components described in the embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0021] (System Configuration) Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a bio-information measuring system 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the bio-information measuring system 1 includes a portable electrocardiograph 10 as an example of a bio-information measuring device, and a smartphone 20 as an example of an information processing terminal, which are configured to be communicably connected to each other.

[0022] (About portable electrocardiographs) Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the portable electrocardiograph 10 in this embodiment. Fig. 2A is a front view showing the front of the main body, and similarly Fig. 2B is a rear view, Fig. 2C is a left side view, Fig. 2D is a right side view, Fig. 2E is a plan view, and Fig. 2F is a bottom view.

[0023] A left electrode 12a is provided on the bottom surface of the portable electrocardiograph 10 to be brought into contact with the left side of the body during electrocardiogram measurement, and a first right electrode 12b is provided on the upper surface of the opposite side to be brought into contact with the middle joint of the index finger of the right hand, and a second right electrode 12c is provided on the upper surface of the opposite side to be brought into contact with the proximal joint of the index finger of the right hand. The first right electrode 12b functions as a GND electrode.

[0024] When measuring electrocardiograms, the user holds the portable electrocardiograph 10 in his right hand and places the index finger of his right hand on the top surface of the portable electrocardiograph 10 so that it is in proper contact with the first right electrode 12b and the second right electrode 12c. Then, the left electrode 12a is brought into contact with the skin at a position corresponding to the desired measurement method. For example, when measuring with a so-called I lead, the left electrode 12a is placed on the palm of the left hand for contact, and when measuring with a so-called V4 lead, the left electrode 12a is placed on the palm of the left hand for contact with the epigastric region of the left chest, slightly to the left of the subnipple. Place it in contact with the skin of the

[0025] Various operation units and indicators are arranged on the left side surface of the portable electrocardiograph 10. Specifically, a power switch 16, a power LED 16a, a BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) communication button 17, a BLE communication LED 17a, a remaining memory display LED 18, a battery replacement LED 19, and the like are provided.

[0026] Furthermore, a measurement state notification LED 13 and an analysis result notification LED 14 are provided on the front side of portable electrocardiograph 10, and a battery storage port and a battery cover 15 are disposed on the rear side of portable electrocardiograph 10.

[0027] 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the portable electrocardiograph 10. As shown in Fig. 1, the portable electrocardiograph 10 includes the following functional units: a control unit 101, an electrode unit 12, an amplifier unit 102, an A / D (Analog to Digital) conversion unit 103, a timer unit 104, a memory unit 105, a display unit 106, an operation unit 107, a power supply unit 108, a communication unit 109, a contact detection unit 111, and an A / D conversion unit 112.

[0028] The control unit 101 is a means for controlling the portable electrocardiograph 10, and is configured to include, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and the like. When the control unit 101 accepts a user's operation via the operation unit 107, the control unit 101 controls each component of the portable electrocardiograph 10 to execute various processes such as electrocardiogram measurement and information communication according to a predetermined program. The predetermined program is stored in the storage unit 105 described below and is read out from there.

[0029] The control unit 101 also includes, as functional modules, an analysis unit 110 that analyzes an electrocardiogram waveform, and a contact condition classification unit 113. The analysis unit 110 analyzes the measured electrocardiogram waveform for the presence or absence of waveform disturbance, and outputs a result as to whether or not the electrocardiogram waveform at least at the time of measurement is normal. The contact condition classification unit 113 classifies the level of the contact condition of the left electrode 12a and the first right electrode 12b detected by the contact detection unit 111 into four stages. The detection of the contact condition and the level classification will be described later.

[0030] The electrode unit 12 is composed of a left electrode 12a, a first right electrode 12b, and a second right electrode 12c, and functions as a sensor for detecting an electrocardiogram waveform. Specifically, the second right electrode 12c is used as a ground (GND) electrode, and the potential difference between the potential of the left electrode 12a and the potential of the first right electrode 12b with respect to the reference potential is continuously measured to obtain an electrocardiogram waveform. A specific circuit configuration for detecting an electrocardiogram waveform will be described later.

[0031] As described below, the amplifier unit 102 has a function of amplifying a signal indicating an electrocardiogram waveform output from the electrode unit 12. The A / D converter 103 has a function of converting the analog signal amplified by the amplifier unit 102 into a digital signal and transmitting the digital signal to the control unit 101.

[0032] The timer unit 104 has a function of measuring time by referring to an RTC (Real Time Clock). For example, as described later, when performing electrode contact detection processing, the timer unit 104 counts the time that all of the left electrode 12a, the first right electrode 12b, and the second right electrode 12c are in contact with the body. In addition, the timer unit 104 may count the time until the end of electrocardiogram measurement and output the count.

[0033] The storage unit 105 includes a main storage device such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a ROM (Read Only Memory), and stores various information such as application programs, measured electrocardiogram waveforms, and analysis results. In addition to the RAM and ROM, the storage unit 105 includes a long-term storage medium such as a flash memory. do.

[0034] The display unit 106 includes a measurement status notification LED 13, an analysis result notification LED 14, a power LED 16a, a BLE communication LED 17a, a remaining memory display LED 18, a battery replacement LED 19, etc., and notifies the user of the device status by turning on or off the LEDs. The operation unit 107 includes a power switch 16, a communication button 17, etc., and has a function of accepting input operations from the user and causing the control unit 101 to execute processing according to the operation.

[0035] The power supply unit 108 includes a battery that supplies the power necessary to operate the device. The battery may be a secondary battery such as a lithium ion battery, or a primary battery.

[0036] The communication unit 109 includes an antenna for wireless communication and has a function of communicating with other devices such as an information processing terminal (to be described later) by at least BLE communication. It may also include a terminal for wired communication.

[0037] The contact detection unit 111 includes an electric circuit connected to the left electrode 12a and the first right electrode 12b, detects the contact state between the left electrode 12a and the first right electrode 12b and the skin surface of the measurement target, and outputs a signal according to the level of the contact state. The A / D conversion unit 112 converts the analog signal output by the contact detection unit 111 into a digital signal and transmits it to the control unit 101.

[0038] (Electrical circuit configuration) Contact state detection and electrocardiogram waveform measurement in the portable electrocardiograph 10 according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a circuit diagram showing an outline of an electric circuit including each electrode of the portable electrocardiograph 10.

[0039] 3, the second right electrode 12c is connected to a reference potential GND and functions as a ground electrode. The first right electrode 12b is connected to a power supply potential V1 via a right pull-up resistor 911. The left electrode 12a is connected to a power supply potential V1 via a left pull-up resistor 921. The power supply potential V1 is set to a potential (e.g., 4 V) higher than the reference potential GND and capable of securing a sufficient bias.

[0040] Therefore, when the power supply is ON and both the first right-side electrode 12b and the second right-side electrode 12c are properly in contact with the skin of the body, a current flows through the impedance of the human body to the second right-side electrode 12c, which has a lower potential than the first right-side electrode 12b, and the potential of the first right-side electrode 12b fluctuates. Such a fluctuation in potential corresponds to the state of contact between the first right-side electrode 12b (and the second right-side electrode 12c) and the skin surface.

[0041] That is, the more firmly the first right electrode 12b is in contact with the skin, the lower the potential becomes, and the contact state between the first right electrode 12b and the skin can be determined based on the potential. The same is true for the left electrode 12a. Note that the circuit shown by the dashed line in Fig. 3 indicates the path of the current via the impedance of the human body.

[0042] Further, the right pull-up resistor 911 and the left pull-up resistor 921 are set to a sufficiently high resistance value (for example, 200 MΩ, preferably 300 MΩ or more) in order to ensure the accuracy of the detected electrocardiogram waveform.

[0043] The circuit shown in FIG. 3 includes five amplifiers: a right non-inverting amplifier 912, a right buffer amplifier 913, a left non-inverting amplifier 922, a left buffer amplifier 923, and a differential amplifier 94. are placed.

[0044] 3, the potential of the first right electrode 12b is input to the + input terminal of the right non-inverting amplifier 912. Then, a right amplified signal amplified by an amplification factor defined by a first amplification factor determining resistor 931 and a third amplification factor determining resistor 933 is output from the output terminal of the right non-inverting amplifier 912 and input to the - terminal of the differential amplifier 94. Meanwhile, a signal of the same potential as that input to the + input terminal of the right non-inverting amplifier 912 is input to the + input terminal of the right buffer amplifier 913 via the right non-inverting amplifier 912. That is, the right non-inverting amplifier 912 functions not only as a normal amplifier (signal amplifier) ​​but also as a buffer (voltage follower).

[0045] The right buffer amplifier 913 functions as a buffer, and outputs a signal having the same potential as the potential input to the + input terminal from the output terminal. The output signal is input to the A / D conversion unit 112 as the right contact state signal 915, converted into a digital signal, and transmitted to the control unit 101.

[0046] The potential of the left electrode 12a is input to the positive input terminal of the left non-inverting amplifier 922. A left amplified signal amplified by an amplification factor defined by the second amplification factor determining resistor 932 and the third amplification factor determining resistor 933 is output from the output terminal of the left non-inverting amplifier 922 and input to the positive terminal of the differential amplifier 94. Meanwhile, a signal of the same potential as that input to the positive input terminal of the left non-inverting amplifier 922 is input to the positive input terminal of the left buffer amplifier 923 via the left non-inverting amplifier 922. That is, like the right non-inverting amplifier 912, the left non-inverting amplifier 922 also functions as a normal amplifier and also as a buffer. The resistance values ​​of the first amplification factor determining resistor 931 and the second amplification factor determining resistor 932 are set to the same value.

[0047] The left buffer amplifier 923 functions as a buffer, and a signal having the same potential as the potential input to the + input terminal is output from the output terminal. The output signal is input to the A / D conversion unit 112 as the left contact state signal 925, converted into a digital signal, and transmitted to the control unit 101.

[0048] The contact state classification unit 113, which is a functional module of the control unit 101, classifies the level of the contact state of each of the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a with the skin into four levels, namely, "good contact", "slightly poor contact", "poor contact", and "no contact", using the right contact state signal 915 and the left contact state signal 925 digitally converted by the A / D conversion unit 112. The threshold value for classifying the digitized signal can be appropriately set by the user based on the contact resistance, the quality of the electrocardiogram recording, and the like. The classified level of the contact state is stored in the storage unit 105. If the right contact state signal 915 and the left contact state signal 925 change over time, the classification of the contact state may change to reflect this, and therefore information indicating the classified level of the contact state is recorded in the storage unit 105 as time-series data.

[0049] The differential amplifier 94 is a differential amplifier that amplifies and outputs the difference between the potential of the first right electrode 12b, which is input to the - input terminal and amplified and output by the right non-inverting amplifier 912, and the potential of the left electrode 12a, which is input to the + input terminal and amplified and output by the left non-inverting amplifier 922. That is, the differential amplifier 94 is included in the amplifier unit 102, and the signal output from the differential amplifier 94 is the electrocardiographic signal to be measured. The electrocardiographic signal is further input to the A / D conversion unit 103, and the digitally converted signal is transmitted to the control unit 101, and is recorded in the storage unit 105 by the control unit 101 as an electrocardiographic waveform.

[0050] (About smartphones) The information processing terminal is, for example, a smartphone 20 equipped with a touch panel display 23. 1, the smartphone 20 includes the following functional units: a control unit 21, a communication unit 22, a display unit 231, an operation unit 232, a storage unit 24, an audio output unit 25, and a vibration unit 26.

[0051] The control unit 21 is a means for controlling the smartphone 20, and is configured to include, for example, a CPU, and performs functions corresponding to various programs stored in the storage unit 24 by executing these programs. The communication unit 22 includes an antenna for wireless communication, and has a function of communicating with other devices such as the portable electrocardiograph 10 and wireless base stations. It may also include a terminal for wired communication.

[0052] The display unit 231 includes the touch panel display 23 and displays various information. When a communication connection with the portable electrocardiograph 10 is established as described below, the classified contact state level and the like transmitted from the portable electrocardiograph 10 can be displayed on the touch panel display 23. That is, it is an example of a notification means. The operation unit 232 includes the touch panel display 23 and accepts various inputs from the user via input images.

[0053] The storage unit 24 includes a main storage device such as a RAM as well as a long-term storage medium such as a flash memory, and stores various types of information such as application programs, measured electrocardiogram waveforms, and analysis results.

[0054] The audio output unit 25 is configured to include a speaker (not shown), and when a communication connection with the portable electrocardiograph 10 is established as described below, the classified contact condition level transmitted from the portable electrocardiograph 10 can also be notified by voice.

[0055] The vibration unit 26 is configured to include a vibrator not shown, and when a communication connection with the portable electrocardiograph 10 is established as described below, it can also notify the classified contact condition level transmitted from the portable electrocardiograph 10 by vibration (by its pattern).

[0056] (Flow of measurement process in the system) Although the portable electrocardiograph 10 can perform electrocardiogram measurement, analyze the measurement data, and display the analysis results by itself, it can be more convenient to use it by connecting it to an information processing terminal for communication. The following describes the case where the portable electrocardiograph 10 is used by connecting it to a smartphone 20 for communication.

[0057] 4, 5, and 6 are diagrams showing the process flow and timing of information transmission between the portable electrocardiograph 10 and the smartphone 20 when electrocardiogram measurement is performed by linking the portable electrocardiograph 10 and the smartphone 20 via BLE communication.

[0058] First, when the user operates the power switch 16 of the portable electrocardiograph 10 to turn on the power, as shown in FIG. 4, the portable electrocardiograph 10 executes a subroutine process for BLE communication (S101). FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of the subroutine process. When the power is turned on, the control unit 101 of the portable electrocardiograph 10 transmits an advertisement signal for BLE communication from the communication unit 109 (S901). Next, the control unit 101 determines whether or not a connection request for BLE communication has been received from another information processing terminal (S902). If it is determined that a connection request for BLE communication has not been received, the same process is repeated until a predetermined time has elapsed or until the BLE communication process is canceled by the operation of the operation unit 107. On the other hand, if it is determined that a connection request for BLE communication has been received, the process proceeds to step S903, and a BLE connection is made to the device that transmitted the connection request. When the BLE communication connection is established, the control unit 101 ends the subroutine. Note that the start trigger of the subroutine is a power It is not limited to power-on, but may be by operating the BLE communication button 17, for example.

[0059] Meanwhile, the user sets the smartphone 20 to a state in which BLE communication with the portable electrocardiograph 10 is possible. Specifically, the user operates the touch panel display 23 to turn on the BLE connection setting from a setting menu or the like. Alternatively, the BLE connection setting may be turned on by starting a dedicated application program for linking with the portable electrocardiograph 10.

[0060] 4 again, when the BLE connection setting is turned ON, the control unit 21 of the smartphone 20 receives an advertising signal for BLE communication via the communication unit 22 (S201), and transmits a BLE connection request to the portable electrocardiograph 10 (S202). Then, the control unit 21 establishes a BLE connection with the portable electrocardiograph 10 (S203, corresponding to S903 above), and transmits a communication start request (S204).

[0061] The user holds the portable electrocardiograph 10 in his right hand for the electrocardiogram electrodes, brings the index finger of his right hand into contact with the first right electrode 12b and the second right electrode 12c, and brings the left electrode 12a into contact with the skin at the location where measurement is to be performed. Then, when the subroutine for BLE communication is completed, as shown in FIG. 5, the portable electrocardiograph 10 detects the contact state between the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a and the skin, and classifies the level of the detected contact state into the above-mentioned four levels (S102). After that, the portable electrocardiograph 10 performs a process of determining whether or not a BLE connection has been established (S103). Here, if it is determined that a BLE connection has been established, information indicating the level (classified) of the electrode contact state is transmitted to the smartphone 20 (S104), and the smartphone 20 receives the information (S205). If the portable electrocardiograph 10 determines in step S103 that the BLE connection is not established, it skips the process of step S104 and proceeds to step S105 to determine whether the electrode contact state is “good” or not.

[0062] In the smartphone 20 that has received the information on the electrode contact state, information indicating the level of the electrode contact state is displayed on the touch panel display 23 (S206). Figs. 8A to 8C show examples of displays on the touch panel display 23 including information indicating the level of such an electrode contact state. As shown in Figs. 8A to 8C, an image simulating a user in a state in which electrocardiogram measurement is being performed by the IV lead method using the portable electrocardiograph 10 is displayed on the screen, and an electrode contact level display LI, which is an area indicating the level of the electrode contact state, is displayed on the left side of the screen. The electrode contact level display LI is configured such that three display segments indicating the contact level of the first right electrode 12b are displayed on the upper side, and three display segments indicating the contact level of the left electrode 12a are displayed on the lower side.

[0063] The level of contact status of each electrode is indicated by the number of activated display segments among the three, with zero activated segments indicating "no contact" and all three activated segments indicating "good." Note that one activated segment indicates "poor contact," and two activated segments indicates "slightly poor contact."

[0064] As shown in Fig. 8B, the electrode contact level indicator LI indicates the contact level of each of the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a individually. In the example of Fig. 8B, the contact level of the first right electrode 12b is "poor contact" and the contact level of the left electrode 12a is "good". In the example of Fig. 8C, the contact level of both electrodes is "good".

[0065] In addition to the electrode contact level display LI, the touch panel display 23 may also display information that gives advice to the user on how to maintain the contact state in a "good" state. For example, as shown in FIG. 8B, when the first right electrode 12b is in "good contact" or "good" state, the first right electrode 12b is in "good" contact. Alternatively, if the contact state of both electrodes is "good" as shown in FIG. 8C , the message "Please maintain the current state" may be displayed.

[0066] Referring again to FIG. 5, in the process of step S105, the portable electrocardiograph 10 performs a process of determining whether or not the contact state of both the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a is "good" (S105). If it is determined that the contact state of at least one of the electrodes is not "good", the process proceeds to step S106, and it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed in that state (S106). The predetermined time here is set to a suitable time (e.g., 5 seconds) for waiting for the user to bring the contact state of the electrodes to a "good" state. If the portable electrocardiograph 10 determines in step S106 that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S102 and repeats the subsequent processes. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S106 that the predetermined time has elapsed, the portable electrocardiograph 10 proceeds to step S108.

[0067] On the other hand, when the portable electrocardiograph 10 determines in step S105 that the contact state of all the electrodes is "good", it performs a process of determining whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed in that state (S107). The predetermined time here is set to a time (e.g., 3 seconds) appropriate for determining whether or not the state in which the contact state of all the electrodes is "good" is not transient but is stable. When the portable electrocardiograph 10 determines in step S107 that the predetermined time has not elapsed, it returns to step S102 and repeats the subsequent processes. On the other hand, when it determines in step S107 that the predetermined time has elapsed, it proceeds to step S108.

[0068] In step S108, the portable electrocardiograph 10 executes an electrocardiogram measurement process and measures and records an electrocardiogram waveform (S108). Specifically, the portable electrocardiograph 10 executes a process of storing an electrocardiogram signal output from the differential amplifier 94 and input to the control unit 101 via the A / D conversion unit 103 in the storage unit 105 as needed. In addition, following step S108 (actually in parallel), the portable electrocardiograph 10 again executes a process of determining whether or not a BLE connection has been established (S109). If it is determined that a BLE connection has been established, as shown in FIG. 7, information related to the electrocardiogram measurement, such as the measured electrocardiogram waveform, the electrode contact state, and the elapsed time from the start of measurement (or the remaining time until the end of measurement), is transmitted to the smartphone 20 (S110), and the smartphone 20 receives the information (S207). Following step S110, the portable electrocardiograph 10 executes a process of determining whether or not a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds) for electrocardiogram measurement has elapsed (S111). If the portable electrocardiograph 10 determines in step S109 that the BLE connection is not established, the portable electrocardiograph 10 skips the process of step S110 and proceeds to step S111.

[0069] The smartphone 20 that has received the information related to the electrocardiogram measurement displays the information on the touch panel display 23 (S208). FIGS. 9A to 9D show an example of a screen displayed on the touch panel display 23 during the electrocardiogram measurement process. As shown in FIGS. 9A to 9D, when the BLE communication connection is established, the touch panel display displays a number indicating the remaining measurement time (seconds), an electrocardiogram waveform, and an electrode contact level display LI indicating the level of the electrode contact state. The display of the number of seconds is counted down as the measurement time elapses, and the display segments arranged in a circle around the number of seconds are gradually deactivated. The electrode contact level display LI also indicates the contact state between the electrodes and the skin in real time, and as shown in FIG. 9C, when the contact state of the electrodes deteriorates, the number of activated segments decreases, and a message urging the user to correct the contact state with the electrodes (please make the electrodes on the chest close contact) is also displayed. When the electrocardiogram waveform to be acquired is disturbed, this is also reflected in the display of the touch panel display 23.

[0070] In step S111, the portable electrocardiograph 10 determines whether or not a predetermined time for electrocardiogram measurement has elapsed. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the portable electrocardiograph 10 returns to step S108 and repeats the subsequent processes. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S111 that the predetermined measurement time has elapsed, a process of determining whether or not a BLE connection has been established is executed (S112). If the portable electrocardiograph 10 determines in step S112 that a BLE connection has not been established, the series of processes ends as is. On the other hand, if it determines in step S112 that a BLE connection has been established, the portable electrocardiograph 10 transmits a notification to the smartphone 20 that the measurement has been completed (S113).

[0071] Then, the smartphone 20, which has received the measurement end notification, transmits a BLE communication end request to the portable electrocardiograph 10 (S209), disconnects the BLE connection (S210), and ends the series of processes on the smartphone 20 side. Note that various information received by the smartphone 20, such as the electrode contact state and electrocardiogram waveform data, can be stored in the storage unit 24 and used as appropriate. Also, the portable electrocardiograph 10, which has received the communication end request in step S209 from the smartphone 20, disconnects the BLE connection (S114), and ends the series of processes.

[0072] According to the portable electrocardiograph 10 and the bioinformation measuring system 1 described in the present embodiment, the contact state between the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a and the skin can be automatically detected, and the contact state level can be classified into stages before and during electrocardiogram measurement and displayed to the user. In addition, by using the device in conjunction with an information processing terminal such as a smartphone 20, not only the level of the contact state can be displayed, but also various information such as advice for improving the contact state of the electrodes and electrocardiogram waveform data can be displayed and viewed on the display. This allows the user to intuitively recognize how much the electrodes should be pressed against the skin, and an electrocardiogram waveform can be obtained in a state of good contact and small myoelectric noise. In addition, the data received by the smartphone 20 can be saved and effectively used using an application program or the like.

[0073] On the other hand, the portable electrocardiograph 10 can measure and store electrocardiogram waveforms, detect, classify and store electrode contact levels, analyze electrocardiogram waveform data, and display and store the analysis results independently of the smartphone 20, so it is possible to measure electrocardiograms at the desired times even if communication connection with the smartphone 20 is not possible.

[0074] (Modification) In the above embodiment, the contact level between the skin and each electrode is classified into four stages, but the contact state classification unit 113 may classify the electrode contact level more finely, or may classify into three stages, which is less than four stages. Also, the electrode contact level display LI is not limited to activation of the display areas of a plurality of (divided) display segments, and various display modes can be adopted. Figs. 10A to 10C show modified examples of such an electrode contact level display LI. The electrode contact level display LI2 shown in Fig. 10A indicates the electrode contact level for each of the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a by the size of the area where the display of the continuous bar-like display area is activated.

[0075] 10B is an example of an electrode contact level display LI3 that indicates the degree of contact for each of the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a with a numerical value (percentage). Also, the electrode contact level display LI4 shown in Fig. 10C is an example of an electrode contact state that indicates the electrode contact state for each of the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a with a color and its transparency. For example, a display mode may be used in which the transparency decreases and the color becomes darker as the contact level is high, or a display mode may be used in which the transparency decreases and the color becomes darker as the same contact level continues, and when the transparency becomes 0, the level of contact may be definitively indicated.

[0076] In the above embodiment, information such as the electrode contact state and the electrocardiogram measurement time may be transmitted and received by a transmission and reception method different from that of the electrocardiogram signal (waveform data). Alternatively, information with a small data capacity, such as the electrode contact state and the electrocardiogram measurement time, may be transmitted and received in a streaming format, and electrocardiogram waveform data with a large data capacity may be transmitted and received by high-speed data communication.

[0077] <Embodiment 2> Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figs. 11 to 13. Figs. 11A to 11F are diagrams showing the configuration of a portable electrocardiograph 30 according to this embodiment. Fig. 11A is a front view showing the front of the main body, and similarly Fig. 11B is a rear view, Fig. 11C is a left side view, Fig. 11D is a right side view, Fig. 11E is a plan view, and Fig. 11F is a bottom view. Fig. 12 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the portable electrocardiograph 30. Note that the portable electrocardiograph 30 according to this embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the portable electrocardiograph 10 according to the first embodiment in most respects, and therefore the same configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described repeatedly.

[0078] (Device configuration) The portable electrocardiograph 30 is configured on the premise that it does not communicate with other devices, and in this respect, it has a different configuration from the portable electrocardiograph 10. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11C, the left side surface of the portable electrocardiograph 30 does not have the BLE communication button 17 and the BLE communication LED 17a, but has an analysis result notification LED 14. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 11A, in addition to the measurement state notification LED 13, a left electrode contact level display LED 31a and a right electrode contact level display LED 31b are arranged on the front surface of the portable electrocardiograph 30. Each of these has three LED indicator lights, and the level of the contact state of each electrode can be indicated to the user depending on the number of the lit LED indicator lights.

[0079] 12, unlike portable electrocardiograph 10, portable electrocardiograph 30 does not have communication section 109, but has functional sections of audio output section 131 and vibration section 132. Audio output section 131 is configured to include a speaker (not shown) and can notify information such as the contact state level classified by contact state classification section 113 by voice. Moreover, vibration section 132 is configured to include a vibrator (not shown) and can notify information such as the contact state level classified by contact state classification section 113 by vibration (by its pattern). Other points are similar to portable electrocardiograph 10, including the electrical circuit configuration for detecting the potential difference between the electrodes.

[0080] (Measurement process flow) Next, a process flow when electrocardiogram measurement is performed by the portable electrocardiograph 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a process flow related to electrocardiogram measurement performed by the portable electrocardiograph 30.

[0081] First, prior to measurement, the user operates the power switch 16 to turn on the portable electrocardiograph 10. Then, the power LED lights up to indicate that the power is on. Then, the user holds the portable electrocardiograph 10 in the right hand, touches the first right electrode 12b and the second right electrode 12c with the right index finger, and touches the left electrode 12a to the skin at the location to be measured. Then, the control unit 101 detects the contact state between each electrode and the skin via the contact detection unit 111 and the A / D conversion unit 112 (S1101).

[0082] Next, the control unit 101 (contact state classification unit 113) classifies the detected contact state into four levels: "good," "slightly poor contact," "poor contact," and "no contact," and notifies the user of the contact level after classification (S1102). Specifically, the contact state of the left electrode 12a and the first right electrode 12b is indicated by the number of lit LED indicator lights of the left electrode contact level display LED 31a and the right electrode contact level display LED 31b. For example, in the case of "no contact," the number of lit indicator lights is 0, in the case of "poor contact," the number of lit indicator lights is 1, in the case of "no contact," the number of lit indicator lights is 2, and in the case of "no contact," the number of lit indicator lights is 3. If the condition is "bad" then the number of lights may be two and if the condition is "good" then the number of lights may be three.

[0083] Next, the control unit 101 performs a process of determining whether the contact state of both the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a is "good" (S1103). If it is determined that the contact state of at least any of the electrodes is not "good", the process proceeds to step S1104, where it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed in that state (S1104). The predetermined time here is set to a suitable time (e.g., 5 seconds) to wait for the user to bring the contact state of the electrodes into a "good" state.

[0084] If it is determined in step S1104 that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the control unit 101 returns to step S1011 and repeats the subsequent processes. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1104 that the predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit 101 proceeds to step S1106.

[0085] On the other hand, if the control unit 101 determines in step S1103 that the contact state of all the electrodes is "good", it performs a process of determining whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed in that state (S1105). The predetermined time here is set to a time (e.g., 3 seconds) appropriate for determining whether or not the state in which the contact state of all the electrodes is "good" is not temporary but is stable. If the control unit 101 determines in step S1105 that the predetermined time has not elapsed, it returns to step S1101 and repeats the subsequent processes. On the other hand, if it determines in step S1105 that the predetermined time has elapsed, it proceeds to step S1106.

[0086] When performing electrocardiogram measurement, the control unit 101 indicates that electrocardiogram measurement is in progress by blinking the measurement status notification LED 13 on the front of the main unit at a predetermined rhythm (S1106), and also stores the electrocardiogram signal output from the differential amplifier 94 and acquired via the A / D conversion unit 103 in the storage unit 105 as needed (S1107). Note that here, the classified electrode contact state level is also stored in the storage unit together with the electrocardiogram signal. The stored information on the electrocardiogram signal and the electrode contact state level is stored in the storage unit 105 in association with information on the time when each information was acquired.

[0087] Then, in step S1108, the control unit 101 executes a process to determine whether or not a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds) for electrocardiogram measurement has elapsed (S1108). If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S1107 and repeats the subsequent processes. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1108 that the predetermined measurement time has elapsed, the control unit 101 turns off the measurement state notification LED 13 and ends the notification of the electrode contact level (S1109), thereby ending a series of processes related to electrocardiogram measurement.

[0088] According to the portable electrocardiograph 30 of the present embodiment as described above, even when used alone, the electrocardiograph can notify the user of the contact state levels of the electrodes in stages, execute electrocardiographic measurement processing, and record electrocardiographic waveform data. In addition, since the classified contact state levels are also stored together with the electrocardiographic waveform data, when the stored electrocardiographic waveform is later checked, for example, by displaying it on a display, the contact state levels of the first right electrode 12b and the left electrode 12a at the time the waveform was detected can be checked together with the electrocardiographic waveform.

[0089] (Modification) In the above description of the measurement process flow according to the second embodiment, only the example in which the contact state between the electrodes and the skin is notified by the left electrode contact level display LED 31a and the right electrode contact level display LED 31b has been described, but instead of or in addition to this, the contact state can be notified by sound or vibration. In this case, if vibration continues or sound continues to be output during electrocardiogram measurement, it may be possible to notify by sound or vibration only before the measurement process.

[0090] Also, instead of the display means using various LED indicator lamps such as the left electrode contact level display LED 31a and the right electrode contact level display LED 31b, a display means such as a liquid crystal display may be used to make a portable electrocardiograph that displays various information. In such a case, the notification of the electrode contact level may be made in the display form as shown in the first embodiment and its modified examples.

[0091] <Other> The above examples are merely illustrative of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Various modifications and combinations of the present invention are possible within the scope of the technical concept. For example, the portable electrocardiograph shown in the second embodiment may be provided with a communication unit so as to be capable of communicating with an information processing terminal. In this way, the electrocardiograph alone can notify the user of the contact level, and by linking with the information processing terminal, the contact level can be notified in a manner with higher usability.

[0092] The communication unit is not limited to one for performing BLE communication, and may be an antenna capable of performing other wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or infrared communication. Also, the communication unit may be connected to another information processing terminal by a wired connection. Although the present invention has been applied to a portable electrocardiograph in the above, the present invention can also be applied to a non-portable electrocardiograph, and can also be applied to a bioinformation measuring device other than an electrocardiograph.

[0093] Furthermore, the information processing terminal is not limited to a smartphone, but may be another mobile information processing terminal such as a tablet terminal, or may be a stationary terminal. [Explanation of symbols]

[0094] 1. Biological information measurement system 10, 30... Portable electrocardiograph 13 Measurement status notification LED 14...Analysis result notification LED 15 Battery cover 16 Power switch 16a...Power LED 17 Communication button 17a...BLE communication LED 18. Remaining memory indicator LED 19 Battery replacement LED 31a...Left electrode contact level display LED 31b...Right side electrode contact level display LED 911 Right pull-up resistor 912 Right non-inverting amplifier 913 Right side buffer amplifier 915...Right side contact status signal 921 Left pull-up resistor 922 Left non-inverting amplifier 923 Left side buffer amplifier 925: Left contact status signal 931: First gain determining resistor 932: Second gain determining resistor 933 Third amplification factor determining resistor 94 Differential Amplifier 941: ECG signal GND: Reference potential V1...Power supply potential LI, LI2, LI3, LI4... Electrode contact level indication

Claims

1. A biological information measuring device comprising a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode, the biological information measuring device measuring biological information of a measurement target based on a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode, with a potential of the third electrode being set as a reference potential, a first contact signal output means for outputting a signal relating to a contact state of the first electrode with the measurement object based on a potential of the first electrode that varies depending on a contact state of the first electrode with the measurement object; a second contact signal output means for outputting a signal relating to a contact state of the second electrode with the measurement object based on a potential of the second electrode that varies depending on a contact state of the second electrode with the measurement object; a contact state classification means for classifying the level of the contact state of each of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object into at least three levels based on the signals output by the first contact signal output means and the second contact signal output means; a notification means for notifying the contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object in a manner that the levels classified by the contact state classification means can be identified; a display means for displaying guidance information for improving the contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode in accordance with the level of the contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object; a control means for executing a process for measuring the biological information; A biological information measuring device having the same.

2. The notification means includes a voice output means and issues a notification by voice.

2. The biological information measuring device according to claim 1.

3. The notification means includes a vibration means and performs notification by vibration.

2. The biological information measuring device according to claim 1.

4. The notification means includes the display means and performs notification by display.

2. The biological information measuring device according to claim 1.

5. The notification means The level is indicated by at least one of the following on the display means: a display of a numerical value; a number of a plurality of display segments whose display is activated; a size of an area whose display is activated; and a difference in color and transparency of the display area.

5. The biological information measuring device according to claim 4.

6. the notification means notifies the contact state of each of the first electrode and the second electrode with the measurement object before and / or during the measurement process of the biological information.

2. The biological information measuring device according to claim 1.

7. A biological information measurement system including a biological information measurement device that includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode, and measures biological information of a measurement target based on a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode, with a potential of the third electrode being used as a reference potential, and an information processing terminal that communicates with the biological information measurement device, The biological information measuring device includes: a control means for executing a process for measuring the biological information; a first contact signal output means for outputting a signal relating to a contact state of the first electrode with the measurement object based on a potential of the first electrode that varies depending on a contact state of the first electrode with the measurement object; a second contact signal output means for outputting a signal relating to a contact state of the second electrode with the measurement object based on a potential of the second electrode that varies depending on a contact state of the second electrode with the measurement object, At least one of the biological information measuring device and the information processing terminal a contact state classification means for classifying the level of the contact state of each of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object into at least three levels based on the signals output by the first contact signal output means and the second contact signal output means, The information processing terminal a notification means for notifying the contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with respect to the measurement object in a manner that the levels classified by the contact state classification means can be identified; a display unit that displays guidance information for improving the contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode according to the level of the contact states of the first electrode and the second electrode with the measurement object, Biological information measurement system.

8. The notification means includes the display means and performs notification by display.

8. The biological information measuring system according to claim 7.

9. The notification means The level is indicated by at least one of the following on the display means: a display of a numerical value; a number of a plurality of display segments whose display is activated; a size of an area whose display is activated; and a difference in color and transparency of the display area.

9. The biological information measuring system according to claim 8.

10. the notification means notifies the contact state of each of the first electrode and the second electrode with the measurement object before and / or during the measurement process of the biological information.

8. The biological information measuring system according to claim 7.

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