Biological information measuring device

Abstract

To stabilize a contact position of an electrode part on the head of a subject.SOLUTION: There is provided a biological information measuring device including at least one biological information measuring part mounted on the ear of a subject for measuring biological information. The biological information measuring device includes: a hook-shaped hooking part which is hooked on the root of the ear sandwiched by the ear and the head of the subject when mounted on the ear of the subject; an electrode part provided on the hooking part and arranged at a position where it is brought into contact with a head side of the root of the ear when the biological information measuring device is mounted on the ear of the subject for measuring an electric potential provided for the measurement of biological information; and groove parts formed on the surface opposite to the electrode part with the hooking part interposed, which can hook an elastic string.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a biological information measuring device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, it has become common to measure biological information on a daily basis and use the information obtained as an index of the subject's health condition and stress. Biological information includes heart rate, pulse wave, and brain wave.

[0003] For example, electroencephalograms (EEGs) can be obtained by measuring the potential generated on the surface of the head due to cranial nerve currents in the brain. Generally, the potential generated on the surface of the head is measured based on the potential difference generated between an electrode for measuring the potential near the head and an electrode for measuring a reference potential. In recent years, wearable EEG measurement devices that can be worn by subjects to monitor EEG activity have been developed and are used in a variety of fields.

[0004] Generally, EEGs are obtained by measuring minute electrical potentials on the order of microvolts, so stable contact impedance is required between the electrodes and the human body. Research and medical EEG monitors use wet electrodes with conductive gel to ensure reliable contact with the skin or scalp and improve signal quality. On the other hand, wearable EEG monitors used for daily EEG measurements prefer dry electrodes, which do not use conductive gel, for easier attachment. While dry electrodes are convenient, there are challenges in attaching them so that they maintain stable contact with the human body.

[0005] Therefore, Patent Document 1 discloses an electroencephalogram measuring device in which an electrode section is arranged on a part that is hooked onto the ear of a subject for the purpose of measuring electroencephalograms. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, with the conventional technology, in which the electrode part placed on the part that hooks onto the subject's ear is brought into contact with the subject's ear, there is a problem in that, since ear shapes vary from person to person, it is difficult to stabilize the contact position between the electrode part placed on the hook part of a single shape and the subject's head.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and has an object to stabilize the contact position of the electrode portion with respect to the subject's head. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the present invention provides a bioinformation measuring device that measures bioinformation and has at least one bioinformation measuring unit that is worn by a subject on the ear, wherein the bioinformation measuring unit comprises a hook-shaped hook portion that hooks onto the base of the ear between the subject's ear and head when worn on the ear, an electrode portion that is provided on the hook portion and is positioned so that it comes into contact with the head side of the base of the ear when the bioinformation measuring device is worn on the subject's ear, and that measures the electric potential used for measuring the bioinformation, and a groove portion that is formed on the surface opposite the electrode portion across the hook portion and into which an elastic string can be hooked. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] The present invention has the effect of stabilizing the contact position of the electrode portion with respect to the subject's head. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an electroencephalogram measuring device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the electroencephalogram measuring unit. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the cross-sectional shape of the groove. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an electroencephalogram measuring device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5]FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of the electroencephalogram measuring unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows the location of the concha. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a modified example of the electroencephalogram measuring device. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the configuration of the electroencephalogram measuring unit. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of an electroencephalogram measuring device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of the electroencephalogram measuring unit. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the location of the mastoid process. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a modified example of the electroencephalogram measuring device. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of the electroencephalogram measuring unit. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram showing an outline of a monitor system according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an electroencephalogram measuring device. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a biological monitoring device. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of a biological monitoring device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] An embodiment of a biological information measuring device will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The type of biological information that can be acquired by the biological information measuring device is not particularly limited, and one type of biological information or multiple types of biological information may be acquired. The biological information is various information (also called vital data) obtained from the living body of a subject. Examples of the biological information include brain waves, pulse waves, heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen saturation, blood glucose level, respiration, weight, body temperature, and sleep depth. Below, an electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device that measures brain waves, which is an example of biological information, will be described as an example of a biological information measuring device.

[0012] (First embodiment) Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 1 according to a first embodiment. Fig. 1(a) is a diagram illustrating a state in which an electroencephalogram measuring unit 2 constituting the EEG measuring device 1 is attached to an ear 210 and an elastic string 110 is hung on the ear 210. Fig. 1(b) is a diagram illustrating a pair of electroencephalogram measuring units 2 constituting the EEG measuring device 1.

[0013] 1, the EEG measuring device 1 includes a pair of EEG measuring units 2 that can be worn on both the left and right ears 210. The EEG measuring units 2 are biological information measuring units, and are connected by wiring 3 to the back of the head 205 of the subject 200. The EEG measuring device 1 measures EEGs from the potential difference between the electrodes of the EEG measuring units 2 that are in contact with the bases of the left and right ears 210 of the subject 200.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 1(b), the housings 4 of the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 for the right ear 210 and the left ear 210 have approximately symmetrical shapes. The housings 4 include a hook portion 4a. The hook portion 4a is used when attaching the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 to the ear 210 of the subject 200. The hook portion 4a is bent like a hook so as to be hooked onto the base of the ear 210 sandwiched between the ear 210 and the head 205 of the subject 200.

[0015] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2. Fig. 2(a) is a diagram showing the front side of the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 when worn, and Fig. 2(b) is a diagram showing the back side of the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 when worn.

[0016] As shown in Fig. 2, the housing 4 of the EEG measurement unit 2 is provided with a hook portion 4a, as well as an electrode portion 5, a groove portion 6, and a signal measurement circuit portion 7. As shown in Fig. 2, one side of the groove portion 6 of the EEG measurement unit 2 is a wall portion 6a that is higher than the outer periphery. The electrode portion 5 is provided across the wall portion 6a and the hook portion 4a.

[0017] The electrode unit 5 is provided on the hook portion 4a of the housing 4, and measures the potential used for measuring electroencephalograms. The electrode unit 5 is positioned so that when the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 is attached to the ear 210 of the subject 200, the electrode unit 5 comes into contact with the base of the ear 210 sandwiched between the ear 210 and the head 205 of the subject 200.

[0018] The signal measurement circuit unit 7 is provided outside the hook portion 4a, on the outer periphery of the wall portion 6a. The signal measurement circuit unit 7 includes an electronic circuit for measuring the EEG signal, a battery, etc. The signal measurement circuit unit 7 measures the potential generated on the surface of the head 205 based on the potential difference generated between the electrode units 5 of the two EEG measurement units 2, thereby measuring the EEG signal.

[0019] The groove 6 is formed on the surface of the housing 4 opposite to the electrode portion 5 across the hook portion 4a.

[0020] The grooves 6 of the EEG measurement unit 2 can accommodate elastic strings 110. The EEG measurement unit 2 shown in FIG. 1( a) is in a state where the hooking portions 4a of the housing 4 are attached to the ears 210 of the subject 200, and the elastic strings 110 are hooked into the grooves 6. The elastic strings 110 are part of the face mask 100. The signal measurement circuit unit 7 provided on the outer periphery of the wall portion 6a also serves to guide the strings 110 of the face mask 100 into the grooves 6. The EEG measurement unit 2 may be provided with a power switch in the grooves 6. By providing the power switch in the grooves 6 in this way, the power can be turned on by pressing the power switch when the strings 110 of the face mask 100 are hooked into the grooves 6.

[0021] In the state shown in FIG. 1( a), the electrode unit 5 is formed on the surface opposite to the groove portion 6, and therefore the EEG measurement unit 2 can press the electrode unit 5 against the head 205 of the subject 200 by the contracting force of the string 110. In this case, the elastic string 110 is fixed along the shape of the ear 210 of the subject 200, so the contact position of the electrode unit 5 can be stabilized regardless of individual differences in the shape of the ear 210. Furthermore, when the string 110 is fastened around the ear 210 of the subject 200, the string 110 always passes through the base of the ear 210, and therefore force is applied concentratedly to the base of the ear 210, so the EEG measurement unit 2 can stabilize the contact position of the electrode unit 5.

[0022] 3A and 3B are diagrams showing the shape of groove portion 6. FIG. 3A is a perspective view showing the shape of groove portion 6, and FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view showing the cross-sectional shape of groove portion 6. As shown in FIG. 3A, the cross-sectional shape of groove portion 6 is preferably an acute-angled groove shape into which an elastic string fits. Since elastic string 110 catches on ear 210 of subject 200 and applies force in gravity direction A, by making the cross-sectional shape of groove portion 6 an acute angle, the EEG measurement unit 2 can easily transmit force in direction B, which presses down on electrode unit 5.

[0023] As described above, according to this embodiment, when the elastic string 110 is hooked into the groove portion 6, the contracting force of the string 110 presses the electrode unit 5 toward the head 205 at the base of the ear 210 sandwiched between the ear 210 and the head 205 of the subject 200, and the string 110 is fixed along the shape of the ear 210 of the subject 200. As a result, the electrode unit 5 always comes into contact with the base of the ear 210 of the subject 200 regardless of individual differences in the shape of the ear 210 of the subject 200, and the contact position of the electrode unit 5 with respect to the head 205 of the subject 200 can be stabilized.

[0024] Furthermore, the face mask 100 having the elastic strings 110 is likely to be worn in daily life, and the burden of wearing it for a long period of time is small.

[0025] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described.

[0026] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it includes a second electrode portion and a second groove portion. In the following description of the second embodiment, the description of the same parts as in the first embodiment will be omitted, and only the parts that differ from the first embodiment will be described.

[0027] 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating an example of an electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 1 according to the second embodiment. Fig. 4A is a diagram illustrating a state in which an electroencephalogram measuring unit 2 constituting the EEG measuring device 1 is attached to an ear 210 and an elastic string 110 is hung on the ear 210. Fig. 4B is a diagram illustrating a pair of electroencephalogram measuring units 2 constituting the EEG measuring device 1.

[0028] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2. Fig. 5(a) is a diagram showing the front side of the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 when worn, and Fig. 5(b) is a diagram showing the back side of the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 when worn.

[0029] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, in addition to the configuration described in the first embodiment, the EEG measurement device 1 has an electrode portion 8 which is a second electrode portion and a groove portion 9 which is a second groove portion provided on the housing 4 of the EEG measurement unit 2.

[0030] The electrode unit 8 is provided on the curved portion (approximately the center portion) 4b of the hook portion 4a of the housing 4, and measures the potential used for measuring electroencephalograms. The electrode unit 8 is arranged in a position that contacts the base of the ear 210, which is sandwiched between the ear 210 and the head 205 of the subject 200, on the side of the ear 210, when the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 is attached to the ear 210 of the subject 200.

[0031] Here, Figure 6 is a diagram showing the position of the concha 215. More specifically, the electrode unit 8 is placed in a position that contacts the side of the concha 215 of the ear 210 of the subject 200 shown in Figure 6 that is closer to the head 205. The concha 215 is made of cartilage and is therefore harder than the earlobe, making it easier to achieve stable contact when the electrode unit 8 is pressed against it, making it a particularly preferable electrode contact position on the ear 210 side.

[0032] When measuring brain waves, a combination of electrode portion 5 (5a) as a signal electrode and electrode portion 8 (8b) as a reference electrode, or a combination of electrode portion 5 (5b) as a signal electrode and electrode portion 8 (8a) as a reference electrode is suitable.

[0033] The groove 9 is formed on the surface of the housing 4 opposite to the electrode portion 8 across the hook portion 4a.

[0034] The groove 9 of the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 can be hooked with an elastic string 110. The electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 shown in FIG. 4(a) is in a state where the hook 4a of the housing 4 is attached to the ear 210 of the subject 200, and the elastic string 110 is hooked into the groove 6 and the groove 9. The elastic string 110 is part of the face mask 100.

[0035] The groove 9 may be continuous with the groove 6. This provides the effect that the string 110 is less likely to come off when it is hooked.

[0036] In the state shown in FIG. 4(a), the electrode unit 8 is formed on the surface opposite to the groove portion 9, and therefore the EEG measurement unit 2 can press the electrode unit 8 toward the ear 210 of the subject 200 by the contracting force of the string 110. In this case, the elastic string 110 is fixed along the shape of the ear 210 of the subject 200, so the contact position of the electrode unit 8 can be stabilized regardless of individual differences in the shape of the ear 210. Furthermore, when the string 110 is hung around the ear 210 of the subject 200, it always comes into contact with the base of the ear 210, so the EEG measurement unit 2 can stabilize the contact position of the electrode unit 8.

[0037] As described above, according to this embodiment, when the elastic string 110 is hooked into the groove 6, the contraction force of the string 110 presses the electrode unit 5 toward the head 205 at the base of the ear 210 sandwiched between the ear 210 and the head 205 of the subject 200, and when the string 110 is hooked into the groove 9, the contraction force of the string 110 presses the electrode unit 8 toward the ear 210 at the base of the ear 210 sandwiched between the ear 210 and the head 205 of the subject 200, and the string 110 is fixed along the shape of the ear 210 of the subject 200. As a result, the electrode unit 5 always comes into contact with the base of the ear 210 of the subject 200 regardless of individual differences in the shape of the ear 210 of the subject 200, and the contact position of the electrode unit 5 with respect to the head 205 of the subject 200 can be stabilized.

[0038] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, there is an effect that a larger electroencephalogram signal can be obtained when measuring using the monopolar lead method. More specifically, according to this embodiment, the ear 210 side of the base of the ear 210 sandwiched between the ear 210 and the head 205 of the subject 200 is farther from the head 205 than the head 205 side of the base of the ear 210 sandwiched between the ear 210 and the head 205 of the subject 200, and therefore electrical signals from within the brain are less likely to be transmitted thereto. Therefore, when the electrode unit 8 is used as a reference electrode, a larger electroencephalogram signal can be measured when measuring electroencephalograms using the monopolar lead method.

[0039] The monopolar lead method is a method of measuring the potential difference by contacting a reference electrode to a point close to zero electrically and contacting the other electrode to the head 205 side. In contrast, the bipolar lead method is a method of recording the potential difference between two points on the head 205. With the bipolar lead method, if electrical signals of the same phase are applied to the two electrodes, they are canceled out and cannot be detected, but with the monopolar lead method, the absolute value of the brain potential can be recorded, so there is no such limitation and it has the advantage of less distortion of the waveform.

[0040] [Variations] In this embodiment, the EEG measuring device 1 is configured with a pair of EEG measuring units 2, but this is not limiting and the EEG measuring device 1 may be configured with a single EEG measuring unit 2. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a modified example of the EEG measuring device 1, and FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the configuration of the EEG measuring unit 2. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, in this modified example, the EEG measuring unit 2 is attached to only one ear 210 of the subject 200, whereas in this embodiment the EEG measuring unit 2 is attached to both the left and right ears 210 of the subject 200. As shown in FIG. 8, the EEG measuring unit 2 performs measurement using a unipolar lead method, with the electrode unit 5 used as a signal electrode and the electrode unit 8 used as a reference electrode.

[0041] Compared to measuring between electrodes on both the left and right ears 210 of the subject 200 as in this embodiment, the distance between the electrodes is closer, so the measurable brain waves are smaller, but since brain waves can be measured from only one ear 210, the burden of wearing the device can be reduced.

[0042] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment will be described.

[0043] The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it includes a third electrode portion and a third groove portion. In the following description of the third embodiment, the description of the same parts as in the first embodiment will be omitted, and only the parts that differ from the first embodiment will be described.

[0044] 9A and 9B are diagrams illustrating an example of an electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 1 according to the third embodiment. Fig. 9A is a diagram showing a state in which an electroencephalogram measuring unit 2 constituting the EEG measuring device 1 is attached to an ear 210 and an elastic string 110 is hung on the ear 210. Fig. 9B is a diagram showing a pair of electroencephalogram measuring units 2 constituting the EEG measuring device 1.

[0045] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2. Fig. 10(a) is a diagram showing the front side of the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 when worn, and Fig. 10(b) is a diagram showing the back side of the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 when worn.

[0046] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, in addition to the configuration described in the first embodiment, the EEG measurement device 1 has an electrode section 10, which is a third electrode section, and a groove section 11, which is a third groove section, provided on the housing 4 of the EEG measurement section 2.

[0047] The electrode unit 10 is provided below the hook portion 4a of the housing 4, near the end 4c of the housing 4 on the same surface as the electrode unit 5, and measures the potential used for measuring electroencephalograms. When the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 is attached to the ear 210 of the subject 200, the electrode unit 10 is located below the electrode unit 5 and in a position that contacts the base of the ear 210 on the head 205 side, sandwiched between the ear 210 and head 205 of the subject 200.

[0048] Here, Figure 11 is a diagram showing the position of the mastoid process 220. More specifically, the electrode unit 10 is placed in a position that contacts the mastoid process 220 shown in Figure 11. The mastoid process 220 is located in a relatively flat position relative to the surface of the scalp of the head 205, and is protruding and hard, which makes it easy for the electrode unit 10 to make stable contact. For this reason, the mastoid process 220 is a particularly preferable position for the electrode unit 10 to make contact with.

[0049] When measuring electroencephalograms, a combination of electrode portion 5 (5a) as a signal electrode and electrode portion 10 (10b) as a reference electrode, or a combination of electrode portion 5 (5b) as a signal electrode and electrode portion 10 (10a) as a reference electrode is suitable.

[0050] The groove 11 is formed on the surface of the housing 4 opposite to the electrode portion 10 across the hook portion 4a.

[0051] The grooves 11 of the electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 can be hooked with elastic strings 110. The electroencephalogram measurement unit 2 shown in Figure 9(a) is in a state where the hooks 4a of the housing 4 are attached to the ears 210 of the subject 200, and the elastic strings 110 are hooked into the grooves 6 and 11. The elastic strings 110 are part of the face mask 100.

[0052] The cross-sectional shape of groove 11 is preferably an acute-angled groove shape into which the elastic string fits, similar to the cross-sectional shape of groove 6 shown in Fig. 3. By making the cross-sectional shape of groove 11 an acute-angled groove shape into which the elastic string fits, the EEG measurement unit 2 can easily transmit force in the direction of pressing down on electrode unit 10.

[0053] The groove 11 may be continuous with the groove 6. This provides the effect that the string 110 is less likely to come off when it is hooked.

[0054] 9(a), the electrode unit 10 is formed on the surface opposite to the groove portion 11, and therefore the EEG measurement unit 2 can press the electrode unit 10 against the head 205 of the subject 200 by the contracting force of the string 110. In this case, the elastic string 110 is fixed along the shape of the ear 210 of the subject 200, so the contact position of the electrode unit 10 can be stabilized regardless of individual differences in the shape of the ear 210. Furthermore, when the string 110 is hung around the ear 210 of the subject 200, it always comes into contact with the base of the ear 210, so the EEG measurement unit 2 can stabilize the contact position of the electrode unit 10.

[0055] As described above, according to this embodiment, when the elastic string 110 is hooked into the groove 6, the contraction force of the string 110 presses the electrode unit 5 toward the head 205 at the base of the ear 210 sandwiched between the ear 210 and the head 205 of the subject 200, and when the string 110 is hooked into the groove 11, the contraction force of the string 110 presses the electrode unit 10 below the electrode unit 5 toward the head 205 at the base of the ear 210 sandwiched between the ear 210 and the head 205 of the subject 200, so that the string 110 is fixed along the shape of the ear 210 of the subject 200. As a result, the electrode unit 5 always comes into contact with the base of the ear 210 of the subject 200 regardless of individual differences in the shape of the ear 210 of the subject 200, and the contact position of the electrode unit 5 with respect to the head 205 of the subject 200 can be stabilized.

[0056] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, there is an effect that a larger electroencephalogram signal can be obtained when measuring using a monopolar lead method. More specifically, according to this embodiment, the area below the electrode unit 5 is far from the head 205 side of the base of the ear 210 sandwiched between the ear 210 and the head 205 of the subject 200, and therefore electrical signals from within the brain are less likely to be transmitted. Therefore, when the electrode unit 10 is used as a reference electrode, a larger electroencephalogram signal can be measured when measuring electroencephalograms using a monopolar lead method.

[0057] [Variations] In this embodiment, the EEG measuring device 1 is configured with a pair of EEG measuring units 2, but this is not limiting and the EEG measuring device 1 may be configured with a single EEG measuring unit 2. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a modified example of the EEG measuring device 1, and FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of the EEG measuring unit 2. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, in this modified example, the EEG measuring unit 2 is attached to only one ear 210 of the subject 200, whereas in this embodiment, the EEG measuring unit 2 is attached to both the left and right ears 210 of the subject 200. As shown in FIG. 13, the EEG measuring unit 2 performs measurement using a unipolar lead method, with the electrode unit 5 used as a signal electrode and the electrode unit 10 used as a reference electrode.

[0058] Compared to measuring between electrodes on both the left and right ears 210 of the subject 200 as in this embodiment, the distance between the electrodes is closer, so the measurable brain waves are smaller, but since brain waves can be measured from only one ear 210, the burden of wearing the device can be reduced.

[0059] In addition, if the electrode unit 10 that is in contact with the head 205 side of the subject 200 at the base of the head 205 and ear 210 other than the mastoid process 220 is used as the reference electrode, measurement can be performed using the bipolar induction method.

[0060] (Fourth embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment will be described.

[0061] The fourth embodiment differs from the first to third embodiments in that it is a monitor system including an electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 1. In the following description of the fourth embodiment, the description of the same parts as those of the first to third embodiments will be omitted, and only the parts that differ from the first to third embodiments will be described.

[0062] 14 is a conceptual diagram showing an outline of a monitoring system 1000 according to the fourth embodiment. The monitoring system 1000 includes an electroencephalogram (EEG) measuring device 1 and a biological monitoring device 30.

[0063] The electroencephalogram measuring device 1 is a device capable of measuring biological information (electroencephalogram) of a subject 200 who is to be monitored.

[0064] The electroencephalogram measuring device 1 includes a measuring section 26 (see FIG. 15) capable of measuring biological information, and measures (hereinafter also referred to as acquiring) biological information from the subject 200.

[0065] The EEG measuring device 1 acquires biological information from the subject 200 at predetermined intervals. The EEG measuring device 1 also acquires biological information in response to operations by the subject 200 or the like. The EEG measuring device 1 transmits the acquired biological information to the biological monitoring device 30. When a plurality of EEG measuring devices 1 are used, the biological information may be transmitted individually from each EEG measuring device 1, or the biological information may be collected by any one of the EEG measuring devices 1 and then transmitted from that EEG measuring device 1.

[0066] The biological monitoring device 30 is an example of a monitoring device in this embodiment. The biological monitoring device 30 is, for example, an information processing device (computer) such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a PC (Personal Computer), or a server device, and is connected to the electroencephalogram measuring device 1 so as to be able to communicate with it.

[0067] There are no particular restrictions on the connection method (communication method) between the EEG measuring device 1 and the biological monitoring device 30, and various methods can be adopted. In addition to a wired connection, for example, the EEG measuring device 1 and the biological monitoring device 30 may be connected by short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). Furthermore, the EEG measuring device 1 and the biological monitoring device 30 may be connected via a network such as a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or the Internet.

[0068] The biological monitoring device 30 acquires biological information transmitted from the electroencephalogram measuring device 1. The biological monitoring device 30 performs processing for displaying a screen showing the health condition of the subject 200 based on the acquired biological information.

[0069] Next, the hardware configurations of the electroencephalogram measuring device 1 and biological monitoring device 30 described above will be described.

[0070] Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the electroencephalogram measuring device 1. As shown in Fig. 15, the electroencephalogram measuring device 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 21, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 22, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 23, a display unit 24, an operation unit 25, a measuring unit 26 (electrode units 5, 8, 10), a communication unit 27, etc.

[0071] The CPU 21 is an example of a processor and controls the overall operation of the electroencephalogram measuring device 1. The ROM 22 is a non-volatile memory that can retain programs or data even when the power is turned off. The RAM 23 is a volatile memory used as a work area for the CPU 21, etc.

[0072] The operation unit 25 has input devices such as various operation buttons and accepts operations by the subject 200. The operation unit 25 may be a touch panel provided on the display unit 24. The operation unit 25 includes, for example, a power switch provided in the groove 6. The power switch is turned on by pressing the power switch when the string 110 of the face mask 100 is hooked into the groove 6. The power switch may also be turned on by periodic operation of the electrode unit 5 and output detection for a predetermined period of time.

[0073] The measuring unit 26 is a sensor device (electrode units 5, 8, 10) for measuring biological information. The measuring unit 26 outputs the acquired biological information to the CPU 21.

[0074] The communication unit 27 is a communication interface that complies with a communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc. The communication unit 27 establishes communication with the biological monitoring device 30 under the control of the CPU 21.

[0075] The CPU 21 reads out programs or data stored in the ROM 22 or the like onto the RAM 23 and executes various processes, thereby controlling the operation of the electroencephalogram measuring device 1. For example, the CPU 22 operates the measuring unit 26 at predetermined intervals or in response to an operation via the operating unit 25. The CPU 21 also sequentially transmits biological information measured by the measuring unit 26 to the biological monitoring device 30 via the communication unit 27.

[0076] The CPU 21 measures the operation timing of the measurement unit 26 and the current date and time based on the date and time measured by a timing unit (not shown) such as an RTC (Real Time Clock) provided in the electroencephalogram measurement device 1. The CPU 21 may also cause identification information capable of identifying the subject 200 to be transmitted together with the biological information.

[0077] Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the biological monitoring device 30. As shown in Fig. 16, the biological monitoring device 30 includes a CPU 31, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, a storage unit 34, a display unit 35, an operation unit 36, a communication unit 37, and the like.

[0078] The CPU 31 is an example of a processor and controls the overall operation of the biological monitoring device 30. The ROM 32 is a non-volatile memory that can retain programs or data even when the power is turned off. The RAM 33 is a volatile memory used as a work area for the CPU 31, etc.

[0079] The storage unit 34 is a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), etc. The storage unit 34 stores various programs that the CPU 31 can execute, various setting information, and the like.

[0080] The display unit 35 is formed of a display device such as a liquid crystal panel, and displays various information. The operation unit 36 has an input device such as various operation buttons, and accepts operations by the subject 200, etc. The operation unit 36 may be a touch panel provided on the display unit 35.

[0081] The communication section 37 is a communication interface that complies with a communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc. The communication section 37 establishes communication with the electroencephalogram measuring device 1 under the control of the CPU 31.

[0082] The program executed by the biological monitoring device 30 of this embodiment is provided as a file in an installable or executable format recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc).

[0083] The program executed by the biological monitoring device 30 of this embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. The program executed by the biological monitoring device 30 of this embodiment may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0084] The program executed by the biological monitoring device 30 of this embodiment may be provided by being pre-installed in a ROM or the like.

[0085] The CPU 31 reads out programs or data stored in the ROM 32 or the storage unit 34 onto the RAM 33 and executes various processes to control the operation of the biological monitoring device 30. For example, the CPU 31 cooperates with programs stored in the ROM 32 or the storage unit 34 to cause the biological monitoring device 30 to realize various functional units.

[0086] Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the biological monitoring device 30. As shown in Fig. 17, the biological monitoring device 30 may be implemented in an on-premises server 310 in order to handle long-term time-series data and ensure real-time performance. However, this is not limitative, and all or part of the biological monitoring device 30 may be implemented in a sensor unit 311 (EEG-measuring device 1) connected to the on-premises server 310, or in a cloud 312 connected to the on-premises server 310.

[0087] For example, aspects of the present invention are as follows. <1> A biological information measurement device that measures biological information and includes at least one biological information measurement unit that is worn by a subject in the ear, The biological information measurement unit a hook-shaped hook portion that is hooked onto the base of the ear sandwiched between the ear and the head of the subject when the earphone is attached to the subject's ear; an electrode portion provided on the hook portion, the electrode portion being arranged at a position that contacts the base of the ear on the head side when the biological information measuring device is attached to the ear of the subject, and that measures an electric potential used for measuring the biological information; a groove formed on a surface opposite to the electrode portion with the hook portion interposed therebetween, the groove being capable of hooking an elastic string; A biological information measuring device comprising: <2> The biological information measurement unit a second electrode unit provided on the hook, arranged at a position that contacts the base of the ear close to the ear when the biological information measurement device is worn on the ear of the subject, and that measures a potential used for measuring biological information; a second groove portion formed on a surface opposite to the second electrode portion across the hook portion, and capable of hooking the string; characterized by comprising <1> The biological information measuring device described in <3> The second electrode portion is placed in a position in contact with the side of the concha of the subject's ear that is closer to the head. Characterized by <2> The biological information measuring device described in <4> The biological information measurement unit a third electrode unit that is disposed below the electrode unit and in a position that contacts the base of the ear on the head side when the biological information measurement device is attached to the ear of the subject, and that measures a potential used for measuring biological information; a third groove portion that is formed on a surface opposite to the third electrode portion across the hook portion and that can hook the string; and characterized by comprising <1> The biological information measuring device described in <5> The third electrode portion is disposed at a position in contact with the mastoid process. Characterized by <4> The biological information measuring device described in <6> The cross-sectional shape of the groove portion is an acute-angled groove shape into which the string fits. Characterized by <1> Or <5> 10. The biological information measuring device according to claim 9, wherein <7> The cross-sectional shape of the third groove portion is an acute-angled groove shape into which the string fits. Characterized by <4> or <5> The biological information measuring device described in <8> The second groove portion has a structure continuous with the groove portion. Characterized by <2> or <3> The biological information measuring device described in <9> The third groove portion has a structure continuous with the groove portion. Characterized by <4> or <5> The biological information measuring device described in <10> The electrode portion is pressed toward the head side of the base of the ear by a contracting force of the string when the string is hooked into the groove. Characterized by <1> Or <9> 10. The biological information measuring device according to claim 9, wherein <11> the second electrode portion is pressed toward the ear base by a contracting force of the string when the string is hooked into the second groove portion; Characterized by <2> or <3> The biological information measuring device described in <12> the third electrode portion is pressed toward the head side of the base of the ear by a contracting force of the string when the string is hooked into the third groove portion; Characterized by <4> or <5> The biological information measuring device described in [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 1. Biometric information measuring device 2. Biological information measurement unit 4a Hook 5 Electrode part 6 Groove 8 Second electrode part 9 Second groove 10 Third electrode part 11 Third groove [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0089] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-186934

Claims

1. A biological information measurement device for measuring biological information, comprising at least one biological information measurement unit attached to the ear of a subject, The biological information measurement unit a hook-shaped hook portion that is hooked onto the base of the ear sandwiched between the ear and the head of the subject when the earphone is attached to the subject's ear; an electrode portion provided on the hook portion, the electrode portion being arranged at a position that contacts the base of the ear on the head side when the biological information measuring device is attached to the ear of the subject, and that measures an electric potential used for measuring the biological information; a groove formed on a surface opposite to the electrode portion with the hook portion interposed therebetween, the groove being capable of hooking an elastic string; A biological information measuring device comprising:

2. The biological information measurement unit a second electrode portion provided on the hook portion, arranged at a position that contacts the base of the ear near the ear side when the biological information measurement device is worn on the ear of the subject, and that measures a potential used for measuring the biological information; a second groove portion formed on a surface opposite to the second electrode portion across the hook portion, and capable of hooking the string; and 2. The biological information measuring device according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. the second electrode portion is disposed at a position in contact with the concha of the subject's ear on a side closer to the head; 3. The biological information measuring device according to claim 2.

4. The biological information measurement unit a third electrode unit that is disposed below the electrode unit and in a position that contacts the base of the ear on the head side when the biological information measurement device is attached to the ear of the subject, and that measures a potential used for measuring biological information; a third groove portion formed on a surface opposite to the third electrode portion across the hook portion, and capable of hooking the string; and 2. The biological information measuring device according to claim 1, further comprising:

5. the third electrode portion is disposed at a position in contact with the mastoid process; 5. The biological information measuring device according to claim 4.

6. The cross-sectional shape of the groove portion is an acute-angled groove shape into which the string fits.

6. The biological information measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the biological information measuring device is a device for measuring biological information.

7. The cross-sectional shape of the third groove portion is an acute-angled groove shape into which the string fits.

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

8. The second groove portion has a structure continuous with the groove portion.

4. The biological information measuring device according to claim 2 or 3.

9. The third groove portion has a structure continuous with the groove portion.

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

10. The electrode portion is pressed toward the head side of the base of the ear by a contracting force of the string when the string is hooked into the groove.

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

11. the second electrode portion is pressed toward the ear base by a contracting force of the string when the string is hooked into the second groove portion; 4. The biological information measuring device according to claim 2 or 3.

12. the third electrode portion is pressed toward the head side of the base of the ear by a contracting force of the string when the string is hooked into the third groove portion; 6. The biological information measuring device according to claim 4 or 5.

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