Biopotential measurement device

Abstract

To provide a biopotential measurement device where floating of a device from an electrode sheet can be suppressed while the electrode sheet is reliably connected to the device.SOLUTION: A biopotential measurement device 1 comprises: an electrode sheet 10 for acquiring a biosignal; a device 20 which has a contact part 21 connected to the electrode sheet 10; a connection member 30 which connects the electrode sheet 10 to the contact part 21; a first fixation part 60 which fixes the device 20 and the connection member 30; and a second fixation part 70 which fixes the device 20 and the electrode sheet 10 at a position different from the first fixation part 60.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] The following Patent Document 1 discloses a bioinformation output device that is attached to the skin of a subject, detects electrical biosignals generated within the subject's body from the skin, and outputs the bioinformation obtained by processing the biosignals. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-120573 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the bioinformation output device (bioelectric potential measuring device), the housing (device) and the attachment sheet (electrode sheet) are connected by a roughly C-shaped housing holder (connecting member). However, the housing is prone to floating relative to the attachment sheet at points other than the connection by the housing holder. For example, if the housing floats relative to the attachment sheet, a gap is created, and if a finger gets into the gap during strenuous exercise, the housing may come off the housing holder and fall off the subject.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and aims to provide a biopotential measuring device that can reliably connect an electrode sheet to a device while suppressing the device from floating relative to the electrode sheet. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] (1): A biopotential measuring device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises an electrode sheet for acquiring biosignals, a device having a contact portion connected to the electrode sheet, and a connecting member for connecting the electrode sheet to the contact portion, and further comprises a first fixing portion for fixing the device and the connecting member, and a second fixing portion for fixing the device and the electrode sheet at a position different from the first fixing portion.

[0007] In the biopotential measuring device according to this aspect, the first fixing part securely connects the electrode sheet to the contact part of the device, and the second fixing part, which is provided at a different position from the first fixing part, prevents the device from floating relative to the electrode sheet, making it difficult for fingers to get into the gap between the device and the electrode sheet.

[0008] (2): In the bioelectric potential measuring device of aspect (1), the electrode sheet may be sandwiched between the device and the connecting member.

[0009] In this case, by sandwiching the electrode sheet between the device and the connection member, the electrode sheet can be reliably connected to the contact portion of the device.

[0010] (3) In the bioelectric potential measuring device according to aspect (1) or (2), the second fixing portion may include a magnetic material.

[0011] In this case, the magnetic attraction can prevent the device from floating relative to the electrode sheet.

[0012] (4) In the bioelectric potential measuring device according to aspect (3), the magnetic material may be a sheet attached to the electrode sheet.

[0013] In this case, the sheet body can be attached to the electrode sheet, thereby fixing the magnetic material to the electrode sheet.

[0014] (5): In the bioelectric potential measuring device according to aspect (3), the magnetic material may be a paste applied to the electrode sheet.

[0015] In this case, the paste can be applied to the electrode sheet, and the magnetic material can be fixed to the electrode sheet after drying and magnetization.

[0016] (6) In the bioelectric potential measuring device according to any one of (1) to (5), the first fixing portion may include a magnetic material.

[0017] In this case, the magnetic attraction can prevent the device from floating relative to the electrode sheet.

[0018] (7): In a bioelectric potential measuring device according to any one of the aspects (1) to (6), the connecting member may include an opposing portion that faces the contact portion across the electrode sheet, and an extension portion that extends in a direction away from the opposing portion, and the first fixing portion may be positioned at a position corresponding to the opposing portion, and the second fixing portion may be positioned at a position corresponding to the extension portion.

[0019] In this case, the first fixing portion and the second fixing portion are provided on the connecting member, and the first fixing portion and the second fixing portion can be fixed simultaneously, which makes the fixing work easier.

[0020] (8): In the bioelectric potential measuring device of any one of the embodiments (1) to (5), the first fixing portion has a first fitting portion that fits into the device, the device has a first fitted portion into which the first fitting portion fits, and the second fixing portion is provided at a position different from the first fitting portion and has a second fitting portion that fits into the device, and the electrode sheet or the device may have a second fitted portion into which the second fitting portion fits.

[0021] In this case, the fitting ensures that the electrode sheet is reliably connected to the contact portion of the device, and also reliably prevents the device from floating relative to the electrode sheet.

[0022] (9) In the bioelectric potential measuring device according to aspect (8), the first fitting portion may be provided in pairs at least in the short side direction of the electrode sheet.

[0023] In this case, the device can be made smaller in size in the longitudinal direction of the electrode sheet.

[0024] (10) In the bioelectric potential measuring device according to aspect (8) or (9), the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion may be provided in parallel to each other.

[0025] In this case, the stability of the fit can be increased.

[0026] (11) In the bioelectric potential measuring device according to aspect (8) or (9), the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion may be provided in different orientations.

[0027] In this case, rotation of the device around an axis extending in the short-side direction of the electrode sheet can be restricted by the engagement of the second engagement portion.

[0028] (12) In the bioelectric potential measuring device according to any one of (1) to (11), the first fixing portion and the second fixing portion may have different fixing methods.

[0029] In this case, the first fixing portion and the second fixing portion are not released under the same conditions, so that the device can be effectively prevented from falling off.

[0030] (13) In the bioelectric potential measuring device according to any one of (1) to (12), the first fixing portion may have a fixing strength higher than that of the second fixing portion.

[0031] In this case, the electrode sheet can be reliably connected to the contact portion of the device.

[0032] (14) In the bioelectric potential measuring device according to any one of (1) to (13), the second fixing portion may be provided in plural.

[0033] In this case, the electrode sheet and the device are fixed at multiple points, so that the device can be effectively prevented from floating relative to the electrode sheet.

[0034] (15): In the bioelectric potential measuring device of (14), at least one of the plurality of second fixing parts may have a fixing method different from that of the other second fixing parts.

[0035] In this case, the plurality of second fixing portions will not be released from fixation under the same conditions, so that floating of the device relative to the electrode sheet can be effectively suppressed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0036] According to the above aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a biopotential measuring device that can reliably connect the electrode sheet to the device while suppressing the device from floating relative to the electrode sheet. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0037] [Figure 1] 1A to 1C are diagrams showing examples of use of a biological potential measuring device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a bioelectric potential measuring device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a cross-sectional view taken along the short side direction of a bioelectric potential measuring device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a cross-sectional view taken along the longitudinal direction of a bioelectric potential measuring device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a bioelectric potential measuring device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of a bioelectric potential measuring device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a bioelectric potential measuring device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a bioelectric potential measuring device according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a bioelectric potential measuring device according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the short side direction of a biological potential measuring device according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a connecting member according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a connecting member according to an eighth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0038] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0039] (First embodiment) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of use of a biological potential measuring device 1 according to the first embodiment. The biopotential measuring device 1 is attached to a living organism 100 and measures a biosignal of the living organism 100. In the example shown in Fig. 1, the biopotential measuring device 1 is attached to the arm of the living organism 100 and measures, via the skin of the arm, a myoelectric potential generated when muscle cells contract. The biopotential measuring device 1 may also measure, for example, a cardiac potential as a biosignal other than a myoelectric potential.

[0040] The biopotential measuring device 1 comprises an electrode sheet 10 that acquires biosignals, a device 20 that is connected to the electrode sheet 10, and a connecting member 30 that connects the electrode sheet 10 to the device 20. The electrode sheet 10 is formed in a roughly rectangular shape in a plan view. The surface of the electrode sheet 10 that faces the skin is an adhesive surface, allowing it to remain attached even during exercise. Furthermore, the entire biopotential measuring device 1 is small and lightweight to provide a low wearing sensation.

[0041] In the following description, an XYZ Cartesian coordinate system is set, and the positional relationship of each component is sometimes described with reference to this XYZ Cartesian coordinate system. The X-axis direction is set to the longitudinal direction of the electrode sheet 10. The Y-axis direction is set to the lateral direction of the electrode sheet 10. The Z-axis direction is set to the thickness direction of the electrode sheet 10.

[0042] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the side of the electrode sheet 10 facing the device 20 may be referred to as the upper side (+Z side), and the side opposite the device 20 may be referred to as the lower side (-Z side) of the electrode sheet 10. Note that the +Z side does not have to be the upper side in the direction of gravity.

[0043] Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the biopotential measuring device 1 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view along the short side of the biopotential measuring device 1 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view along the long side of the biopotential measuring device 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in these figures, the biopotential measuring device 1 has a configuration in which an electrode sheet 10 is sandwiched between a device 20 and a connection member 30.

[0044] The electrode sheet 10 is, for example, a flexible printed wiring board, and has a sheet-like base material that is elastically deformable and electrically insulating. The base material of the electrode sheet 10 is formed from, for example, polyimide or urethane. The electrode sheet 10 has a plurality of conductive portions 11. The conductive portions 11 may be formed from transparent electrodes.

[0045] The multiple conductive portions 11 include first electrode portion 11A to third electrode portion 11C, first wiring portion 12A to third wiring portion 12C, and first terminal portion 14A to third terminal portion 14C. The first electrode portion 11A, second electrode portion 11B, and third electrode portion 11C are formed in a circular shape in a plan view seen from the Z-axis direction. The first electrode portion 11A, second electrode portion 11B, and third electrode portion 11C are arranged in a row at intervals in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode sheet 10.

[0046] The first electrode portion 11A, the second electrode portion 11B, and the third electrode portion 11C are exposed on the lower surface side (-Z side) of the electrode sheet 10 and come into contact with the living body 100. The first electrode portion 11A, the second electrode portion 11B, and the third electrode portion 11C may be dry electrodes or wet electrodes. If they are wet electrodes, the first electrode portion 11A, the second electrode portion 11B, and the third electrode portion 11C come into contact with the skin with a medium such as gel interposed therebetween.

[0047] The first wiring portion 12A, the second wiring portion 12B, and the third wiring portion 12C are formed on the upper surface side (+Z side) of the electrode sheet 10. The first wiring portion 12A connects the first electrode portion 11A and the first terminal portion 14A. The second wiring portion 12B connects the second electrode portion 11B and the second terminal portion 14B. The third wiring portion 12C connects the third electrode portion 11C and the third terminal portion 14C.

[0048] The electrode sheet 10 has a shape corresponding to the claw portions 29 (described later) of the device 20. Specifically, the electrode sheet 10 has through holes 13 formed therein, through which the claw portions 29 pass. The through holes 13 are formed in pairs spaced apart in the short-side direction. The through holes 13 are formed in the shape of slits extending in the X-axis direction.

[0049] The first terminal 14A, the second terminal 14B, and the third terminal 14C are formed on the upper surface (+Z side) of the electrode sheet 10. The first terminal 14A, the second terminal 14B, and the third terminal 14C are arranged at intervals in the Y-axis direction between a pair of through-holes 13 and are arranged alternately in the X-axis direction. Specifically, the third terminal 14C is arranged on the +X side of the first terminal 14A and the second terminal 14B. This prevents incorrect attachment of the electrode sheet 10 due to incorrect orientation. Note that the first terminal 14A, the second terminal 14B, and the third terminal 14C may be arranged at positions corresponding to three contact points 21, which will be described later.

[0050] The device 20 has a contact portion 21 connected to the electrode sheet 10. The device 20 includes a substrate 22 on which the contact portion 21 is formed, a device case 23 that houses the substrate 22, and a device cover 24 (see FIG. 3) that covers the device case 23. The contact portion 21 protrudes downward (toward the -Z side) from the underside of the substrate 22. This makes it easier to connect the contact portion 21 to the electrode sheet 10, which is soft (easily dissipates pressure). The contact portion 21 has solder or the like provided at each terminal, and is dome-shaped. The height of the contact portion 21 (the amount of protrusion from the substrate 22) is, for example, approximately 0.15 mm±0.05 mm.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 2, three contact portions 21 (first contact portion 21A to third contact portion 21C) are provided corresponding to the number and arrangement of first terminal portion 14A to third terminal portion 14C. Specifically, first contact portion 21A is connected to first terminal portion 14A. Second contact portion 21B is connected to second terminal portion 14B. Third contact portion 21C is connected to third terminal portion 14C. Note that first terminal portion 14A to third terminal portion 14C may be larger than corresponding contact portions 21 on the XY plane. In this way, even if device 20 is small, since each of first terminal portion 14A to third terminal portion 14C is larger than contact portion 21, misalignment can be absorbed, making it easier to accommodate misalignment of electrode sheet 10.

[0052] The device 20 measures a myoelectric potential from the potential difference measured by two of the first electrode unit 11A to the third electrode unit 11C via the first contact unit 21A to the third contact unit 21C. The device 20 also removes noise contained in the myoelectric potential by using the potential measured by the remaining electrode unit of the first electrode unit 11A to the third electrode unit 11C as a reference. Specifically, assuming that the first electrode unit 11A and the second electrode unit 11B are used as measurement electrodes and the third electrode unit 11C is used as a reference electrode, the device 20 first calculates a first differential signal, which is the difference between the signals of the first electrode unit 11A and the third electrode unit 11C, and a second differential signal, which is the difference between the signals of the second electrode unit 11B and the third electrode unit 11C. Next, the device 20 calculates the difference between the first differential signal and the second differential signal. This makes it possible to remove components other than the target myoelectric potential. As another method, noise is removed from the signals measured by the first electrode unit 11A and the second electrode unit 11B by calculating the signal components that are commonly contained in the first electrode unit 11A and the second electrode unit 11B and applying a waveform of the opposite phase of that signal to the skin from the third electrode unit 11C. This allows the myoelectric potential obtained as the difference between the first electrode unit 11A and the second electrode unit 11B to be measured with noise removed.

[0053] The above processing is executed based on a pre-stored program by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, input / output circuits, IC chips, and other electronic components provided on the board 22. Although not shown, the device 20 also includes a communication device that performs wireless communication with an external device, and a power supply unit that supplies power to each electronic component.

[0054] The device case 23 is, for example, a resin molded part, and is formed in the shape of a rectangular box as shown in Fig. 2. The upper side (+Z) of the device case 23 is open, and this opening is covered by a device cover 24 (see Fig. 3). As shown in Fig. 2, the device case 23 has a bottom surface 23a facing downward (-Z side), a pair of side wall surfaces 23b facing in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction), and a pair of side wall surfaces 23c facing in the lateral direction (Y-axis direction).

[0055] An opening 25 extending in the short-side direction (Y-axis direction) is formed in the bottom surface 23a of the device case 23. A part of the substrate 22 housed in the device case 23 and the first contact portion 21A to the third contact portion 21C are exposed from the opening 25. A pair of claw portions 29 is formed on the bottom surface 23a of the device case 23 on both sides of the substrate 22 in the short-side direction (Y-axis direction).

[0056] In addition, in the bottom surface 23a of the device case 23, sloped portions 26 are formed by rounding off some corners of the opening edge on the +X side and −X side of the opening 25. The sloped portions 26 reduce the load (stress concentration) applied to the electrode sheet 10 from the opening edge of the opening 25 when the electrode sheet 10, the device 20, and the connection member 30 are assembled.

[0057] Engagement holes 27 (see FIG. 3) that engage with the device cover 24 are formed in the side wall surfaces 23b, 23c of the device case 23. Furthermore, protrusions 28 that protrude outward in the Y-axis direction are formed near the opening 25 on the pair of side wall surfaces 23c facing the short side direction (Y-axis direction). Protrusions 28 are formed with inclined surfaces 28a. Inclined surfaces 28a reduce the load (stress concentration) applied to the electrode sheet 10 from the corner where the bottom surface 23a and side wall surfaces 23c intersect.

[0058] 3, the connection member 30 sandwiches the electrode sheet 10 between the device 20 and the connection member 30, thereby connecting the conductive portion 11 of the electrode sheet 10 to the contact portion 21. The connection member 30 includes an opposing portion 31 that faces the contact portion 21 across the electrode sheet 10, a mating portion 32 that fits into the device 20, and an extending portion 33 that extends laterally beyond the side end face of the electrode sheet 10 in the short direction (Y-axis direction).

[0059] The connecting member 30 is made of an insulating resin material. The connecting member 30 may be made of a metal material as long as it can be insulated from the electrode sheet 10. As shown in FIG. 2, the facing portion 31 is formed in the shape of a rectangular flat plate extending along the Y-axis direction. The dimension of the facing portion 31 in the X-axis direction is set to a size that allows it to be inserted into the opening 25 of the device case 23. At least a portion of the facing portion 31, preferably the vicinity of the contact portion 21, may be transparent. With this configuration, the connection status between the electrode sheet 10 and the contact portion 21 can be visualized.

[0060] The mating portions 32 are formed in pairs at both ends of the opposing portion 31 in the Y-axis direction. The mating portions 32 are through holes that penetrate the connecting member 30 in the Z-axis direction. The mating portions 32 are mated with claw portions 29 provided on the device 20. As shown in FIG. 3 , the end of the claw portion 29 on the living body side (-Z side) is flat. The claw portion 29 has an inclined portion 29a on the surface facing outward in the short direction. The inclined portion 29a facilitates insertion and removal of the claw portion 29 into and from the mating portion 32. When mated with the mating portion 32, the claw portion 29 does not protrude toward the living body side (-Z side) from the connecting member 30. This reduces discomfort felt by the living body. When mated with the mating portion 32, the claw portion 29 may be recessed toward the living body side (-Z side) from the connecting member 30. In addition, it is preferable that the edge of the fitted portion 32, which is formed by disposing the claw portion 29 in a concave shape, is curved.

[0061] The extending portions 33 are formed as a pair on the outer sides of the pair of fitted portions 32 in the Y-axis direction. The extending portions 33 are formed in the shape of flat plates extending along the Y-axis direction. When the connection member 30 is fitted to the device 20, the extending portions 33 extend laterally beyond the side end faces of the electrode sheet 10 in the short direction (Y-axis direction).

[0062] 2 and 4, the biopotential measuring device 1 includes a first fixing part 60 that fixes the device 20 and the connecting member 30, and a second fixing part 70 that fixes the device 20 and the electrode sheet 10 at a position different from that of the first fixing part 60. The first fixing part 60 has a magnetic material and magnetically attaches the device 20 and the connecting member 30 to each other. The second fixing part 70 has a magnetic material and magnetically attaches the device 20 and the electrode sheet 10 to each other. Here, "magnetically attached" means that two members are attracted to each other by magnetic force, maintaining a fixed positional relationship.

[0063] The first fixing portion 60 includes a first magnetic member 61 provided on the connecting member 30 and a second magnetic member 62 provided on the device 20 that faces the first magnetic member 61 when the electrode sheet 10 is sandwiched between them. Note that while the first magnetic member 61 and the second magnetic member 62 are shown to be the same size in FIG. 3 , they may be different sizes. For example, if the device 20 has strict dimensional restrictions, the size of the second magnetic member 62 may be reduced and the first magnetic member 61 on the connecting member 30 side may be increased. Furthermore, if the connecting member 30 has strict dimensional restrictions, the first magnetic member 61 may be smaller than the second magnetic member 62. This improves the degree of freedom in designing the smaller dimensional side.

[0064] The first magnetic member 61 is provided on the facing portion 31 of the connection member 30. At least a portion of the first magnetic member 61 is embedded in the facing portion 31 so as not to increase the thickness of the connection member 30. The second magnetic member 62 is provided on the back surface side (+Z side) of the contact portion 21. The second magnetic member 62 may be provided on the substrate 22 or on the device cover 24. In FIG. 3, the first magnetic member 61 and the second magnetic member 62 are arranged to cover the first terminal portion 14A to the third terminal portion 14C, thereby more reliably bringing the first terminal portion 14A to the third terminal portion 14C into contact with the first contact portion 21A to the third contact portion 21C. However, the first magnetic member 61 and the second magnetic member 62 do not necessarily need to cover all of the first terminal portion 14A to the third terminal portion 14C, but only need to be arranged so that pressure is applied to at least the first terminal portion 14A to the third terminal portion 14C and the first contact portion 21A to the third contact portion 21C. For example, the first magnetic member 61 and the second magnetic member 62 may be arranged so that the magnetic field lines of the first magnetic member 61 and the second magnetic member 62 pass through the contact portion 21. Specifically, if the second magnetic member 62 is arranged to surround the first contact portion 21A to the third contact portion 21C, pressure can be applied to the contact portion 21 even if the second magnetic member 62 does not entirely cover the first contact portion 21A to the third contact portion 21C. This allows for more space near the contact portion 21, increasing the degree of freedom in design. As another example, if a ring-shaped first magnetic member 61 is arranged to cover the outer periphery of the first terminal portion 14A to the third terminal portion 14C and a second magnetic member 62 is arranged in the center of the first contact portion 21A to the third contact portion 21C, pressure can be applied without covering the entire first terminal portion 14A to the third terminal portion 14C with the first magnetic member 61.

[0065] The first magnetic member 61 and the second magnetic member 62 are disposed such that their magnetic poles attract each other. The first magnetic member 61 and the second magnetic member 62 are formed, for example, from a ferrite magnet or a neodymium magnet. The first magnetic member 61 and the second magnetic member 62 may be a sheet body in which an adhesive is applied to a soft magnetic material, or a paste body formed through pasting, drying, and magnetization. The first magnetic member 61 may be a magnet, and the second magnetic member 62 may be a magnetic metal. With this configuration, even if the connection member 30 is turned upside down, the same magnetic poles will not face each other, and stress can be reliably applied to the first terminal portion 14A to the third terminal portion 14C and the first contact portion 21A to the third contact portion 21C.

[0066] 2 and 4, the second fixing portion 70 is provided at a position different from that of the first fixing portion 60. Specifically, the second fixing portion 70 is disposed on the −X side with respect to the first fixing portion 60. The second fixing portion 70 includes a third magnetic member 71 provided on the electrode sheet 10, and a fourth magnetic member 72 provided on the device 20 and facing the third magnetic member 71.

[0067] The third magnetic member 71 is provided on the upper surface (+Z side) of the electrode sheet 10. The third magnetic member 71 may be formed from the magnet described above, but considering the thickness and flexibility of the electrode sheet 10, it is preferable to form it from the sheet or paste described above.

[0068] The fourth magnetic member 72 is formed on the bottom surface 23a side (-Z side) of the device 20. The fourth magnetic member 72 may be formed from any of the above-mentioned magnets, sheets, or pastes because the device 20 has fewer limitations on thickness and flexibility compared to the electrode sheet 10. Note that the fourth magnetic member 72 may be disposed inside the device 20 as long as it has a magnetic force strong enough to magnetically attract the third magnetic member 71.

[0069] To assemble the biopotential measuring device 1 configured as above, first, as shown in Fig. 2, a pair of claws 29 of the device 20 are inserted into a pair of through-holes 13 of the electrode sheet 10. This allows the electrode sheet 10 to be positioned on the device 20. At this time, the third magnetic member 71 and the fourth magnetic member 72 are magnetically attracted to each other, which prevents the electrode sheet 10 from sagging from the device 20 before the connecting member 30 is fitted.

[0070] Here, the through holes 13 in the electrode sheet 10 are provided in pairs, and the first to third contact portions 21A to 21C are arranged between the pair of through holes 13 in a plan view, thereby preventing misalignment between the electrode sheet 10 and the contact portions 21. In other words, misalignment can be prevented by designing the positional relationship between the through holes 13 and the claw portions 29 with high precision. Note that the gap between the through holes 13 and the claw portions 29 is preferably narrower than the tolerance for misalignment between the first to third terminal portions 14A to 14C of the electrode sheet 10 and the first to third contact portions 21A to 21C of the device 20. The tolerance for misalignment refers to the size of the gap that ensures electrical continuity (connection) between the conductive portion 11 and the contact portions 21.

[0071] Next, the pair of claws 29 of the device 20 are inserted into the pair of fitted portions 32 of the connecting member 30. At this time, as shown in FIG. 3 , the electrode sheet 10 is sandwiched between the device 20 and the connecting member 30 due to the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic member 61 and the second magnetic member 62. This causes the first terminal portion 14A to the third terminal portion 14C of the electrode sheet 10 to be connected to the first contact portion 21A to the third contact portion 21C of the device 20. In this way, according to the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the first fixing portion 60 allows the electrode sheet 10 to be reliably connected to the contact portion 21 of the device 20.

[0072] Furthermore, according to the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the second fixing part 70, which is provided at a position different from the first fixing part 60, can prevent the device 20 from floating relative to the electrode sheet 10. For example, as shown in FIG. 4 , the contact part 21 of the device 20 is disposed closer to the +X side of the device 20, making the −X side of the device 20 more likely to float relative to the electrode sheet 10. Here, the second fixing part 70 fixes the device 20 to the electrode sheet 10 on the −X side of the first fixing part 60 (contact part 21), thereby effectively preventing the device 20 from floating relative to the electrode sheet 10. This makes it difficult for fingers, clothing, sand, dust, etc. to get into the gap between the electrode sheet 10 and the device 20 during strenuous exercise, etc., reducing the possibility that the device 20 will come off the connecting member 30 and fall off from the living body. Furthermore, even when force is applied to the side wall surface 23b of the device 20 or the top surface of the device 20, the device 20 will be less likely to come off the connecting member 30 and fall off from the living body.

[0073] As described above, the biopotential measuring device 1 according to this embodiment includes the electrode sheet 10 that acquires biosignals, the device 20 having contact parts 21 connected to the electrode sheet 10, and the connecting member 30 that connects the electrode sheet 10 to the contact parts 21, as well as a first fixing part 60 that fixes the device 20 and the connecting member 30, and a second fixing part 70 that fixes the device 20 and the electrode sheet 10 at a position different from the first fixing part 60. This configuration makes it possible to obtain a biopotential measuring device 1 that can reliably connect the electrode sheet 10 to the device 20 while preventing the device 20 from floating relative to the electrode sheet 10.

[0074] Furthermore, in the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the electrode sheet 10 is sandwiched between the device 20 and the connecting member 30. According to this configuration, by sandwiching the electrode sheet 10 between the device 20 and the connecting member 30, the electrode sheet 10 can be reliably connected to the contact portion 21 of the device 20.

[0075] Furthermore, in the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the second fixing portion 70 has a magnetic material. With this configuration, the device 20 can be prevented from floating relative to the electrode sheet 10 due to attraction caused by magnetic force.

[0076] In the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the magnetic material is a sheet body attached to the electrode sheet 10. According to this configuration, by attaching the sheet body to the electrode sheet 10, the magnetic material can be fixed to the electrode sheet 10.

[0077] Furthermore, in the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the magnetic material is a paste applied to the electrode sheet 10. According to this configuration, by applying the paste to the electrode sheet 10, the magnetic material can be fixed to the electrode sheet 10 after drying and magnetization.

[0078] Furthermore, in the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the first fixing portion 60 has a magnetic material. With this configuration, floating of the device 20 relative to the electrode sheet 10 can be suppressed by attraction due to magnetic force.

[0079] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, the same or equivalent components as those in the above-described embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be simplified or omitted.

[0080] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the bioelectric potential measuring device 1 according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, in the biological potential measuring device 1 according to the second embodiment, a first fixing portion 60 and a second fixing portion 70 are provided on the connecting member 30.

[0081] Specifically, the connection member 30 has a T-shape in bottom view and includes a facing portion 31 that faces the contact portion 21 across the electrode sheet 10, and an extension portion 39 that extends in a direction away from the facing portion 31 (toward the -X side). As described above, the first magnetic member 61 of the first fixing portion 60 is provided on the facing portion 31. The third magnetic member 71 of the second fixing portion 70 is provided on the extension portion 39. Unlike the first embodiment, the third magnetic member 71 is not provided on the electrode sheet 10, and may be formed from any of the magnets, sheet bodies, or paste bodies described above. Furthermore, not providing the third magnetic member 71 on the electrode sheet 10 allows the electrode sheet 10 to have a minimal configuration, improving the flexibility of the electrode sheet 10 and keeping costs low even when the electrode sheet 10 is disposable.

[0082] By providing the extension portion 39 on the connecting member 30, the first fixing portion 60 and the second fixing portion 70, which are spaced apart from each other, can be magnetically attached to the device 20 simultaneously. Furthermore, since the electrode sheet 10 is supported by the connecting member 30 from below (the -Z side) at the second fixing portion 70, it is possible to reliably prevent the device 20 from floating relative to the electrode sheet 10. For example, even when a force is applied around an axis extending in the lateral direction (the Y-axis direction) of the electrode sheet 10, centered on the first fixing portion 60, for example, by placing a finger on the longitudinal end (the -X side end) of the device 20 during vigorous exercise, this can prevent the device 20 from floating relative to the electrode sheet 10. It is preferable to position the second fixing portion 70 so that it does not overlap with the first to third wiring portions 12A to 12C. This makes the first to third wiring portions 12A to 12C less susceptible to the magnetic force of the second fixing portion 70, thereby reducing noise.

[0083] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, the same or equivalent components as those in the above-described embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be simplified or omitted.

[0084] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the bioelectric potential measuring device 1 according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the biological potential measuring device 1 according to the third embodiment includes a plurality of second fixing portions (second fixing portion 70A, second fixing portion 70B).

[0085] Specifically, the connection member 30 has a cross shape when viewed from the bottom, and includes an opposing portion 31 that faces the contact portion 21 across the electrode sheet 10, a first extension portion 39A that extends in a direction away from the opposing portion 31 (towards the -X side), and a second extension portion 39B that extends in a direction away from the opposing portion 31 (towards the +X side).

[0086] The second fixing portion 70A includes a third magnetic member 71A provided on the first extending portion 39A, and a fourth magnetic member 72A provided on the device 20 and facing the third magnetic member 71A. The third magnetic member 71A and the fourth magnetic member 72A may be formed from any of the above-mentioned magnets, sheets, or pastes.

[0087] The second fixing portion 70B includes a third magnetic member 71B provided on the second extension portion 39B, and a fourth magnetic member 72B provided on the device 20 and facing the third magnetic member 71B. The third magnetic member 71B and the fourth magnetic member 72B may be formed from any of the above-mentioned magnets, sheets, or pastes.

[0088] According to this configuration, the electrode sheet 10 and the device 20 are fixed at multiple locations by the second fixing portion 70A and the second fixing portion 70B, which effectively prevents the device 20 from floating relative to the electrode sheet 10. In the example of Fig. 6, it is possible to prevent the device 20 from floating relative to the electrode sheet 10 on both the +X side and the -X side of the contact portion 21. Furthermore, regardless of which side of the longitudinal end (X-axis direction) of the device 20 a finger is placed on during vigorous exercise, the rotation of the device 20 can be restricted by the magnetic force of at least one of the second fixing portion 70A and the second fixing portion 70B.

[0089] (Fourth embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, the same or equivalent components as those in the above-described embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be simplified or omitted.

[0090] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the bioelectric potential measuring device 1 according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, in the bioelectric potential measuring device 1 according to the fourth embodiment, the first fixing portion 60 and the second fixing portion 70C have different fixing methods.

[0091] Specifically, the first fixing portion 60 comprises a magnetic material as in the above-described embodiment, but the second fixing portion 70C comprises a hook-and-loop fastener. The second fixing portions 70C are arranged in three locations: at both ends in the X-axis direction and at the center of the device 20. The second fixing portion 70C comprises a first hook-and-loop fastener member 71C provided on the electrode sheet 10 and a second hook-and-loop fastener member 72C provided on the device 20 and facing the first hook-and-loop fastener member 71C.

[0092] The first surface fastener member 71C is provided on the upper surface side (+Z side) of the electrode sheet 10 and extends linearly in the Y-axis direction. The first surface fastener member 71C has either a hook surface or a loop surface. The second surface fastener member 72C is provided on the bottom surface 23a side (-Z side) of the device 20 and extends linearly in the Y-axis direction. The second surface fastener member 72C has the other of the hook surface and the loop surface.

[0093] According to the above configuration, the first fixing portion 60 and the second fixing portion 70C have different fixing methods. Therefore, the first fixing portion 60 and the second fixing portion 70C are not released under the same conditions, effectively preventing the device 20 from falling off. For example, even if the first fixing portion 60 is demagnetized due to heat, the second fixing portion 70 is not released, preventing the device 20 from falling off. Alternatively, an adhesive may be used as another fixing method. Double-sided adhesive tape is preferred, and in this case, it may be provided on either the device 20 side or the electrode sheet 10 side shown in FIG. 7 . The adhesive can be made lower than the hook-and-loop fastener described above, making it easier to select a variety of adhesive strengths. Furthermore, using the adhesive only on the electrode sheet 10 side eliminates the need for special modifications to the device 20 and allows for adaptability to changes in the shape of the electrode sheet 10. When using the adhesive only on the device 20 side, using a reusable adhesive can reduce the cost of the electrode sheet 10.

[0094] (Fifth embodiment) Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, the same or equivalent components as those in the above-described embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be simplified or omitted.

[0095] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the bioelectric potential measuring device 1 according to the fifth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, in the biological potential measuring device 1 according to the fifth embodiment, a first fixing portion 60D and a second fixing portion 70D are both formed of hook-and-loop fasteners.

[0096] Specifically, a third surface fastener member 62D that forms a first fixing portion 60D is provided at the -Z side end of the claw portion 29 of the device 20. Furthermore, a fourth surface fastener member 72D that forms a second fixing portion 70D is provided on the bottom surface 23a of the device 20. In the electrode sheet 10, a through hole 13 is formed at a position facing the claw portion 29 (third surface fastener member 62D), and a second through hole 15 is formed at a position facing the fourth surface fastener member 72D.

[0097] The third hook-and-loop fastener member 62D and the fourth hook-and-loop fastener member 72D are fixed to a hook-and-loop fastener sheet 80. The hook-and-loop fastener sheet 80 also serves as a connecting member 30 that sandwiches the electrode sheet 10 between itself and the device 20. The hook-and-loop fastener sheet 80 has a T-shape when viewed from the bottom. A first portion 61D of the hook-and-loop fastener sheet 80 that faces the through-hole 13 of the electrode sheet 10 forms a first fixing portion 60D. Furthermore, a second portion 71D of the hook-and-loop fastener sheet 80 that faces the second through-hole 15 of the electrode sheet 10 forms a second fixing portion 70D. With this configuration, no magnetic material is used, thereby reducing component costs.

[0098] (Sixth embodiment) Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, the same or equivalent components as those in the above-described embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be simplified or omitted.

[0099] Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the biopotential measuring device 1 according to the sixth embodiment. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view along the short side direction of the biopotential measuring device 1 according to the sixth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 9, in the biological potential measuring device 1 according to the sixth embodiment, the first fixing portion 60E and the second fixing portion 70E both have a fitting structure.

[0100] Specifically, the first fixing portion 60E includes a first fitting portion 61E provided on the connection member 30. The first fitting portions 61E are formed as a pair at both ends of the opposing portion 31 in the Y-axis direction. As shown in FIG. 10 , the first fitting portions 61E are formed in a generally inverted U-shape protruding upward (toward the +Z side). A fitting claw 62a is formed on a side surface of the first fitting portion 61E facing outward in the Y-axis direction. The fitting claw 62a has a shape resembling a corner formed by the hypotenuse and base of a right triangle. Note that the shape of the fitting claw 62a is merely an example, and the lower surface (base) of the fitting claw 62a may be modified to be inclined to facilitate easier removal of the connection member 30 from the device 20.

[0101] The first fitting portion 61E can move the fitting claws 62a inward in the Y-axis direction by elastically deforming inward in the Y-axis direction. As shown in FIG. 10, the device 20 has a first fitted portion 62E into which the first fitting portion 61E fits. The first fitted portion 62E is formed inside the opening 25 of the device case 23. Specifically, the first fitted portion 62E is formed on the inner side of the portion of the side wall surface 23c where the protrusion 28 is formed. The first fitted portion 62E has a stepped shape that is recessed outward in the Y-axis direction. The first fitted portion 62E has a flat portion that abuts against the fitting claws 62a in the Z-axis direction.

[0102] As shown in FIG. 9, the second fixing portion 70E includes second fitting portions 72E provided on the bottom surface 23a of the device 20. The second fitting portions 72E are formed in a pair at both ends of the bottom surface 23a of the device 20 in the Y-axis direction. The second fitting portions 72E are formed in a generally L-shape protruding downward (toward the -Z side). The tip of the second fitting portion 72E faces the +X side. The electrode sheet 10 is provided with second fitted portions 71E into which the second fitting portions 72E fit. The second fitted portions 71E are through-holes that penetrate the electrode sheet 10 in the Z-axis direction, and are provided in pairs corresponding to the second fitted portions 71E. Note that although the second fitting portions 72E shown in FIG. 9 are provided in a pair in the short-side direction (Y-axis direction) of the electrode sheet 10, they may be provided in one location. In this case, the second fitting portion 72E and the second fitted portion 71E may be formed at one location in the longitudinal direction of the electrode sheet 10 (X-axis direction).

[0103] To assemble the biopotential measuring device 1 configured as described above, first, a pair of first fitting portions 61E provided on the connection member 30 are inserted into a pair of through-holes 13 in the electrode sheet 10. This allows the electrode sheet 10 to be positioned on the connection member 30. Furthermore, a pair of second fitting portions 72E provided on the device 20 are inserted into and hooked onto a pair of second fitted portions 71E on the electrode sheet 10. This prevents the electrode sheet 10 from sagging from the device 20 before the connection member 30 is fitted.

[0104] Next, the pair of first fitting portions 61E that have penetrated the electrode sheet 10 are inserted into the openings 25 formed in the bottom surface 23a of the device case 23. When the pair of first fitting portions 61E pass through the openings 25, they are elastically deformed inward in the Y-axis direction by the oblique sides shown in FIG. 10. After passing through the openings 25, the pair of first fitting portions 61E are restored to their original shape and fit into first fitted portions 62E formed inside the openings 25. This allows the connection member 30 to be connected to the device 20 with the electrode sheet 10 sandwiched therebetween.

[0105] As described above, in the sixth embodiment, the first fixing portion 60E has a first fitting portion 61E that fits into the device 20, and the device 20 has a first fitted portion 62E into which the first fitting portion 61E fits. Furthermore, the second fixing portion 70E is provided at a position different from the first fitting portion 61E and has a second fitting portion 72E that fits into the device 20, and the electrode sheet 10 has a second fitted portion 71E into which the second fitting portion 72E fits. With this configuration, the fitting reliably connects the electrode sheet 10 to the contact portion 21 of the device 20 and reliably prevents the device 20 from floating relative to the electrode sheet 10.

[0106] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment, a pair of first fitting portions 61E are provided in at least the short-side direction (Y-axis direction) of the electrode sheet 10. With this configuration, a certain amount of space must be secured in the short-side direction of the electrode sheet 10 to accommodate the first fitting portions 61E, but the device 20 can be made smaller in the longitudinal direction of the electrode sheet 10.

[0107] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment, the first fixing portion 60E has a higher fixing strength than the second fixing portion 70E. This configuration allows the electrode sheet 10 to be reliably connected to the contact portion 21 of the device 20. Note that the fixing strength can be expressed as adhesive strength, peel strength, tensile shear strength, etc., depending on the fixing method of the first fixing portion and the second fixing portion.

[0108] Seventh embodiment Next, a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, the same or equivalent components as those in the above-described embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be simplified or omitted.

[0109] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a connection member 30 according to the seventh embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, in the connection member 30 of the seventh embodiment, a first fitting portion 61F and a second fitting portion 71F are provided parallel to each other.

[0110] The first fitting portion 61F forms the first fixing portion 60F and has the same claw shape as the first fitting portion 61E of the sixth embodiment. The second fitting portion 71F forms the second fixing portion 70F and has the same claw shape as the first fitting portion 61E of the sixth embodiment. Note that the device 20 is formed with a second fitted portion (not shown) into which the second fitting portion 71F fits. With this configuration, the number of fitting points with the device 20 increases, thereby increasing the stability of the fit of the connecting member 30. In other words, the connecting member 30 becomes less likely to come off the device 20.

[0111] (Eighth embodiment) Next, an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, the same or equivalent components as those in the above-described embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be simplified or omitted.

[0112] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a connection member 30 according to the eighth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, the second fitting portion 71G of the eighth embodiment is provided in a different orientation from that of the first fitting portion 61G.

[0113] Specifically, the first fitting portion 61G forms the first fixing portion 60G and has the same claw shape as the first fitting portion 61E and the first fitting portion 61F of the sixth and seventh embodiments. The second fitting portion 71G forms the second fixing portion 70G and has a similar claw shape, but is provided facing the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode sheet 10.

[0114] By fitting this second fitting portion 71G into the device 20, when a force is applied around an axis extending in the short direction (Y-axis direction) of the electrode sheet 10, with the first fitting portion 61G as the axis, for example, when a finger is placed on the end of the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the device 20 during strenuous exercise, the rotation of the device 20 can be restricted by the fitting of the second fitting portion 71G.

[0115] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described and illustrated, it should be understood that these are illustrative of the present invention and should not be considered as limiting. Additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the present invention should not be deemed limited by the foregoing description, but rather by the scope of the claims.

[0116] For example, in the above embodiment, the second fixing portion is formed of any one of a magnetic material, a hook-and-loop fastener, a fitting member, and an adhesive, but if there are multiple second fixing portions, at least one of the multiple second fixing portions may have a fixing method different from that of the other second fixing portions. In this case, the multiple second fixing portions will not be released under the same conditions, so floating of the device relative to the electrode sheet can be effectively suppressed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 1. Bioelectric potential measurement device 10 Electrode sheet 11 Conductive part 11A 1st electrode part 11B 2nd electrode part 11C 3rd electrode part 12A 1st wiring section 12B 2nd wiring section 12C 3rd wiring section 13 Through hole 14A First terminal 14B 2nd terminal section 14C 3rd terminal section 15 Second through hole 20 devices 21 Contact point 21A 1st contact part 21B 2nd contact part 21C 3rd contact part 22 PCB 23 Device Case 23a Bottom 23b Side wall 23c Side wall 24 Device Cover 25 Opening 26 Slope 27 Engagement hole 28 Protrusion 28a Slope 29 Claw 29a Slope 30 Connecting member 31 Opposing part 32 Engaged part 33 Extension 39 Extension 39A 1st extension 39B 2nd extension 60 1st fixed part 60D 1st fixed part 60E 1st fixed part 60F 1st fixed part 60G 1st fixed part 61 First magnetic member 61D Part 1 61E First fitting part 61F First fitting part 61G 1st mating part 62 second magnetic member 62a Interlocking claw 62D Third hook-and-loop fastener member 62E 1st mated part 70 Second fixed part 70A 2nd fixed part 70B 2nd fixed part 70C 2nd fixed part 70D 2nd fixed part 70E 2nd fixed part 70F 2nd fixed part 70G 2nd fixed part 71 Third magnetic member 71A Third magnetic member 71B Third magnetic member 71C First hook-and-loop fastener member 71D Part 2 71E 2nd mated part 71F Second fitting part 71G Second mating part 72 Fourth magnetic member 72A Fourth magnetic member 72B Fourth magnetic member 72C Second hook-and-loop fastener member 72D Fourth hook-and-loop fastener member 72E Second fitting part 80 hook-and-loop fastener sheets 100 Living organisms

Claims

1. an electrode sheet for acquiring biosignals; a device having a contact portion connected to the electrode sheet; a connecting member that connects the electrode sheet to the contact portion, a first fixing portion that fixes the device and the connection member; a second fixing portion that fixes the device and the electrode sheet at a position different from that of the first fixing portion; Bioelectric potential measuring device.

2. The electrode sheet is sandwiched between the device and the connection member. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 1 .

3. the second fixed portion includes a magnetic material; The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The magnetic material is a sheet body attached to the electrode sheet. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 3 .

5. The magnetic material is a paste applied to the electrode sheet. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 3 .

6. the first fixed portion includes a magnetic material; The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The connecting member is an opposing portion that faces the contact portion with the electrode sheet interposed therebetween; an extension portion extending in a direction away from the opposing portion, the first fixing portion is disposed at a position corresponding to the facing portion, The second fixing portion is disposed at a position corresponding to the extension portion. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 1 or 2.

8. the first fixing portion has a first fitting portion that fits into the device, The device has a first fitted portion into which the first fitting portion is fitted, the second fixing portion is provided at a position different from the first fitting portion and has a second fitting portion that fits into the device; the electrode sheet or the device has a second fitted portion into which the second fitting portion fits; The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 1 or 2.

9. The first fitting portion is provided in a pair at least in the short side direction of the electrode sheet. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 8 .

10. The first fitting portion and the second fitting portion are provided parallel to each other. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 8 .

11. The first fitting portion and the second fitting portion are provided in different orientations. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 8 .

12. The first fixing portion and the second fixing portion have different fixing methods. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 1 or 2.

13. The first fixing portion has a higher fixing strength than the second fixing portion. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 1 or 2.

14. The second fixing portion is provided in plurality. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 1 or 2.

15. At least one of the plurality of second fixing portions has a fixing method different from that of the other second fixing portions. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 1 or 2.

Images