Biological information detection device

Abstract

To provide a biological information detection device that can detect biological information with high accuracy. [Solution] A biological information detection device comprising: a housing that contacts the subject when measuring the subject's biological information and has a flat housing surface; a detection unit having a light-receiving part; a light-transmitting member having a flat part; and a pressure suppression part that, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, is arranged on the housing surface so as to surround the flat part and contacts the subject when measuring the biological information, and suppresses the pressure that the flat part applies to the subject, wherein the pressure suppression part is made of a material harder than the subject, and when the housing surface is used as a reference, the height of the pressure suppression part from the housing surface in the Z-axis direction is greater than the height of the flat part, and the pressure suppression part has a first inclined portion in which the height increases continuously or stepwise from the inner circumference side to the outer circumference side.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to a biological information detection device.

Background Art

[0002] A biological information acquisition device that receives scattered light from a biological tissue of a subject and acquires biological information such as blood flow volume, blood volume, blood flow velocity, and pulse in the biological tissue is known (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0003] The pulse wave information measuring device described in Patent Document 1 includes a device main body having a wristwatch structure, a sensor unit, and a cable that electrically connects the device main body and the sensor unit. <0​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

[0009] Furthermore, the outer surface of the light-transmitting plate that comes into contact with the subject's finger protrudes towards the finger more than the outer surface of the sensor frame. In other words, the outer surface of the sensor frame is recessed on the side opposite the finger more than the outer surface of the light-transmitting plate.

[0010] Furthermore, Patent Document 1 also describes a structure in which the outer surface of the light-transmitting plate is recessed on the opposite side of the finger from the outer surface of the sensor frame, as shown in Figure 20(b), that is, a structure in which the outer surface of the sensor frame protrudes toward the finger from the outer surface of the light-transmitting plate. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0011] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2004-188224 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0012] In the pulse wave information measuring device described in Patent Document 1, the outer surface of the sensor frame is flat and is either recessed or protruding compared to the outer surface of the light-transmitting plate, resulting in low detection accuracy.

[0013] In other words, if the outer surface of the sensor frame is flat and recessed compared to the outer surface of the light-transmitting plate, a large pressing force will be applied to the finger from the outer surface of the light-transmitting plate. This can cause blood vessels to collapse, making it difficult to detect the pulse wave signal, reducing sensitivity and detection accuracy. Furthermore, the pressing force from the finger will be concentrated on the light-transmitting plate, causing the pressing force applied to the finger to change even with slight body movements, thus reducing detection accuracy.

[0014] Furthermore, if the outer surface of the sensor frame is flat and protrudes more than the outer surface of the light-transmitting plate, a layer of air will be interposed between the finger and the light-transmitting plate. This makes it difficult to detect the pulse wave signal, reducing sensitivity and decreasing detection accuracy. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] The biological information detection device of the present invention comprises a housing that comes into contact with the subject during the measurement of the subject's biological information and has a flat housing surface, A detection unit is arranged in the housing and has a light receiving unit that receives light from the subject, A light-transmitting member is disposed on the housing side of the housing, transmits light from the subject, and has a flat portion that contacts the subject when measuring the biological information; When two axes parallel to the housing surface and mutually orthogonal are defined as the X-axis and Y-axis, and an axis orthogonal to the X-axis and Y-axis is defined as the Z-axis, the device includes, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, a pressure suppression part arranged on the housing surface so as to surround the flat part, which contacts the subject during the measurement of the biological information and suppresses the pressure applied to the subject by the flat part, The pressure suppression portion is made of a material harder than the subject, When the housing surface is used as a reference, the height of the pressing suppression portion from the housing surface in the Z-axis direction on the side that contacts the object to be examined is higher than the height of the flat portion. The pressing suppression portion is characterized by having a first inclined portion in which the height of the pressing suppression portion increases continuously or in steps from the inner circumference side to the outer circumference side. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a block diagram of the biological information detection device. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a bottom view of the biological information detection device. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the biological information detection device shown. [Figure 5] Figure 1 shows the pressure suppression section and light-transmitting plate of the biological information detection device, and Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Figure 3. [Figure 6] This is a bottom view showing a second embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention. [Figure 7] It is a bottom view showing a third embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a bottom view showing a fourth embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention. [Figure 9] It is a cross-sectional view showing a pressing suppression part in a fifth embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention, and shows a part corresponding to the unit pressing suppression part on the right side in FIG. 5 of the pressing suppression part in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 10] It is a cross-sectional view showing a pressing suppression part in a sixth embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention, and shows a part corresponding to the unit pressing suppression part on the right side in FIG. 5 of the pressing suppression part in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 11] It is a cross-sectional view showing a pressing suppression part in a seventh embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention, and shows a part corresponding to the unit pressing suppression part on the right side in FIG. 5 of the pressing suppression part in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 12] It is a cross-sectional view showing a pressing suppression part in an eighth embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention, and shows a part corresponding to the unit pressing suppression part on the right side in FIG. 5 of the pressing suppression part in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 13] It is a cross-sectional view showing a pressing suppression part in a ninth embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention, and shows a part corresponding to the unit pressing suppression part on the right side in FIG. 5 of the pressing suppression part in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 14] It is a cross-sectional view showing a pressing suppression part in a tenth embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention, and shows a part corresponding to the unit pressing suppression part on the right side in FIG. 5 of the pressing suppression part in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 5.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] Hereinafter, the biological information detection device of the present invention will be described in detail based on the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0018] <First Embodiment> Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention. Figure 2 is a block diagram of the biological information detection device shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a bottom view of the biological information detection device shown in Figure 1. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the biological information detection device shown in Figure 1. Figure 5 shows the pressure suppression unit and the light-transmitting plate of the biological information detection device shown in Figure 1, and is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Figure 3.

[0019] Furthermore, for the sake of explanation, in this specification, the upper side in Figures 4 and 5 will be referred to as "up" or "above," and the lower side as "down" or "below."

[0020] Furthermore, as shown in all figures except Figure 2, the X, Y, and Z axes are depicted as three mutually orthogonal axes. The tip of the arrows indicating each axis is designated as "+" (positive), and the base is designated as "-" (negative). The direction parallel to the X axis is also called the "X direction" (X-axis direction), the direction parallel to the Y axis is also called the "Y direction" (Y-axis direction), and the direction parallel to the Z axis is also called the "Z direction" (Z-axis direction).

[0021] Furthermore, the width direction of the biological information detection device 1, that is, the short side direction of the housing 9 of the biological information detection device 1, is defined as the X direction. Furthermore, the length direction of the biological information detection device 1, that is, the long side direction of the housing 9 of the biological information detection device 1, is defined as the Y direction. Furthermore, the thickness direction of the biological information detection device 1, that is, the height direction of the housing 9 of the biological information detection device 1, is defined as the Z direction.

[0022] Furthermore, the terms "flat" and "flat surface" as used in this specification are not limited to cases where the surface is perfectly flat, but also include cases where the surface is slightly curved in a convex or concave shape.

[0023] The biological information detection device 1 shown in Figure 1 is a device that detects the biological information of a subject, which is a living organism; in other words, it is a device that measures and acquires the biological information of a subject.

[0024] Furthermore, biological information refers to information about the subject's fluids, i.e., biofluid information, and examples include blood flow rate, blood volume, blood flow velocity, pulse rate, blood pressure, pulse wave velocity, arteriosclerosis degree, and volume pulse wave in the subject.

[0025] Furthermore, the form of the biometric information detection device 1 is not particularly limited, and various forms can be cited, such as a form worn on a subject or a stationary form. However, in this embodiment, we will describe the case in which it is worn on a subject. Specifically, we will describe the case in which the biometric information detection device 1 is worn on the subject's arm. Note that the location where the biometric information detection device 1 is worn is not limited to the subject's arm, but can also be the subject's fingers, wrist, etc. Also, if the location is the arm, the location of wear could be the forearm or upper arm.

[0026] As shown in Figures 1, 3, and 4, the biometric information detection device 1 has a housing 9 that houses and supports the various parts that constitute the biometric information detection device 1. The housing 9 is box-shaped, and its external shape is that of a rectangular parallelepiped with rounded corners. The housing 9 has a flat housing surface 91 that comes into contact with the arm when measuring the subject's biometric information, that is, when the biometric information detection device 1 is attached to the subject's arm. In other words, the lower surface of the housing 9 in Figure 4 constitutes a flat housing surface 91. This housing surface 91 is parallel to the X and Y axes, that is, parallel to the XY plane. Note that the shape of the housing 9 is not limited to this, as long as it has a flat housing surface 91.

[0027] Furthermore, the biological information detection device 1 is equipped with a circuit board 30 having various electronic components, circuits, etc. The circuit board 30 is arranged, or rather housed, in the housing 9.

[0028] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2 and 4, the biological information detection device 1 includes a light-emitting unit 3 that emits laser light L, which is measurement light irradiated onto the subject; a first light-receiving element 5; a second light-receiving element 6, which is a light-receiving unit that receives light from the subject; a differential circuit 31; a signal processing unit 32 that generates biological information; a control unit 33 that controls the driving of the biological information detection device 1; a storage unit 34 that stores various information and various programs; a display unit 35 that displays various information; and an operation unit 36 ​​that is an input unit that gives various instructions and inputs. The detection unit is composed of the first light-receiving element 5 and the second light-receiving element 6. The light-emitting unit 3, the first light-receiving element 5, the second light-receiving element 6, the differential circuit 31, the signal processing unit 32, the control unit 33, the storage unit 34, the display unit 35, and the operation unit 36 ​​are each electrically connected to a circuit board 30, and predetermined components of these are arranged on the circuit board 30.

[0029] In addition, the present invention is not limited to the above configuration. The biological information detection device 1 may also be configured such that certain components, such as the display unit 35 and the operation unit 36, are located in a main body unit or the like, which is located away from the housing 9.

[0030] Furthermore, the biological information detection device 1 has an optical system comprising a prism 4, which is a light branching member that branches light, a collimating lens 21, a focusing lens 22, a light-transmitting plate 7, which is a light-transmitting member that transmits light, and a light-reflecting member 23. The prism 4, collimating lens 21, focusing lens 22, and light-reflecting member 23 are arranged, i.e., housed, in the housing 9. The light-transmitting plate 7 is located at the lower part of the housing 9, i.e., at the Z-direction + end of the housing 9, and is supported by the housing 9, with a portion of it exposed to the outside as shown in Figures 3 and 5.

[0031] Furthermore, the circuit board 30 is located at the top of the housing 9, that is, at the Z-side end of the housing 9, and the light-emitting unit 3, the first light-receiving element 5, and the second light-receiving element 6 are located on the circuit board 30. In this case, the first light-receiving element 5 is located on the left side of the light-emitting unit 3 in Figure 4, that is, on the Y-side, and the second light-receiving element 6 is located on the right side of the light-emitting unit 3 in Figure 4, that is, on the Y-side.

[0032] Furthermore, a polarization-separating film 40 is placed on the incident surface of the laser light L in the prism 4. The prism 4 is also positioned in the optical path between the light-emitting unit 3 and the light-transmitting plate 7. This prism 4 has the function of splitting the laser light L emitted from the light-emitting unit 3 into a first beam L1 and a second beam L2. For example, the first beam L1 is S-polarized, and the second beam L2 is P-polarized. Note that the prism 4 may be replaced with, for example, a configuration including a half-mirror.

[0033] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 3, 4, and 5, the light-transmitting plate 7 is disc-shaped and is located on the Z-direction + side of the second light-receiving element 6, on the housing surface 91 side of the housing 9, that is, at the Z-direction + end of the housing 9. The outer periphery of the light-transmitting plate 7 is covered by the housing 9 and the pressure suppression part 8, which will be described later. The portion of the light-transmitting plate 7 that is exposed to the outside is the part that comes into contact with the arm when measuring the subject's biological information, that is, when the biological information detection device 1 is attached to the subject's arm. This light-transmitting plate 7 has the function of pressing the arm with a predetermined force and the function of protecting the inside of the biological information detection device 1. Examples of materials that can be used to construct the light-transmitting plate 7 include various glass materials and various resin materials.

[0034] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, the light-transmitting plate 7 is plate-shaped and has light-transmitting properties. Also, the entire lower surface of the light-transmitting plate 7 in Figure 5 is a flat surface. The second light beam L2 emitted from the prism 4 passes through the light-transmitting plate 7, and the scattered light L3 obtained from the subject also passes through the light-transmitting plate 7. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the shape of the light-transmitting plate 7 in plan view, that is, the shape when viewed from the Z-axis direction, is circular, but is not limited to this, and may be a polygon such as a square, an ellipse, etc.

[0035] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the lower surface of the light-transmitting plate 7 in Figure 5 is parallel to the X and Y axes, i.e., parallel to the XY plane. Therefore, in this embodiment, the lower surface of the light-transmitting plate 7 in Figure 5 is parallel to the housing surface 91 of the housing 9. However, the lower surface of the light-transmitting plate 7 in Figure 5 may be slightly inclined with respect to the housing surface 91, for example, less than ±5°.

[0036] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the position of the lower surface of the light-transmitting plate 7 in the Z-axis direction coincides with the position of the housing surface 91 of the housing 9 in the Z-axis direction. However, the position of the lower surface of the light-transmitting plate 7 in the Z-axis direction in Figure 5 does not necessarily have to coincide with the position of the housing surface 91 in the Z-axis direction.

[0037] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the entire lower surface of the light-transmitting plate 7 in Figure 5 is a flat surface, but it is not limited to this, and at least the entire lower surface of the effective area 70 in Figure 5 should be a flat surface.

[0038] In this light-transmitting plate 7, the portion of the light-transmitting plate 7 that has a surface exposed to the outside is an effectively functioning area 70 and an effectively functioning flat portion 71. Hereinafter, the effectively functioning flat portion 71 will also be simply referred to as "flat portion 71".

[0039] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 3 and 5, the biological information detection device 1 has a pressure suppression unit 8 located on the housing surface 91.

[0040] The pressure suppression section 8 is positioned around the flat portion 71 of the light-transmitting plate 7. That is, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the pressure suppression section 8 is positioned to surround the flat portion 71.

[0041] This pressure suppression unit 8 has the function of contacting the arm when measuring the subject's biological information, that is, when the biological information detection device 1 is attached to the subject's arm, and suppressing the pressure that the flat portion 71 applies to the subject's arm. The pressure suppression unit 8 will be described in detail later.

[0042] Furthermore, the collimating lens 21 is positioned in the optical path between the light-emitting unit 3 and the incident surface of the laser light L of the prism 4.

[0043] Furthermore, the condensing lens 22 is positioned in the optical path between the second light-receiving element 6 and the light-transmitting plate 7.

[0044] Furthermore, the light-reflecting member 23 is positioned in the optical path between the first light-receiving element 5 and the incident surface of the laser light L of the prism 4. This light-reflecting member 23 has the function of reflecting the first light beam L1 reflected from the incident surface of the prism 4 toward the first light-receiving element 5. Examples of the light-reflecting member 23 include a prism and a reflector.

[0045] Furthermore, the light-emitting unit 3 has the function of emitting laser light L, which is the measurement light. The light-emitting unit 3 is not particularly limited and can be, for example, a semiconductor laser.

[0046] Furthermore, the first light-receiving element 5 has the function of receiving the first light beam L1. The first light-receiving element 5 is not particularly limited and can be, for example, a photodiode or a phototransistor.

[0047] Furthermore, the second light-receiving element 6 has the function of receiving scattered light L3 obtained from the arm, which is the examination site of the subject, when the second light beam L2 is incident on the arm. The second light-receiving element 6 is not particularly limited and can be, for example, a photodiode or a phototransistor.

[0048] Furthermore, the differential circuit 31 has the function of generating a photodetection signal based on the outputs of the first photodetector 5 and the second photodetector 6. That is, the differential circuit 31 converts the detection currents output from the first photodetector 5 and the second photodetector 6 into voltage signals, generates a signal corresponding to the difference between these voltage signals, and outputs it as a photodetection signal.

[0049] Furthermore, the signal processing unit 32 is configured to include, for example, an arithmetic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and can be implemented as one or more processors, reading and executing various programs stored in the memory unit 34. The signal processing unit 32 also generates biological information by processing the light detection signal. Note that a known method can be applied to obtain biological information based on the light detection signal, so its explanation will be omitted.

[0050] Furthermore, the control unit 33 is configured to include, for example, an arithmetic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and can be implemented as one or more processors. It reads and executes various programs stored in the memory unit 34. This allows for the control of the operation of the biological information detection device 1, as well as various calculations and decisions.

[0051] The processors that implement the control unit 33 and the signal processing unit 32, etc., may be provided separately, or they may be shared in whole or in part.

[0052] Furthermore, the memory unit 34 stores various programs that can be executed by the CPU, etc. The memory unit 34 can also store various types of data input from external sources. The memory unit 34 is composed of, for example, volatile memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory). Note that the memory unit 34 is not limited to a non-removable type; it may also have a removable external storage device.

[0053] Furthermore, the display unit 35 is an example of a notification unit that notifies information, and has the function of displaying various types of information, such as biological information. The display unit 35 is not particularly limited and examples include liquid crystal display devices and organic EL display devices.

[0054] Furthermore, the operation unit 36 ​​is not particularly limited and can include, for example, operation buttons, operation switches, operation dials, etc. By operating the operation unit 36, the subject can, for example, give various instructions and inputs to the biological information detection device 1.

[0055] Alternatively, a display input unit that combines the functions of the display unit 35 and the operation unit 36 ​​may be used instead of the display unit 35 and the operation unit 36, or together with the display unit 35 and the operation unit 36. For example, a touch panel can be used as the display input unit.

[0056] Next, based on Figures 2 and 4, the procedure for detecting the subject's biological information using the biological information detection device 1 and the operation of the biological information detection device 1 will be explained.

[0057] First, the subject attaches the biometric information detection device 1 to their arm, which is the examination site, using attachment components (not shown). In this case, the arm is positioned on the Z-direction + side of the biometric information detection device 1, and the Y-direction of the biometric information detection device 1, i.e., the longitudinal direction of the biometric information detection device 1, is the direction in which the arm extends. As a result, the arm comes into contact with and is pressed against the light-transmitting plate 7 and the pressure-suppressing part 8.

[0058] When measuring biological information, that is, when detecting biological information, laser light L is emitted from the light-emitting unit 3. The laser light L becomes parallel light in the collimating lens 21 and enters the incident surface of the prism 4, where it splits into a first light beam L1 and a second light beam L2. In other words, the laser light L splits into a first light beam L1 reflected from the incident surface of the prism 4 and a second light beam L2 transmitted through the incident surface.

[0059] Furthermore, the first light beam L1 is reflected by the light reflecting member 23 and incident on the first light receiving element 5, where it is received. In addition, the first light receiving element 5 outputs a detection current to the differential circuit 31 according to the amount of light received.

[0060] Furthermore, the second light beam L2 is reflected within the prism 4, exits from the exit surface, passes through the light-transmitting plate 7, and is incident on, i.e., irradiated onto, the subject's arm. As a result, scattered light L3 is emitted from the subject's arm. This scattered light L3 is focused by the condensing lens 22, incident on, and received by the second light-receiving element 6. In addition, the second light-receiving element 6 outputs a detection current to the differential circuit 31 according to the amount of light received.

[0061] Furthermore, the differential circuit 31 converts the detection currents output from the first photodetector 5 and the second photodetector 6 into voltage signals, generates a signal corresponding to the difference between these voltage signals, and outputs it to the signal processing unit 32 as a light detection signal.

[0062] Furthermore, the signal processing unit 32 generates predetermined biological information by processing the light detection signal. Examples of this biological information include blood flow rate, blood volume, blood flow velocity, pulse rate, blood pressure, pulse wave velocity, arteriosclerosis degree, and volume pulse wave.

[0063] Furthermore, the obtained biological information is stored in the memory unit 34 and retrieved as needed. The obtained biological information is also displayed by the display unit 35. This allows the subject to understand their biological information.

[0064] Next, the pressure suppression unit 8 will be described. The pressure-suppressing section 8 is made of a material harder than the arm of the subject being tested. Examples of materials that make up the pressure-suppressing section 8 include various resin materials, various metal materials, and various ceramics.

[0065] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 3 and 5, the pressure suppression section 8 has two unit pressure suppression sections 81, and the overall shape of the pressure suppression section 8 is like a ring-shaped or disc-shaped member divided into two, or more precisely, like a member divided into two equal parts.

[0066] Specifically, each unit pressure suppression section 81 has the same shape and is spaced apart from one another. Also, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, each unit pressure suppression section 81 is arranged to surround the flat section 71. Furthermore, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the shape of each unit pressure suppression section 81 is obtained by removing the diameter side of a semicircle parallel to its diameter. Also, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, each unit pressure suppression section 81 is arranged symmetrically. That is, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, each unit pressure suppression section 81 is arranged point-symmetrically with respect to the center 72 of the flat section 71 of the translucent plate 7. In other words, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, each unit pressure suppression section 81 is arranged line-symmetrically with respect to a straight line 11 that passes through the center 72 and is parallel to the Y-axis.

[0067] As a result, a slit 82 is formed between the two unit pressure suppression sections 81, penetrating the pressure suppression section 8 in the Y-axis direction, which is perpendicular to the Z-axis. That is, the slit 82 extends in the Y-axis direction, and the Y-axis direction is the longitudinal direction of the slit 82. Also, the width of the slit 82, i.e., the length of the slit 82 in the X-axis direction, is constant along the Y-axis.

[0068] The slit 82 is positioned so that when measuring the subject's biological information, that is, when the biological information detection device 1 is attached to the subject's arm, the longitudinal direction of the slit 82 aligns with the direction of blood flow in the subject's arm. This prevents the pressure suppression unit 8 from obstructing blood circulation in the subject's arm, allowing for accurate detection of biological information.

[0069] Since the configuration of each unit pressure suppression unit 81 is identical, the following description will focus on one of the unit pressure suppression units 81, specifically the right-hand unit pressure suppression unit 81 in Figure 5.

[0070] Figure 5 shows the pressure suppression section and light-transmitting plate of the bio-information detection device shown in Figure 1, and is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Figure 3. The cross-section shown in Figure 5 is a cross-section taken in a plane parallel to the X and Z axes, passing through the center 72 of the flat portion 71 of the light-transmitting plate 7 when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0071] In this pressure suppression section 8, in the cross-section shown in Figure 5, the surface of the unit pressure suppression section 81 that contacts the subject's arm, that is, the lower surface of the unit pressure suppression section 81 in Figure 5, has a convex curved shape. Hereafter, the surface of the unit pressure suppression section 81 that contacts the subject's arm and the lower surface of the unit pressure suppression section 81 in Figure 5 will also be referred to as the "surface of the unit pressure suppression section 81".

[0072] Specifically, the unit pressure suppression section 81 has a first inclined section 83 in which the height of the unit pressure suppression section 81 continuously increases toward the X-direction + side, i.e., from the inner circumference side to the outer circumference side of the unit pressure suppression section 81, and a second inclined section 84 in which the height of the unit pressure suppression section 81 continuously decreases toward the outer circumference side of the unit pressure suppression section 81. Furthermore, in the cross-section shown in Figure 5, the surfaces of the first inclined section 83 and the second inclined section 84 each have a convex curved shape. Note that the height of the unit pressure suppression section 81 is also the height of the pressure suppression section 8.

[0073] Furthermore, the second inclined portion 84 is located on the X-direction + side of the first inclined portion 83, that is, on the outer periphery side of the unit pressure suppression portion 81, and is positioned immediately after the first inclined portion 83. The portion between the first inclined portion 83 and the second inclined portion 84 is the top portion 85, which is the portion where the height of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 is greatest.

[0074] By shaping the unit pressure suppression section 81 as described above, the pressure applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression section 8 can be accurately controlled, and the pressure applied to the subject's arm by the flat section 71 can be kept within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0075] Furthermore, the unit pressure suppression section 81 has a symmetrical shape in Figure 5, centered on the position of the apex 85. That is, the first inclined portion 83 and the second inclined portion 84 of the unit pressure suppression section 81 are symmetrical with respect to a line passing through the apex 85 and parallel to the Z-axis. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the unit pressure suppression section 81 may be asymmetrical.

[0076] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the radius of curvature of the surface of the first inclined portion 83 is constant from the innermost part 86 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 to the top 85, but it is not limited to this, and there may be parts of the first inclined portion 83 with different radii of curvature.

[0077] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the radius of curvature of the surface of the second inclined portion 84 is constant from the outermost part 87 to the top 85 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81, but it is not limited to this, and there may be parts of the second inclined portion 84 with different radii of curvature.

[0078] Here, the height of the pressure suppression section 8, that is, the height of the unit pressure suppression section 81, is the height of the surface of the unit pressure suppression section 81 from the housing surface 91 in the Z-axis direction, when the housing surface 91 is used as the reference surface, and is indicated by the symbol "h" in Figure 5. Also, the positive Z-direction is the "positive direction of height".

[0079] Furthermore, the height of the flat portion 71 of the translucent plate 7 is the height of the surface of the flat portion 71 from the housing surface 91 in the Z-axis direction, with the housing surface 91 as the reference surface. In this embodiment, the height of the surface of the flat portion 71 is 0.

[0080] In this pressure suppression section 8, the height h1 of the unit pressure suppression section 81, which is the height of the pressure suppression section 8, is higher than the height h2 of the flat section 71. In this case, height h1 is the maximum height of the surface of the unit pressure suppression section 81, i.e., the height of the top 85. In this embodiment, height h2 is 0, and height h1 is greater than 0.

[0081] Furthermore, the height h3 of the innermost part 86 of the unit pressure suppression section 81 is equal to the height h2 of the flat section 71. In this embodiment, however, the height h3 is 0.

[0082] Furthermore, the height h4 of the outermost part 87 of the unit pressure suppression section 81 is equal to the height h2 of the flat section 71. In this embodiment, however, the height h4 is 0.

[0083] Note that heights h2, h3, and h4 are all 0, so their respective symbols "h2," "h3," and "h4" are not shown in the figure.

[0084] By providing such a pressure suppression section 8, the pressure suppression section 8, which is made of a material harder than the subject's arm, is pressed against the subject's arm at a position surrounding the flat section 71. As a result, pressure is generated on the subject's arm at the position surrounding the flat section 71, but the pressure on the subject's arm at the flat section 71 is limited. In other words, it is possible to set the pressure on the subject's arm at the flat section 71 to be below the subject's minimum blood pressure, for example, 50 mmHg or less. This suppresses the collapse of the subject's blood vessels at the position corresponding to the flat section 71 and prevents obstruction of blood flow in the subject's arm. Furthermore, the pressure on the subject's arm at the pressure suppression section 8 can be accurately controlled, and changes in the subject's body movement and changes in pressure detected by the bio-information detection device 1 can be suppressed.

[0085] Furthermore, since the height h3 of the innermost part 86 of the unit pressure suppression section 81 is equal to the height h2 of the flat section 71, the flat section 71 can be brought into precise contact with the subject's arm, and it is possible to suppress air from entering and interfering between the flat section 71 and the subject's arm due to the subject's body movement. This allows for the accurate detection of biological information.

[0086] Furthermore, in the cross-section shown in Figure 5, W1 is defined as the distance in the X-axis direction between the inner circumference and outer circumference of the pressure suppression portion 8, that is, the distance in the X-axis direction between the innermost part 86 and the outermost part 87 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81. Also, W2 is defined as the length in the X-axis direction of the flat portion 71 of the translucent plate 7. Furthermore, H is defined as the difference between the height h1 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81, which is the height of the pressure suppression portion 8, and the height h2 of the flat portion 71.

[0087] Furthermore, it is preferable that the relationships W2 > H and W1 > H are satisfied. In addition, it is preferable that W2 is 1.5 times or more and 10 times or less the spot diameter of the laser beam L.

[0088] This allows for precise pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression section 8, and also makes it easier to apply pressure to the subject's arm by the flat section 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0089] Furthermore, it is preferable that the following relationships are satisfied. 0.05 × W2 <H<0.5×W2 0.2 × W2 <W1<3×W2

[0090] This allows for precise pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression section 8, and also makes it easier to apply pressure to the subject's arm by the flat section 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0091] Furthermore, if H is greater than "0.5 × W²", the flat portion 71 will have difficulty making contact with the subject's arm, and depending on other conditions, the measurement of biological information may become unstable.

[0092] Furthermore, if H is smaller than "0.05 × W2", depending on other conditions, it may become difficult to sufficiently suppress the pressure on the subject's arm at the flat section 71.

[0093] In this invention, the relationship between W1, W2, H, and the spot diameter of the laser beam L is not limited to the relationship described above.

[0094] Furthermore, in the cross-section shown in Figure 5, W3 is defined as the distance in the X-axis direction between the inner circumference of the pressure suppression portion 8 and the top portion 85, that is, the distance in the X-axis direction between the innermost part 86 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 and the top portion 85. Also, W4 is defined as the distance in the X-axis direction between the outer circumference of the pressure suppression portion 8 and the top portion 85, that is, the distance in the X-axis direction between the outermost part 87 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 and the top portion 85. In addition, h5 is defined as the height of the top portion 85 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81, which is the height of the top portion 85 of the pressure suppression portion 8.

[0095] Furthermore, h5 / W3 is not particularly limited and is set appropriately according to various conditions, but it is preferably 0.15 or more and 0.375 or less, and more preferably 0.03 or more and 0.188 or less.

[0096] This allows for precise pressure application to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression unit 8, and also prevents air from entering and interfering between the flat unit 71 and the subject's arm due to the subject's body movement. Furthermore, it allows for easy collection of the subject's arm tissue onto the flat unit 71.

[0097] Furthermore, h5 / W4 is not particularly limited and can be set appropriately according to various conditions, but it is preferably 0.15 or more and 0.375 or less, and more preferably 0.03 or more and 0.188 or less.

[0098] This allows for precise pressure application to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression unit 8, and also prevents air from entering and interfering between the flat unit 71 and the subject's arm due to the subject's body movements.

[0099] In this embodiment, h5 / W3 and h5 / W4 are the same, but they may be different.

[0100] Furthermore, the radius of curvature of the surface of the first inclined portion 83 is not particularly limited and is set appropriately according to various conditions, but is preferably 14.5 mm or more and 362.5 mm or less, and more preferably 29.0 mm or more and 182.2 mm or less.

[0101] This allows for precise pressure application to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression unit 8, and also prevents air from entering and interfering between the flat unit 71 and the subject's arm due to the subject's body movement. Furthermore, it allows for easy collection of the subject's arm tissue onto the flat unit 71.

[0102] Furthermore, the radius of curvature of the surface of the second inclined portion 84 is not particularly limited and is set appropriately according to various conditions, but is preferably 14.5 mm or more and 362.5 mm or less, and more preferably 29.0 mm or more and 182.2 mm or less.

[0103] This allows for precise pressure application to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression unit 8, and also prevents air from entering and interfering between the flat unit 71 and the subject's arm due to the subject's body movements.

[0104] In this embodiment, the radius of curvature of the surface of the first inclined portion 83 and the radius of curvature 4 of the surface of the second inclined portion 84 are equal, but they may be different. The pressure suppression unit 8 has been described above.

[0105] In this embodiment, the unit pressure suppression portion 81 is parallel to the housing surface 91 and does not have a flat portion, but it is not limited to this, and a part of it may have a flat portion parallel to the housing surface 91.

[0106] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the height h of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 increases continuously from the inner circumference side to the outer circumference side of the unit pressure suppression portion 81, but this is not limited to this, and it may increase in stages, or it may have both a portion that increases continuously and a portion that increases in stages.

[0107] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the height h of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 decreases continuously from the inner circumference side to the outer circumference side of the unit pressure suppression portion 81, but this is not limited to this, and it may decrease in stages, or it may have both a portion that decreases continuously and a portion that decreases in stages.

[0108] Furthermore, although the configuration of each unit pressure suppression unit 81 is identical in this embodiment, it is not limited to this, and some or all of the configurations may differ.

[0109] Furthermore, in this embodiment, each unit pressure suppression unit 81 is arranged symmetrically in terms of points and lines when viewed from the Z-axis direction, but it is not limited to this and may be arranged asymmetrically.

[0110] Furthermore, while the number of unit pressure suppression units 81 in the pressure suppression unit 8 is two in this embodiment, it is not limited to two, and may be three or more. Other configuration examples will be described in other embodiments later.

[0111] As explained above, the biological information detection device 1 can detect biological information with high accuracy.

[0112] In the cross-section shown in Figure 5, the surface of the second inclined portion 84 is convex and curved in this embodiment. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the surface of the second inclined portion 84 may be concave and curved, or it may be straight.

[0113] Furthermore, the light-transmitting plate 7, in particular the flat portion 71 of the light-transmitting plate 7, may be made of a soft material such as rubber. In this case, the entire flat portion 71 may be made of a soft material, or the central part of the flat portion 71 may be made of a soft material and the surrounding area may be made of a hard material. This makes it possible to reduce the pressure applied to the subject's arm by the flat portion 71.

[0114] <Second Embodiment> Figure 6 is a bottom view of the biometric information detection device according to the second embodiment. In this embodiment, the X, Y, and Z axes in the figure are rotated by a predetermined angle around the Z axis compared to the first embodiment.

[0115] The second embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the previously described embodiment, and similar matters will be omitted from the explanation. Note that each of the components omitted from the explanation can be applied to the second embodiment.

[0116] The second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment except that the configuration of the pressure suppression unit 8 is different.

[0117] As shown in Figure 6, in the second embodiment of the biometric information detection device 1, the pressure suppression unit 8 has four unit pressure suppression units 81a, and the overall shape of the pressure suppression unit 8 is like a ring-shaped or disc-shaped member divided into four parts, or more precisely, a shape like one divided into four equal parts.

[0118] Specifically, each unit pressure suppression section 81a has the same shape and is spaced apart from each other. Also, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, each unit pressure suppression section 81a is arranged to surround the flat section 71. Furthermore, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the shape of each unit pressure suppression section 81a is a sector with a central angle of 90°. Also, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, each unit pressure suppression section 81a is arranged symmetrically. That is, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, each unit pressure suppression section 81a is arranged point-symmetrically with respect to the center 72 of the flat section 71 of the translucent plate 7 with respect to the corresponding unit pressure suppression section 81a. In other words, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, each unit pressure suppression section 81a is arranged line-symmetrically with respect to the line 11 passing through the center 72 and parallel to the longitudinal direction of the biometric information detection device 1. Furthermore, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, each unit pressure suppression unit 81a is arranged symmetrically with respect to a straight line 12 that passes through the center 72 and is parallel to the short direction of the biological information detection device 1, with respect to the corresponding unit pressure suppression unit 81a.

[0119] As a result, a slit 821a is formed between two adjacent unit pressure suppression sections 81a, penetrating in the longitudinal direction of the bio-information detection device 1, which is perpendicular to the Z-axis of the pressure suppression section 8, and a slit 822a is formed penetrating in the short direction of the bio-information detection device 1, which is perpendicular to the Z-axis of the pressure suppression section 8. That is, the slit 821a extends in the longitudinal direction of the bio-information detection device 1, and the longitudinal direction of the bio-information detection device 1 is the longitudinal direction of the slit 821a. Also, the width of the slit 821a, i.e., the length of the slit 821a in the short direction, is constant along the straight line 11. Similarly, the slit 822a extends in the short direction of the bio-information detection device 1, and the short direction of the bio-information detection device 1 is the longitudinal direction of the slit 822a. Also, the width of the slit 822a, i.e., the length of the slit 822a in the short direction, is constant along the straight line 12. Furthermore, slit 821a and slit 822a are connected at their respective central portions.

[0120] This biometric information detection device 1 can be attached to the subject's arm either so that the longitudinal direction of the biometric information detection device 1 is in the direction of arm extension, or so that the short direction of the biometric information detection device 1 is in the direction of arm extension.

[0121] Furthermore, when the biometric information detection device 1 is attached to the subject's arm so that its longitudinal direction is aligned with the direction of arm extension, the longitudinal direction of the slit 821a aligns with the direction of blood flow in the subject's arm.

[0122] Furthermore, if the biometric information detection device 1 is attached to the subject's arm so that its shorter side is aligned with the direction of arm extension, the longer side of the slit 822a will align with the direction of blood flow in the subject's arm.

[0123] This prevents the pressure suppression unit 8 from obstructing blood flow in the subject's arm, allowing for accurate detection of biological information.

[0124] The second embodiment described above can also achieve the same effects as the previously described embodiment.

[0125] Furthermore, the second embodiment can also be applied to the fifth to tenth embodiments described later.

[0126] <Third Embodiment> Figure 7 is a bottom view of the biometric information detection device according to the third embodiment. In this embodiment, the X, Y, and Z axes in the figure are rotated by a predetermined angle around the Z axis compared to the first embodiment.

[0127] The following describes the third embodiment, focusing on the differences from the previously described embodiment, and omitting explanations of similar matters. Note that each of the components omitted from the explanation can be applied to the third embodiment.

[0128] The third embodiment is similar to the first and second embodiments, except that the configuration of the pressure suppression unit 8 is different.

[0129] As shown in Figure 7, in the third embodiment of the biometric information detection device 1, the pressure suppression unit 8 has eight unit pressure suppression units 81b, and the overall shape of the pressure suppression unit 8 is like a ring-shaped or disc-shaped member divided into eight parts, or more precisely, a shape like a member divided into eight equal parts.

[0130] Specifically, each unit pressure suppression section 81b has the same shape and is spaced apart from one another. Also, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, each unit pressure suppression section 81b is arranged to surround the flat section 71. Furthermore, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the shape of each unit pressure suppression section 81b is a sector with a central angle of 45°. Also, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, each unit pressure suppression section 81b is arranged symmetrically.

[0131] As a result, slits 821b, 822b, 823b, and 824b are formed between two adjacent unit pressure suppression sections 81b, penetrating the pressure suppression section 8 in a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis. Furthermore, slits 821b, 822b, 823b, and 824b are connected at their respective central portions.

[0132] The third embodiment described above can also achieve the same effects as the embodiments described above.

[0133] Furthermore, the third embodiment can also be applied to the fifth to tenth embodiments described later.

[0134] <Fourth Embodiment> Figure 8 is a bottom view of the biological information detection device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0135] The following describes the fourth embodiment, focusing on the differences from the previously described embodiments, and omitting explanations of similar matters. Note that each of the components omitted from the explanation can be applied to the fourth embodiment.

[0136] The fourth embodiment is similar to the first, second, and third embodiments, except that the configuration of the pressure suppression unit 8 is different.

[0137] As shown in Figure 8, in the fourth embodiment of the biological information detection device 1, the pressure suppression unit 8 is annular in shape.

[0138] Furthermore, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the pressure suppression portion 8 is positioned so that its center coincides with the center 72 of the flat portion 71 of the light-transmitting plate 7, and it surrounds the flat portion 71. Also, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the pressure suppression portion 8 continuously surrounds the flat portion 71.

[0139] The fourth embodiment described above can also achieve the same effects as the embodiments described above.

[0140] Furthermore, the fourth embodiment can also be applied to the fifth to tenth embodiments described later.

[0141] <Fifth Embodiment> Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the pressure suppression section in the fifth embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention, and shows the portion corresponding to the right-hand unit pressure suppression section in Figure 5 of the pressure suppression section in the first embodiment shown in Figure 5.

[0142] The fifth embodiment will now be described, focusing on the differences from the previously described embodiments, and similar matters will be omitted. Note that each of the components omitted from the description can be applied to the fifth embodiment.

[0143] The fifth embodiment is similar to the first embodiment except that the configuration of the pressure suppression unit 8 is different.

[0144] As shown in Figure 9, in the fifth embodiment of the biometric information detection device 1, the unit pressure suppression portion 81 of the pressure suppression portion 8 has a first inclined portion 83, and the second inclined portion 84 is omitted. Furthermore, the top portion 85 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 and the outermost outermost portion 87 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 coincide.

[0145] The fifth embodiment described above can also achieve the same effects as the embodiments described above.

[0146] <Sixth Embodiment> Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the pressure suppression section in the sixth embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention, and shows the portion corresponding to the right-hand unit pressure suppression section in Figure 5 of the pressure suppression section in the first embodiment shown in Figure 5.

[0147] The following describes the sixth embodiment, focusing on the differences from the previously described embodiments, and omitting explanations of similar matters. Note that each of the components omitted from the explanation can be applied to the sixth embodiment.

[0148] The sixth embodiment is similar to the first embodiment except that the configuration of the pressure suppression unit 8 is different.

[0149] As shown in Figure 10, in the sixth embodiment of the biometric information detection device 1, the unit pressure suppression portion 81 of the pressure suppression portion 8 has a first inclined portion 83, and the second inclined portion 84 is omitted. Furthermore, the top portion 85 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 and the outermost outermost portion 87 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 coincide.

[0150] Furthermore, in the cross-section shown in Figure 10, the surface of the first inclined portion 83 is straight. This allows for accurate pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression portion 8, and also makes it easier to apply pressure to the subject's arm by the flat portion 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0151] Furthermore, in the cross-section shown in Figure 10, the angle between the surface of the first inclined portion 83 and the housing surface 91 of the housing 9, that is, the inclination angle θ of the surface of the first inclined portion 83 with respect to the housing surface 91, is not particularly limited and is set appropriately according to various conditions, but it is preferably 1° or more and 5° or less.

[0152] This allows for precise pressure application to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression unit 8, and also prevents air from entering and interfering between the flat unit 71 and the subject's arm due to the subject's body movement. Furthermore, it allows for easy collection of the subject's arm tissue onto the flat unit 71.

[0153] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the unit pressure suppression portion 81 may have a second inclined portion 84. In the cross-section shown in Figure 10, the surface of this second inclined portion 84 is linear, similar to the surface of the first inclined portion 83.

[0154] The presence of such a second inclined portion 84 in the unit pressure suppression portion 81 allows for accurate pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression portion 8, and also makes it easier to keep the pressure applied to the subject's arm by the flat portion 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0155] The sixth embodiment described above can also achieve the same effects as the embodiments described above.

[0156] In the cross-section shown in Figure 10, the surface of the second inclined portion 84 is straight in this embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the surface of the second inclined portion 84 may be concave and curved.

[0157] <Seventh Embodiment> Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the pressure suppression section in the seventh embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention, and shows the portion corresponding to the right-hand unit pressure suppression section in Figure 5 of the pressure suppression section in the first embodiment shown in Figure 5.

[0158] The following describes the seventh embodiment, focusing on the differences from the previously described embodiments, and omitting explanations of similar matters. Note that each of the components omitted from the explanation can be applied to the seventh embodiment.

[0159] The seventh embodiment is similar to the first embodiment except that the configuration of the pressure suppression section 8 is different.

[0160] As shown in Figure 11, in the seventh embodiment of the biometric information detection device 1, the unit pressure suppression portion 81 of the pressure suppression portion 8 has a first inclined portion 83, and the second inclined portion 84 is omitted. Furthermore, the top portion 85 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 and the outermost outermost portion 87 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 coincide.

[0161] Furthermore, in the cross-section shown in Figure 11, the surface of the first inclined portion 83 has a concave curved shape. This allows for accurate pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression portion 8, and also makes it easier to apply pressure to the subject's arm by the flat portion 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's diastolic blood pressure.

[0162] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the unit pressure suppression portion 81 may also have a second inclined portion 84. In the cross-section shown in Figure 11, the surface of this second inclined portion 84 has a concave curved shape, similar to the surface of the first inclined portion 83.

[0163] The presence of such a second inclined portion 84 in the unit pressure suppression portion 81 allows for accurate pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression portion 8, and also makes it easier to keep the pressure applied to the subject's arm by the flat portion 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0164] The seventh embodiment described above can also achieve the same effects as the embodiments described above.

[0165] In the cross-section shown in Figure 11, the surface of the second inclined portion 84 is concave and curved in this embodiment. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the surface of the second inclined portion 84 may be straight.

[0166] <Eighth Embodiment> Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the pressure suppression section in the eighth embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention, and shows the portion corresponding to the right-hand unit pressure suppression section in Figure 5 of the pressure suppression section in the first embodiment shown in Figure 5.

[0167] The following describes the eighth embodiment, focusing on the differences from the previously described embodiments, and omitting explanations of similar matters. Note that each of the components omitted from the explanation can be applied to the eighth embodiment.

[0168] The eighth embodiment is similar to the first embodiment except that the configuration of the pressure suppression unit 8 is different.

[0169] As shown in Figure 12, in the eighth embodiment of the biometric information detection device 1, in the cross-section shown in Figure 12, the surface of the first inclined portion 83 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 of the pressure suppression portion 8 is straight. This allows for accurate pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression portion 8, and also makes it easier to apply pressure to the subject's arm by the flat portion 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0170] Furthermore, in the cross-section shown in Figure 12, the angle between the surface of the first inclined portion 83 and the housing surface 91 of the housing 9, that is, the inclination angle θ of the surface of the first inclined portion 83 with respect to the housing surface 91, is preferably 1° or more and 5° or less, as described in the sixth embodiment.

[0171] The eighth embodiment described above can also achieve the same effects as the embodiments described above.

[0172] <Ninth Embodiment> Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the pressure suppression section in the ninth embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention, and shows the portion corresponding to the right-hand unit pressure suppression section in Figure 5 of the pressure suppression section in the first embodiment shown in Figure 5.

[0173] The ninth embodiment will now be described, focusing on the differences from the previously described embodiments, and similar matters will be omitted. Note that each of the components omitted from the description can be applied to the ninth embodiment.

[0174] The ninth embodiment is similar to the first embodiment except that the configuration of the pressure suppression unit 8 is different.

[0175] As shown in Figure 13, in the ninth embodiment of the biometric information detection device 1, in the cross-section shown in Figure 13, the surface of the first inclined portion 83 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 of the pressure suppression portion 8 has a concave curved shape. This allows for accurate pressing of the subject's arm by the pressure suppression portion 8, and also makes it easier to set the pressing force on the subject's arm by the flat portion 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0176] The ninth embodiment described above can also achieve the same effects as the embodiments described above.

[0177] <Tenth Embodiment> Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the pressure suppression section in the tenth embodiment of the biological information detection device of the present invention, and shows the portion corresponding to the right-hand unit pressure suppression section in Figure 5 of the pressure suppression section in the first embodiment shown in Figure 5.

[0178] The following describes the tenth embodiment, focusing on the differences from the previously described embodiments, and omitting explanations of similar matters. Note that each of the components omitted from the explanation can be applied to the tenth embodiment.

[0179] The tenth embodiment is similar to the first embodiment except that the configuration of the pressure suppression section 8 is different.

[0180] As shown in Figure 14, in the biometric information detection device 1 of the 10th embodiment, the unit pressure suppression portion 81 of the pressure suppression portion 8 has a first inclined portion 83, and the second inclined portion 84 is omitted. Furthermore, the top portion 85 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 and the outermost outermost portion 87 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 coincide.

[0181] Furthermore, in the first inclined portion 83 of the unit pressure suppression portion 81, the height h of the unit pressure suppression portion 81 increases in stages from the inner circumference side to the outer circumference side.

[0182] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the unit pressure suppression section 81 may have a second inclined section 84. In this second inclined section 84, the height h of the unit pressure suppression section 81 decreases in stages from the inner circumference side to the outer circumference side.

[0183] The tenth embodiment described above can also achieve the same effects as the embodiments described above.

[0184] In this embodiment, when the unit pressure suppression section 81 has a first inclined section 83 and a second inclined section 84, the height h of the unit pressure suppression section 81 changes in steps from the inner circumference side to the outer circumference side of the unit pressure suppression section 81. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the height h of only one of the first inclined section 83 and the second inclined section 84 may change in steps.

[0185] As described above, the biological information detection device 1 includes a housing 9 having a flat housing surface 91 that comes into contact with the subject when measuring the subject's biological information, a first light-receiving element 5 and a second light-receiving element 6 which are detection units arranged in the housing 9 and having a light-receiving part that receives scattered light L3, which is light from the subject, a light-transmitting plate 7 which is a light-transmitting member arranged on the housing surface 91 side of the housing 9 and has a flat part 71 that transmits scattered light L3, which is light from the subject, and comes into contact with the subject when measuring biological information, and a pressure-suppressing part 8 which, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, is arranged on the housing surface 91 so as to surround the flat part 71 and comes into contact with the subject when measuring biological information, and suppresses the pressure that the flat part 71 applies to the subject. Furthermore, the pressure-suppressing part 8 is made of a material harder than the subject. Furthermore, with respect to the housing surface 91, the height h1 of the pressure suppression section 8 from the housing surface 91 in the Z-axis direction on the side that contacts the subject is higher than the height h2 of the flat section 71. The pressure suppression section 8 also has a first inclined section 83 in which the height h of the pressure suppression section 8 increases continuously or in steps from the inner circumference side to the outer circumference side. Note that height h1 is the maximum height of the surface of the pressure suppression section 8, i.e., the maximum height of the surface of the unit pressure suppression section 81.

[0186] With this bio-information detection device 1, the pressure suppression part 8, which is made of a material harder than the subject's arm, is pressed against the subject's arm at a position surrounding the flat part 71. As a result, pressure is generated on the subject's arm at the position surrounding the flat part 71, but the pressure on the subject's arm at the flat part 71 is limited. In other words, it is possible to keep the pressure on the subject's arm at the flat part 71 below the subject's minimum blood pressure. This suppresses the collapse of the subject's blood vessels at the position corresponding to the flat part 71, and prevents obstruction of blood flow in the subject's arm. Furthermore, the pressure on the subject's arm by the pressure suppression part 8 can be accurately applied, and changes in the subject's body movement and changes in pressure by the bio-information detection device 1 can be suppressed. This allows for accurate detection of bio-information.

[0187] Furthermore, the biological information detection device 1 has a light-emitting unit 3 located in the housing 9 that emits laser light L, which is measurement light that passes through the light-transmitting plate 7 and is irradiated onto the subject.

[0188] Furthermore, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, in a cross-section along a plane parallel to the X-axis and Z-axis, where W1 is the distance in the X-axis direction between the inner circumference and outer circumference of the pressure suppression portion 8, W2 is the length of the flat portion 71 in the X-axis direction, and H is the difference between the height h1 of the pressure suppression portion 8 and the height h2 of the flat portion 71, The relationship W2 > H and W1 > H is satisfied. W2 is between 1.5 and 10 times the spot diameter of the laser beam L.

[0189] This allows for precise pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression section 8, and also makes it easier to apply pressure to the subject's arm by the flat section 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0190] Furthermore, in the biological information detection device 1, the pressure suppression unit 8, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, has a plurality of unit pressure suppression units 81 arranged so as to surround the flat unit 71 and to be spaced apart from each other.

[0191] This allows for precise pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression section 8, and also makes it easier to apply pressure to the subject's arm by the flat section 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0192] Furthermore, in the biological information detection device 1, the pressure suppression unit 8 has two unit pressure suppression units 81, and a slit 82 is formed between the two unit pressure suppression units 81, penetrating the pressure suppression unit 8 in the Y-axis direction, which is perpendicular to the Z-axis. In addition, the slit 82 is positioned so that its longitudinal direction aligns with the blood flow direction of the subject when measuring biological information.

[0193] This prevents the pressure suppression unit 8 from obstructing blood flow in the subject's arm through the slit 82, allowing for accurate detection of biological information.

[0194] Furthermore, in the biological information detection device 1, the height h of the pressure suppression portion 8 increases continuously in the first inclined portion 83. Also, in a cross-section taken in a plane parallel to the X and Z axes and passing through the center 72 of the flat portion 71 when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the surface of the first inclined portion 83 is linear.

[0195] This allows for precise pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression section 8, and also makes it easier to apply pressure to the subject's arm by the flat section 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0196] Furthermore, in the biological information detection device 1, the height h of the pressure suppression portion 8 increases continuously in the first inclined portion 83. Also, in a cross-section taken in a plane parallel to the X and Z axes and passing through the center 72 of the flat portion 71 when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the surface of the first inclined portion 83 has a convex curved shape.

[0197] This allows for precise pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression section 8, and also makes it easier to apply pressure to the subject's arm by the flat section 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0198] Furthermore, in the biological information detection device 1, the height h of the pressure suppression portion 8 increases continuously in the first inclined portion 83. Also, in a cross-section taken in a plane parallel to the X and Z axes, passing through the center 72 of the flat portion 71 when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the surface of the first inclined portion has a concave curved shape.

[0199] This allows for precise pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression section 8, and also makes it easier to apply pressure to the subject's arm by the flat section 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0200] Furthermore, in the biological information detection device 1, the pressure suppression section 8 is positioned on the outer periphery side of the pressure suppression section 8 than the first inclined section 83, and has a second inclined section 84 in which the height h of the pressure suppression section 8 decreases continuously or in steps from the inner periphery side to the outer periphery side.

[0201] This allows for precise pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression section 8, and also makes it easier to apply pressure to the subject's arm by the flat section 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0202] Furthermore, in the biological information detection device 1, the height h of the pressure suppression portion 8 decreases continuously in the second inclined portion 84. Also, in a cross-section taken in a plane parallel to the X and Z axes and passing through the center 72 of the flat portion 71 when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the surface of the second inclined portion 84 is linear.

[0203] This allows for precise pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression section 8, and also makes it easier to apply pressure to the subject's arm by the flat section 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0204] Furthermore, in the biological information detection device 1, the height h of the pressure suppression portion 8 decreases continuously in the second inclined portion 84. Also, in a cross-section taken in a plane parallel to the X and Z axes and passing through the center 72 of the flat portion 71 when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the surface of the second inclined portion 84 has a convex curved shape.

[0205] This allows for precise pressure to be applied to the subject's arm by the pressure suppression section 8, and also makes it easier to apply pressure to the subject's arm by the flat section 71 within an appropriate range, for example, below the subject's minimum blood pressure.

[0206] Although the biological information detection device of the present invention has been described above based on the illustrated embodiment, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the configuration of each part can be replaced with any configuration having a similar function. Furthermore, any other components may be added.

[0207] Furthermore, the present invention may also be a combination of any two or more configurations from the above embodiments. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0208] 1...Biometric information detection device, 3...Light-emitting part, 4...Prism, 5...First light-receiving element, 6...Second light-receiving element, 7...Transparent plate, 8...Pressure suppression part, 9...Housing, 11...Straight line, 12...Straight line, 21...Collimating lens, 22...Concentrating lens, 23...Light-reflecting member, 30...Circuit board, 31...Differential circuit, 32...Signal processing unit, 33...Control unit, 34...Storage unit, 35...Display unit, 36...Operation unit, 40...Polarization separation film, 70...Effective area, 71...Flat part, 7 2...center, 81...unit pressure suppression part, 81a...unit pressure suppression part, 81b...unit pressure suppression part, 82...slit, 821a...slit, 822a...slit, 821b...slit, 822b...slit, 823b...slit, 824b...slit, 83...first inclined part, 84...second inclined part, 85...top, 86...part, 87...part, 91...housing surface, L...laser light, L1...first luminous beam, L2...second luminous beam, L3...scattered light

Claims

1. A housing that comes into contact with the subject when measuring the subject's biological information and has a flat housing surface, A detection unit is arranged in the housing and has a light receiving unit that receives light from the subject, A light-transmitting member is disposed on the housing side of the housing, transmits light from the subject, and has a flat portion that contacts the subject when measuring the biological information; When two axes parallel to the housing surface and mutually orthogonal are defined as the X-axis and Y-axis, and an axis orthogonal to the X-axis and Y-axis is defined as the Z-axis, the device includes, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, a pressure suppression part arranged on the housing surface so as to surround the flat part, which contacts the subject during the measurement of the biological information and suppresses the pressure that the flat part applies to the subject, The pressure suppression portion is made of a material harder than the subject, When the housing surface is used as a reference, the height of the pressing suppression portion from the housing surface in the Z-axis direction on the side that contacts the object to be examined is higher than the height of the flat portion. The bio-information detection device is characterized in that the pressing suppression portion has a first inclined portion in which the height of the pressing suppression portion increases continuously or in steps from the inner circumference side to the outer circumference side of the pressing suppression portion.

2. The housing is arranged and has a light-emitting unit that emits measurement light that passes through the light-transmitting member and is irradiated onto the subject, When viewed from the Z-axis direction, in a cross-section along a plane passing through the center of the flat portion and parallel to the X-axis and the Z-axis, let W1 be the distance in the X-axis direction between the inner circumference and outer circumference of the pressing suppression portion, let W2 be the length of the flat portion in the X-axis direction, and let H be the difference between the height of the pressing suppression portion and the height of the flat portion. The relationship W2 > H and W1 > H is satisfied. The biological information detection device according to claim 1, wherein W2 is 1.5 times or more and 10 times or less the spot diameter of the measurement light.

3. The biological information detection device according to claim 1, wherein, as viewed from the Z-axis direction, the pressing suppression portion has a plurality of unit pressing suppression portions arranged so as to surround the flat portion and to be spaced apart from each other.

4. The aforementioned pressure suppression unit has two of the aforementioned unit pressure suppression units, A slit is formed between the two unit pressure suppression portions, penetrating the pressure suppression portion in a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis. The biological information detection device according to claim 3, wherein the slit is arranged such that, when measuring the biological information, the longitudinal direction of the slit aligns with the blood flow direction of the subject.

5. In the first inclined portion, the height of the pressing suppression portion increases continuously. The biological information detection device according to claim 1, wherein in a cross-section of a plane parallel to the X-axis and the Z-axis, passing through the center of the flat portion when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the surface of the first inclined portion is linear.

6. In the first inclined portion, the height of the pressing suppression portion increases continuously. The biological information detection device according to claim 1, wherein in a cross-section of a plane parallel to the X-axis and the Z-axis, passing through the center of the flat portion when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the surface of the first inclined portion has a convex curved shape.

7. In the first inclined portion, the height of the pressing suppression portion increases continuously. The biological information detection device according to claim 1, wherein in a cross-section of a plane parallel to the X-axis and the Z-axis, passing through the center of the flat portion when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the surface of the first inclined portion has a concave curved shape.

8. The biological information detection device according to claim 1, wherein the pressing suppression portion is positioned on the outer peripheral side of the pressing suppression portion than the first inclined portion, and has a second inclined portion in which the height of the pressing suppression portion decreases continuously or in steps from the inner peripheral side to the outer peripheral side of the pressing suppression portion.

9. In the second inclined portion, the height of the pressing suppression portion decreases continuously. The biological information detection device according to claim 8, wherein in a cross-section of a plane parallel to the X-axis and the Z-axis, passing through the center of the flat portion when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the surface of the second inclined portion is linear.

10. In the second inclined portion, the height of the pressing suppression portion decreases continuously. The biological information detection device according to claim 8, wherein in a cross-section of a plane parallel to the X-axis and the Z-axis, passing through the center of the flat portion when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the surface of the second inclined portion has a convex curved shape.

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