Biological information processing device, biological information processing method, and program

Abstract

To reduce the burden on the subject when measuring blood pressure. [Solution] The biological information processing device 1 includes a blood pressure detection unit 13 that identifies a reference pulse wave from pulse waves measured in the past and detects a first reference blood pressure value, a second reference blood pressure value, and a third reference blood pressure value, based on the amplitude of the reference pulse wave; and a blood pressure estimation unit 14 that, when a part of the waveform including the rising edge of a newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a part of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave, estimates at least one value or range of the first blood pressure value, second blood pressure value, and third blood pressure value based on the new pulse wave, based on the corresponding value among the first reference blood pressure value, second reference blood pressure value, and third reference blood pressure value.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present disclosure relates to a biological information processing device, a biological information processing method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a non-invasive blood pressure (NIBP) measurement device that wraps a cuff around the upper arm or lower limb of a subject, raises the applied pressure of the cuff higher than the systolic blood pressure, and then measures the blood pressure by detecting the pressure vibration generated in the cuff by the pulse wave while lowering the pressure. Further, for example, in Patent Document 1, there is known a non-invasive blood pressure measurement device that measures blood pressure simultaneously with the increase in cuff pressure for the purpose of shortening the blood pressure measurement time.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a biological information processing device, a biological information processing method, and a program that can reduce the burden on a subject during blood pressure measurement.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A biological information processing device according to one aspect for achieving the above object is a pressure control unit that controls the applied pressure of a cuff attached to a predetermined site of a subject; a pulse wave measurement unit that measures a pulse wave from the pressure received by the cuff from the predetermined site, and is a biological information processing device including When the pressure control unit increases or decreases the pressure applied to the cuff, the amplitude of the pulse wave changes in the following order: a first amplitude corresponding to the subject's first blood pressure value, a second amplitude corresponding to the subject's second blood pressure value, and a third amplitude corresponding to the subject's third blood pressure value. The aforementioned biological information processing device further, A blood pressure detection unit identifies a reference pulse wave from the pulse waves measured in the past, and detects a first reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the first blood pressure value, a second reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the second blood pressure value, and a third reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the third blood pressure value, based on the amplitude of the reference pulse wave. The system includes a blood pressure estimation unit that, when a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave, estimates at least one value or range of the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value based on the new pulse wave, based on the corresponding value among the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third reference blood pressure value.

[0006] Furthermore, a biometric information processing method relating to one aspect for achieving the above objective is: A method for processing biological information performed by a biological information processing device, A step of controlling the applied pressure of a cuff attached to a predetermined site on the subject, The step includes measuring a pulse wave from the pressure the cuff receives from the predetermined site, In the step of controlling the applied pressure, when the applied pressure of the cuff is increased or decreased, the amplitude of the pulse wave changes in the following order: a first amplitude corresponding to the subject's first blood pressure value, a second amplitude corresponding to the subject's second blood pressure value, and a third amplitude corresponding to the subject's third blood pressure value. The aforementioned biological information processing method further, The steps include identifying a reference pulse wave from the pulse waves measured in the past, and detecting a first reference blood pressure value which is a reference value for the first blood pressure value, a second reference blood pressure value which is a reference value for the second blood pressure value, and a third reference blood pressure value which is a reference value for the third blood pressure value, based on the amplitude of the reference pulse wave. The method includes the step of estimating, based on the new pulse wave, at least one value or range of the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value, based on the corresponding value among the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value, if a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave.

[0007] Furthermore, a computer program relating to one aspect for achieving the above objective is: A computer program comprising at least one instruction executed by the processor of a bio-information processing device, wherein the bio-information processing device is A pressure control unit that controls the pressure applied to a cuff attached to a predetermined part of the subject, The cuff functions as a pulse wave measuring unit that measures pulse waves from the pressure received from the predetermined site, When the pressure control unit increases or decreases the pressure applied to the cuff, the amplitude of the pulse wave changes in the following order: a first amplitude corresponding to the subject's first blood pressure value, a second amplitude corresponding to the subject's second blood pressure value, and a third amplitude corresponding to the subject's third blood pressure value. The computer program further includes the biological information processing device, A blood pressure detection unit identifies a reference pulse wave from the pulse waves measured in the past, and detects a first reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the first blood pressure value, a second reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the second blood pressure value, and a third reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the third blood pressure value, based on the amplitude of the reference pulse wave. When a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave, the system functions as a blood pressure estimation unit that estimates at least one value or range of the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value based on the new pulse wave, and the corresponding value among the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, the burden on the subject during blood pressure measurement can be reduced.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the diastolic blood pressure, mean blood pressure, and systolic blood pressure detected by the blood pressure detection unit shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the blood pressure estimation process in the first mode by the blood pressure estimation unit shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the blood pressure estimation process in the second mode by the blood pressure estimation unit shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the blood pressure estimation process in the third mode by the blood pressure estimation unit shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the blood pressure estimation process in the fourth mode by the blood pressure estimation unit shown in FIG. 1.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] [Overall Configuration of the Information Processing System] ,,33]]Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an information processing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.. The information processing system 100 includes a biological information processing device 1 and a cuff 2.

[0011] The biological information processing device 1 is a non-invasive (NIBP: Non Invasive Blood Pressure) blood pressure measuring device and is connected to the cuff 2. The cuff 2 is an air bag used in general non-invasive blood pressure measurement and is attached to a predetermined site such as the upper arm or lower limb of the subject.

[0012] The biological information processing device 1 includes a pressure control unit 11, a pulse wave measurement unit 12, a blood pressure detection unit 13, a blood pressure estimation unit 14, an output unit 15, and a memory 16.

[0013] The pressure control unit 11 controls the applied pressure of the cuff 2. The pulse wave measurement unit 12 detects the pressure applied from the cuff 2 to a predetermined position of the subject (hereinafter referred to as "cuff pressure"), and measures the pulse wave of the subject from the detected cuff pressure. The blood pressure detection unit 13 detects the diastolic blood pressure DIA (first blood pressure value), mean blood pressure MAP (second blood pressure value), and systolic blood pressure SYS (third blood pressure value) of the subject based on the pulse wave measured by the pulse wave measurement unit 12.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the diastolic blood pressure DIA, mean blood pressure MAP, and systolic blood pressure SYS detected by the blood pressure detection unit 13 shown in FIG. 1. The left vertical axis of the graph shown in FIG. 2 indicates the cuff pressure, the right vertical axis indicates the amplitude of the pulse wave, and the horizontal axis indicates time.

[0015] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, more specifically, the subject's pulse wave is superimposed on the cuff pressure (graph G shown in FIG. 2). The pulse wave measurement unit 12 measures the pulse wave (oscillation signal) superimposed on the cuff pressure by performing signal processing on the detected cuff pressure. Here, the concept of step-up blood pressure measurement will be described using FIG. 2.

[0016] The blood pressure detection unit 13 detects, for example, the cuff pressure ( "95" in FIG. 2) corresponding to the maximum amplitude of the pulse wave as the mean blood pressure MAP. Further, the blood pressure detection unit 13 detects, for example, the cuff pressures ( "80" and "120" in FIG. 2) corresponding to an amplitude of 50% of the maximum amplitude as the diastolic blood pressure DIA and the systolic blood pressure SYS, respectively.

[0017] In addition, the blood pressure detection unit 13 stores the detected diastolic blood pressure DIA, mean blood pressure MAP, and systolic blood pressure SYS in the memory 16. When the diastolic blood pressure DIA, mean blood pressure MAP, and systolic blood pressure SYS are detected by the blood pressure detection unit 13, the pressure control unit 11 ends the pressurization of the applied pressure of the cuff 2 and starts depressurization.

[0018] Hereinafter, the amplitude corresponding to diastolic blood pressure (DIA) will be referred to as "first amplitude A1," the amplitude corresponding to mean blood pressure (MAP) as "second amplitude A2," and the amplitude corresponding to systolic blood pressure (SYS) as "third amplitude A3." The amplitude of the pulse wave changes in the order of first amplitude A1, second amplitude A2, and third amplitude A3 as the cuff pressure increases. Note that, as described above, when the cuff pressure corresponding to 50% of the maximum amplitude is calculated as the diastolic blood pressure (DIA) and systolic blood pressure (SYS), the first amplitude A1 and the third amplitude A3 are equal, as shown in Figure 2.

[0019] Furthermore, the blood pressure detection unit 13 identifies a reference pulse wave from pulse waves previously measured by the pulse wave measurement unit 12. For example, the most recent pulse wave measured by the pulse wave measurement unit 12, or a pulse wave with low noise, is identified as the reference pulse wave.

[0020] The blood pressure detection unit 13 then uses the diastolic blood pressure DIA calculated based on the amplitude of the reference pulse wave as the reference value of diastolic blood pressure DIA (hereinafter referred to as the "DIA reference value") (first reference blood pressure value). The blood pressure detection unit 13 also uses the mean blood pressure MAP calculated based on the amplitude of the reference pulse wave as the reference value of mean blood pressure MAP (hereinafter referred to as the "MAP reference value") (second reference blood pressure value). The blood pressure detection unit 13 also uses the systolic blood pressure SYS calculated based on the amplitude of the reference pulse wave as the reference value of systolic blood pressure SYS (hereinafter referred to as the "SYS reference value") (third reference blood pressure value). The blood pressure detection unit 13 then stores the DIA reference value, MAP reference value, SYS reference value, and reference pulse wave in the memory 16.

[0021] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 performs blood pressure estimation processing to estimate the current diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS) of the subject using the DIA reference value, MAP reference value, and SYS reference value. The details of the blood pressure estimation processing by the blood pressure estimation unit 14 are described below.

[0022] [Details of blood pressure estimation process] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 performs blood pressure estimation processing using, for example, one of the first to fourth operating modes described later. The operating mode of the blood pressure estimation unit 14 is selected, for example, by the user.

[0023] In any of the first to fourth operating modes, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines whether a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the pulse wave newly measured by the pulse wave measurement unit 12 corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave. For example, if a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave is the same as a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines that these waveforms correspond.

[0024] In this case, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 estimates at least one of the current subject's diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS) based on the corresponding values ​​among the DIA reference value, MAP reference value, and SYS reference value. The details of each operating mode are described below.

[0025] (First mode) Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the blood pressure estimation process in the first mode by the blood pressure estimation unit 14 shown in Figure 1. The bar graph shown in Figure 3(a) shows, for example, the average value of the amplitude per unit time of the reference pulse wave. The bar graph shown in Figure 3(b) shows, for example, the average value of the amplitude per unit time of the newly measured pulse wave. Here, it is assumed that the DIA reference value, MAP reference value, and SYS reference value detected based on the reference pulse wave are "80", "95", and "120", respectively.

[0026] In the first mode, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines whether a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave (bar graph shown in Figure 3(b)) corresponds to the waveform of the reference pulse wave (bar graph shown in Figure 3(a)), specifically from the rising edge up to before the detection of the first amplitude A1 corresponding to the diastolic blood pressure DIA.

[0027] For example, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 calculates the similarity between the amplitude per unit time during the period from the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave to before the first amplitude A1 is detected, and the amplitude per unit time during the period from the rising edge of the reference pulse wave to before the first amplitude A1 is detected. The blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines that these waveforms correspond if they are the same, or if the difference between these waveforms is within a predetermined range, i.e., if the similarity is high.

[0028] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 then estimates that the diastolic blood pressure DIA, mean blood pressure MAP, and systolic blood pressure SYS based on the new pulse wave—that is, the current subject's diastolic blood pressure DIA, mean blood pressure MAP, and systolic blood pressure SYS—are the same as the DIA reference value, MAP reference value, and SYS reference value, respectively.

[0029] In the example shown in Figure 3, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 estimates that the current subject's diastolic blood pressure (DIA) is "80", the current subject's mean blood pressure (MAP) is "95", and the current subject's systolic blood pressure (SYS) is "120".

[0030] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 may also estimate the current diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS) of the subject by adding or subtracting predetermined values ​​from the DIA reference value, MAP reference value, and SYS reference value, respectively.

[0031] Furthermore, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 transmits blood pressure value information, including the estimated diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure map (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS), to the output unit 15. Upon receiving the blood pressure value information from the blood pressure estimation unit 14, the output unit 15 displays the diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure map (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS) indicated by the blood pressure value information on a monitor or the like (not shown).

[0032] Furthermore, in this case, the pressure control unit 11 shown in Figure 1 terminates the pressurization of the cuff 2 and begins depressurization at a timing before the first amplitude A1 of the newly measured pulse wave is detected, as shown in Figure 3(b). This shortens the time required to measure blood pressure.

[0033] For example, if depressurization is started after the applied pressure of cuff 2 exceeds the third amplitude A3, the time required to measure the blood pressure (time Ts shown in Figure 3(a)) is approximately 15 seconds. In contrast, when performing the estimation process in Specific Example 1, the time required to measure the blood pressure (time T1 shown in Figure 3(b)) can be reduced to approximately 8 seconds. Furthermore, since pressurization can be terminated while the applied pressure of cuff 2 is low, the burden on the subject can be reduced.

[0034] Furthermore, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines that a portion of the waveform, including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave, does not correspond to the waveform of the reference pulse wave, specifically from the rising edge up to before the detection of the first amplitude A1 corresponding to the diastolic blood pressure (DIA).

[0035] In this case, the pressure control unit 11 increases the pressure applied to the cuff 2 until the applied pressure exceeds the third amplitude A3, and then starts to reduce the applied pressure. Then, for example, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 detects the actual values ​​of diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS) based on the pulse wave newly measured by the pulse wave measurement unit 12.

[0036] (Second mode) Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the blood pressure estimation process in the second mode by the blood pressure estimation unit 14 shown in Figure 1. The bar graph shown in Figure 4(a), similar to the bar graph shown in Figure 3(a), shows, for example, the average value of the amplitude per unit time of the reference pulse wave. The bar graph shown in Figure 4(b) shows, for example, the average value of the amplitude per unit time of the newly measured pulse wave. Here, as in Specific Example 1, the DIA reference value, MAP reference value, and SYS reference value detected based on the reference pulse wave are assumed to be "80", "95", and "120", respectively.

[0037] In the second mode, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines whether a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave (bar graph shown in Figure 4(b)) corresponds to the waveform of the reference pulse wave (bar graph shown in Figure 4(a)), specifically from the rising edge up to before the detection of the second amplitude A2 corresponding to the mean blood pressure MAP.

[0038] For example, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 calculates the similarity between the amplitude per unit time during the period from the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave to before the detection of the second amplitude A2, and the amplitude per unit time during the period from the rising edge of the reference pulse wave to before the detection of the second amplitude A2. The blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines that these waveforms correspond if they are the same, or if the difference between these waveforms is within a predetermined range, i.e., if the similarity is high.

[0039] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 then estimates that the mean blood pressure MAP and systolic blood pressure SYS based on the new pulse wave, i.e., the mean blood pressure MAP and systolic blood pressure SYS of the current subject, are the same as the MAP reference value and SYS reference value, respectively.

[0040] In the example shown in Figure 4, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 estimates that the current subject's mean blood pressure MAP is "95" and the current subject's systolic blood pressure SYS is "120". The blood pressure estimation unit 14 also detects "80" as the current subject's diastolic blood pressure DIA, which is an actual measured value based on the first amplitude A1.

[0041] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 may also estimate the mean blood pressure (MAP) and systolic blood pressure (SYS) of the current subject by adding or subtracting predetermined values ​​from the MAP reference value and the SYS reference value, respectively.

[0042] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 then transmits blood pressure value information, including the measured value of diastolic blood pressure (DIA), the estimated value of mean blood pressure (MAP), and the estimated value of systolic blood pressure (SYS), to the output unit 15. Upon receiving the blood pressure value information from the blood pressure estimation unit 14, the output unit 15 displays the diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS) indicated by the blood pressure value information on a monitor or the like (not shown).

[0043] Furthermore, in this case, the pressure control unit 11 shown in Figure 1 terminates the pressurization of the cuff 2 and begins depressurization at a timing before the detection of the second amplitude A2 of the newly measured pulse wave, as shown in Figure 4(b). This shortens the time required to measure blood pressure. For example, the time required to measure blood pressure (time T2 shown in Figure 4(b)) can be reduced to about 10 seconds.

[0044] Furthermore, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines that a portion of the waveform, including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave, does not correspond to the waveform of the reference pulse wave from the rising edge until the detection of the second amplitude A2 corresponding to the MAP reference value.

[0045] In this case, the pressure control unit 11 increases the pressure applied to the cuff 2 until the applied pressure exceeds the third amplitude A3, and then starts to reduce the applied pressure. Then, for example, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 detects the actual values ​​of diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS) based on the pulse wave newly measured by the pulse wave measurement unit 12.

[0046] (Third mode) Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the blood pressure estimation process in the third mode by the blood pressure estimation unit 14 shown in Figure 1. The bar graph shown in Figure 5(a), similar to the bar graph shown in Figure 3(a), shows, for example, the average value of the amplitude per unit time of the reference pulse wave. The bar graph shown in Figure 5(b) shows, for example, the average value of the amplitude per unit time of the newly measured pulse wave. Here, as in Specific Examples 1 and 2, the DIA reference value, MAP reference value, and SYS reference value detected based on the reference pulse wave are assumed to be "80", "95", and "120", respectively.

[0047] In the third mode, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines whether a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave (bar graph shown in Figure 5(b)) corresponds to the waveform of the reference pulse wave (bar graph shown in Figure 5(a)), specifically from the rising edge up to before the detection of the third amplitude A3 corresponding to the systolic blood pressure SYS.

[0048] For example, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 calculates the similarity between the amplitude per unit time during the period from the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave to before the detection of the third amplitude A3, and the amplitude per unit time during the period from the rising edge of the reference pulse wave to before the detection of the third amplitude A3. The blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines that these waveforms correspond if they are the same, or if the difference between these waveforms is within a predetermined range, i.e., if the similarity is high.

[0049] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 then estimates that the systolic blood pressure SYS based on the new pulse wave, i.e., the current systolic blood pressure SYS of the subject, is the same as the SYS reference value.

[0050] In the example shown in Figure 5, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 estimates that the current subject's systolic blood pressure (SYS) is "120". The blood pressure estimation unit 14 also detects "80" as the current subject's diastolic blood pressure (DIA), which is an actual measured value based on the first amplitude A1, and detects "95" as the current subject's mean blood pressure (MAP), which is an actual measured value based on the second amplitude A2.

[0051] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 may also estimate the current systolic blood pressure SYS of the subject by adding or subtracting a predetermined value from the SYS reference value.

[0052] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 then transmits blood pressure value information, including the measured value of diastolic blood pressure (DIA), the measured value of mean blood pressure (MAP), and the estimated value of systolic blood pressure (SYS), to the output unit 15. Upon receiving the blood pressure value information from the blood pressure estimation unit 14, the output unit 15 displays the diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS) indicated by the blood pressure value information on a monitor or the like (not shown).

[0053] Furthermore, in this case, the pressure control unit 11 shown in Figure 1 terminates the pressurization of the cuff 2 and begins depressurization at a timing before the detection of the third amplitude A3 of the newly measured pulse wave, as shown in Figure 5(b). This shortens the time required to measure blood pressure. For example, the time required to measure blood pressure (time T3 shown in Figure 5(b)) can be reduced to about 12 seconds.

[0054] Furthermore, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines that a portion of the waveform, including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave, does not correspond to the waveform of the reference pulse wave from the rising edge until before the detection of the third amplitude A3.

[0055] In this case, the pressure control unit 11 increases the pressure applied to the cuff 2 until the applied pressure exceeds the third amplitude A3, and then starts to reduce the applied pressure. Then, for example, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 detects the actual values ​​of diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS) based on the pulse wave newly measured by the pulse wave measurement unit 12.

[0056] (Fourth mode) Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the blood pressure estimation process in the fourth mode by the blood pressure estimation unit 14 shown in Figure 1. The bar graph shown in Figure 6(a), similar to the bar graph shown in Figure 3(a), shows, for example, the average value of the amplitude per unit time of the reference pulse wave. The bar graph shown in Figure 6(b) shows, for example, the average value of the amplitude per unit time of the newly measured pulse wave. Here, as in specific examples 1 to 3, the DIA reference value, MAP reference value, and SYS reference value detected based on the reference pulse wave are assumed to be "80", "95", and "120", respectively.

[0057] In the fourth mode, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines, for example, whether a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave (bar graph shown in Figure 6(b)) corresponds to the waveform of the reference pulse wave (bar graph shown in Figure 6(a)), specifically from the rising edge until the detection of the first amplitude A1 corresponding to the diastolic blood pressure DIA.

[0058] For example, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 calculates the similarity between the amplitude per unit time during the period from the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave to the detection of the first amplitude A1, and the amplitude per unit time during the period from the rising edge of the reference pulse wave to the detection of the first amplitude A1. The blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines that these waveforms correspond if they are the same, or if the difference between these waveforms is within a predetermined range.

[0059] In this case, the pressure control unit 11 controls the applied pressure over a predetermined period of time so that the applied pressure on the cuff 2 becomes the pressure corresponding to the first amplitude A1. The pressure corresponding to the first amplitude A1 may be the same pressure as the applied pressure when the first amplitude A1 was detected, or it may be the pressure obtained by adding or subtracting a predetermined value from the applied pressure when the first amplitude A1 was detected. In the example shown in Figure 6(b), the applied pressure on the cuff 2 gradually increases until the first amplitude A1 is detected, and after the first amplitude A1 is detected, the applied pressure is controlled to be maintained over a predetermined period of time.

[0060] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 checks whether there is little change in the shape of the blood pressure waveform and the height of the peak point during the predetermined period, that is, the period during which the applied pressure of the cuff 2 is maintained. By continuously determining whether the blood pressure changes with each heartbeat during this predetermined period, the timing of fluctuations in the subject's blood pressure can be quickly detected. In Figure 6(b), the blood pressure waveform during the predetermined period is shown at the bottom of the bar graph.

[0061] For example, suppose the amount of change in the shape of the blood pressure waveform for each heartbeat over a predetermined period is within a predetermined range, that is, the similarity of the shapes of the blood pressure waveforms for each heartbeat is high. Furthermore, suppose the amount of change in the height of the peak point of the blood pressure waveform for each heartbeat over a predetermined period is within a predetermined range. In such a case, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines that the subject's current blood pressure is stable and that the difference between the current blood pressure value and the reference blood pressure value is not large. The blood pressure estimation unit 14 then estimates, for example, the diastolic blood pressure DIA, mean blood pressure MAP, and systolic blood pressure SYS based on the new pulse wave, i.e., the current subject's diastolic blood pressure DIA, mean blood pressure MAP, and systolic blood pressure SYS from the DIA reference value, MAP reference value, and SYS reference value, respectively.

[0062] For example, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 estimates that the current diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS) of the subject are the same as the DIA reference value, MAP reference value, and SYS reference value, respectively. In the example shown in Figure 6, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 estimates that the current diastolic blood pressure (DIA) of the subject is "80", the current mean blood pressure (MAP) of the subject is "95", and the current systolic blood pressure (SYS) of the subject is "120".

[0063] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 may also estimate the current subject's diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS) as values ​​obtained by adding or subtracting predetermined values ​​from the DIA reference value, MAP reference value, and SYS reference value, respectively. Alternatively, instead of estimating the current subject's diastolic blood pressure (DIA) as being the same as the DIA reference value, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 may detect the actual measured value of the diastolic blood pressure (DIA).

[0064] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 then transmits blood pressure value information, including the estimated or measured value of diastolic blood pressure (DIA), the estimated value of mean blood pressure (MAP), and the estimated value of systolic blood pressure (SYS), to the output unit 15. Upon receiving the blood pressure value information from the blood pressure estimation unit 14, the output unit 15 displays the diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS) indicated by the blood pressure value information on a monitor or the like (not shown).

[0065] In specific example 4, as described above, the applied pressure of cuff 2 can be kept low, thereby reducing the burden on the subject due to the increased pressure, and allowing for continuous monitoring of the subject's blood pressure over a predetermined period of time. Because the subject's blood pressure can be continuously monitored in this way, it is particularly effective in situations where circulatory dynamics are likely to change, such as after surgery.

[0066] Furthermore, if the amplitude of the waveforms included in the pulse wave measured over a predetermined period gradually changes, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines that the amplitude of each waveform of the pulse wave measured over the predetermined period does not correspond to the first amplitude A1. In this case, the pressure control unit 11 increases the pressure applied to the cuff 2 until the applied pressure exceeds the third amplitude A3, and then begins to reduce the applied pressure. Then, for example, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 detects the actual measured values ​​of diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS) based on the pulse wave newly measured by the pulse wave measurement unit 12.

[0067] (A variation of the blood pressure estimation process) The biological information processing device 1 is not limited to a device capable of executing all of the first to fourth modes described above, but may be a device capable of executing some of the operating modes among the first to fourth modes.

[0068] Furthermore, in the first to fourth modes described above, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 was configured to estimate at least one value of the current subject's diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS). However, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 is not limited to this configuration, and may be configured to estimate at least one range of values ​​for the current subject's diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS).

[0069] For example, in the first mode, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 can estimate the range of the current subject's mean blood pressure MAP as "90~100" instead of estimating that the current subject's mean blood pressure MAP is the same value as the MAP reference value "95". In this case, for example, the monitor may display "90~100" as the current subject's mean blood pressure MAP, or it may display "95(90~100)" along with the MAP reference value "95".

[0070] Furthermore, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 may estimate the current subject's mean blood pressure MAP range to be from the DIA blood pressure value (e.g., "80") to the SYS reference value (e.g., "120"). In this case, for example, the monitor may display "80~120" as the current subject's mean blood pressure MAP, or "95 (80~120)" along with the MAP reference value "95".

[0071] [Update reference value] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 periodically identifies a reference pulse wave from the pulse waves previously measured by the pulse wave measurement unit 12, such as once every 30 seconds or once every hour. The blood pressure estimation unit 14 also detects new DIA reference values, MAP reference values, and SYS reference values ​​based on the amplitude of the newly identified reference pulse wave, and updates the DIA reference values, MAP reference values, and SYS reference values ​​stored in the memory 16.

[0072] [Estimation of systolic blood pressure (SYS) using pulse wave time (PWTT)] In addition to the blood pressure estimation process using the reference blood pressure values ​​described above, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 can also estimate the current systolic blood pressure SYS of the subject based on the subject's pulse wave time (PWTT).

[0073] More specifically, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 obtains the subject's most recent pulse wave time (PWTT) based on the pulse wave measured by the pulse wave measurement unit 12. The blood pressure estimation unit 14 can then estimate the systolic blood pressure (SYS) based on the pulse wave time (PWTT) in real time using the following equation (1).

[0074] In equation (1), α and β are coefficients. Hereinafter, the systolic blood pressure SYS estimated based on pulse wave time PWTT will be referred to as "systolic blood pressure SYS (PWTT)". SYS(PWTT)=α×PWTT + β (1)

[0075] Furthermore, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 can estimate the mean blood pressure MAP using the measured values ​​of systolic blood pressure SYS (PWTT) and diastolic blood pressure DIA by the following equation (2). DIA(measured value) + (SYS(PWTT) - DIA(measured value)) / 3 = MAP ... (2)

[0076] The systolic blood pressure SYS(PWTT), estimated in real time based on the pulse wave propagation time PWTT, can be used as a value equivalent to the SYS reference value. Furthermore, the mean blood pressure MAP, estimated using equation (2) with the systolic blood pressure SYS(PWTT), can be used as a value equivalent to the MAP reference value. Therefore, if the blood pressure estimation unit 14 can estimate the systolic blood pressure SYS(PWTT) based on the pulse wave propagation time PWTT, it may prioritize the systolic blood pressure SYS(PWTT) over the SYS reference value as the subject's systolic blood pressure SYS.

[0077] For example, suppose that the measured value of diastolic blood pressure (DIA) is obtained using "Specific Example 2" above. In this case, instead of performing blood pressure estimation processing using the MAP reference value and the SYS reference value, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 estimates the systolic blood pressure (SYS(PWTT)) based on the pulse wave propagation time (PWTT), and then estimates the mean blood pressure (MAP) using the systolic blood pressure (SYS(PWTT)).

[0078] Furthermore, suppose that actual measured values ​​of diastolic blood pressure (DIA) and mean blood pressure (MAP) are obtained using "Specific Example 3" above. In this case, instead of performing blood pressure estimation processing using the SYS reference value, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 estimates the systolic blood pressure (SYS(PWTT)) based on the pulse wave propagation time (PWTT).

[0079] The blood pressure estimation unit 14 may also be configured to check the reliability of the SYS reference value using the systolic blood pressure SYS(PWTT) based on the pulse wave propagation time PWTT. In such a configuration, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 performs the blood pressure estimation process described above using the SYS reference value, for example, when it determines that the reliability of the SYS reference value is high.

[0080] For example, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 checks whether the difference between the systolic blood pressure SYS (PWTT) and the SYS reference value is below a threshold. If the difference is below the threshold, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines that the reliability of the SYS reference value is high and performs blood pressure estimation processing using the SYS reference value, as shown in the examples 1 to 4 above.

[0081] On the other hand, if the above difference is greater than a threshold, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 determines that the reliability of the SYS reference value is low. In this case, the blood pressure estimation unit 14 does not perform the blood pressure estimation process described in specific examples 1 to 4 above, for example, but instead detects the actual measured values ​​of diastolic blood pressure (DIA), mean blood pressure (MAP), and systolic blood pressure (SYS) based on the pulse wave newly measured by the pulse wave measurement unit 12.

[0082] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, it goes without saying that the technical scope of this disclosure should not be interpreted restrictively by the description of the embodiments. These embodiments are merely examples, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications of the embodiments are possible within the scope of the invention described in the claims. The technical scope of this disclosure should be determined based on the scope of the invention described in the claims and the scope of its equivalents.

[0083] Furthermore, each process in the bio-information processing device 1 according to this embodiment can be implemented as a computer program that operates within the bio-information processing device 1. That is, the bio-information processing device 1 is assumed to be equipped with a processor such as a CPU.

[0084] Programs can be stored in non-temporary computer-readable media and loaded into a computer. Examples of non-temporary computer-readable media include magnetic recording media, magneto-optical recording media, CD-ROMs, CD-Rs, CD-R / Ws, and semiconductor memory (including EPROMs and flash ROMs). Programs may also be loaded into a computer using various types of temporary computer-readable media. Examples of temporary computer-readable media include electrical signals, optical signals, and electromagnetic waves. Temporary computer-readable media can be supplied to a computer via wired communication channels such as electric wires and optical fibers, or via wireless communication channels.

[0085] As explained above, the following matters are disclosed in this specification: (1) A pressure control unit that controls the pressure applied to a cuff attached to a predetermined part of the subject, A bio-information processing device comprising a pulse wave measuring unit that measures pulse waves from the pressure received by the cuff from the predetermined site, When the pressure control unit increases or decreases the pressure applied to the cuff, the amplitude of the pulse wave changes in the following order: a first amplitude corresponding to the subject's first blood pressure value, a second amplitude corresponding to the subject's second blood pressure value, and a third amplitude corresponding to the subject's third blood pressure value. The aforementioned biological information processing device further, A blood pressure detection unit identifies a reference pulse wave from the pulse waves measured in the past, and detects a first reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the first blood pressure value, a second reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the second blood pressure value, and a third reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the third blood pressure value, based on the amplitude of the reference pulse wave. A biological information processing device comprising: a blood pressure estimation unit that, when a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of a newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of a reference pulse wave, estimates at least one value or range of the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value based on the new pulse wave, based on the corresponding value among the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third reference blood pressure value.

[0086] With this configuration, if a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of a newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of a reference pulse wave, the application of pressure to the cuff can be terminated before all of the subject's first, second, and third blood pressure values ​​are detected. This shortens the time required to measure blood pressure and reduces the burden on the subject.

[0087] (2) The biological information processing device according to (1), wherein the blood pressure estimation unit estimates the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value from the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third reference blood pressure value, respectively, if a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to the waveform of the reference pulse wave from the rising edge to before the detection of the first amplitude.

[0088] This configuration allows the cuff pressure to be terminated before the first amplitude of the newly measured pulse wave is detected. Therefore, the time required for blood pressure measurement can be significantly reduced. Furthermore, the burden on the subject can be significantly reduced.

[0089] (3) The biological information processing device according to (1), wherein the blood pressure estimation unit estimates the second blood pressure value and the third blood pressure value from the second reference blood pressure value and the third reference blood pressure value, respectively, if a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to the waveform of the reference pulse wave from the rising edge to before the detection of the second amplitude.

[0090] This configuration allows the cuff pressure to be stopped before the second amplitude of the newly measured pulse wave is detected. Therefore, it is possible to detect the actual first blood pressure value of the subject while shortening the time required for blood pressure measurement. Furthermore, the burden on the subject can be further reduced.

[0091] (4) The blood pressure estimation unit estimates the third blood pressure value from the third reference blood pressure value when a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to the waveform of the reference pulse wave from the rising edge to before the detection of the third amplitude.

[0092] This configuration allows the cuff pressure to be terminated before the detection of the third amplitude of the newly measured pulse wave. Therefore, it is possible to detect the actual first and second blood pressure values ​​of the subject while shortening the time required for blood pressure measurement. Furthermore, it reduces the burden on the subject.

[0093] (5) The pressure control unit controls the pressure applied to the cuff over a predetermined period of time so that the pressure corresponds to the pressure applied when the first reference blood pressure value was measured. The pulse wave detected during the predetermined period includes multiple waveforms. The blood pressure estimation unit determines whether the amount of change of at least one of the shape and peak point of the pulse wave measured during the predetermined period is within a predetermined range, and if the amount of change is within the predetermined range, estimates at least one value or range of the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value based on the new pulse wave, based on the corresponding value among the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third reference blood pressure value, as described in (1).

[0094] This configuration reduces the burden on the subject caused by the increased pressure applied to the cuff, and allows for continuous monitoring of the subject's blood pressure over a predetermined period of time.

[0095] (6) The biological information processing device further includes an output unit that outputs the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value and the third blood pressure value of the subject, The blood pressure estimation unit can calculate the third blood pressure value based on the pulse wave propagation time of the subject, The biological information processing device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the output unit outputs the third blood pressure value of the subject, prioritizing the third blood pressure value based on the pulse wave propagation time over the third reference blood pressure value.

[0096] With this configuration, for example, the third blood pressure value based on pulse wave propagation time is displayed on the monitor or other device as a third blood pressure value, rather than the third reference blood pressure value. This allows the user to obtain a third blood pressure value that is more accurate than the estimated value.

[0097] (7) The blood pressure estimation unit calculates the third blood pressure value based on the pulse wave propagation time of the subject, and confirms whether the difference between the third blood pressure value based on the pulse wave propagation time and the third reference blood pressure value is less than or equal to a threshold, as described in any one of (1) to (6).

[0098] This configuration allows for determining whether it is appropriate to use the third reference blood pressure value as an estimate of the subject's third blood pressure value.

[0099] (8) If the portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave does not correspond to the portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave, the pressure control unit continues to increase the pressure applied to the cuff until the third amplitude of the pulse wave can be detected. The blood pressure detection unit detects the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value based on the amplitude of the pulse wave that is newly measured, according to any one of (1) to (7).

[0100] Thus, if a portion of the waveform, including the rising edge of a newly measured pulse wave, does not correspond to a portion of the waveform, including the rising edge of a reference pulse wave, the actual measured values ​​of the first, second, and third blood pressure values ​​can be detected without estimating the blood pressure value using the reference value.

[0101] (9) The blood pressure detection unit periodically identifies the reference pulse wave and updates the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third reference blood pressure value based on the amplitude of the newly identified reference pulse wave, according to any one of (1) to (8).

[0102] In this way, by periodically updating the reference value for blood pressure, it becomes possible to estimate blood pressure using a more appropriate reference value.

[0103] (10) The blood pressure estimation unit estimates the range of possible values ​​for the second blood pressure value based on the new pulse wave to be the range from the first reference blood pressure value to the third reference blood pressure value, when a part of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a part of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave. The biological information processing device according to any one of (1) to (9).

[0104] This configuration makes it easy to estimate the possible range of values ​​for the second blood pressure reading.

[0105] (11) A method for processing biological information performed by a biological information processing device, A step of controlling the applied pressure of a cuff attached to a predetermined site on the subject, The step includes measuring a pulse wave from the pressure the cuff receives from the predetermined site, In the step of controlling the applied pressure, when the applied pressure of the cuff is increased or decreased, the amplitude of the pulse wave changes in the following order: a first amplitude corresponding to the subject's first blood pressure value, a second amplitude corresponding to the subject's second blood pressure value, and a third amplitude corresponding to the subject's third blood pressure value. The aforementioned biological information processing method further, The steps include identifying a reference pulse wave from the pulse waves measured in the past, and detecting a first reference blood pressure value which is a reference value for the first blood pressure value, a second reference blood pressure value which is a reference value for the second blood pressure value, and a third reference blood pressure value which is a reference value for the third blood pressure value, based on the amplitude of the reference pulse wave. A biometric information processing method comprising the step of estimating, when a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave, at least one value or range of the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value based on the new pulse wave, based on the corresponding value among the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value.

[0106] This method allows the application of pressure to the cuff to be terminated before all three blood pressure values ​​(first, second, and third) of the subject are detected, provided that a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave. This reduces the time required to measure blood pressure and also reduces the burden on the subject.

[0107] (12) A computer program comprising at least one instruction executed by the processor of a biological information processing device, wherein the biological information processing device A pressure control unit that controls the pressure applied to a cuff attached to a predetermined part of the subject, The cuff functions as a pulse wave measuring unit that measures pulse waves from the pressure received from the predetermined site, When the pressure control unit increases or decreases the pressure applied to the cuff, the amplitude of the pulse wave changes in the following order: a first amplitude corresponding to the subject's first blood pressure value, a second amplitude corresponding to the subject's second blood pressure value, and a third amplitude corresponding to the subject's third blood pressure value. The computer program further includes the biological information processing device, A blood pressure detection unit identifies a reference pulse wave from the pulse waves measured in the past, and detects a first reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the first blood pressure value, a second reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the second blood pressure value, and a third reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the third blood pressure value, based on the amplitude of the reference pulse wave. A computer program that functions as a blood pressure estimation unit that estimates, based on the newly measured pulse wave, at least one value or range of the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value, based on the corresponding value among the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value, when a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave.

[0108] With this configuration, if a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of a newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of a reference pulse wave, the application of pressure to the cuff can be terminated before all of the subject's first, second, and third blood pressure values ​​are detected. This shortens the time required to measure blood pressure and reduces the burden on the subject.

[0109] Although this specification uses a pressurized blood pressure measurement as an example, the same process can be performed with a depressurized blood pressure measurement. In this case, the systolic blood pressure (SYS) is the first blood pressure value, the mean blood pressure (MAP) is the second blood pressure value, and the diastolic blood pressure (DIA) is the third blood pressure value.

[0110] In other words, the biological information processing device 1 can acquire reference blood pressure values ​​(SYS reference value, MAP reference value, DIA reference value) and detect systolic blood pressure SYS, mean blood pressure MAP, and diastolic blood pressure DIA while reducing the pressure applied to the cuff 2.

[0111] Furthermore, it is assumed that a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave. In this case, the biomedical information processing device 1 can estimate at least one value or range of systolic blood pressure SYS, mean blood pressure MAP, and diastolic blood pressure DIA based on the new pulse wave, based on the corresponding value among the SYS reference value, MAP reference value, and DIA reference value, using the method described above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 1: Biological information processing device, 2: Cuff, 11: Pressure control unit, 12: Pulse wave measurement unit, 13: Blood pressure detection unit, 14: Blood pressure estimation unit, 15: Output unit, 16: Memory, 100: Information processing system

Claims

1. A pressure control unit that controls the pressure applied to a cuff attached to a predetermined part of the subject, A bio-information processing device comprising a pulse wave measuring unit that measures pulse waves from the pressure received by the cuff from the predetermined site, When the pressure control unit increases or decreases the pressure applied to the cuff, the amplitude of the pulse wave changes in the following order: a first amplitude corresponding to the subject's first blood pressure value, a second amplitude corresponding to the subject's second blood pressure value, and a third amplitude corresponding to the subject's third blood pressure value. The aforementioned biological information processing device further, A blood pressure detection unit identifies a reference pulse wave from the pulse waves measured in the past, and detects a first reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the first blood pressure value, a second reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the second blood pressure value, and a third reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the third blood pressure value, based on the amplitude of the reference pulse wave. A biological information processing device comprising: a blood pressure estimation unit that, when a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave, estimates at least one value or range of the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value based on the new pulse wave, based on the corresponding value among the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third reference blood pressure value.

2. The biological information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the blood pressure estimation unit estimates the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value from the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third reference blood pressure value, respectively, if a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to the waveform of the reference pulse wave from the rising edge to before the detection of the first amplitude.

3. The biological information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the blood pressure estimation unit estimates the second blood pressure value and the third blood pressure value from the second reference blood pressure value and the third reference blood pressure value, respectively, if a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to the waveform of the reference pulse wave from the rising edge to before the detection of the second amplitude.

4. The biological information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the blood pressure estimation unit estimates the third blood pressure value from the third reference blood pressure value when a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to the waveform of the reference pulse wave from the rising edge to before the detection of the third amplitude.

5. The pressure control unit controls the pressure applied to the cuff over a predetermined period of time so that the pressure corresponds to the pressure applied when the first reference blood pressure value was measured. The pulse wave detected during the predetermined period includes multiple waveforms. The blood pressure estimation unit determines whether the amount of change of at least one of the shape and peak point of the pulse wave measured during the predetermined period is within a predetermined range, and if the amount of change is within the predetermined range, it estimates at least one value or range of the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value based on the new pulse wave, based on the corresponding value among the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third reference blood pressure value, as described in claim 1.

6. The biological information processing device further includes an output unit that outputs the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value of the subject. The blood pressure estimation unit is capable of calculating the third blood pressure value based on the pulse wave propagation time of the subject. The biological information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the output unit prioritizes outputting the third blood pressure value based on the pulse wave propagation time as the third blood pressure value of the subject, over the third reference blood pressure value.

7. The biological information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the blood pressure estimation unit calculates the third blood pressure value based on the pulse wave propagation time of the subject, and confirms whether the difference between the third blood pressure value based on the pulse wave propagation time and the third reference blood pressure value is less than or equal to a threshold.

8. If the pressure control unit determines that a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave does not correspond to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave, it continues to increase the pressure applied to the cuff until the third amplitude of the pulse wave can be detected. The biological information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the blood pressure detection unit detects the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value based on the amplitude of the pulse wave that is newly measured.

9. The biological information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the blood pressure detection unit periodically identifies the reference pulse wave and updates the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third reference blood pressure value based on the amplitude of the newly identified reference pulse wave.

10. The biological information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the blood pressure estimation unit estimates the range of possible values ​​for the second blood pressure value based on the new pulse wave to be within the range from the first reference blood pressure value to the third reference blood pressure value when a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave.

11. A method for processing biological information performed by a biological information processing device, A step of controlling the applied pressure of a cuff attached to a predetermined site on the subject, The step includes measuring a pulse wave from the pressure the cuff receives from the predetermined site, In the step of controlling the applied pressure, when the applied pressure of the cuff is increased or decreased, the amplitude of the pulse wave changes in the following order: a first amplitude corresponding to the subject's first blood pressure value, a second amplitude corresponding to the subject's second blood pressure value, and a third amplitude corresponding to the subject's third blood pressure value. The aforementioned biological information processing method further, The steps include identifying a reference pulse wave from the pulse waves measured in the past, and detecting a first reference blood pressure value which is a reference value for the first blood pressure value, a second reference blood pressure value which is a reference value for the second blood pressure value, and a third reference blood pressure value which is a reference value for the third blood pressure value, based on the amplitude of the reference pulse wave. A biometric information processing method, comprising the step of estimating, based on the new pulse wave, at least one value or range of the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value, based on the corresponding value among the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value, when a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave.

12. A computer program comprising at least one instruction executed by the processor of a bio-information processing device, wherein the bio-information processing device is A pressure control unit that controls the pressure applied to a cuff attached to a predetermined part of the subject, The cuff functions as a pulse wave measuring unit that measures pulse waves from the pressure received from the predetermined site, When the pressure control unit increases or decreases the pressure applied to the cuff, the amplitude of the pulse wave changes in the following order: a first amplitude corresponding to the subject's first blood pressure value, a second amplitude corresponding to the subject's second blood pressure value, and a third amplitude corresponding to the subject's third blood pressure value. The computer program further includes the biological information processing device, A blood pressure detection unit identifies a reference pulse wave from the pulse waves measured in the past, and detects a first reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the first blood pressure value, a second reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the second blood pressure value, and a third reference blood pressure value, which is a reference value for the third blood pressure value, based on the amplitude of the reference pulse wave. A computer program that functions as a blood pressure estimation unit that estimates at least one value or range of the first blood pressure value, the second blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value based on the new pulse wave, and the corresponding value among the first reference blood pressure value, the second reference blood pressure value, and the third blood pressure value, when a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the newly measured pulse wave corresponds to a portion of the waveform including the rising edge of the reference pulse wave.

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