Measuring device

Abstract

To realize a measuring device that can perform pressure measurement and pulse wave measurement more accurately. [Solution] The measuring device is a measuring device capable of pressure measurement and pulse wave measurement, and includes a sensor unit 2 having a region that is continuously pressed in a planar manner by a part of the body, and including at least two or more first piezoelectric elements 10 for pressure measurement and at least one or more second piezoelectric elements 11 for pulse wave measurement arranged in the region, a plurality of first amplifiers 32 each connected to the plurality of first piezoelectric elements 10, a plurality of first load resistors 30 each connected to the plurality of first amplifiers 32, a second amplifier 32 connected to the second piezoelectric element 11, and a second load resistor 31 connected to the second amplifier 32.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a measuring device for measuring a pulse wave.

Background Art

[0002] Piezoelectric sensors utilizing the piezoelectric effect are known. Piezoelectric sensors using organic piezoelectric materials such as P(VDF-TrFE) are utilized. Since organic piezoelectric materials can be formed by coating, can be manufactured by a low-temperature process, and can be easily formed into a film, applications to flexible sensors for wearable devices, large-area sensors, etc. have been attempted. As applications of flexible sensors, various applications such as biosensors for measuring pulse waves and myograms, or tactile sensors are conceivable, and it is a technology that has attracted attention. Also, as application fields of piezoelectric sensors, effective utilization in various fields such as medical, healthcare, monitoring, sports, justice UI, robotics, and facility monitoring can be expected.

[0003] Pulse diagnosis is considered as one of the application fields of piezoelectric sensors. Pulse diagnosis is a method of taking a pulse using a finger on the patient's wrist and diagnosing the properties of the pulse such as the pulse rate, strength, and rhythm, and diagnosing abnormalities in the viscera and meridians, and it is also useful for diagnosing the disease location, symptoms, and prognosis.

[0004] Pulse diagnosis is a method that enables the diagnosis of abnormalities in the viscera and meridians of a patient by simply measuring the pulse on the wrist, but the diagnosis is not quantifiable in a sensory manner and currently relies greatly on the skill and experience of the examiner. Also, when manufacturing a measuring device for quantifying them, a sensor for measuring the pulse, a sensor for measuring the pressing force of the finger, a device for applying pressure, etc. are required.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

[0006] The present invention provides a measuring device that can perform pressure measurement and pulse wave measurement more accurately. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a measuring device capable of measuring pressure and pulse waves is provided, comprising: a sensor unit having a region that is continuously pressed in a planar manner on a part of the body, and including at least two or more first piezoelectric elements for pressure measurement and at least one or more second piezoelectric elements for pulse wave measurement arranged in the region; a plurality of first amplifiers each connected to the plurality of first piezoelectric elements; a plurality of first load resistors each connected to the plurality of first amplifiers; a second amplifier connected to the second piezoelectric element; and a second load resistor connected to the second amplifier.

[0008] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a measuring device according to the first aspect is provided, wherein the sensor unit includes two or more second piezoelectric elements arranged in the region, and the second amplifier is commonly connected to the plurality of second piezoelectric elements.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a measuring device according to the first aspect is provided, further comprising a control unit that performs the pressure measurement and the pulse wave measurement in parallel.

[0010] A measuring device according to the first embodiment is provided, further comprising a plurality of switches connected between the plurality of first piezoelectric elements and the plurality of first amplifiers, wherein the plurality of switches are configured to switch between a path connected to the plurality of first amplifiers and a path connected to the second amplifier.

[0011] A measuring device according to the fourth embodiment is provided, further comprising a control unit that determines the trend of the pressure values ​​of the plurality of first piezoelectric elements when each of the plurality of first piezoelectric elements is connected to the plurality of first amplifiers, and interpolates the pressure value of one of the plurality of first piezoelectric elements based on the trend when one of the plurality of first piezoelectric elements is connected to the second amplifier.

[0012] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, a measuring device according to the first aspect is provided, wherein the resistance value of the second load resistor is equal to or greater than the resistance value of the first load resistor.

[0013] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, a measuring device according to the first aspect is provided, further comprising a control unit that integrates the output of each of the plurality of first amplifiers and performs the pressing measurement based on the integrated signal.

[0014] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, a measuring device according to the first aspect is provided, further comprising an air bag arranged in correspondence with the region.

[0015] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, a measuring device according to the first aspect is provided, wherein the sensor portion includes first to third regions corresponding to three fingers that press the sensor portion when measuring pulse waves, and each of the first to third regions is provided with the plurality of first piezoelectric elements and the second piezoelectric elements.

[0016] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, a measuring device according to the first aspect is provided, wherein the plurality of first piezoelectric elements and the second piezoelectric elements include a common piezoelectric layer.

[0017] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, a measuring device according to the first aspect is provided, wherein the plurality of first piezoelectric elements and the second piezoelectric elements are composed of flexible organic piezoelectric elements. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a measuring device that can perform pressure measurement and pulse wave measurement more accurately.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining the appearance of the measuring device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining the appearance of the measuring device during measurement. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view of the measuring device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a plan view for explaining another configuration example of the measuring device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a plan view for explaining another configuration example of the measuring device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the sensor unit. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the measuring device. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a circuit diagram of the sensor unit and the amplifier circuit shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the measuring device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the pressure in the pressing measurement. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of the detection signal in the pulse wave measurement. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of the measuring device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a circuit diagram of the sensor unit, the switch circuit, and the amplifier circuit shown in FIG. 12. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the measuring device. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining an example of the pressure values of three first piezoelectric elements. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining an example of the switching operation of the switch circuit. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the operation of interpolating the pressure value by the interpolation unit. [Figure 18]Figure 18 is a plan view of a measuring device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a block diagram of a measurement system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0020] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, the drawings are schematic or conceptual, and the dimensions and proportions in each drawing are not necessarily the same as those in reality. Furthermore, even when the same part is represented between drawings, the relationship between dimensions and proportions may be represented differently. In particular, the embodiments shown below are illustrative examples of devices and methods for realizing the technical concept of the present invention, and the technical concept of the present invention is not determined by the shape, structure, arrangement, etc. of the components. In the following description, elements having the same function and configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0021] [1] First Embodiment [1-1] Configuration of measuring device 1 Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the external appearance of the measuring device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the external appearance of the measuring device 1 during measurement. Figures 1 and 2 are schematic diagrams as viewed from the palm side of the user's hand. The measuring device 1 is a device capable of measuring pulse waves and pressure. Pulse waves are measured changes in arterial pressure or volume caused by the beating of the heart. Pressure is the pressure applied when an examiner presses an object with their finger. The measuring device 1 comprises a sensor unit 2 and a circuit unit 3. The sensor unit 2 is the part that detects pressure. The circuit unit 3 is the part that processes the signal from the sensor unit 2 and includes a control unit, which will be described later.

[0022] The measuring device 1 is worn on the user's wrist. The pulse wave is measured by feeling the pulsation of the radial artery. The sensor unit 2 is attached to the radial artery area near the wrist. The measuring device 1 (specifically the sensor unit 2) is worn so as to cover the entire area of ​​the wrist known as Cun Kuo, Guan Shang, and Ch Zhong. When measuring the pulse wave, the sensor unit 2 is pressed by the examiner's three fingers (index finger, middle finger, and ring finger). In traditional Chinese medicine, when the middle finger is placed next to the radial styloid process, the areas pressed by the three fingers are Cun Kuo, Guan Shang, and Ch Zhong, in that order from the index finger. By applying pressure to the sensor unit 2, the sensor unit 2 adheres tightly to the measurement site, allowing for more accurate measurement of the pulse wave. In the following, the person to whom the measuring device 1 is attached will be described as the user, and the person measuring the pulse wave with their fingers will be described as the examiner, however, the person measuring the pulse wave may also be the user to whom the measuring device 1 is attached.

[0023] Figure 3 is a plan view of the measuring device 1. In Figure 3, the X direction is along one side of the measuring device 1, and the Y direction is perpendicular to the X direction. The sensor unit 2 has three regions AR1 to AR3. Regions AR1 to AR3 are arranged side by side in the Y direction. The areas of regions AR1 to AR3 are, for example, the same. The configuration of region AR1 will be described below, but the configurations of regions AR2 and AR3 are the same as region AR1.

[0024] Region AR1 is defined as the area in contact with the sensor unit 2 by one finger when the examiner presses the sensor unit 2 with three fingers. The finger size is defined, for example, as the average size of an adult. In other words, region AR1 is defined as the area that is continuously pressed in a planar manner by a part of the body (in this embodiment, one finger).

[0025] The sensor unit 2 comprises a plurality of first piezoelectric elements 10 for measuring pressure and a plurality of second piezoelectric elements 11 for measuring pulse waves. In Figure 3, the hatched rectangles represent the first piezoelectric elements 10, and the rectangles without hatching represent the second piezoelectric elements 11. The first piezoelectric elements 10 for measuring pressure and the second piezoelectric elements 11 for measuring pulse waves have different applications but the same stacked structure. The first piezoelectric elements 10 and the second piezoelectric elements 11 are each composed of, for example, rectangles and have, for example, the same area.

[0026] In region AR1, the multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 and the multiple second piezoelectric elements 11 are arranged in a matrix along the X and Y directions. Figure 3 shows an example of multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 and multiple second piezoelectric elements 11 arranged in 3 rows and 5 columns. Along the X direction, the multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 and the multiple second piezoelectric elements 11 are arranged alternately. In region AR1, the multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 are arranged in a staggered pattern, and the multiple second piezoelectric elements 11 are arranged in a staggered pattern.

[0027] In another configuration example, in region AR1, at least two first piezoelectric elements 10 for pressure measurement are arranged, and at least one second piezoelectric element 11 for pulse wave measurement is arranged. By arranging two or more first piezoelectric elements 10 for pressure measurement, the pressure values ​​of multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 can be determined, and therefore the pressure distribution in region AR1 can be determined.

[0028] The area of ​​each of the multiple piezoelectric elements is set to be smaller than the area of ​​region AR1, and furthermore, the area of ​​each of the multiple piezoelectric elements is set so that three or more piezoelectric elements fit within region AR1. In other words, the area of ​​each of the multiple piezoelectric elements is set to be sufficiently smaller than the area of ​​one finger (the part that contacts the sensor unit 2).

[0029] Figure 4 is a plan view illustrating another configuration example of the measuring device 1. The first piezoelectric element 10 for pressure measurement and the second piezoelectric element 11 for pulse wave measurement each have a rectangle extending in the X direction. Multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 and multiple second piezoelectric elements 11 are arranged alternately along the Y direction. In Figure 4, an example configuration is shown in region AR1 where seven piezoelectric elements are arranged.

[0030] Figure 5 is a plan view illustrating another configuration example of the measuring device 1. One second piezoelectric element 11 for pulse wave measurement has an elliptical shape with the X direction as its major axis. Multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 for pressure measurement are arranged in a curved shape along the elliptical side surface of the second piezoelectric element 11. Figure 5 shows a configuration example in which two first piezoelectric elements 10 are arranged on each side of one second piezoelectric element 11.

[0031] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the sensor unit 2. Figure 6 shows, extracted, one first piezoelectric element 10 and one second piezoelectric element 11 that are adjacent in the X direction.

[0032] The sensor unit 2 includes a piezoelectric layer 12. The piezoelectric layer 12 is provided in common to the plurality of first piezoelectric elements 10 and the plurality of second piezoelectric elements 11. The piezoelectric layer 12 is provided over the entire sensor unit 2. The piezoelectric layer 12 also functions as the substrate for the sensor unit 2. The piezoelectric layer 12 is flexible and / or stretchable.

[0033] The piezoelectric layer 12 is composed of, for example, an organic piezoelectric material. The piezoelectric layer 12 is composed of polymer piezoelectric materials such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyvinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene copolymer (P(VDF-TrFE)), vinylidene cyanide-vinyl acetate copolymer (P(VDCN-VAc)), or polylactic acid (PLA). In addition, acrylic resin (PMMA: polymethyl methacrylate) may be added to P(VDF-TrFE) to give it elasticity.

[0034] A lower electrode 13-1 is provided on the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer 12, and an upper electrode 14-1 is provided on the top surface of the piezoelectric layer 12. The first piezoelectric element 10 consists of the lower electrode 13-1, the upper electrode 14-1, and the piezoelectric layer portion sandwiched between them. The lower electrode 13-1 and the upper electrode 14-1 have, for example, a rectangular shape. For example, the area of ​​the upper electrode 14-1 is set to be smaller than the area of ​​the lower electrode 13-1. The lower electrode 13-1 and the upper electrode 14-1 are made of a metallic material or an organic conductive material.

[0035] A lower electrode 13-2 is provided on the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer 12, and an upper electrode 14-2 is provided on the top surface of the piezoelectric layer 12. The second piezoelectric element 11 consists of the lower electrode 13-2, the upper electrode 14-2, and the piezoelectric layer portion sandwiched between them. The shape and material of the lower electrode 13-2 and the upper electrode 14-2 are the same as those of the lower electrode 13-1 and the upper electrode 14-1.

[0036] A protective layer 15 is provided on the bottom surface of the piezoelectric layer 12 so as to cover a plurality of lower electrodes. A protective layer 16 is provided on the top surface of the piezoelectric layer 12 so as to cover a plurality of upper electrodes. The protective layers 15 and 16 are provided over the entire sensor unit 2. The protective layers 15 and 16 are made of an insulating material and are made of a flexible and / or stretchable resin.

[0037] Note that the configuration of the sensor unit 2 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 6. The insulating substrate may be used as a common substrate for the sensor unit 2, and the lower electrode, piezoelectric layer, and upper electrode may be stacked on the insulating substrate in that order for each piezoelectric element.

[0038] [1-2] Circuit configuration Next, the circuit configuration of the measuring device 1 will be described. Figure 7 is a block diagram of the measuring device 1. The measuring device 1 comprises a sensor unit 2, a signal processing unit 20, a control unit 23, a storage unit 24, a communication unit 25, and a voltage generation circuit 26.

[0039] Sensor unit 2 detects the pressure applied to it. The configuration of sensor unit 2 is as described above. Sensor unit 2 outputs multiple detection signals corresponding to multiple piezoelectric elements. The detection signals output by sensor unit 2 consist of electric charge.

[0040] The signal processing unit 20 receives multiple detection signals from the sensor unit 2 and performs signal processing on these multiple detection signals. The signal processing unit 20 includes an amplification circuit 21 and an A / D converter 22.

[0041] The amplification circuit 21 receives multiple detection signals from the sensor unit 2 via the switch circuit 27. The amplification circuit 21 amplifies the voltage signal input to itself.

[0042] The A / D converter 22 receives multiple detection signals from the amplification circuit 21. The A / D converter 22 converts the analog signals output from the amplification circuit 21 into digital signals. The detection signals (digital signals) output from the A / D converter 22 are transmitted to the control unit 23.

[0043] The control unit 23 comprehensively controls the operation of the measuring device 1. The control unit 23 includes one or more processors, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The processors included in the control unit 23 realize various functions by executing programs stored in the memory unit 24.

[0044] The control unit 23 is capable of performing processes related to pressure measurement and processes related to pulse wave measurement in parallel. The control unit 23 comprises a pressure processing unit 23A and a pulse wave processing unit 23B.

[0045] The pressure processing unit 23A performs pressure measurement for each region AR1 to AR3 using multiple detection signals for pressure measurement. Pressure measurement is the process of measuring and determining the state of pressure (including finger position, etc.) when an examiner applies pressure to the sensor unit 2 with their finger. The pressure processing unit 23A also determines the pressure balance for each region AR1 to AR3.

[0046] The pulse wave processing unit 23B performs pulse wave measurement for each region AR1 to AR3 using multiple detection signals for pulse wave measurement. Pulse wave measurement is the process of measuring and determining the pulse wave. The control unit 23 performs pressure measurement and pulse wave measurement in parallel.

[0047] The memory unit 24 stores various data necessary for the operation of the measuring device 1 and also functions as a workspace for the processor included in the control unit 23. The memory unit 24 includes volatile memory and non-volatile memory. The volatile memory includes RAM (Random Access Memory) and registers, etc. The non-volatile memory includes ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and SSD (Solid State Drive), etc.

[0048] The communication unit 25 is connected to an external device by wire or wireless and has the function of communicating with the external device. The communication unit 25 performs interface processing with the external device based on a predetermined standard. The communication unit 25 includes a wired interface circuit for wired communication or a wireless interface circuit for wireless communication.

[0049] The voltage generation circuit 26 generates multiple voltages necessary for the operation of the measuring device 1. The voltage generation circuit 26 supplies voltage to the corresponding circuits.

[0050] Figure 8 is a circuit diagram of the sensor unit 2 and the amplification circuit 21 shown in Figure 7. The sensor unit 2 comprises a plurality of first piezoelectric elements 10 and a plurality of second piezoelectric elements 11. Figure 8 shows extracted five piezoelectric elements (three first piezoelectric elements 10 and two second piezoelectric elements 11) arranged in each of regions AR1 to AR3. The three first piezoelectric elements 10 are denoted as first piezoelectric elements 10-1 to 10-3. The two second piezoelectric elements 11 are denoted as second piezoelectric elements 11-1 and 11-2. The five piezoelectric elements in Figure 8 correspond, for example, to the top row of piezoelectric elements in region AR1 in Figure 3.

[0051] The amplification circuit 21 comprises multiple amplifiers 32 and multiple load resistors 30 and 31. Each amplifier 32 is composed of an operational amplifier. The inputs of each of the multiple amplifiers 32 are connected to multiple piezoelectric elements (multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 and multiple second piezoelectric elements). Specifically, the inputs of the amplifiers 32 are connected to the upper electrodes of the piezoelectric elements. A reference voltage is applied to the lower electrodes of the piezoelectric elements. The outputs of the multiple amplifiers 32 are connected to the A / D converter 22.

[0052] Multiple load resistors 30 are connected to the inputs of multiple amplifiers 32, which are connected to multiple first piezoelectric elements 10. Multiple load resistors 31 are connected to the inputs of multiple amplifiers 32, which are connected to multiple second piezoelectric elements 11. The other ends of load resistors 30 and 31 are grounded.

[0053] The resistance value of the load resistor 31 for the second piezoelectric element 11 is set to be greater than or equal to the resistance value of the load resistor 30 for the first piezoelectric element 10. The pressure of the pulse wave is smaller than the pressure of the pressure applied. By setting "resistance value of load resistor 31 ≥ resistance value of load resistor 30", the sensitivity of pulse wave measurement can be improved.

[0054] [1-3] Operation Next, we will explain the operation of the measuring device 1 configured as described above. Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the measuring device 1.

[0055] The sensor unit 2 detects the pressure value of the pressing and the pressure value of the pulse wave (step S100). Specifically, the multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 for pressing detect the pressure value of the pressing, and the multiple second piezoelectric elements 11 for pulse wave measurement detect the pressure value of the pulse wave.

[0056] Next, the signal processing unit 20 processes the pressure value detected by the sensor unit 2 and generates multiple detection signals. These multiple detection signals are transmitted to the control unit 23.

[0057] Next, the pressure processing unit 23A performs pressure measurement for each region AR1 to AR3 using multiple detection signals for pressure measurement (step S101).

[0058] Next, the pressure processing unit 23A uses the data obtained from the pressure measurement in step S101 to determine the pressure balance for each region AR1 to AR3 (step S102). When determining the pressure balance in step S102, the pressure processing unit 23A integrates multiple detection signals. By integrating the detection signals, the magnitude of the pressure can be determined more accurately.

[0059] Figure 10 illustrates an example of pressure in pressure measurement. Figure 10(a) illustrates the condition of the examiner's finger. Figure 10(b) schematically illustrates the pressure applied to the sensor unit 2. In Figure 10(b), the horizontal axis represents the position corresponding to Figure 10(a), and the vertical axis represents the pressure.

[0060] The examiner presses the surface of the sensor unit 2 (the sensor unit surface position in Figure 10) with three fingers: the index finger, middle finger, and ring finger. The pressure applied by the fingers differs depending on the position of each finger. By determining the detection signals from multiple first piezoelectric elements 10, changes in pressure can be detected, and the pressure balance can be determined.

[0061] Next, the pulse wave processing unit 23B performs pulse wave measurement for each region AR1 to AR3 using multiple detection signals for pulse wave measurement (step S103). Based on the pulse wave measurement, the pulse wave processing unit 23B determines the pulse wave.

[0062] Figure 11 illustrates an example of a detection signal in pulse wave measurement. In Figure 11, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the detection signal (voltage value). The detection signal is in arbitrary units.

[0063] In pulse wave measurement, the pulse wave processing unit 23B adds up multiple detection signals corresponding to multiple second piezoelectric elements 11 for each region AR1 to AR3. This allows for the measurement of one pulse wave for each region AR1 to AR3. Furthermore, adding up multiple detection signals increases the dynamic range in pulse wave measurement.

[0064] In this embodiment, multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 for measuring pressure and multiple second piezoelectric elements 11 for measuring pulse waves are arranged in each of the regions AR1 to AR3. Therefore, the control unit 23 can perform the pressure measurement in step S101 and the pulse wave measurement in step S103 in parallel.

[0065] [1-4] Effects of the first embodiment According to the first embodiment, the measuring device 1 can perform pressure measurement and pulse wave measurement for each region AR1 to AR3 corresponding to the three fingers (index, middle, and ring fingers) pressing on the sensor unit 2. Furthermore, the measuring device 1 can perform pressure measurement and pulse wave measurement in parallel. In addition, it is possible to realize a measuring device 1 that can perform pressure measurement and pulse wave measurement more accurately.

[0066] Furthermore, multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 for pressure measurement are arranged in each region AR1 to AR3. This allows the pressure balance in the region to be determined based on multiple detection signals corresponding to the multiple first piezoelectric elements 10.

[0067] Furthermore, in pressure measurement, the position and state of the fingers pressing on the wrist can be determined by the examiner. This allows for the measurement of the pulse wave in association with the information from the fingers pressing on the wrist.

[0068] Furthermore, by integrating the detection signals corresponding to each of the multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 used for pressure measurement, the magnitude of the pressure in the pressure measurement can be determined more accurately.

[0069] Furthermore, by adding together multiple detection signals corresponding to multiple second piezoelectric elements 11 for pulse wave measurement, the dynamic range in pulse wave measurement can be increased.

[0070] Furthermore, the measurement results from measuring device 1 can be used for pulse diagnosis. In pulse diagnosis, the state of a disease can be examined according to the position of the wrist where the pulse wave is measured (for example, the positions called Cun Kou, Guan Shang, and Chi Zhong). Measuring device 1 can measure the state of the fingers pressing on Cun Kou, Guan Shang, and Chi Zhong, as well as the pulse wave at the pressing position. This makes it possible to perform accurate pulse diagnosis based on data. In addition, in pulse diagnosis, it is possible to diagnose abnormalities in the user's internal organs and meridians, and the results can be used to diagnose the location of the disease, symptoms, and prognosis.

[0071] [2] Second embodiment In the second embodiment, multiple second piezoelectric elements 11 for pulse wave measurement are connected in common to a single amplifier 32.

[0072] [2-1] Configuration of measuring device 1 Figure 12 is a block diagram of a measuring device 1 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The signal processing unit 20 further comprises a switch circuit 27. The switch circuit 27 is connected between the sensor unit 2 and the amplification circuit 21. The switch circuit 27 has the function of switching the connection path between the sensor unit 2 and the amplification circuit 21. The control unit 23 controls the operation of the switch circuit 27.

[0073] The control unit 23 further includes an interpolation unit 23C. The interpolation unit 23C interpolates the insufficient pressure value when determining the pressure balance when a portion of the first piezoelectric element 10 for pressure measurement is used for pulse wave measurement.

[0074] Figure 13 is a circuit diagram of the sensor unit 2, switch circuit 27, and amplification circuit 21 shown in Figure 12. The sensor unit 2 comprises a plurality of first piezoelectric elements 10 and a plurality of second piezoelectric elements 11. Figure 13 shows extracted five piezoelectric elements (three first piezoelectric elements 10-1 to 10-3, and two second piezoelectric elements 11-1 and 11-2) arranged in each of regions AR1 to AR3. The five piezoelectric elements in Figure 13 correspond, for example, to the top row of piezoelectric elements in region AR1 in Figure 3.

[0075] The switch circuit 27 includes multiple switches 33. Each of the multiple switches 33 is connected to a multiple first piezoelectric element 10. In the example in Figure 13, three first piezoelectric elements 10-1 to 10-3 are each connected to three switches 33. The switches 33 are composed of SPDT (Single-Pole Double-Throw) switches that can switch between two paths (one pole and two contacts).

[0076] Switch 33 has one input terminal and two output terminals (first and second output terminals). Switch 33 switches between a first path connecting the input terminal and the first output terminal, and a second path connecting the input terminal and the second output terminal. The input terminal of switch 33 is connected to the first piezoelectric element 10. The first output terminal of switch 33 is connected to the common wiring L1. The second output terminal of switch 33 is connected to the input of the corresponding amplifier 32. A control signal is input to switch 33 from the control unit 23. Based on the control signal, switch 33 switches between the two paths.

[0077] Multiple load resistors 30 are connected to the inputs of multiple amplifiers 32, which are connected to multiple first piezoelectric elements 10. The other end of each load resistor 30 is grounded.

[0078] In each of regions AR1 to AR3, multiple second piezoelectric elements 11 are connected to a common wiring L1. In the example shown in Figure 13, two second piezoelectric elements 11-1 and 11-2 are connected to the common wiring L1. The common wiring L1 is connected to the input of one amplifier 32.

[0079] In each of regions AR1 to AR3, one load resistor 31 is connected to the common wiring L1. The other end of the load resistor 31 is grounded.

[0080] The resistance value of the load resistor 31 for the second piezoelectric element 11 is set to be greater than or equal to the resistance value of the load resistor 30 for the first piezoelectric element 10.

[0081] [2-2] Operation Next, the operation of the measuring device 1 configured as described above will be explained. Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the measuring device 1. In normal operation, the control unit 23 sends control signals to the switch circuit 27 so that multiple switches 33 are connected to multiple amplifiers 32. The operation of steps S200 to S201 is the same as steps S100 to S101 in Figure 9.

[0082] Next, the pressing unit 23A uses the data obtained from the pressing measurement in step S201 to determine the pressure balance for each region AR1 to AR3 (step S202). When determining the pressure balance in step S202, the pressing unit 23A integrates multiple detection signals. Furthermore, the pressing unit 23A determines the trend of the pressure balance. The trend of the pressure balance refers to information about the relative magnitudes of the multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 at multiple pressure values. For example, the trend of the pressure balance is information about the relative ratios of the multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 at multiple pressure values. The pressing unit 23A stores the information about the trend of the pressure balance in the storage unit 24.

[0083] Figure 15 illustrates an example of the pressure values ​​of three first piezoelectric elements 10-1 to 10-3. The detection signals of the first piezoelectric elements 10-1 to 10-3 are denoted as A, B, and C. The pressure values ​​of the first piezoelectric elements 10-1 to 10-3 differ depending on their position. In the example in Figure 15, detection signal A has the lowest pressure value, detection signal C has a higher pressure value than detection signal A, and detection signal B has the highest pressure value. The pressure processing unit 23A determines the ratio of the pressure values ​​of detection signals A to C as a trend in pressure balance.

[0084] Next, the pulse wave processing unit 23B performs pulse wave measurement for each region AR1 to AR3 using multiple detection signals for pulse wave measurement (step S203). In each of regions AR1 to AR3, the charges of multiple second piezoelectric elements 11 are added together. The amplifier 32 outputs a detection signal based on the added charges. This makes it possible to increase the dynamic range in pulse wave measurement.

[0085] Next, the control unit 23 determines whether or not to switch the multiple switches 33 included in the switch circuit 27 (step S204). If the switches 33 are to be switched (step S204 = Yes), the control unit 23 sends a control signal to the switch circuit 27 (step S205).

[0086] Figure 16 illustrates an example of the switching operation of the switch circuit 27. The switch 33 connected to the first piezoelectric element 10-2 connects the first piezoelectric element 10-2 to the common wiring L1. In this case, the charge of the first piezoelectric element 10-2 is used for pulse wave measurement. This makes it possible to increase the signal strength in pulse wave measurement.

[0087] Next, the interpolation unit 23C interpolates the pressure value of the first piezoelectric element 10 used for pulse wave measurement based on the pressure balance trend determined in step S202 (step S206).

[0088] Figure 17 illustrates the operation of interpolation of pressure values ​​by the interpolation unit 23C. The detection signals of the first piezoelectric elements 10-1 to 10-3 are denoted as A, B, and C. For example, the first piezoelectric element 10-2 is used for pulse wave measurement. The interpolation unit 23C interpolates the pressure value of detection signal B based on the pressure balance trend. The interpolated pressure value in Figure 17 is an example calculated based on the pressure balance trend in Figure 15.

[0089] Next, the pressing unit 23A determines the pressure balance for each region AR1 to AR3 using the pressure values ​​of the multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 (step S207). At this time, the pressing unit 23A determines the pressure balance using the pressure values ​​interpolated in step S206.

[0090] Next, the pulse wave processing unit 23B performs pulse wave measurement for each region AR1 to AR3 using multiple detection signals for pulse wave measurement (step S208).

[0091] [2-3] Effects of the second embodiment According to the second embodiment, the circuit can be configured so that the charges of multiple second piezoelectric elements 11 for pulse wave measurement are added together for each region AR1 to AR3. Furthermore, the number of amplifiers 32 can be reduced compared to the first embodiment.

[0092] Furthermore, some of the multiple first piezoelectric elements 10 used for pressure measurement can be used for pulse wave measurement. This allows for increased signal strength in pulse wave measurement, and consequently, an increased dynamic range in pulse wave measurement.

[0093] Furthermore, the pressure balance can be determined by interpolating the pressure value of the first piezoelectric element 10 used for pulse wave measurement. This allows for a more accurate determination of the pressure balance.

[0094] [3] Third embodiment In the third embodiment, the measuring device 1 is further equipped with an air bladder, which is used to pressurize the user's wrist.

[0095] Figure 18 is a plan view of a measuring device 1 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The measuring device 1 comprises a support member 40 and three air bags 41-1 to 41-3.

[0096] The support member 40 is made of a flexible material. The support member 40 is made of, for example, a fixing band. The support member 40 is wrapped around the user's wrist.

[0097] The air bladders 41-1 to 41-3 are positioned below the sensor unit 2 and attached to the bottom of the support member 40. The air bladders 41-1 to 41-3 are provided corresponding to regions AR1 to AR3 of the sensor unit 2 and are positioned to overlap regions AR1 to AR3 in a plan view. Each of the air bladders 41-1 to 41-3 is set to approximately the same width as a finger. The air bladders 41-1 to 41-3 are inflated by a pump (not shown). The control unit 23 adjusts the internal pressure of each of the air bladders 41-1 to 41-3. The air bladders 41-1 to 41-3 can adjust the tightening force of the support member 40 wrapped around the user's wrist.

[0098] The pressure from the user's pulse is applied to the air bladders 41-1 to 41-3. Sensor unit 2 detects the pressure applied to the air bladders 41-1 to 41-3.

[0099] According to the third embodiment, the tightening force on the user's wrist can be adjusted using the support member 40 and air bags 41-1 to 41-3. This allows for pulse wave measurement while the wrist is pressurized.

[0100] [4] Fourth Embodiment The fourth embodiment is an example of the configuration of a measurement system 50 equipped with a measuring device 1.

[0101] Figure 19 is a block diagram of a measurement system 50 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. The measurement system 50 comprises a measurement device 1, an information processing device 51, and a management server 52.

[0102] The configuration of the measuring device 1 is the same as in the first embodiment. Figure 19 shows the sensor unit 2, control unit 23, and communication unit 25 of the measuring device 1 extracted.

[0103] The information processing device 51 is connected to the measuring device 1 via wired or wireless connection. The information processing device 51 consists of a personal computer, a tablet terminal, and a mobile terminal (including a smartphone). The information processing device 51 is equipped with a display unit and is capable of displaying information acquired from the measuring device 1 on the display unit.

[0104] The management server 52 is connected to the information processing device 51 via wired or wireless connection. The management server 52 is composed of, for example, a personal computer. The management server 52 is connected to multiple information processing devices 51. The management server 52 stores the information measured by the measuring device 1 and accumulates the information over a long period of time. The information processing devices 51 may be connected to the management server 52 via the Internet.

[0105] The examiner operates the information processing device 51. The examiner uses the measurement information measured by the measuring device 1 to diagnose the user's pulse, physical condition, and health status. The examiner can also refer to past measurement information stored in the management server 52.

[0106] According to the fourth embodiment, it is possible to diagnose the user's health condition based on measurement information accumulated over a long period of time.

[0107] In each of the above embodiments, regions AR1 to AR3 are not limited to the area of ​​the fingers, but may be configured to correspond to areas that are continuously pressed in a planar manner by parts of the body other than the fingers. The number of regions may also be set to any number of one or more.

[0108] In each of the above embodiments, the unit to be measured is not limited to the regions AR1 to AR3 corresponding to the fingers, and the control unit 23 may perform pressure measurement and pulse wave measurement for each processing unit in which one pulse wave is measured.

[0109] The measuring device 1 in each of the above embodiments has a configuration that enables pulse diagnosis. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may also be applied to a blood pressure monitor for measuring blood pressure.

[0110] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be modified in various ways during implementation without departing from its essence. Furthermore, each embodiment may be combined as appropriate, and in that case, the combined effects can be obtained. Moreover, the above embodiments include various inventions, and various inventions can be extracted by selecting combinations from the multiple constituent elements disclosed. For example, if the problem can be solved and effects obtained even if some constituent elements are deleted from all the constituent elements shown in the embodiment, then the configuration with these deleted constituent elements can be extracted as an invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0111] 1... Measuring device, 2... Sensor unit, 3... Circuit unit, 10... First piezoelectric element, 11... Second piezoelectric element, 12... Piezoelectric layer, 13-1, 13-2... Lower electrode, 14-1, 14-2... Upper electrode, 15, 16... Protective layer, 20... Signal processing unit, 21... Amplification circuit, 22... A / D converter, 23... Control unit, 23A... Pressing processing unit, 23B... Pulse wave processing unit, 23C... Interpolation unit, 24... Memory unit, 25... Communication unit, 26... Voltage generation circuit, 27... Switch circuit, 30, 31... Load resistor, 32... Amplifier, 33... Switch, 40... Support member, 41-1 to 41-3... Air bag, 50... Measurement system, 51... Information processing unit, 52... Management server.

Claims

1. A measuring device capable of measuring pressure and pulse wave, A sensor unit having a region that is continuously pressed in a planar manner on a part of the body, and including at least two first piezoelectric elements for pressure measurement arranged in the region, and at least one second piezoelectric element for pulse wave measurement arranged in the region, A plurality of first amplifiers connected to each of the plurality of first piezoelectric elements, A plurality of first load resistors connected to each of the plurality of first amplifiers, The second amplifier connected to the second piezoelectric element, The second load resistor connected to the second amplifier, A measuring device equipped with the following.

2. The sensor unit includes two or more second piezoelectric elements arranged in the region, The second amplifier is connected in common to the plurality of second piezoelectric elements. The measuring device according to claim 1.

3. The system further comprises a control unit that performs the aforementioned pressure measurement and the aforementioned pulse wave measurement in parallel. The measuring device according to claim 1.

4. The system further comprises a plurality of switches connected between the plurality of first piezoelectric elements and the plurality of first amplifiers, The plurality of switches are configured to switch between paths connected to the plurality of first amplifiers and paths connected to the second amplifier. The measuring device according to claim 1.

5. When each of the plurality of first piezoelectric elements is connected to the plurality of first amplifiers, the trend of the pressure values ​​of the plurality of first piezoelectric elements is determined. When one of the plurality of first piezoelectric elements is connected to the second amplifier, the system further comprises a control unit that interpolates the pressure value of one of the plurality of first piezoelectric elements based on the trend. The measuring device according to claim 4.

6. The resistance value of the second load resistor is greater than or equal to the resistance value of the first load resistor. The measuring device according to claim 1.

7. The system further comprises a control unit that integrates the output of each of the plurality of first amplifiers and performs the pressure measurement based on the integrated signal. The measuring device according to claim 1.

8. The system further comprises an air bladder positioned corresponding to the aforementioned region. The measuring device according to claim 1.

9. The sensor unit includes first to third regions corresponding to the three fingers that press the sensor unit when measuring the pulse wave, Each of the first to third regions is provided with the plurality of first piezoelectric elements and the second piezoelectric elements. The measuring device according to claim 1.

10. The plurality of first piezoelectric elements and the second piezoelectric elements include a common piezoelectric layer. The measuring device according to claim 1.

11. The plurality of first piezoelectric elements and the second piezoelectric elements are composed of flexible organic piezoelectric elements. The measuring device according to claim 1.

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