Biopotential measurement device

Abstract

To provide a biopotential measurement device that can reduce the stress on the body when attaching or detaching the device from an electrode sheet that is attached to the body. [Solution] The biopotential measuring device 1 comprises an electrode sheet 10 for acquiring biological signals, a device 20 having a contact portion 21 connected to the electrode sheet 10, and a connecting member 30 that sandwiches the electrode sheet 10 between itself and the device 20 and connects the contact portion 21 and the electrode sheet 10 in the Z-axis direction (first direction). The device 20 is equipped with a locking mechanism 50 in an opposing portion 20S that faces the contact portion 21 inside the device 20, which is movable in the Y-axis direction (second direction) intersecting the Z-axis direction and fits into the connecting member 30.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a biopotential measurement device. [Background Art]

[0002] The following Patent Document 1 discloses a biological information output device that is attached to the skin of a subject, detects electrical biological signals generated inside the body of the subject from the skin, processes the biological signals, and outputs biological information obtained through the processing. [Prior Art Documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2022-120573 [Summary of the Invention] [Problems to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] In the aforementioned biological information output device (biopotential measurement device), a housing (device) and an attachment sheet (electrode sheet) are connected by a substantially C-shaped housing holder (connecting member). However, the aforementioned biological information output device is not designed for replacing only the housing while the electrode sheet remains attached to the living body. When only the housing needs to be replaced, for example to detect a different biological signal from the living body, it is necessary to apply force to the housing to release the connection with the housing holder. However, since living tissue is soft, the force applied to the housing cannot be applied stably, and applying excessive force may impose stress on the living body.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a biopotential measurement device capable of reducing stress imposed on a living body when attaching or detaching a device from an electrode sheet that remains attached to the living body. [Means for Solving the Problems]

[0006] (1) A biopotential measuring device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises an electrode sheet for acquiring a biological signal, a device having a contact portion connected to the electrode sheet, and a connecting member that sandwiches the electrode sheet between itself and the device and connects the contact portion and the electrode sheet in a first direction, wherein the device is provided with a locking mechanism in an opposing portion facing the contact portion inside the device that moves in a second direction intersecting the first direction and engages with the connecting member.

[0007] According to the biopotential measuring device of this embodiment, the engagement with the connecting member can be released by applying force to the locking mechanism in a second direction that intersects with the first direction, which is the connection direction between the electrode sheet and the device. Since the second direction is not the direction in which the device is pushed toward the body, stress on the body during attachment and detachment of the device can be reduced. Furthermore, since the locking mechanism is provided on opposing parts that are opposite each other, with the contact part inside the device in between, the stability of the connection with the electrode sheet at the contact part can be increased. Moreover, with this arrangement, the lock can be released by pinching the device with one hand, making it easier to attach and detach the device.

[0008] (2) In the biopotential measuring device according to the embodiment of (1), the locking mechanism may be provided on both sides in the short direction when viewed in a plan view from the first direction of the device.

[0009] In this case, since the locking mechanism is provided on both sides of the device in the shorter direction, it becomes easier to grasp the device with one hand.

[0010] (3) In a biopotential measuring device according to embodiment (1) or (2), the connecting member has an insertion portion that can be inserted into the opposing portion of the device, and the tip of the insertion portion may have a tapered shape.

[0011] In this case, even if the insertion part of the connecting component is hidden behind the device and cannot be seen, it becomes easier to insert the insertion part of the connecting component into the opposite part of the device.

[0012] (4) In a biopotential measuring device according to any one of the embodiments of (1) to (3), the connecting member has an insertion portion that can be inserted into the opposing portion of the device, and a fitting portion may be formed on the side surface of the insertion portion into which the locking mechanism can be fitted in the second direction.

[0013] In this case, the connecting member can be locked by engaging the locking mechanism from a second direction with the mating portion of the insertion part inserted into the opposite part of the device.

[0014] (5) In a biopotential measuring device according to any one embodiment of (1) to (4), the locking mechanism may include a fitting projection that is movable between a fitting position for fitting onto the connecting member and a non-fitting position for disengaging from the connecting member, and a biasing portion that biases the fitting projection from the non-fitting position toward the fitting position.

[0015] In this case, the biasing force of the biasing part allows the fitting projection to be fitted into the connecting member, so that the connecting member can be automatically locked at the same time as insertion into the opposing part 20S. Alternatively, the connecting member can be unlocked by moving the fitting projection from the fitted position to the unfitted position against the biasing force of the biasing part.

[0016] (6): In the biopotential measuring device according to the embodiment of (5), the locking mechanism may include a leaf spring member comprising the fitting projection and the biasing portion.

[0017] In this case, the number of parts can be reduced, making assembly easier.

[0018] (7): In the biopotential measuring device according to the embodiment of (6), the leaf spring member is cantilevered, and the fitting projection may move between the fitted position and the non-fitted position by the swinging of the free end of the leaf spring member.

[0019] In this case, the load applied to the connecting member from the fitting projection is absorbed by the elastic deformation of the free end of the leaf spring member, thereby suppressing wear of the fitting projection.

[0020] (8): In the biopotential measuring device according to any one of aspects (1) to (7), the device may include an unlocking mechanism that releases the engagement by the lock mechanism, and the unlocking mechanism may include an operating portion exposed to the outside of the device.

[0021] In this case, the locked state of the connecting member inside the device can be released in conjunction with the operating portion exposed to the outside of the device, so that the device can be easily attached to and detached from the electrode sheet that is affixed to a living body.

[0022] (9): In the biopotential measuring device according to aspect (8), the operating portion may be provided so as to protrude from at least one side surface in the widthwise direction when viewed in a plan view from the first direction of the device.

[0023] In this case, since the operating portions are provided on both sides in the widthwise direction of the device, unlocking can be easily performed with one hand.

[0024] (10): In the biopotential measuring device according to aspect (8) or (9), the operating portion may be capable of being pushed in the widthwise direction of the device.

[0025] In this case, the device can be removed from the connecting member by holding the device with a finger while pushing the operating portion exposed from the device in the widthwise direction, and lifting the device as it is.

[0026] (11): In the biopotential measuring device according to aspect (8) or (9), the operating portion may be capable of being slid in the longitudinal direction of the device.

[0027] In this case, the device can be removed from the connecting member by holding the device with a finger while sliding the operating portion exposed from the device in the longitudinal direction, and lifting the device as it is. Effects of the Invention

[0028] According to one aspect of the present invention described above, it is possible to provide a biopotential measuring device that can mitigate stress on the body when attaching or detaching a device from an electrode sheet that is attached to the body. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0029] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the use of the biopotential measurement device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is an exploded perspective view of a biopotential measuring device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view along the short direction of the biopotential measuring device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a plan view showing the locked state of the locking mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a side view of the locking member according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a plan view showing the unlocked state of the locking mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a plan view showing the unlocked state of the locking mechanism according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a plan view showing the locked state of the locking mechanism according to the third embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a plan view showing the locked state of the locking mechanism according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a plan view showing the unlocked state of the locking mechanism according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a plan view of the locking mechanism and operating section according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a plan view showing the locked state of the locking mechanism according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a side view of the locking mechanism according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a front view of the connecting member according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 15] This is a plan view showing the unlocked state of the locking mechanism according to the sixth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0030] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0031] (First Embodiment) Figure 1 shows an example of the use of the biopotential measurement device 1 according to the first embodiment. The biopotential measuring device 1 is attached to a living body 100 and measures the biological signals of that living body 100. In the example shown in Figure 1, the biopotential measuring device 1 is attached to the arm of the living body 100 and measures the electromyographic potential generated when muscle cells contract through the skin of the arm. In addition, the biopotential measuring device 1 may also measure other biological signals besides electromyographic potential, such as electrocardiograms.

[0032] The biopotential measuring device 1 comprises an electrode sheet 10 for acquiring biological signals and a device 20 connected to the electrode sheet 10. The electrode sheet 10 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from above. The skin-facing side of the electrode sheet 10 is an adhesive surface, allowing it to remain attached even during exercise.

[0033] Device 20 is small and lightweight to provide a comfortable fit. In plan view, device 20 is roughly rectangular in shape. The longitudinal direction of device 20 coincides with the longitudinal direction of the electrode sheet 10. Similarly, the short direction of device 20 coincides with the short direction of the electrode sheet 10. The operating part 61 of the unlocking mechanism 60 (described later) protrudes outward from the short direction of device 20.

[0034] In the following explanation, an XYZ Cartesian coordinate system will be established, and the positional relationships of each component will be described with reference to this XYZ Cartesian coordinate system. The X-axis direction is set along the longitudinal direction of the electrode sheet 10 and the device 20. The Y-axis direction is set along the short-side direction (second direction) of the electrode sheet 10 and the device 20.

[0035] The Z-axis direction is set in the thickness direction of the electrode sheet 10 and the device 20. The Z-axis direction is the connection direction (first direction) between the electrode sheet 10 and the device 20. For the sake of explanation, the side of the electrode sheet 10 that is connected to the device 20 may be referred to as the upper side (+Z side), and the side opposite the device 20 that is connected to the electrode sheet 10 may be referred to as the lower side (-Z side). Note that the +Z side does not necessarily have to be the upper side in the direction of gravity.

[0036] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the biopotential measurement device 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the biopotential measurement device 1 according to the first embodiment, along the short direction. As shown in these figures, the biopotential measuring device 1 is equipped with a connecting member 30, and the electrode sheet 10 is sandwiched between the device 20 and the connecting member 30.

[0037] The electrode sheet 10 is, for example, a flexible printed circuit board having a sheet-like substrate that is elastically deformable and electrically insulating. The substrate of the electrode sheet 10 is formed from, for example, polyimide or urethane. The electrode sheet 10 has a plurality (three in this embodiment) conductive parts 11. The conductive parts 11 may be formed from transparent electrodes.

[0038] Each conductive portion 11 comprises electrode portions 11A to 11C, wiring portions 12A to 12C, and electrode-side terminal portions 14A to 14C. The electrode portions 11A to 11C are formed in a rectangular shape when viewed from the Z-axis direction. However, the electrode portions 11A to 11C may be formed in a polygon other than a circle, ellipse, or square when viewed from the Z-axis direction. The electrode portions 11A to 11C are arranged in a single row with spacing between them in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the electrode sheet 10.

[0039] The electrode portions 11A to 11C are exposed on the lower side (-Z side) of the electrode sheet 10 and come into contact with the living body 100. The electrode portions 11A to 11C may be dry electrodes or wet electrodes. In the case of wet electrodes, the electrode portions 11A to 11C come into contact with the skin with a medium such as gel interposed therebetween.

[0040] The wiring sections 12A to 12C are formed on the upper surface (+Z side) of the electrode sheet 10. Wiring section 12A connects the electrode section 11A and the electrode-side terminal section 14A. Wiring section 12B connects the electrode section 11B and the electrode-side terminal section 14B. Wiring section 12C connects the electrode section 11C and the electrode-side terminal section 14C.

[0041] The electrode sheet 10 has a shape corresponding to the insertion portion 32 (described later) of the connecting member 30. Specifically, the electrode sheet 10 has a constricted portion 13 through which the insertion portion 32 is positioned. The constricted portion 13 is formed in pairs on the outer edge in the short direction. In the constricted portion 13, the width of the electrode sheet 10 in the short direction is locally reduced. Alternatively, instead of the constricted portion 13, a through hole may be provided in the electrode sheet 10 so that the insertion portion 32 can be positioned through it.

[0042] The electrode-side terminal portions 14A to 14C are formed on the upper surface (+Z side) of the electrode sheet 10. The electrode-side terminal portions 14A to 14C are spaced apart in the Y-axis direction and staggered in the X-axis direction between the pair of constricted portions 13. Specifically, the electrode-side terminal portion 14C is positioned on the -X side relative to the electrode-side terminal portions 14A and 14B. This prevents incorrect mounting due to incorrect orientation of the electrode sheet 10. Note that the electrode-side terminal portions 14A to 14C only need to be positioned in the locations corresponding to the three contact portions 21 described later.

[0043] The device 20 has a contact portion 21 that is connected to the electrode sheet 10. The device 20 comprises a substrate portion 22 (see Figure 3) that is electrically connected to the electrode sheet 10 via the contact portion 21, a device case 23 that houses the substrate portion 22, and a device cover 24 (see Figure 3) that covers the device case 23. One end of the contact portion 21 on the electrode sheet 10 side (-Z side) protrudes downward (-Z side) from the device 20. This makes it easier to connect the contact portion 21 to the electrode sheet 10, which is soft (easily released under pressure).

[0044] As shown in Figure 2, there are three contact points 21 (contact points 21A to 21C) corresponding to the number and arrangement of the electrode-side terminals 14A to 14C. Specifically, contact point 21A is connected to electrode-side terminal 14A. Contact point 21B is connected to electrode-side terminal 14B. Contact point 21C is connected to electrode-side terminal 14C.

[0045] Device 20 measures the electromyographic potential (EMG) from the potential difference measured by two of the electrode sections 11A to 11C via contact sections 21A to 21C. Furthermore, Device 20 uses the potential measured by the remaining electrode section 11A to 11C as a reference to remove noise contained in the EMG. Specifically, when electrode sections 11A and 11B are used as measurement electrodes and electrode section 11C is used as a reference electrode, first, a first difference signal (the difference between the signals of electrode section 11A and electrode section 11C) and a second difference signal (the difference between the signals of electrode section 11B and electrode section 11C) are calculated. Next, the difference between the first difference signal and the second difference signal is calculated. This allows for the removal of components other than the target EMG. Alternatively, the signal component common to both electrode 11A and electrode 11B is calculated, and a waveform with the opposite phase of that signal is applied to the skin from electrode 11C, thereby removing noise from the signals measured by electrode 11A and electrode 11B. As a result, the electromyographic potential obtained from the difference between electrode 11A and electrode 11B can also be measured with noise removed.

[0046] The above processing is performed by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, input / output circuits, IC chips, and other electronic components provided on the circuit board 22, based on a pre-stored program. The device 20 further includes a communication device for wireless communication with an external device, a power supply unit for supplying power to each electronic component, and charging terminals 26 (see Figure 2) for charging the power supply unit. The power supply unit is, for example, a secondary battery, which is electrically connected to a pair of charging terminals 26 via the circuit board 22.

[0047] The device case 23 is, for example, a resin molded part and is formed in the shape of a rectangular box. The upper side (+Z) of the device case 23 is open, and this opening is covered by the device cover 24 (see Figure 3). As shown in Figure 2, the device case 23 has an opening 25 formed on its bottom surface facing downwards (-Z side), into which the insertion portion 32 of the connecting member 30 can be inserted. The openings 25 are provided in pairs, sandwiching the contact portions 21A to 21C in the short direction.

[0048] Furthermore, a step 27 corresponding to the thickness of the connecting member 30 in the Z-axis direction is formed on the bottom surface of the device case 23, on the -X side of the contact portions 21A to 21C and the opening 25. Also, on the bottom surface of the device case 23, a pair of fixing holes 28 (not shown) are formed spaced apart in the short direction, on the +X side of the contact portions 21A to 21C and the opening 25, for which hexagonal nuts (not shown) can be placed to fix the device case 23 and the device cover 24. The device case 23 and the device cover 24 are fastened and fixed together by a bolt (not shown) inserted from the device cover 24 side and screwed into the hexagonal nut in the fixing hole 28.

[0049] As shown in Figure 3, the contact portion 21 has conductivity to electrically connect the electrode sheet 10 and the substrate portion 22. The contact portion 21 is provided with a spring-movable movable terminal 40 at least at one end on the electrode sheet 10 side (-Z side). In this embodiment, the contact portion 21 is provided with a movable terminal 40 at one end on the electrode sheet 10 side (-Z side) and at the other end on the substrate portion 22 side (+Z side). In other words, both ends of the contact portion 21 are movable terminals 40.

[0050] The movable terminal 40 comprises a pin portion 41, a cylindrical portion 42, and a biasing member (not shown). The pin portion 41 is, for example, cylindrical with a hemispherical or dome-shaped tip. The pin portion 41 is movably housed inside the cylindrical portion 42. The cylindrical portion 42 is, for example, cylindrical extending in the Z-axis direction with both ends open. A flange 43 is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 42.

[0051] The biasing member is, for example, a coil spring and is housed inside the cylindrical portion 42. The biasing member biases the pin portion 41 from the inside to the outside of the cylindrical portion 42. The dashed line in the figure shows the state before the pin portion 41 is pressed against the electrode sheet 10, the connecting member 30, and the substrate portion 22. The biasing member is not limited to a coil spring; it may be a disc spring, a leaf spring, or the like, as long as it can bias the pin portion 41.

[0052] The device case 23 has a housing portion 23a that houses the contact portion 21. The housing portion 23a is positioned between a pair of openings 25. The housing portion 23a is formed in a box shape that opens upward. A fitting hole 23c is formed at the bottom of the housing portion 23a, which fits onto the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 42, exposing the lower end of the cylindrical portion 42 and the pin portion 41 to the outside of the device 20. The flange 43 has a larger outer diameter than the fitting hole 23c and contacts the bottom surface of the housing portion 23a, thereby restricting the cylindrical portion 42 from coming out downward.

[0053] The circuit board portion 22 is equipped with a circuit board-side terminal portion 29 to which the +Z side end of the contact portion 21 is connected. There are three circuit board-side terminal portions 29 (circuit board-side terminal portions 29A, 29B, and 29C (circuit board-side terminal portion 29C is not shown)) corresponding to the number and arrangement of the contact portions 21A to 21C. Specifically, the circuit board-side terminal portion 29A is connected to the contact portion 21A. The circuit board-side terminal portion 29B is connected to the contact portion 21B. The circuit board-side terminal portion 29C is connected to the contact portion 21C.

[0054] As shown in Figure 3, the device cover 24 is equipped with a pressing portion 24a that presses down on the substrate portion 22. In this state, the device cover 24 is fixed to the device case 23 with bolts, thereby maintaining the connection between the contact portion 21 and the substrate-side terminal portion 29. If the substrate portion 22 is tilted or warped, these can be absorbed by the movement of the movable terminal 40. Similarly, if the clamping portion 31 of the connecting member is tilted or warped, these can be absorbed by the movement of the movable terminal 40. Furthermore, even if there are dimensional variations in the substrate portion 22, connecting member 30, electrode sheet 10, device case 23, or device cover 24, these dimensional variations can be absorbed by the movement of the movable terminal 40.

[0055] As shown in Figure 3, the connecting member 30 connects the conductive portion 11 of the electrode sheet 10 to the contact portion 21 by sandwiching the electrode sheet 10 between itself and the device 20. The connecting member 30 includes a clamping portion 31 that sandwiches the electrode sheet 10 between itself and the device 20 and connects the contact portion 21 and the electrode sheet 10, and an insertion portion 32 that is inserted into the opening 25 of the device 20 and locked inside the device 20.

[0056] The clamping portion 31 and the insertion portion 32 are integrated by resin molding or the like. The connecting member 30 is preferably made of resin, but may be made of metal as long as insulation from the electrode sheet 10 can be ensured. As shown in Figure 2, the clamping portion 31 is formed in the shape of a rectangular flat plate extending along the Y-axis. At least a portion of the clamping portion 31 may be transparent. This configuration allows for visualization of the connection between the electrode sheet 10 and the contact portion 21.

[0057] The insertion portions 32 are formed in pairs at both ends of the clamping portion 31 in the Y-axis direction. As shown in Figure 3, the connecting member 30 is formed in a substantially U-shape with a pair of insertion portions 32 protruding upward (+Z side) from both ends of the clamping portion 31 in the Y-axis direction. An inclined surface 32a is formed on the side of the tip of the insertion portion 32 that faces outward in the Y-axis direction. The inclined surface 32a gives the tip of the insertion portion 32 a tapered shape. This makes it easier to insert the insertion portion 32 into the opening 25.

[0058] The insertion portion 32 extends above the base portion 22. This ensures a long stroke for the insertion portion 32, facilitating engagement with the locking mechanism 50, which will be described later. A fitting portion 33 is formed on the side of the insertion portion 32 facing the Y-axis direction, into which the locking mechanism 50 can be fitted in the Y-axis direction. The fitting portion 33 is a through hole that penetrates the insertion portion 32 in the Y-axis direction, but it may also be a non-penetrating groove in the Y-axis direction. A fitting projection 52 is fitted into the fitting portion 33 from the inside in the Y-axis direction. The fitting projection 52 is provided on the locking member 51 of the locking mechanism 50.

[0059] The locking mechanism 50 includes a locking member 51 that moves in the Y-axis direction (second direction) intersecting the Z-axis direction, and engages with the connecting member 30, in the opposing portion 20S that faces the contact portion 21 inside the device 20, with the contact portion 21 in between. The opposing portion 20S is the internal space of the device 20 through which the opening 25 communicates, and is provided on both sides in the Y-axis direction of the housing portion 23a that houses the contact portion 21. The insertion portion 32 of the connecting member 30 is inserted into the opposing portion 20S.

[0060] Figure 4 is a plan view showing the locked state of the locking mechanism 50 according to the first embodiment. Note that Figure 4 is a plan view of the device 20 with the device cover 24 removed. The same applies to Figures 6 to 10, 12, and 15, which will be described later. As shown in Figure 4, bosses 22A are erected on the top of the peripheral wall of the housing portion 23a surrounding the contact portion 21. The bosses 22A are provided in pairs, spaced apart in the Y-axis direction, and are inserted into through holes formed in the substrate portion 22, thereby positioning the substrate portion 22 on the device 20.

[0061] The locking mechanism 50 comprises a pair of locking members 51 positioned on both sides in the short direction (Y-axis direction) when viewed from the Z-axis direction of the device 20 in a plan view. The locking members 51 are provided to traverse the opening 25 in the X-axis direction. One end 51a of the locking member 51 is positioned on the +X side of the opening 25. The one end 51a of the locking member 51 is rotatably attached to the top of the +X side of the portion of the peripheral wall of the housing 23a that surrounds the opening 25.

[0062] The other end 51b of the locking member 51 is positioned on the -X side of the opening 25. A groove 23d is formed on the -X side of the peripheral wall of the housing portion 23a that surrounds the opening 25, allowing the locking member 51 to be positioned through it in the Y-axis direction. The groove 23d is formed with a predetermined width in the Y-axis direction. This allows the locking member 51 to move (rotate) in the Y-axis direction around one end 51a.

[0063] The locking mechanism 50 includes a fitting projection 52 that is movable between a fitting position (see Figure 4) where it fits onto the connecting member 30 and a non-fitting position (see Figure 6, described later) where it detaches from the connecting member 30, and a biasing part 53 that biases the fitting projection 52 from the non-fitting position toward the fitting position. The fitting projection 52 is provided on the surface of the locking member 51 facing outward in the Y-axis direction. The fitting projection 52 has a substantially hemispherical shape.

[0064] The biasing portion 53 is, for example, a coil spring and is housed inside the device 20. The biasing portion 53 biases the other end 51b of the locking member 51 from the inside to the outside in the Y-axis direction. Note that the biasing portion 53 is not limited to a coil spring; it may be a disc spring, a leaf spring, or the like, as long as it can bias the other end 51b of the locking member 51.

[0065] Figure 5 is a side view of the locking member 51 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, a rotating shaft 51c extending to the -Z side is provided at one end 51a of the locking member 51. The rotating shaft 51c is pivotally supported on the peripheral wall of the housing portion 23a of the device 20 so as to be rotatable around an axis extending in the Z-axis direction.

[0066] The locking member 51 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate extending in the X-axis direction along the XZ plane. The other end 51b of the locking member 51 is made contactable by the operating part 61 of the unlocking mechanism 60 from the Y-axis direction. The operating part 61 is positioned opposite the biasing part 53 (see Figure 4) with the locking member 51 in between. The fitting projection 52 is provided between the rotation axis 51c and the operating part 61 (biasing part 53) in the X-axis direction.

[0067] Returning to Figure 4, the device 20 includes an unlocking mechanism 60 for releasing the engagement by the locking mechanism 50, and the unlocking mechanism 60 includes an operating part 61 exposed to the outside of the device 20. The operating part 61 is provided protruding in the short direction from at least one (both in this embodiment) side of the device 20 in the short direction (Y direction) when viewed from the Z direction.

[0068] The operating part 61 is formed in the shape of a pin extending in the Y-axis direction and is positioned by being inserted through a through hole 20a provided on the side surface of the device 20. The operating part 61 can be pushed inward into the device 20 by sliding along the inner wall surface of the through hole 20a in the Y-axis direction. A flange 62 is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the operating part 61. The flange 62 abuts against the inner wall surface of the device 20 in the Y-axis direction, thereby restricting the operating part 61 from coming out to the outside.

[0069] To attach the biopotential measuring device 1 with the above configuration to a living body 100, first, as shown in Figure 2, the pair of insertion parts 32 of the connecting member 30 are inserted into the constricted portion 13 of the electrode sheet 10. In this state, the release paper (not shown) covering the surface of the electrode sheet 10 is peeled off, and the electrode sheet 10 is attached to the living body 100 together with the connecting member 30. Next, the device 20 is attached to the living body 100 together with the electrode sheet 10, by aligning the pair of openings 25 with the pair of insertion parts 32 of the connecting member 30 which is erected from the living body 100. As shown in Figure 3, the pair of insertion parts 32 have inclined surfaces 32a at their tips, making them easy to insert into the pair of openings 25.

[0070] Figure 6 is a plan view showing the unlocked state of the locking mechanism 50 according to the first embodiment. When attaching the device 20, it is preferable to hold the device 20 while pushing the operating portion 61 exposed from the device 20 inward in the Y-axis direction, as shown in Figure 6. This suppresses wear caused by the fitting projection 52 rubbing against the insertion portion 32 when attaching the device 20.

[0071] Once the insertion portion 32 is inserted all the way into the opposing portion 20S, the push-in of the operating portion 61 is released. As a result, the biasing portion 53 returns to its original shape, as shown in Figure 4. When the biasing portion 53 returns to its original shape, the locking member 51 rotates around one end 51a, and the fitting projection 52 moves in the Y-axis direction and fits into the fitting portion 33 of the insertion portion 32. This fixes the connecting member 30 to the device 20 with the electrode sheet 10 sandwiched in between (locked state).

[0072] As shown in Figure 3, the clamping portion 31 of the connecting member 30 connects the electrode-side terminal portions 14A to 14C of the electrode sheet 10 to the contact portions 21A to 21C of the device 20. Here, the constricted portions 13 of the electrode sheet 10 are provided in pairs, and in a plan view, the electrode-side terminal portions 14A to 14C are positioned between the pair of constricted portions 13, thereby suppressing misalignment between the electrode-side terminal portions 14A to 14C and the contact portions 21A to 21C.

[0073] In other words, by designing the positional relationship between the constricted portion 13 and the insertion portion 32 with high precision, misalignment can be suppressed. The gap between the constricted portion 13 and the insertion portion 32 should be narrower than the tolerance for misalignment between the electrode-side terminal portions 14A to 14C and the contact portions 21A to 21C. The tolerance for misalignment refers to the size of the gap that allows for electrical conductivity (connection) between the electrode-side terminal portions 14A to 14C and the contact portions 21A to 21C.

[0074] By the way, when removing only the device 20 from the biological body 100 with the electrode sheet 10 attached, for example to detect another biological signal from the biological body 100, the operating part 61 exposed from the device 20 is pushed inward in the Y-axis direction, as shown in Figure 6. When the operating part 61 is pushed in, the fitting projection 52 moves from the fitted position (see Figure 4) to the unfitted position (see Figure 6) against the biasing force of the biasing part 53. This releases the fitting between the fitting projection 52 and the fitted part 33, and the connecting member 30 can be left unlocked. Therefore, by holding the device 20 while pushing in the operating part 61 with a finger and then lifting the device 20, the device 20 can be easily removed from the connecting member 30.

[0075] As described above, according to the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the engagement with the connecting member 30 can be released by applying force to the locking mechanism 50 in the Y-axis direction, which intersects with the Z-axis direction, which is the connection direction between the electrode sheet 10 and the device 20. Since the Y-axis direction is not the direction in which the device 20 is pushed toward the living body 100, the stress on the living body 100 during attachment and detachment of the device 20 can be reduced. Furthermore, since the locking mechanism 50 is provided on the opposing part 20S that faces the contact part 21 inside the device 20, the stability of the connection with the electrode sheet 10 at the contact part 21 can be increased. Moreover, with this arrangement, the lock can be released by pinching the device 20 with one hand, making it easier to attach and detach the device 20.

[0076] As described above, the biopotential measuring device 1 according to this embodiment comprises an electrode sheet 10 for acquiring biological signals, a device 20 having a contact portion 21 connected to the electrode sheet 10, and a connecting member 30 that sandwiches the electrode sheet 10 between itself and the device 20 and connects the contact portion 21 and the electrode sheet 10 in the Z-axis direction (first direction). The device 20 is equipped with a locking mechanism 50 in the opposing portion 20S that faces the contact portion 21 inside the device 20, which is movable in the Y-axis direction (second direction) intersecting the Z-axis direction and fits into the connecting member 30. With this configuration, the stress on the living body 100 can be reduced when attaching or detaching the device 20 from the electrode sheet 10 that is attached to the living body 100.

[0077] Furthermore, in the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the locking mechanism 50 is provided on both sides in the short-side direction when viewed from the Z-axis direction of the device 20 in a plan view. With this configuration, since the locking mechanism 50 is provided on both sides in the short-side direction of the device 20, it becomes easier to grasp the device 20 with one hand.

[0078] Furthermore, in the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the connecting member 30 has an insertion portion 32 that can be inserted into the opposing portion 20S of the device 20, and the tip of the insertion portion 32 has a tapered shape. With this configuration, even if the insertion portion 32 of the connecting member 30 is hidden in the shadow of the device 20 and cannot be seen, it becomes easier to insert the insertion portion 32 of the connecting member 30 into the opposing portion 20S of the device 20.

[0079] Furthermore, in the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the connecting member 30 has an insertion portion 32 that can be inserted into the opposing portion 20S of the device 20, and a fitted portion 33 is formed on the side surface of the insertion portion 32 into which the locking mechanism 50 can be fitted in the Y-axis direction. With this configuration, the connecting member 30 can be locked by fitting the locking mechanism 50 from the Y-axis direction into the fitted portion 33 of the insertion portion 32 inserted into the opposing portion 20S of the device 20.

[0080] Furthermore, in the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the locking mechanism 50 includes a fitting projection 52 that is movable between a fitting position in which it fits onto the connecting member 30 and a non-fitting position in which it is detached from the connecting member 30, and a biasing part 53 that biases the fitting projection 52 from the non-fitting position toward the fitting position. With this configuration, the fitting projection 52 can be fitted onto the connecting member 30 by the biasing force of the biasing part 53, so that the connecting member 30 can be automatically locked at the time of insertion. In addition, the connecting member 30 can be unlocked by moving the fitting projection 52 from the fitting position toward the non-fitting position against the biasing force of the biasing part 53.

[0081] Furthermore, in the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the device 20 is equipped with a release mechanism 60 that releases the engagement by the locking mechanism 50, and the release mechanism 60 is equipped with an operating part 61 exposed to the outside of the device 20. With this configuration, the lock state of the connecting member 30 inside the device 20 can be released in conjunction with the operating part 61 exposed to the outside of the device 20, so that the device 20 can be easily attached to and detached from the electrode sheet 10 when it is attached to the living body 100.

[0082] Furthermore, in the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the operating unit 61 is provided protruding from at least one side in the short-side direction when viewed in a plan view from the Z-axis direction of the device 20. With this configuration, since the operating unit 61 is provided on both sides in the short-side direction of the device 20, it becomes easier to unlock with one hand.

[0083] Furthermore, in the biopotential measuring device 1 of this embodiment, the operating section 61 can be pushed in the short-side direction of the device 20. With this configuration, the device 20 can be removed from the connecting member 30 by holding the device 20 with a finger while pushing the operating section 61 exposed from the device 20 in the short-side direction, and then lifting the device 20.

[0084] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, components identical or equivalent to those in the above-described embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be simplified or omitted.

[0085] Figure 7 is a plan view showing the unlocked state of the locking mechanism 50 according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, the locking mechanism 50 of the second embodiment includes a locking member 51 (leaf spring member) which includes a fitting projection 52 and a biasing portion 53. The locking member 51 is cantilevered within the device 20.

[0086] Specifically, one end 51a of the locking member 51 is a fixed end and is fixed to the +X side of the opening 25 inside the device 20. The other end 51b of the locking member 51 is a free end and is movable in the Y-axis direction inside the device 20 on the -X side of the opening 25. The locking member 51 is a leaf spring, and the locking member 51 itself serves as the biasing portion 53. The fitting projection 52 is formed integrally, for example, by press-forming the locking member 51.

[0087] Thus, in the biopotential measuring device 1 of the second embodiment, the locking mechanism 50 includes a locking member 51 (leaf spring member) that includes a fitting projection 52 and a biasing portion 53. With this configuration, the number of parts (for example, the coil spring shown in Figure 4) can be reduced and assembly becomes easier.

[0088] Furthermore, in the biopotential measuring device 1 of the second embodiment, the locking member 51 is cantilevered, and the fitting projection 52 moves between a fitted position and a non-fitted position due to the swinging of the free end (other end 51b) side of the locking member 51. With this configuration, the load applied from the fitting projection 52 to the connecting member 30 is absorbed by the elastic deformation of the free end side of the locking member 51, thereby suppressing wear of the fitting projection 52.

[0089] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, components identical or equivalent to those in the above-described embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be simplified or omitted.

[0090] Figure 8 is a plan view showing the locked state of the locking mechanism 50 according to the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 8, the locking mechanism 50 of the third embodiment biases two locking members 51 with one biasing unit 53.

[0091] Specifically, the biasing portion 53 of the third embodiment is positioned between the other ends 51b of the two locking members 51. The biasing portion 53 biases each of the other ends 51b of the two locking members 51 outward in the Y-axis direction. With this configuration, the number of biasing portions 53 can be reduced compared to the first embodiment described above.

[0092] (Fourth Embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, components identical or equivalent to those in the above-described embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be simplified or omitted.

[0093] Figure 9 is a plan view showing the locked state of the locking mechanism 50 according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 10 is a plan view showing the unlocked state of the locking mechanism 50 according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in these figures, the operating section 61 of the fourth embodiment is provided protruding from one side of the device 20. In other words, there is one operating section 61 of the fourth embodiment, and it is configured to move the two locking members 51 in conjunction with the link member 63 inside the device 20.

[0094] Specifically, the operating section 61 is provided on the +Y side of the device 20. A rod 64 extending in the Y-axis direction toward the link member 63 is connected to the -Y end of the operating section 61. The -Y end of the rod 64 is made capable of contacting the link member 63. The link member 63 is formed in a substantially L-shape in plan view. A rotation axis 63a is provided at the L-shaped bend of the link member 63. The link member 63 is rotatable about an axis extending in the Z-axis direction around the rotation axis 63a.

[0095] With the above configuration, as shown in Figure 10, when the operating part 61 is pushed inward in the Y-axis direction, the locking member 51 on the +Y side moves from the fitted position to the unfitted position against the biasing force of the biasing part 53, thereby unlocking it. Similarly, the locking member 51 on the -Y side is unlocked when the link member 63 rotates due to the rod 64 connected to the operating part 61, moving from the fitted position to the unfitted position against the biasing force of the biasing part 53. This configuration allows for a reduction in the number of operating parts 61 compared to the first to third embodiments described above.

[0096] (Fifth embodiment) Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, components identical or equivalent to those in the above-described embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be simplified or omitted.

[0097] Figure 11 is a plan view of the locking mechanism 50 and operating section 61 according to the fifth embodiment. As shown in Figure 11, in the fifth embodiment, the locking mechanism 50 has a locking member 51 and a fitting projection 52 formed from separate materials. For example, the locking member 51 is made of a resin material, and the fitting projection 52 is made of a wear-resistant metal material. This configuration suppresses wear of the fitting projection 52. Since the locking mechanism 50 is provided inside the device 20 and is not easily replaced, improving the wear resistance of the fitting projection 52 allows the side that wears down to be the connecting member 30. This makes it possible to replace the easily replaceable connecting member 30 when locking becomes difficult due to wear. Alternatively, a fitting projection 52 that is more prone to wear may be provided on the connecting member 30 side (in this case, a fitted portion 33 on the locking member 51 side), so that when the fitting projection 52 wears down, the fitting projection 52 can be removed from the connecting member 30 and replaced with a new fitting projection 52.

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

[0099] Figure 12 is a plan view showing the locked state of the locking mechanism 50 according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 13 is a side view of the locking mechanism 50 according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 14 is a front view of the connecting member 30 according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 15 is a plan view showing the unlocked state of the locking mechanism 50 according to the sixth embodiment. As shown in these figures, the locking mechanism 50 of the sixth embodiment allows the operating part 61 to slide in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the device 20.

[0100] Specifically, as shown in Figure 14, the insertion portion 32 of the connecting member 30 has a fitting portion 33 into which the locking mechanism 50 can be fitted in the X-axis direction. The fitting portion 33 is a through hole that penetrates the insertion portion 32 in the X-axis direction, but it may also be a non-penetrating groove in the X-axis direction. In addition, an inclined surface 32b is formed on the surface of the tip of the insertion portion 32 that faces outward in the X-axis direction. The insertion portion 32 has a tapered shape at the tip due to the inclined surface 32b. This makes it easier to insert the insertion portion 32 into the opening 25.

[0101] As shown in Figures 12 and 15, the locking mechanism 50 has a fitting projection 52 in the opposing portion 20S that faces the contact portion 21 inside the device 20, which is movable in the X-axis direction (second direction) intersecting the Z-axis direction and fits into the fitting portion 33 of the connecting member 30. The fitting projection 52 is formed in the shape of a pin extending in the X-axis direction, and a flange 55 is provided on its outer circumferential surface that can come into contact with the operating portion 61 in the X-axis direction.

[0102] The biasing portion 53 is positioned on the -X side of the flange 55 and biases the fitting projection 52 to the +X side via the flange 55. The unlocking mechanism 60 includes an operating portion 61 exposed to the outside of the device 20. The operating portion 61 is provided protruding from both sides in the short direction (Y direction) when viewed from the Z direction of the device 20 in a plan view.

[0103] The operating portion 61 is formed in the shape of a rod that penetrates the device 20 in the Y-axis direction and is positioned by inserting it through elongated holes 20b provided on both sides of the device 20 in the Y-axis direction. As shown in Figure 13, the elongated holes 20b are formed with a predetermined width in the X-axis direction. This allows the operating portion 61 to slide along the elongated holes 20b in the X-axis direction. The fitting projection 52 engages with the operating portion 61 in a state where it penetrates the operating portion 61 in the X-axis direction.

[0104] With the above configuration, as shown in Figure 15, when the operating part 61 exposed from the device 20 is slid to the -X side, the fitting projection 52 moves from the fitted position (see Figure 12) to the unfitted position (see Figure 15) against the biasing force of the biasing part 53. This releases the fitting between the fitting projection 52 and the fitted part 33, allowing the connecting member 30 to be left unlocked.

[0105] In the biopotential measuring device 1 of the sixth embodiment, the operating unit 61 can be slid along the longitudinal direction of the device 20. With this configuration, the device 20 can be removed from the connecting member 30 by holding the device 20 with a finger while sliding the operating unit 61 exposed from the device 20 in the longitudinal direction, and then lifting the device 20.

[0106] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described and explained above, it should be understood that these are illustrative and should not be considered limiting. Additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be considered limited by the foregoing description, but rather limited by the claims.

[0107] For example, in the above embodiment, the device 20 was attached to and detached from the electrode sheet 10 while the unlocking mechanism 60 was operated, but at least one of the two actions of attaching or detaching the device 20 may be performed without operating the unlocking mechanism 60. For example, when inserting or removing the insertion portion 32 from the opening 25, the insertion portion 32 and the fitting projection 52 may come into contact and slide, causing the biasing portion 53 to automatically contract and return to its original shape, thereby fitting or disengaging the fitting projection 52 and the fitted portion 33. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0108] 1. Biopotential measurement device 10 electrode sheets 11 Conductive parts 11A~11C Electrode part 12A~12C wiring section 13. Constricted area 14A~14C Electrode side terminal part 20 devices 20a through hole 20b long hole 20S Opposing part 21(21A~21C) Contact part 22 Circuit board section 22A Boss 23 Device Cases 23a Storage area 23c fitting hole 23d Groove 24 device covers 24a Push part 25 Opening 26 Charging terminal 27 steps 28 fixing hole 29(29A~29C) Board side terminal section 30 Connecting Members 31 Clamping part 32 Insertion part 32a Slope 32b Slope 33 Fitting part 40 Movable terminal 41 Pin section 42 Cylinder part 43 Flange 50 Locking mechanism 51 Locking member 51a One end 51b Other end 51c Rotation axis 52 Fitting protrusion 53. Encouraging part 55 Flange 60. Unlock mechanism 61 Operation section 62 Flange 63 Link member 63a Rotation axis 64 rods 100 living organisms

Claims

1. An electrode sheet for acquiring biological signals, A device having a contact portion connected to the electrode sheet, The device comprises a connecting member that sandwiches the electrode sheet between itself and the device, and connects the contact portion and the electrode sheet in a first direction, The device is equipped with a locking mechanism that moves in a second direction intersecting the first direction and engages with the connecting member in opposing portions that are opposite each other across the contact portion inside the device. Bioelectric potential measurement device.

2. The locking mechanism is provided on both sides in the short direction when viewed from the first direction of the device in a plan view. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 1.

3. The connecting member has an insertion portion that can be inserted into the opposing portion of the device, The tip of the insertion portion has a tapered shape. The biopotential measuring device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The connecting member has an insertion portion that can be inserted into the opposing portion of the device, A fitting portion is formed on the side surface of the insertion portion, into which the locking mechanism can be fitted in the second direction. The biopotential measuring device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The aforementioned locking mechanism is A fitting projection that is movable between a fitting position in which it fits onto the connecting member and a non-fitting position in which it is detached from the connecting member, The system includes a biasing portion that biases the fitting projection from the non-fitting position toward the fitting position, The biopotential measuring device according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The locking mechanism comprises a leaf spring member including the fitting projection and the biasing portion. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 5.

7. The aforementioned leaf spring member is cantilevered, The fitting projection moves between the fitted position and the non-fitted position due to the swinging of the free end of the leaf spring member. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 6.

8. The device includes a release mechanism for releasing the engagement by the locking mechanism, The unlocking mechanism includes an operating part exposed to the outside of the device. The biopotential measuring device according to claim 1 or 2.

9. The operating section is provided so as to protrude from at least one of the sides in the short direction when viewed in a plan view from the first direction of the device. The bioelectric potential measuring device according to claim 8.

10. The operating section can be pushed in the short direction of the device. The biopotential measuring device according to claim 9.

11. The operating unit is capable of sliding in the longitudinal direction of the device. The biopotential measuring device according to claim 9.

Images