Storage case with electrode pads for biological use and biological signal processing device equipped with storage case with electrode pads for biological use
The biological signal processing device with a flexible mounting sheet and elastic electrodes, integrated into a storage case, addresses detachment and discomfort issues, providing stable signal detection and easy maintenance.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2021527656
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2019-06-27
- Filing Date
- 2020-06-23
- Publication Date
- 2025-02-03
- Estimated Expiration
- 2040-06-23
AI Technical Summary
Conventional biological signal processing devices face issues with the detachment of electrode pads due to body movements, limited detection range, and discomfort during wear, especially when used in conjunction with portable holter electrometers.
A biological signal processing device with a flexible mounting sheet and elastic, electrically insulated electrodes, integrated into a storage case that allows for expandable and contractable connections, watertight or ventilated designs, and detachable components for easy cleaning and replacement.
The device maintains stable signal detection over time, improves wearability, and allows for easy sterilization and replacement of components, ensuring reliable operation and comfort during use.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
[Technical field]
[0001] The present invention relates to a storage case with biological electrode pads for storing a biological signal processing circuit unit that processes, for example, recording and outputting electrical biological signals such as electrocardiogram signals and electromyogram signals detected from the skin by biological electrode pads, and a biological signal processing device equipped with a storage case with biological electrode pads. [Background technology]
[0002] As a biological electrode pad that is attached to the skin of a living body and detects an electrical biological signal from the skin, for example, a waterproof electrode pad for events (TEC-07DEW) manufactured by Fukuda Denshi Co., Ltd. described in Non-Patent Document 1 is known. This biological electrode pad is connected to a portable Holter electrocardiograph and used for event testing using a Holter electrocardiogram. Specifically, it has a mounting sheet that is a horizontally long oval shape that is slightly wider in the center, and two detection electrodes are arranged on both ends of the lower surface of the mounting sheet, which is an adhesive surface, with one indifferent electrode in the center sandwiched between them in the longitudinal direction. From each of these electrodes, an electrode connection pattern made of conductive metal is linearly extended to the vicinity of the side edge of the center of the mounting sheet, and further, three lead wires extending from the base end of a composite lead wire having a connector at the tip are respectively connected to each of these electrode connection patterns.
[0003] As a biosignal processing device for processing the recording and output of biosignals detected by the bioelectrode pads as described above, for example, a portable Holter electrocardiograph (FM-190) manufactured by Fukuda Denshi Co., Ltd. described in Non-Patent Document 2 is known. This Holter electrocardiograph is stored in a carrying case and is connected to a connector of the composite lead wire of the bioelectrode pads. The Holter electrocardiograph is electrically connected to three electrodes (the indifferent electrode and the detection electrode) via the composite lead wire and the electrode connection pattern, and the carrying case is worn by a belt on the arm of a living body such as a patient to be examined by the Holter electrocardiogram. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]
[0004] [Non-Patent Document 1] http: / / www.fukuda.co.jp / medical / products / holter_ecg / pdf / holter_ecg.pdf : Fukuda Denshi Co., Ltd. Downloaded on February 15, 2018 "Holter ECG Examination Related Products" page 61 "Holter ECG Examination Equipment Connection Guide" and page 65 "Holter ECG Examination Lead Cords, Relays, and Electrode Cords" [Non-Patent Document 2] http: / / www.fukuda.co.jp / medical / products / holter _ecg / fm_190.html: Fukuda Denshi Co., Ltd. Downloaded on February 19, 2018 "Digital Holter Recorder FM-190" Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]
[0005] However, the conventional storage cases with biological electrode pads and biological signal processing devices equipped with such storage cases as described above still have some room for improvement in terms of wearability, etc. The present invention aims to provide a storage case with biological electrode pads and a biological signal processing device equipped with a storage case with biological electrode pads, which have a new structure and at least one improvement has been made to the common problem of improving wearability and comfort.
[0006] Specifically, for example, in the conventional sheet-like bioelectrode pad, the range in which biosignals can be detected is narrow, making it difficult to obtain sufficient bioinformation. For this reason, we considered expanding the mounting sheet to expand the range in which biosignals can be detected, but in this case, the electrode connection pattern linearly extended from both ends of the mounting sheet to the side ends of the center portion restricts the expansion and contraction of the mounting sheet, making the bioelectrode pad unable to follow the deformation of the limbs due to body movement and prone to peeling off from the skin, and the electrode connection pattern is excessively partially deformed by the expansion and contraction following the deformation of the limbs due to body movement, making it prone to disconnection.
[0007] In addition, the conventional portable Holter electrocardiograph, which is stored in a carrying case that is attached with a belt to the arm of a living body such as a patient being examined, is connected to the biological electrode pad via a composite lead wire, so there was a problem that body movements such as arm movement and twisting of the body apply tension to the lead wire, making the biological electrode pad easily peel off from the skin.
[0008] Therefore, the present inventor previously proposed in Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-061754 a biological electrode pad comprising: an attachment sheet that is elastically stretchable and electrically insulating and has an adhesive surface on the back side suitable for attachment to the skin of a living body; a plurality of electrodes positioned at intervals from each other on the back side of the attachment sheet and exposed on the back side; a plurality of connection parts located in the center of the back side of the attachment sheet, electrically insulated and exposed to the front side from openings in the attachment sheet; and electrode connection wiring located on the back side of the attachment sheet, electrically insulated, extending in a bellows-like curve, and electrically connecting the plurality of electrodes and the plurality of connection parts, respectively.
[0009] The present inventor has also proposed a biosignal processing device in combination with the above-mentioned bioelectrode pad, the biosignal processing device comprising: a case fixed to the center of the front side of an attachment sheet of the bioelectrode pad, the back side of which has an adhesive surface suitable for attachment to the skin of a living body and a plurality of electrodes; a biosignal processing circuit board housed in the case and electrically connected to each of the plurality of electrodes on the back side of the bioelectrode pad via a connecting member penetrating the center of the case and the attachment sheet, and which processes the biosignals detected by the plurality of electrodes and outputs the processing results; and a battery housed in the case and supplies power to the biosignal processing circuit board.
[0010] As the inventors further researched the combination of this biosignal processing device and bioelectrode pads, they found that it would be advantageous if the case and bioelectrode pads could be attached and detached from the biosignal processing circuit board so that the case and bioelectrode pads could be sterilized and cleaned, or replaced if damaged.
[0011] Furthermore, in the combination of the above-mentioned biosignal processing device and bioelectrode pad, the case housing the biosignal processing circuit board is attached and fixed to the surface of the bioelectrode pad without any gaps. However, it has been found that leaving a gap for ventilation between the case and the surface of the bioelectrode pad is preferable because a water vapor permeable sheet can be used in the bioelectrode pad to prevent the skin from becoming sweaty when worn for long periods of time.
[0012] It was also found that in order to achieve good fit and comfort, it is desirable for the back surface of the storage case, which is the part that is attached to the body electrode pad and which comes into contact with the skin, to be as soft as possible. [Means for solving the problem]
[0013] The following describes preferred embodiments for understanding the present invention, but the embodiments described below are merely illustrative and may be combined with one another as appropriate, and the multiple components described in each embodiment may be recognized and used independently as far as possible, and may also be combined with any of the components described in another embodiment as appropriate. As a result, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below, and various other embodiments may be realized.
[0014] The first aspect is a storage case with a biological electrode pad, which is made of a flexible attachment sheet having a plurality of electrodes on the back surface to be attached to the skin of a living body, and which stores a biological signal processing circuit unit that processes an electrical biological signal detected by the biological electrode pad. The storage area for the biological signal processing circuit unit is Inside, separated from the outside The case body has the mounting sheet The mounting sheet is a separate member. The case body is provided with a storage area that can be opened and closed, and the storage area is provided with a storage area that can be opened and closed. Leave The biological signal processing circuit unit , with respect to the case body It is said to be removable. It can now be removed from the case body. The case body is provided with a connection member for electrically connecting the electrodes and the biological signal processing circuit unit. , the case body It is provided so as to penetrate the bottom wall of the case.
[0015] A second aspect is the storage case with biological electrode pads according to the first aspect, wherein the case body has a watertight structure when the storage area is closed.
[0016]
[0017] The third aspect is a storage case with a biological electrode pad, which is attached to the back surface of the biological electrode pad, and is made of a flexible attachment sheet having a plurality of electrodes provided thereon, and which stores a biological signal processing circuit unit that processes an electrical biological signal detected by the biological electrode pad. The attachment sheet is water vapor permeable, and a case body that stores the biological signal processing circuit unit is disposed on the front surface side of the attachment sheet. The case body and the attachment sheet are The opposing surfaces are overlapped There is a ventilation gap between them that leads to the outside space.
[0018] No. four The embodiment of the present invention is three In the storage case with biological electrode pads of this aspect, a plurality of legs are provided to fix the case body and the attachment sheet to each other, and the ventilation gap is formed between the plurality of legs.
[0019] No. Five The above-mentioned first to third aspects are four In any one of the above-mentioned embodiments, the attachment sheet has elasticity that allows it to expand and contract in the planar direction, and at least a part of the electrical path conducted to the electrode is formed on the surface of the attachment sheet with an expandable portion.
[0020] No. Six The above-mentioned first to third aspects are Five In the storage case with biological electrode pads according to any one of the above aspects, the case body having a storage area for the biological signal processing circuit unit is detachably attached to the attachment sheet.
[0021] No. seven The embodiment is a storage case with a biological electrode pad that is attached to the skin of a living body and is used to detect an electrical biological signal from the skin, and the storage case is for storing a biological signal processing circuit unit that has a battery as a power source and processes the biological signal detected by the biological electrode pad in a watertight and detachable manner inside the storage case, The biological electrode pad is a water vapor permeable attachment sheet that is elastically stretchable and electrically insulating and has an adhesive surface on the back side suitable for attachment to the skin of a living body; A plurality of electrodes positioned at intervals on a rear surface of the mounting sheet and exposed on the rear surface; a plurality of connection parts located in the center of the back surface side of the mounting sheet, electrically insulated, and exposed to the front surface side through openings in the mounting sheet; an electrode connection wiring that is located on the rear surface side of the mounting sheet, is electrically insulated, has at least a stretchable portion, and electrically connects the plurality of electrodes and the plurality of connection portions, respectively; Equipped with The storage case is a receptacle case having a plurality of legs fixed to a center of a front surface side of the mounting sheet of the biological electrode pad and having a partial gap formed between the legs with respect to the front surface of the mounting sheet; a cover case that is watertightly and detachably fitted to the receptacle case; an elastic connection member that penetrates through the openings in the legs of the receptacle case and the opening in the center of the mounting sheet and is positioned within the openings, in order to elastically abut against each of the plurality of connection parts exposed from an opening in the center of the mounting sheet on the front side of the mounting sheet and the biological signal processing circuit unit in the storage case, thereby electrically connecting them; It is equipped with the following.
[0022] No. eight The embodiment of the present invention is seven In the storage case with biological electrode pads according to the above aspect, the plurality of electrodes includes an indifferent electrode and a plurality of detection electrodes.
[0023] No. nine The embodiment of the present invention is seven Or eightIn the storage case with biological electrode pads of this embodiment, a resin substrate, the multiple electrodes arranged on the lower surface of the resin substrate, the multiple connection parts arranged on the upper surface of the resin substrate, and electrode connection wiring arranged on the upper surface of the resin substrate and having ends that penetrate the resin substrate to electrically connect the multiple electrodes and the multiple connection parts, respectively, constitute a flexible wiring board.
[0024] No. ten The embodiment of the present invention is seven ~ nine In a storage case with a biological electrode pad according to any one of the above aspects, the multiple legs of the receptacle case have a base fixed to the receptacle case and a tip that is removably fitted to the base and fixed to the center of the front surface side of the attachment sheet of the biological electrode pad.
[0025] No. Eleven The embodiment of the present invention is seven ~ ten In the storage case with biological electrode pads according to any one of the above aspects, at least one of the receptacle case and the cover case is formed of a soft resin.
[0026] No. Twelve The above-mentioned first to third aspects are Eleven In the biosignal processing device using the storage case with bioelectrode pads according to any one of the above aspects, the biosignal processing device stores the biosignal processing circuit unit inside the storage case with bioelectrode pads. Effect of the Invention
[0027] In the storage case with biological electrode pads according to the first aspect, the case body, which is less flexible than the attachment sheet, is disposed on the surface side of the flexible attachment sheet. This prevents the case body from directly touching the skin, suppresses discomfort when wearing the electrode pads, and improves the fit and comfort of the electrode pads.
[0028] In addition, because the biosignal processing circuit unit equipped with the electric circuit is removable, the attachment sheet and storage case (including the case body) can be easily washed and sterilized with the biosignal processing circuit unit, which is generally not water-resistant, removed. This maintains cleanliness in the attached state, improving the ease of attachment and comfort. Furthermore, by removing the biosignal processing circuit unit, the attachment sheet and storage case can be replaced, allowing the biosignal processing circuit unit to be reused. Furthermore, it is possible to provide a connection member that connects the electrodes on the back side of the mounting sheet to the biosignal processing circuit unit in the case body with a simple structure and a short path. In particular, by providing the connection member through the bottom wall of the case body that is overlapped with the mounting sheet, it is possible to prevent the connection member from being directly exposed to the outside.
[0029] In the storage case with biological electrode pads according to the second aspect, since the case body has a watertight structure, even if there are parts such as conductive members in the storage area that are sensitive to moisture, cleaning, sterilization, etc. can be easily performed with the case body closed. Even if the biological signal processing circuit unit is left attached to the case body, the watertightness of the storage area is ensured, so that problems caused by unintentional splashing of water when attached to the living body can be prevented, and it is also possible to allow showering or bathing while the biological signal processing circuit unit is attached. By realizing a high level of watertightness, it is also possible to disinfect or sterilize the biological signal processing circuit unit while it is attached. Furthermore, by attaching the biological signal processing circuit unit to a storage area with a watertight structure, the biological signal processing circuit unit is well protected, and is more suitable for reuse of the biological signal processing circuit unit.
[0030]
[0031] No. three In the storage case with biological electrode pads according to the embodiment, the water vapor permeable attachment sheet can reduce or avoid stuffiness of the skin of the living body, which is the attachment surface. Also, since the case body, which is likely to be less flexible than the attachment sheet, is arranged on the surface side of the flexible attachment sheet, discomfort during attachment due to direct contact of the case body with the skin is suppressed. In addition, the water vapor permeability of the attachment sheet can be maintained through the ventilation gaps even in the attachment area of the case body in the attachment sheet, and the fit and fit can be further improved.
[0032] No. four In the storage case with biological electrode pads according to this aspect, the strength and stability of the fixing of the case body to the attachment sheet is ensured by the multiple legs, while a ventilation gap can be efficiently formed.
[0033] No. Five Aspects of In relation to In the storage case with bioelectrode pads, a stretchable part is provided in the electrical path, which reduces the inhibition of the inherent flexibility and stretchability of the attachment sheet by the electrical path. Be The stretchable portion can be realized by a meandering, zigzag, or bent shape in the longitudinal direction of the electric current path that is allowed to stretch by bending deformation as described below, but other than that, for example, a conductive material made of powder or filler such as carbon black, carbon, or metal may be blended with rubber or elastomer, or the electric current path itself may be made stretchable by an ion conductive polymer or the like.
[0034] No. Six In the storage case with biological electrode pads according to the above aspect, the case body can be removed and separated from the attachment sheet together with the biological signal processing circuit unit stored in the case body. This makes it possible to repair or replace only the case body, and also to reuse the case body together with the biological signal processing circuit unit.
[0035] The above sevenThe storage case with biological electrode pads according to the embodiment is attached so that the adhesive surface on the back side of the attachment sheet is superimposed on the biological signal detection position of the skin of the subject. In this attached state, a plurality of electrodes located at intervals from each other on the back side of the attachment sheet and exposed on the back side detect electrical biological signals from the skin of the subject. The detected biological signals are transmitted to a plurality of connecting parts located in the center of the back side of the attachment sheet and electrically insulated through the electrode connection wiring located on the back side of the attachment sheet and electrically insulated. Meanwhile, an elastic connecting member is provided that penetrates the opening of the receptacle case and the opening in the center of the attachment sheet, and the above-mentioned connecting parts exposed on the front side of the attachment sheet are electrically connected to the biological signal processing circuit unit stored in the storage case by the elastic connecting member. The biological signal processing circuit unit is operated by being supplied with power from a battery, and enables processing of biological signals detected from the skin of the subject by the plurality of electrodes, and output of the processing results such as recording on a recording medium and wireless transmission.
[0036] In addition, since the mounting sheet is elastically stretchable and electrically insulating, it can expand and contract in response to deformation of the limb due to body movement to maintain a close contact state with the skin. In addition, since the electrode connection wiring electrically connecting the electrodes and the connection parts has at least a stretchable portion, even if the electrode connection wiring expands and contracts in response to elastic deformation of the mounting sheet following deformation of the limb due to body movement, it is difficult for breakage due to excessive partial deformation to occur. Furthermore, since the mounting sheet is permeable to water vapor, and the receptacle case has multiple legs fixed to the center of the front side of the mounting sheet of the biological electrode pad and has partial gaps between the legs with respect to the surface of the mounting sheet to ensure breathability, it is possible to prevent the skin from becoming stuffy even when the mounting sheet is worn on the skin for a long time.
[0037] Therefore, sevenAccording to the storage case with biological electrode pads according to the embodiment, the cover case can be attached and detached to the receptacle case, and the storage case with biological electrode pads can be attached and detached to the biological signal processing circuit unit, so that the storage case and the biological electrode pads can be easily sterilized and washed, or replaced if damaged. Moreover, even if the attachment sheet is expanded more than before to widen the range in which biological signals can be detected, detection of biological signals from the skin by the multiple electrodes can be stably continued for a long period of time regardless of deformation of the limbs due to body movement, and the attachment sheet can be attached to the skin with a good feeling.
[0038] And the third seven The above-mentioned method using the storage case with the biological electrode pad according to the embodiment of the present invention. Twelve According to the biosignal processing device of the above aspect, the biosignal processing circuit unit is stored inside the storage case in a watertight and detachable manner, so that while achieving the functional effects of the storage case with bioelectrode pads described above, the biosignal processing circuit unit inside the storage case can process biosignals detected from the subject's skin by the electrodes of the bioelectrode pads, and record the processing results on a recording medium or output them by wireless transmission, etc.
[0039] In addition, seven In the storage case with biological electrode pad of the invention according to the above aspect, an aspect can be preferably adopted in which the plurality of legs of the receptacle case have a base portion fixed to the receptacle case and a tip portion detachably fitted to the base portion and fixed to the center of the front surface side of the attachment sheet of the biological electrode pad. According to such a preferred aspect, the receptacle case and the biological electrode pad can be easily separated between the base portion and the tip portion of the legs, and only one of them can be sterilized and washed as necessary, or replaced when damaged, which is preferable.
[0040] Also, sevenIn the storage case with biological electrode pads of the invention according to the above aspect, it is preferable to adopt an aspect in which at least one of the receptacle case and the cover case is made of soft resin. According to such a preferred aspect, it is preferable because it is easy to fit the cover case to the receptacle case in a watertight and detachable manner. [Brief description of the drawings]
[0041] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an oblique view showing one embodiment of a storage case with biological electrode pads of the present invention and a Holter electrocardiograph of one embodiment of a biological signal processing device of the present invention using the storage case, as viewed from the front side of the biological electrode pads. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a bottom view showing the storage case with the biological electrode pad of the embodiment and the Holter electrocardiograph of the embodiment using the storage case, as viewed from the back side of the biological electrode pad. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a storage case with a biological electrode pad of the embodiment and a Holter electrocardiograph of the embodiment using the storage case, as viewed from the front side of the biological electrode pad. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a partially cutaway perspective view of the storage case with the biological electrode pad of the embodiment, as viewed from the front side of the biological electrode pad. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a plan view showing the configuration of the storage case with the biological electrode pad of the embodiment and the flexible wiring board of the biological electrode pad of the Holter electrocardiograph of the embodiment using the storage case. [Figure 6] 10 is a bottom view showing the configuration of the storage case with biological electrode pads of the embodiment and the flexible wiring board of the Holter electrocardiograph of the embodiment using the storage case. FIG. [Figure 7] 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a storage case with a biological electrode pad of the embodiment and a part of the Holter electrocardiograph of the embodiment using the storage case. FIG. [Figure 8]FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of the storage case with biological electrode pads of the present invention and the Holter electrocardiograph of the above embodiment using the storage case, as viewed from the front side of the biological electrode pads. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a storage case with a biological electrode pad of the embodiment and a Holter electrocardiograph of the embodiment using the storage case, as viewed from the front side of the biological electrode pad. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a partially cutaway perspective view of the storage case with the biological electrode pad of the embodiment, as viewed from the front side of the biological electrode pad. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a partially cutaway perspective view of the storage case with the biological electrode pad of the embodiment, as viewed from the front side of the biological electrode pad with the biological electrode pad removed from the storage case. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0042] Hereinafter, the embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings by way of examples. Here, FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing one embodiment of the storage case with electrode pads for living body of the present invention and one embodiment of the biosignal processing device of the present invention using the storage case, as viewed from the front side of the electrode pads for living body. FIG. 2 is a bottom view showing the storage case with electrode pads for living body of the above embodiment and the Holter electrocardiograph using the storage case, as viewed from the back side of the electrode pads for living body. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the storage case with electrode pads for living body of the above embodiment and the Holter electrocardiograph using the storage case, as viewed from the front side of the electrode pads for living body. And FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the storage case with electrode pads for living body of the above embodiment, partially cut away, as viewed from the front side of the electrode pads for living body.
[0043] Fig. 5 is a plan view showing the configuration of the storage case with the electrode pads for living body of the embodiment and the flexible wiring board of the electrode pads for living body of the Holter electrocardiograph of the embodiment using the storage case. Fig. 6 is a bottom view showing the configuration of the storage case with the electrode pads for living body of the embodiment and the flexible wiring board of the Holter electrocardiograph of the embodiment using the storage case. Fig. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a part of the storage case with the electrode pads for living body of the embodiment and the Holter electrocardiograph of the embodiment using the storage case.
[0044] The storage case 1 with biological electrode pads of the above embodiment is a storage case that comes with biological electrode pads 2 that are attached to the skin of a living body and are used to detect electrocardiogram signals as electrical biological signals from the skin.
[0045] The storage case 1 with bioelectrode pads is for storing an electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 as a biosignal processing circuit unit therein in a watertight and detachable manner. The electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 has an electrocardiogram signal processing circuit having a normal CPU, memory, etc., which operates by being powered by a battery such as a button battery provided as a power source. The electrocardiogram signal processing circuit can input and record the electrocardiogram signal detected by the bioelectrode pads 2 for a certain period of time, such as 24 hours. The electrocardiogram signal processing circuit can output the recorded electrocardiogram signal in response to a command signal from the outside via a wired or wireless connection, or by removing a card-shaped recording medium on which the electrocardiogram signal is recorded.
[0046] The biological electrode pad 2 in the storage case 1 with biological electrode pad of this embodiment includes a water vapor permeable attachment sheet 4 that is elastically stretchable and electrically insulating, and has an adhesive surface 4c on the back side suitable for attachment to the skin of a living body.
[0047] A plurality of electrodes exposed on the back side are disposed at intervals from each other on the back side of the mounting sheet 4. That is, in the illustrated example, the plurality of electrodes exposed on the back side include two detection electrodes 5 at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the mounting sheet 4 and four indifferent electrodes 6 in the center.
[0048] The mounting sheet 4 is provided with a plurality of (four in the illustrated example) connection parts 7 located at the center of the back side thereof, which are electrically insulated and exposed to the front side from the opening of the mounting sheet 4. The mounting sheet 4 is provided with two detection electrode connection wires 8 located at the back side thereof, which are electrically insulated and have a meandering stretchable portion 8a in part. These two detection electrode connection wires 8 electrically connect the two detection electrodes 5 located at both ends of the mounting sheet 4 to two diagonal connection parts 7 out of the four connection parts 7. The mounting sheet 4 is further provided with two indifferent electrode connection wires 9 that electrically connect two indifferent electrodes 6 arranged in the width direction of the mounting sheet 4 to each other among the four indifferent electrodes 6. Each of the two indifferent electrodes 6 connected by the indifferent electrode connection wires 9 is electrically connected to two connection parts 7 out of the four connection parts 7 to which the detection electrode connection wires 8 are not connected.
[0049] Specifically, the biological electrode pad 2 has a resin substrate 10 that is elastically stretchable and electrically insulating. On the lower surface of the resin substrate 10, two detection electrodes 5 at both ends (referring to both ends in the longitudinal direction, which is the left-right direction in FIG. 2) and four indifferent electrodes 6 at the center are formed of, for example, a silver-silver chloride (Ag / Agcl) layer that is not easily oxidized by contact with the skin. On the upper surface of the resin substrate 10, a detection electrode connection wiring 8 and an indifferent electrode connection wiring 9 are also formed of a silver-silver chloride layer or a copper layer. The detection electrodes 5, the indifferent electrodes 6, the detection electrode connection wiring 8, the indifferent electrode connection wiring 9, and the resin substrate 10 constitute a flexible wiring board 11.
[0050] The resin substrate 10 can be formed of, for example, a polyimide sheet or a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film. The silver-silver chloride layer can be formed in a predetermined shape at a predetermined position by, for example, applying a known silver-silver chloride paste with a printer or the like and drying and hardening it. The copper layer can be formed in a predetermined shape at a predetermined position by, for example, using a plating method or an etching method used in the manufacture of printed wiring boards.
[0051] A through portion 8b is formed at each tip of the two detection electrode connection wirings 8. These through portions 8b pass through through holes formed in the resin substrate 10 and are electrically connected to the two detection electrodes 5 below the through portions 8b.
[0052] Further, a through portion 9a is formed at each tip of the two indifferent electrode connecting wires 9. These through portions 9a pass through through holes formed in the resin substrate 10 and are electrically connected to the indifferent electrode 6 below the through portion 9a.
[0053] Furthermore, the remaining two connection parts 7 to which the two indifferent electrode connection wires 9 are connected (the two connection parts 7 to which the detection electrode connection wires 8 are not connected) are electrically connected to the indifferent electrodes 6 below those connection parts 7 through through holes formed in the resin substrate 10. As a result, the two indifferent electrode connection wires 9 also electrically connect the two indifferent electrodes 6 arranged side by side in the width direction of the attachment sheet 4 (the short side direction, which is the up-down direction in FIG. 2 ).
[0054] The storage case 1 includes a receptacle case 1a located on the lower side closer to the mounting sheet 4, and a cover case 1b located on the upper side farther from the mounting sheet 4.
[0055] The receptacle case 1a has a plurality of (four in the illustrated example) legs 1c watertightly fixed to the center of the front surface of the mounting sheet 4 of the biological electrode pad 2. In addition, between the legs 1c, partial gaps are formed between the opposing surfaces (between the overlapping surfaces) of the receptacle case 1a and the front surface of the mounting sheet 4.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 4, the cover case 1b is overlapped from the outside of the receptacle case 1a (the direction away from the mounting sheet 4), and is watertightly and detachably fitted and assembled at the outer peripheral wall portions of both the receptacle case 1a and the cover case 1b.
[0057] Four openings 4a are formed in the center of the mounting sheet 4. The four connection portions 7 are exposed on the front surface side of the mounting sheet 4 through these four openings 4a. The four leg portions 1c of the receptacle case 1a are provided at positions corresponding to the four openings 4a of the mounting sheet 4, respectively, and are arranged so that the leg portions 1c cover the openings 4a from the front surface side of the mounting sheet 4. Furthermore, an opening 1d is formed in each leg portion 1c penetrating the center portion, and an elastic connection member 12 made of a conductive elastic material is assembled in a fitted state to the opening 1d.
[0058] The lower surfaces of the four elastic connecting members 12 provided on the four leg portions 1c are exposed within the four openings 4a of the mounting sheet 4. Moreover, the upper surfaces of the four elastic connecting members 12 are exposed to the bottom surface of the receptacle case 1a through the four openings 1d provided in the receptacle case 1a.
[0059] The connection parts 7 are superimposed and abutted against the lower surface of each elastic connecting member 12 from the rear surface side of the mounting sheet 4 through the openings 4a of the mounting sheet 4. Meanwhile, the four electrodes 3a formed on the lower surface of the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3, which is accommodated and mounted in the storage area of the storage case 1, are superimposed and abutted against the upper surface of each elastic connecting member 12.
[0060] That is, the four elastic connection members 12 are positioned in and through the openings 1d of the leg portions 1c of the receptacle case 1a and the opening 4a in the center of the mounting sheet 4. These four elastic connection members 12 elastically abut against the connection portions 7 and the four electrodes 3a on the lower surface of the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 in the storage case 1, and maintain the four pairs of connection portions 7 and electrodes 3a in an electrically connected state.
[0061] At least one of receptacle case 1a and cover case 1b, i.e., both here, are made of soft resin such as polyethylene or polypropylene, and due to elastic deformation of the soft resin, they can be watertightly and detachably fitted to each other as shown in the cross section of Fig. 7. Elastic connection member 12 is made of, for example, a rubber-like elastic body, and as shown in the cross section of Fig. 7, in the illustrated example, has an outer peripheral annular groove portion 12a that fits tightly with an inner peripheral flange 1e protruding into opening 1d of leg portion 1c, and may be watertightly fitted into opening 1d, or may be disposed at a position within opening 1d of an injection molding die for receptacle case 1a and insert-molded integrally with receptacle case 1a. Elastic connection member 12 may also be, for example, a metallic coil-shaped or plate-shaped spring member. Watertightness in the internal storage area of the case body (receptacle case 1a and cover case 1b) at the location where the elastic connecting member 12 is arranged can also be ensured, for example, by covering and sealing the opening 4a of the mounting sheet 4 from both sides with the leg portion 1c of the receptacle case 1a and the resin substrate 10.
[0062] In addition, a shallow recess 4b extending in the longitudinal direction of the mounting sheet 4 is formed on the back side of the mounting sheet 4 so as to accommodate the flexible wiring board 11, and an adhesive surface 4c is provided on the back side of the mounting sheet 4 so as to surround the recess 4b.
[0063] In the storage case 1 with the biological electrode pad of the above embodiment, the attachment sheet 4 of the biological electrode pad 2 is attached to the electrocardiogram signal detection position of the skin of the subject with the adhesive surface 4c on the back side. In this attached state, a plurality of electrodes (two detection electrodes 5 at both ends and four indifferent electrodes 6 in the center) located at intervals from each other on the back side of the attachment sheet 4 and exposed on the back side detect electrocardiogram signals from the skin of the subject. The detected electrocardiogram signals are transmitted to four connection parts 7 located in the center of the back side of the attachment sheet 4 and electrically insulated through the electrode connection wiring 8, 9 located on the back side of the attachment sheet 4 and electrically insulated. Furthermore, an elastic connection member 12 penetrating the opening 1d of the leg part 1c of the receptacle case 1a and the opening 4a in the center of the attachment sheet 4 elastically abuts against the connection parts 7 exposed on the front side of the attachment sheet 4 and the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 stored in the storage case 1, electrically connecting them. Therefore, the detected electrocardiogram signal is transmitted from the connection part 7 to the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 through the elastic connecting member 12. As a result, the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 is able to process the electrocardiogram signal detected from the skin of the subject by the detection electrode 5 and the indifferent electrode 6 with power supplied from a battery, and record the processing results in a recording medium such as a memory, transmit them wirelessly, or output them by removing a card-shaped recording medium, etc.
[0064] Furthermore, since the fitting sheet 4 is elastically stretchable and electrically insulating, it can expand and contract in response to deformation of the limb caused by bodily movements, thereby maintaining a tight contact state with the skin.
[0065] In addition, since the detection electrode connecting wiring 8 electrically connecting each of the two detection electrodes 5 and the two connection portions 7 has an expandable portion 8a, even if the detection electrode connecting wiring 8 expands and contracts to follow deformation of the limb due to body movement, breaks due to excessive partial deformation are unlikely to occur, and excessive deformation restriction of the attachment sheet 4 by the detection electrode connecting wiring 8 is also avoided.
[0066] Furthermore, since the mounting sheet 4 is permeable to water vapor, and the receptacle case 1a has four legs 1c fixed to the center of the surface side of the mounting sheet 4, with partial gaps being formed between the legs 1c on the surface of the mounting sheet 4 to ensure breathability, it is possible to prevent the skin from becoming stuffy even when the mounting sheet 4 is worn on the skin for a long period of time.
[0067] Therefore, according to the storage case 1 with biological electrode pads of this embodiment, the storage case 1 and the biological electrode pads 2 can be easily sterilized and washed or replaced when damaged by attaching and detaching the cover case 1b to and from the receptacle case 1a and attaching and detaching the storage case 1 with biological electrode pads to and from the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3. Moreover, even if the attachment sheet 4 is expanded more than before to widen the range in which electrocardiogram signals can be detected, the detection of electrocardiogram signals from the skin by the two detection electrodes 5 and the four indifferent electrodes 6 can be continued for a long time regardless of deformation of the limbs due to body movement, and the attachment sheet 4 can be attached to the skin with a good feeling at that time.
[0068] Furthermore, according to the storage case 1 with biological electrode pads of this embodiment, at least one of the receptacle case 1a and the cover case 1b, and preferably both, are made of soft resin, so that the cover case 1b can be easily fitted to the receptacle case 1a in a watertight and detachable manner. By making the receptacle case 1a out of soft resin, it is possible to reduce the deformation constraint of the receptacle case 1a against the mounting sheet 4, and further improve the wearing comfort.
[0069] Furthermore, according to this embodiment of the Holter electrocardiograph using the storage case 1 with the bioelectrode pads, the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 is stored inside the storage case 1 in a watertight and detachable manner, so that while achieving the functional effects of the storage case 1 with the bioelectrode pads described above, the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 inside the storage case 1 can process the electrocardiogram signal detected from the subject's skin by the two detection electrodes 5 and four indifferent electrodes 6 of the bioelectrode pads 2, and record the processed results on a recording medium or output them wirelessly, thereby avoiding operational errors due to inadvertent exposure to water, etc., and more stably performing such output.
[0070] In this embodiment, the two connection parts 7 at the upper left and lower right in FIG. 5 are connected to the two electrodes 3a on one diagonal line on the lower surface of the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 in the storage case 1, and the two connection parts 7 at the upper right and lower left in FIG. 5 are connected to the two electrodes 3a on the other diagonal line on the lower surface of the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 in the storage case 1. Therefore, even if the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 in the storage case 1 can be rotated and arranged, two detection electrodes 5 are always connected to the two electrodes 3a on the one diagonal line on the lower surface, regardless of the rotation position, and four indifferent electrodes 6 are always connected to the two electrodes 3a on the other diagonal line on the lower surface, thereby preventing erroneous connection of electrodes. For this reason, the electrodes 3a on the lower surface of the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 to which the indifferent electrodes 6 are connected may be only one of the two on the other diagonal line. Moreover, it is preferable that the connection portion 7 and the electrode 3a are positioned at the four corners of a square.
[0071] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of the storage case with electrode pads for living body of the present invention and the Holter electrocardiograph of the above embodiment using the storage case, as viewed from the front side of the electrode pads for living body. FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view showing the storage case with electrode pads for living body of the above embodiment and the Holter electrocardiograph of the above embodiment using the storage case, as viewed from the front side of the electrode pads for living body. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the storage case with electrode pads for living body of the above embodiment, partially cut away, as viewed from the front side of the electrode pads for living body. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the storage case with electrode pads for living body of the above embodiment, partially cut away, as viewed from the front side of the electrode pads for living body, with the electrode pads for living body removed from the storage case. In FIG. 10, only the storage case 1 side is cut away to show the cross section, and in FIG. 11, both the attachment sheet 4 side and the storage case 1 side are cut away to show the cross section.
[0072] The main difference between the storage case with biological electrode pads of this embodiment and the Holter electrocardiograph using the same is that the configuration of the leg 1c of the receptacle case 1a is different from that of the previous embodiment, so this difference will be mainly described here. Note that in the drawings, parts similar to those in the previous embodiment are indicated by the same reference numerals.
[0073] That is, in the storage case 1 with the bioelectrode pad of this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, the receptacle case 1a is attached to the mounting sheet 4 at the approximate center of the front surface side of the mounting sheet 4 of the bioelectrode pad 2. The receptacle case 1a is fixed to the mounting sheet 4 in a watertight manner at a plurality of legs 1c, i.e., four legs in the illustrated example. In addition, between the legs 1c, a gap is formed that is partially expanded between the opposing surfaces of the receptacle case 1a on the front surface of the mounting sheet 4 and is open to the outside space through the adjacent legs 1c. Furthermore, the storage case 1 with the bioelectrode pad of this embodiment includes a cover case 1b that is watertightly and detachably fitted to the receptacle case 1a to form the storage case. In addition, as shown in Fig. 10 and Fig. 11, the storage case 1 with the bioelectrode pad of this embodiment also includes four elastic connection members 12 that are positioned in the openings 1d of the legs 1c of the receptacle case 1a and the opening 4a in the center of the mounting sheet 4, penetrating them. As in the above embodiment, these four elastic connecting members 12 elastically abut against the four connecting parts 7 exposed on the surface side of the mounting sheet 4 from the four openings 4a in the central part of the mounting sheet 4 and the four electrodes 3a on the underside of the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 in the storage case 1, thereby electrically connecting each set of connecting parts 7 and electrodes 3a.
[0074] However, in this embodiment, the four legs 1c of the receptacle case 1a are each attached to the mounting sheet 4 by a special fitting and fixing structure. Specifically, such fitting and fixing structure is shown in a fitted state in Fig. 10 and in a separated state in Fig. 11.
[0075] That is, the fitting and fixing structure includes a base portion 1f formed integrally with the receptacle case 1a, and a tip portion 1g fixed to the surface of the central portion of the mounting sheet 4.
[0076] The tip portion 1g has a sheet-like base portion that is closely attached to the surface of the mounting sheet 4 by overlapping and bonding, and the upper surface of the connection portion 7 is exposed through a through hole provided in the center of the base portion. In addition, an engagement protrusion that protrudes toward the upper surface side (the storage case 1 side) is formed continuously around the entire circumference in a ring shape near the outer periphery of the base portion, forming an annular convex portion.
[0077] On the other hand, the base 1f is constructed by using the leg 1c protruding downward (toward the mounting sheet 4) from the bottom wall of the receptacle case 1a. That is, an engagement groove opening downward is formed continuously around the entire circumference near the outer periphery of the protruding tip surface of the leg 1c to form an annular recess. Also, the part of the base 1f surrounded by the annular recess protrudes toward the mounting sheet 4 side, and is assembled so as to enter the area surrounded by the annular protrusion at the tip 1g on the mounting sheet 4 side. Also, an opening 1d formed in the leg 1c penetrates the center part of the base 1f, and the lower surface of the elastic connecting member 12 assembled to the opening 1d is exposed in a protruding state on the lower surface (protruding tip surface) of the base 1f.
[0078] In other words, the annular recess in the base 1f is formed at a position corresponding to the annular protrusion in the tip 1g on the mounting sheet 4 side. A substantially spherical engagement head is formed over the entire circumference at the tip of the annular protrusion in the tip 1g, and a corresponding substantially spherical engagement bottom is formed over the entire circumference at the bottom of the annular recess in the base 1f. When the base 1f is fitted into the tip 1g, the engagement head is engaged with or locked to the engagement bottom.
[0079] As a result, the annular recess of base portion 1f formed integrally with receptacle case 1a and the annular protrusion of tip portion 1g are fitted together, so that base portion 1f and tip portion 1g are detachably and watertightly fitted together. Elastic connecting member 12 is positioned in opening 1d formed through base portion 1f and tip portion 1g, penetrating opening 1d, and connecting portion 7 is electrically connected to elastic connecting member 12 in abutting contact therewith.
[0080] The other configurations of the storage case 1 with biological electrode pads in this embodiment are the same as those of the previous embodiment, except that the meandering direction of the expandable portion 8a of the detection electrode connection wiring 8 is reversed from that of the previous embodiment.
[0081] Therefore, the storage case 1 with electrode pads for living body of this embodiment and the Holter electrocardiograph using the same can achieve the same effects as the storage case 1 with electrode pads for living body and the Holter electrocardiograph of the previous embodiment. In addition, since the receptacle case 1a and the electrode pads for living body 2 can be easily separated between the base 1f and the tip 1g of the leg 1c, only one of them can be sterilized and washed as needed, or replaced when damaged.
[0082] Although the above description is based on the illustrated example, the present invention is not limited to the above example and may be modified as appropriate within the scope of the claims. For example, in the biological electrode pad of the present invention, the number, arrangement, shape, etc. of the electrodes may be modified as appropriate depending on the measurement target and application. Specifically, for example, the indifferent electrode 6 may be omitted and the number of detection electrodes 5 may be three or more, in which case the indifferent electrode 6 in the center may be changed to the detection electrode 5. In addition, the multiple electrodes do not have to be arranged in the same direction.
[0083] Furthermore, the biological electrode pads of the storage case with biological electrode pads of the present invention can be used to detect myoelectric signals instead of or in addition to detecting electrocardiographic signals. The biological signal processing circuit unit and the biological signal processing device of the present invention stored in the storage case with biological electrode pads of the present invention may record and output myoelectric signals instead of or in addition to electrocardiographic signals.
[0084] In addition, in the present invention, the power source that supplies power to the ECG signal processing circuit unit 3 may be, for example, a battery that is attached non-replaceably or replaceably to the board of the ECG signal processing circuit unit 3, or it may be stored in a storage case separate from the ECG signal processing circuit unit 3, or it may be installed separately from the storage case of the ECG signal processing circuit unit 3, preferably sealed in a watertight case.
[0085] In addition, the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 may be a device that simply outputs the detection signal from the biological electrode pad 2 directly to the outside via wireless or wired means, and it is also possible to store the detection signal in an external storage device separate from the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3.
[0086] In addition, various wirings connected to the electrodes can be provided on either the front or back surface of the mounting sheet 4, and the specific wiring structure is not limited. For example, at least a part of such wirings can be configured by lead wires that are not fixed to the mounting sheet 4.
[0087] In addition, as is clear from the description of each aspect in the "Means for Solving the Problems" section above, in some aspects of the present invention, the electrode connection wiring with an expandable portion, the watertight case structure, the conductive members inside and outside the case using an elastic connecting member, the attachment sheet with water vapor permeability, the gap between the attachment pad and the storage case (case body), etc. are not essential to constitute the present invention unless they are described in each aspect. And, as is clear from the description of each aspect in the "Effects of the Invention" section above, the invention described in each aspect can achieve effects such as improved wearability or comfort of the storage case with biological electrode pads and the biological signal processing device even without the configuration not described in the respective aspect.
[0088] In addition, the gap between the mounting pad and the storage case (case body) may be open to the external space directly as in the above embodiment, or it may be open to the external space through, for example, a groove, hole, or ventilation passage provided in the case body.
[0089] In addition, the structure of the storage case (case body) that stores the biosignal processing circuit unit is not limited to the upper and lower two-part structure as described above. For example, it is possible to store the approximately plate-shaped biosignal processing circuit unit by inserting it from the side through a side opening that is partially opened in the peripheral wall. If the upper and lower two-part structure is adopted as in the above embodiment, there is an advantage that the electrical contacts of the biosignal processing circuit unit can be stably maintained in a connected state by pressing the biosignal processing circuit unit from above using the locking and fixing force of the cover case to the receptacle case against the elastic connecting member provided exposed on the bottom surface of the receptacle case.
[0090] However, as described above, in certain aspects of the present invention, such an elastic connecting member is not essential, and for example, the biological signal processing circuit unit may be fixedly attached in the storage case. Furthermore, the electrical contact by the elastic connecting member is not limited to the above embodiment, and various electrical contacts can be adopted, such as a structure in which a connector having a slit-shaped opening into which one edge of the biological signal processing circuit unit is inserted is provided in the storage case, and an elastic contact (elastic connecting member) provided in the slit-shaped opening is pressed against a contact exposed on the surface of the edge of the substrate of the biological signal processing circuit unit inserted into the opening, thereby establishing electrical continuity.
[0091] In the embodiment of the storage case with biological electrode pads shown in Figs. 8 to 11, the entire storage case 1 (case body) consisting of the receptacle case 1a and the cover case 1b is detachably attached to the mounting sheet 4. The storage case 1 can be removed from the mounting sheet 4 together with the storage case 1 while the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 is attached in a stored state in the storage case 1, or the entire storage case 1 from which the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 has been removed. This makes it possible to efficiently clean and sterilize the mounting sheet 4 and the storage case 1 individually, and also makes it easy to respond to repairs such as replacing only one of them and reusing the other. It also becomes possible to reuse the electrocardiogram signal processing circuit unit 3 together with the storage case 1.
[0092] Thus, as can be understood from the above embodiments, in the storage case with biological electrode pads relating to some but not all specific aspects of the present invention, by attaching and detaching the cover case to and from the receptacle case and attaching and detaching the storage case with biological electrode pads to and from the biological signal processing circuit unit, the storage case and the biological electrode pads can be easily sterilized and cleaned or replaced if damaged, and even if the attachment sheet is expanded more than before to widen the range in which biological signals can be detected, detection of biological signals from the skin by the multiple electrodes can be sustained for a long period of time regardless of deformation of the limbs due to body movement, and the attachment sheet can also be worn comfortably on the skin at that time.
[0093] Furthermore, according to some but not all specific aspects of the present invention, a biosignal processing device using a storage case with bioelectrode pads is stored inside the storage case in a watertight and detachable manner, so that while achieving the effects of the storage case with bioelectrode pads described above, the biosignal processing circuit unit inside the storage case can process biosignals detected from the subject's skin by the electrodes of the bioelectrode pads, and output the processing results by recording them on a recording medium or transmitting them wirelessly. [Industrial Applicability]
[0094] The storage case with electrode pads for living body and the biosignal processing device equipped with the storage case with electrode pads for living body to which the present invention is applied are industrially produced. In addition, they can be used in medical and non-medical fields (for example, information processing and judgment of physical fitness, exercise intensity, living environment, etc. using data such as electrocardiogram waveforms, heart rate, and electromyogram waveforms). Therefore, the present invention has industrial applicability. The present invention essentially includes each of the inventions described in (i) to (xiii) below, and the configurations and effects thereof will be described below. The present invention relates to (i) A storage case with a biological electrode pad, which is attached to the back surface of the biological electrode pad made of a flexible attachment sheet having a plurality of electrodes provided thereon, and which stores a biological signal processing circuit unit that processes an electrical biological signal detected by the biological electrode pad, wherein a case body having a storage area for the biological signal processing circuit unit is disposed on the front side of the attachment sheet and attached to the attachment sheet, the storage area is provided in the case body so as to be openable and closable, and the biological signal processing circuit unit is detachable from the storage area; (ii) The storage case with biological electrode pads according to (i), wherein the case body has a watertight structure when the storage area is closed. (iii) A storage case with a biological electrode pad according to (i) or (ii), in which a connection member that electrically connects the electrodes and the biological signal processing circuit unit is provided in the case main body so as to penetrate a case wall portion. (iv) A storage case with a biological electrode pad, which is attached to the back surface of a flexible attachment sheet having a plurality of electrodes provided thereon, and which stores a biological signal processing circuit unit that processes an electrical biological signal detected by the biological electrode pad, wherein the attachment sheet is water vapor permeable, a case body that stores the biological signal processing circuit unit is disposed on the front surface side of the attachment sheet, and a ventilation gap that connects to the outside space is provided between the case body and the attachment sheet; (v) A storage case with a biological electrode pad according to (iv), in which a plurality of legs are provided for fixing the case body and the attachment sheet to each other, and the ventilation gap is formed between the plurality of legs. (vi) A storage case with a biological electrode pad according to any one of (i) to (v), in which the attachment sheet has elasticity that allows it to expand and contract in a planar direction, and at least a part of an electric path conducted to the electrode is formed with an expandable portion on the surface of the attachment sheet. (vii) The storage case with biological electrode pads according to any one of (i) to (vi), wherein the case body having a storage area for the biological signal processing circuit unit is detachably attached to the attachment sheet. (viii) A storage case with a biological electrode pad that is attached to the skin of a living body and used to detect an electrical biological signal from the skin, the storage case for storing therein a biological signal processing circuit unit that has a battery as a power source and processes the biological signal detected by the biological electrode pad in a watertight and detachable manner, the biological electrode pad comprising: an elastically stretchable and electrically insulating attachment sheet having a water vapor permeable adhesive surface on the back side suitable for attachment to the skin of a living body; a plurality of electrodes positioned at intervals from each other on the back side of the attachment sheet and exposed on the back side; a plurality of connecting parts positioned in the center of the back side of the attachment sheet and electrically insulated and exposed on the front side from openings in the attachment sheet; and a plurality of connecting parts positioned on the back side of the attachment sheet and electrically insulated and exposed on the front side from openings in the attachment sheet. a receptacle case having a plurality of legs fixed to a center of the front surface side of the mounting sheet of the biological electrode pad and forming a partial gap between the legs and the front surface of the mounting sheet, a cover case fitted to the receptacle case in a watertight and detachable manner, and an elastic connecting member penetrating through openings in the legs of the receptacle case and an opening in the center of the mounting sheet to elastically abut against each of the plurality of connecting parts exposed from an opening in the center of the mounting sheet to the front surface side of the mounting sheet and the biological signal processing circuit unit in the storage case and to electrically connect them; (ix) The storage case with biological electrode pads according to (viii), characterized in that the plurality of electrodes include an indifferent electrode and a plurality of detection electrodes. (x) The storage case with biological electrode pads according to (viii) or (ix), characterized in that a resin substrate, the plurality of electrodes arranged on the lower surface of the resin substrate, the plurality of connection parts arranged on the upper surface of the resin substrate, and electrode connection wiring arranged on the upper surface of the resin substrate and having ends penetrating the resin substrate to electrically connect the plurality of electrodes and the plurality of connection parts, respectively, constitute a flexible wiring board. (xi) A storage case with a biological electrode pad according to any one of (viii) to (x), characterized in that the plurality of legs of the receptacle case have a base portion fixed to the receptacle case and a tip portion detachably fitted to the base portion and fixed to a center portion of the front surface side of the attachment sheet of the biological electrode pad. (xii) The storage case with biological electrode pads according to any one of (viii) to (xi), characterized in that at least one of the receptacle case and the cover case is made of a soft resin. (xiii) A biosignal processing device using a storage case with a biological electrode pad according to any one of (i) to (xii), the biosignal processing device storing the biosignal processing circuit unit inside the storage case with a biological electrode pad; This includes inventions relating to. In the invention described in (i) above, the case body, which is likely to be less flexible than the mounting sheet, is disposed on the surface side of the flexible mounting sheet. This prevents the case body from directly touching the skin, suppressing discomfort when mounting, and improving the fit and comfort. In addition, since the biosignal processing circuit unit having an electric circuit is removable, it is easy to wash and sterilize the mounting sheet and the storage case (including the case body) with the biosignal processing circuit unit, which is generally not water-resistant, removed. This maintains cleanliness in the mounted state, improving the fit and comfort. Furthermore, by removing the biosignal processing circuit unit, it is possible to replace the mounting sheet and the storage case and reuse the biosignal processing circuit unit. In the invention described in (ii) above, since the case body has a watertight structure, even if there are parts such as conductive members in the storage area that are sensitive to moisture, cleaning, sterilization, and the like can be easily performed with the case body closed. Furthermore, even if the biosignal processing circuit unit is left attached to the case body, the watertightness of the storage area is ensured, so that the occurrence of problems caused by unintentional splashing of water when attached to the living body can be prevented, and it is also possible to allow showering or bathing while the biosignal processing circuit unit is attached to the living body. By realizing a high level of watertightness, it is also possible to disinfect or sterilize the biosignal processing circuit unit while it is attached. Furthermore, by attaching the biosignal processing circuit unit to a storage area with a watertight structure, the protection of the biosignal processing circuit unit is excellent, and the biosignal processing circuit unit is more suitable for reuse. In the invention described in (iii) above, it is possible to provide a connection member that conducts electricity between the electrodes on the back side of the mounting sheet and the biosignal processing circuit unit in the case body with a simple structure and a short path. In particular, by providing the connection member through the bottom wall part of the case body that is overlapped with the mounting sheet, it is possible to avoid direct exposure of the connection member to the outside. In addition, it is easy to provide the connection member while achieving watertightness of the case body, for example, by insert molding the connection member into the case body or providing a sealant at the position where the connection member is arranged. In the invention described in (iv) above, the water vapor permeable mounting sheet can reduce or avoid stuffiness of the skin of the living body, which is the mounting surface. In addition, the case body, which is likely to be less flexible than the mounting sheet, is arranged on the surface side of the flexible mounting sheet, so that the discomfort caused by the direct contact of the case body with the skin during mounting can be suppressed. In addition, the water vapor permeability of the mounting sheet can be maintained through the ventilation gaps even in the mounting area of the case body, so that the mounting ease and fit can be further improved. In the invention described in (v) above, it becomes possible to efficiently form a ventilation gap while ensuring the strength and stability of the fixing of the case body to the mounting sheet by the multiple legs. In the invention described in (vi) above, by providing an expandable portion in the electric current path, the inherent flexibility and expandability of the mounting sheet is prevented from being hindered by the electric current path, improving the fit and comfort of the wearer. The expandable portion can be realized, for example, by a meandering, zigzag, or bent shape in the length direction of the electric current path that is allowed to expand and contract by bending deformation as described below, but it is also possible to impart expandability to the electric current path itself by, for example, blending a conductive material such as powder or filler of carbon black, carbon, or metal into rubber or elastomer, or by using an ion conductive polymer. In the invention described in (vii) above, by removing the case body, it is possible to separate the case body together with, for example, the biological signal processing circuit unit housed in the case body from the mounting sheet. Therefore, it is possible to repair or replace only the case body, and also to reuse the case body together with the biological signal processing circuit unit. In the invention described in (viii) above, the attachment sheet is attached so that the adhesive surface on the back side of the attachment sheet overlaps the biosignal detection position of the skin of the subject. In this attached state, a plurality of electrodes positioned at intervals on the back side of the attachment sheet and exposed on the back side detect electrical biosignals from the skin of the subject. The detected biosignals are transmitted to a plurality of connecting parts located in the center of the back side of the attachment sheet and electrically insulated through electrode connection wiring located on the back side of the attachment sheet and electrically insulated. Meanwhile, an elastic connecting member is provided that penetrates the opening of the receptacle case and the opening in the center of the attachment sheet, and the connecting parts exposed on the front side of the attachment sheet are electrically connected to the biosignal processing circuit unit stored in the storage case by the elastic connecting member. The biosignal processing circuit unit is operated by being supplied with power from a battery, and enables processing of biosignals detected from the skin of the subject by the plurality of electrodes, and output of the processing results, such as recording them on a recording medium or transmitting them wirelessly. In addition, since the mounting sheet is elastically stretchable and electrically insulating, it can expand and contract in response to deformation of the limb due to body movement to maintain a close contact state with the skin. In addition, since the electrode connection wiring electrically connecting the electrodes and the connection parts has at least a stretchable portion, even if the electrode connection wiring expands and contracts in response to elastic deformation of the mounting sheet following deformation of the limb due to body movement, it is difficult for breakage due to excessive partial deformation to occur. Furthermore, since the mounting sheet is permeable to water vapor, and the receptacle case has multiple legs fixed to the center of the front side of the mounting sheet of the biological electrode pad and has partial gaps between the legs with respect to the surface of the mounting sheet to ensure breathability, it is possible to prevent the skin from becoming stuffy even when the mounting sheet is worn on the skin for a long time. Therefore, according to the storage case with biological electrode pads of the embodiment (viii), by attaching and detaching the cover case to and from the receptacle case and attaching and detaching the storage case with biological electrode pads to and from the biological signal processing circuit unit, the storage case and the biological electrode pads can be easily sterilized and cleaned, or replaced if damaged.Furthermore, even if the attachment sheet is expanded more than before to widen the range in which biosignals can be detected, detection of biosignals from the skin by multiple electrodes can be stably maintained for a long period of time regardless of deformation of the limbs due to body movement, and the attachment sheet can also feel good when worn on the skin. In the invention described in (xi) above, the receptacle case and the biological electrode pad can be easily separated between the base and tip of the leg, allowing only one of them to be sterilized and cleaned as needed, or replaced if damaged. In the invention described in (xii) above, the cover case can be easily fitted to the receptacle case in a watertight and detachable manner. In the invention described in (xiii) above, which uses a storage case with biological electrode pads relating to the above embodiment (viii), a biological signal processing circuit unit is stored inside the storage case in a watertight and detachable manner, so that while achieving the functional effects of the storage case with biological electrode pads described above, the biological signal processing circuit unit inside the storage case can process biological signals detected from the subject's skin by the electrodes of the biological electrode pads, and record the processing results on a recording medium or output them by wireless transmission, etc. [Explanation of symbols]
[0095] 1 Storage Case 1a Receptacle case 1b Cover case 1c leg 1d aperture 1e Inner flange 1f base 1g tip 2. Bioelectrode pads 3. ECG signal processing circuit unit 3a electrode 4 Installation sheet 4a aperture 4b Recess 4c adhesive side 5. Detection electrode 6 Indifferent electrode 7 Connection 8. Detection electrode connection wiring 8a Extendable part 8b Penetration 9 Indifferent electrode connection wire 9a Penetration 10 Resin substrate 11 Flexible wiring board 12 Elastic connecting member 12a Outer peripheral annular groove
Claims
1. A storage case with a biological electrode pad is attached to the case, the storage case comprising a flexible attachment sheet having a plurality of electrodes on a back surface of the flexible attachment sheet that is attached to the skin of a living body, and a biological signal processing circuit unit that processes an electrical biological signal detected by the biological electrode pad, A case body having an internal storage area for the biological signal processing circuit unit separated from the outside is a separate member from the mounting sheet, and is disposed on the front side of the mounting sheet and attached to the mounting sheet without being exposed on the back side thereof; The storage area is provided in the case body so as to be openable and closable, The biological signal processing circuit unit is detachably attached to the case body in the storage area and can be taken out from the case body. A storage case with a biological electrode pad, in which a connection member that electrically connects the electrodes and the biological signal processing circuit unit is provided in the case body and penetrates the bottom wall portion of the case body.
2. 2. The storage case with biological electrode pads according to claim 1, wherein the case body has a watertight structure when the storage area is closed.
3. A storage case with a biological electrode pad is attached to the case, the storage case comprising a flexible attachment sheet having a plurality of electrodes on a back surface of the flexible attachment sheet that is attached to the skin of a living body, and a biological signal processing circuit unit that processes an electrical biological signal detected by the biological electrode pad, The mounting sheet is water vapor permeable, a case body that houses the biological signal processing circuit unit is disposed on the front side of the mounting sheet; In the storage case with biological electrode pads, a ventilation gap that connects to the outside space is provided between the opposing surfaces of the case body and the attachment sheet that are overlapped.
4. 4. A storage case with biological electrode pads as described in claim 3, further comprising a plurality of legs for fixing the case body and the attachment sheet to each other, and the ventilation gap is formed between the plurality of legs.
5. A storage case with biological electrode pads as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the attachment sheet has elasticity that allows it to expand and contract in the planar direction, and at least a portion of the electrical path conducted to the electrode is formed with an expandable portion on the surface of the attachment sheet.
6. 6. The storage case with biological electrode pads according to claim 1, wherein the case body having a storage area for the biological signal processing circuit unit is detachably attached to the attachment sheet.
7. A storage case with a biological electrode pad attached to the skin of a living body for detecting an electrical biological signal from the skin, the storage case for detachably storing therein a biological signal processing circuit unit having a battery as a power source and for processing the biological signal detected by the biological electrode pad, The biological electrode pad is a water vapor permeable attachment sheet that is elastically stretchable and electrically insulating and has an adhesive surface on the back side suitable for attachment to the skin of a living body; A plurality of electrodes positioned at intervals on a rear surface of the mounting sheet and exposed on the rear surface; a plurality of connection parts located in the center of the back surface side of the mounting sheet, electrically insulated, and exposed to the front surface side through openings in the mounting sheet; an electrode connection wiring that is located on the rear surface side of the mounting sheet, is electrically insulated, has at least a stretchable portion, and electrically connects the plurality of electrodes and the plurality of connection portions, respectively; Equipped with The storage case is a receptacle case having a plurality of legs fixed to a center of a front surface side of the mounting sheet of the biological electrode pad and having a partial gap formed between the legs with respect to the front surface of the mounting sheet; a cover case that is watertightly and detachably fitted to the receptacle case; an elastic connection member that penetrates through the openings in the legs of the receptacle case and the opening in the center of the mounting sheet and is positioned within the openings, in order to elastically abut against each of the plurality of connection parts exposed from an opening in the center of the mounting sheet on the front side of the mounting sheet and the biological signal processing circuit unit in the storage case, thereby electrically connecting them; A storage case with electrode pads for biological use.
8. 8. The storage case with biological electrode pads according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of electrodes includes an indifferent electrode and a plurality of detection electrodes.
9. 9. The storage case with biological electrode pads as described in claim 7 or 8, characterized in that a resin substrate, the plurality of electrodes arranged on the lower surface of the resin substrate, the plurality of connection parts arranged on the upper surface of the resin substrate, and electrode connection wiring arranged on the upper surface of the resin substrate and having ends that penetrate the resin substrate to electrically connect the plurality of electrodes and the plurality of connection parts, respectively, constitute a flexible wiring board.
10. A storage case with a biological electrode pad as described in any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the multiple legs of the receptacle case have a base fixed to the receptacle case and a tip that is removably fitted to the base and fixed to the center of the front side of the attachment sheet of the biological electrode pad.
11. 11. The storage case with biological electrode pads according to claim 7, wherein at least one of the receptacle case and the cover case is made of a soft resin.
12. A biological signal processing device using the storage case with biological electrode pads according to any one of claims 1 to 11, A biological signal processing device in which the biological signal processing circuit unit is housed inside the storage case with the biological electrode pads.
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