Wearable devices

Abstract

To provide a wearable apparatus which, in a structure capable of receiving power supply from power generation obtained by rotation, suppresses positional deviation, etc., of a sensor due to a load in the rotation and keeps detection of appropriate biological information.SOLUTION: A wearable apparatus 100 comprises: a first power generation module 10 as a power generation module having a rotation weight 11 where a first direction is an axial direction of the rotation center and a rotation weight receiver 12 including a supporting unit SU supporting the rotation weight 11 in a rotatable manner; and a sensor 30 which detects biological information and is provided so as to be overlapped with the supporting unit SU in the first direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a wearable device that is attached to the body and detects biological information using a sensor. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, a power-generating timepiece that can be worn on the body as a wristwatch and drives the hands of the timepiece using a power-generating device made up of an oscillating weight or the like is known (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-264041 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In contrast, when driving a wearable device that detects biometric information using a sensor, if a vibration-type power generation device composed of a rotating weight, such as that installed in a power-generating watch as exemplified in Patent Document 1 above, is used as is, the load caused by the rotation of the rotating weight may have an effect, and the sensor may not be able to properly detect the biometric information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A wearable device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a power generation module having a rotary weight having a rotation axis along a first direction, a rotary weight holder including a support portion that rotatably supports the rotary weight, and a battery housed in the rotary weight holder and storing power generated by rotation of the rotary weight; a sensor that detects biological information and is arranged to overlap the support portion in the first direction; a control board for controlling the sensor; Equipped with The oscillating weight holder includes an extension portion that extends along the first direction and is provided in a region that overlaps with the support portion in the first direction, and the control board has an insertion opening into which the extension portion is inserted and which overlaps with the sensor in the first direction. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 is a side cross-sectional view for explaining an overview of a wearable device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a wearable device. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the wearable device. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a first power generation module (power generation module) in the wearable device. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the structure of a control board. [Figure 6] 10 is a table illustrating operational states according to the wearing state of a wearable device. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the mode of charging (power generation) by the second power generation module. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view illustrating an outline of a wearable device according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] A wearable device according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a wearable device 100 according to this embodiment. State AR1 shows a conceptual side cross-sectional view of the wearable device 100, and state AR2 shows the wearable device 100 placed on a cradle (stand) CR. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the exterior of the wearable device 100. State BR1 of FIG. 2 shows the wearable device 100 with the cover member CV covering the surface removed, and state BR2 shows the wearable device 100 with the cover member CV attached. The cover member CV is made of a light-transmitting member TR, and as shown in state BR2, the interior can be seen through the light-transmitting member TR. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the wearable device 100. In FIG. 3, state CR1 shows an exploded perspective view of wearable device 100 seen from one direction, and state CR2 shows an exploded perspective view of wearable device 100 seen from another direction.

[0009] 1 and other figures, X, Y, and Z are Cartesian coordinate systems, and the +Z direction is the reference direction (thickness direction) for assembling the wearable device 100, which is referred to as the first direction. As shown in the figures (particularly as shown in FIG. 3), the components constituting the wearable device 100 are arranged side by side so as to overlap in the first direction. The X and Y directions are perpendicular to the Z direction, and most of the components constituting the wearable device 100 have a disk or ring shape that spreads isotropically along the XY plane, i.e., a plane perpendicular to the Z direction. The wearable device 100 as a whole has a thin (flat) cylindrical shape, as shown in FIG. 2. Hereinafter, the side of the wearable device 100 that is relatively on the +Z side will be referred to as the lower side of the wearable device 100, and the side that is relatively on the -Z side will be referred to as the upper side of the wearable device 100.

[0010] Each component of the wearable device 100 will be described below. First, as shown in FIG. 1 and other figures, the wearable device 100 includes a first power generation module 10, a second power generation module 20, and a sensor 30. The first power generation module (power generation module) 10 is a power generation device that generates power through vibration caused by the rotation of a rotary weight 11. Here, the central axis of the cylindrical wearable device 100 is axis AX, and the rotary weight 11 rotates around axis AX. In other words, when a user (operator, wearer) of the wearable device 100 moves the wearable device 100, for example, by wearing it on their arm, the rotary weight 11 rotates, thereby generating power. Note that, in the above description, axis AX is an axis extending along the first direction (+Z direction). The second power generation module 20 is a power generation device that generates power through magnetic force due to electromagnetic induction (more specifically, through external, non-contact power supply). The sensor 30 is a PPG (Photoplethysmography) sensor, i.e., an optical heart rate sensor, for detecting biological information. The sensor 30 is a pulse sensor module that detects and measures the pulse, which is one piece of biological information, by receiving return light that is reflected by the living body out of the light emitted toward the living body.

[0011] 1, wearable device 100 includes, in addition to oscillating weight 11, sensor 30, and cover member CV, oscillating weight holder 12, control board CB, power supply antenna FA, first case member CA1, second case member CA2, lens LS, etc. In the example shown, it is assumed that batteries BA1 and BA2 serving as secondary batteries as well as a generator for generating electricity (not shown) are housed inside disc-shaped oscillating weight holder 12.

[0012] Of these, for example, as shown in FIG. 2 and other figures, the oscillating weight 11 has a fan-like or semicircular shape with the axis AX as its pivot point, and is rotatably supported by a support portion SU formed by a central portion of the oscillating weight receiver 12. As described above, the oscillating weight 11 rotates around the axial direction of the center of rotation, which is the first direction. In the illustrated example, the oscillating weight receiver 12 is attached to an extension portion EX extending in the ±Z directions (first direction) at the center of the support portion SU, thereby enabling stable and highly efficient axial rotation of the oscillating weight 11 around the axis AX as its central axis while suppressing up and down movement in the Z direction. In other words, when the wearer (user) of the wearable device 100 exercises or the like and the wearable device 100 vibrates, the oscillating weight 11 rotates accordingly. As described above, the extension portion EX is provided at approximately the center of the oscillating weight receiver 12 so as to extend in the first direction, and is located in a region overlapping with the support portion SU when viewed from the first direction.

[0013] On the other hand, the oscillating weight holder 12 is provided below the oscillating weight 11 to rotatably support the oscillating weight 11 as described above. In this example, as described above, the oscillating weight holder 12 has a disk-like shape. Here, the radius of the oscillating weight holder 12, measured from the center position (position on the axis AX) of the disk to its edge, is defined as a first radius R1. On the other hand, the radius of the oscillating weight 11, measured from the position of the center of rotation (position on the axis AX) of the sector-shaped oscillating weight 11 to its edge, is defined as a second radius R2. In this case, R2 > R1. That is, the oscillating weight 11 is a member having a second radius R2 that is larger than the first radius R1 of the oscillating weight holder 12. The oscillating weight holder 12 is composed of an upper portion 12a that constitutes the upper side, i.e., the side that supports the oscillating weight 11, and a lower portion 12b that constitutes the lower side. As described above, a battery (secondary battery) BA1 and the like are provided between the upper portion 12a and the lower portion 12b. Rotation of the oscillating weight 11 is transmitted to a generator (not shown) housed inside the oscillating weight holder 12 via the oscillating weight wheel WW and the like, generating electric power, which is then stored in the battery BA1. In the above case, the first power generation module 10, which generates electric power through vibration, is configured by the oscillating weight 11, the oscillating weight holder 12, and the like as a power generation module constituting the wearable device 100 of this embodiment. In the example shown in the figure, a battery BA2 is provided separately, and electric power from the second power generation module 20, which will be described later, is stored in the battery BA2. Looking at the above aspect from a different perspective, the oscillating weight holder 12 is provided between the oscillating weight 11 and the second power generation module 20 in a side cross-sectional view as shown in FIG. 1.

[0014] Furthermore, a ring-shaped plate member PL made of sheet metal is attached and fixed between the oscillating weight 11 and the oscillating weight holder 12, and is provided to form the peripheral portion of the oscillating weight holder 12. An example of the attachment of the plate member PL will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0015] The control board CB is a disk-shaped member. In the illustrated example, an insertion port IP, into which the extension portion EX of the oscillating weight holder 12 is inserted, is provided in the center of the disk. Furthermore, a cylindrical resin mounting member PM is attached to the insertion port IP, and the extension portion EX is inserted so as to penetrate the mounting member PM. This may allow, for example, the oscillating weight holder 12 and the like to be positioned relative to the control board CB. The control board CB includes a CPU and other components in the disk-shaped main body, and controls the sensor 30 as well as performs various operational processes in the wearable device 100, such as power supply, power supply to each component, and recording of biometric information. Here, the control board CB particularly controls the sensor 30 by supplying power to the sensor 30. In the illustrated example, the insertion port IP of the control board CB is located toward the center, overlapping with the sensor 30 in the first direction. Although not shown, the control board CB has contacts, i.e., a wired connection, on, for example, the side surface of the disk shape to the oscillating weight receiver 12, more precisely, to the batteries BA1 and BA2 housed inside the oscillating weight receiver 12, in order to receive power. As a result, the sensor 30 receives power from the first power generation module 10 and the second power generation module 20 via the control board CB. Details of one configuration example of the control board CB will be described later with reference to FIG. 5.

[0016] The power feeding antenna FA is an NFC (Near Field Communication) antenna made up of, for example, a loop coil, and is capable of receiving radio waves from outside. In this example, it is connected to a control board CB, and performs contactless power feeding using transmission from an external transmitting antenna under the control of the control board CB. This allows, for example, power to be stored in a battery BA2, although detailed illustrations are omitted. That is, the wearable device 100 is able to generate power by electromagnetic induction (by magnetic force) using the power feeding antenna FA. In the above case, the second power generation module 20 that generates power by magnetic force is made up of the power feeding antenna FA and a processing unit of the control board CB that performs operation processing for contactless power feeding.

[0017] Although the external transmitting antenna is not shown in the figure, for example, the transmitting antenna can be provided in the cradle CR illustrated as state AR2 in Figure 1, and power can be supplied (charged) by placing the wearable device 100 in the cradle CR when the wearable device 100 is not being worn.

[0018] In addition to the above, for example, the cover member CV is a member for covering the surface, i.e., the uppermost side, of the wearable device 100, and in the example shown, is formed of a light-transmitting member TR made of glass or resin and a circular frame body RF provided on the peripheral side of the light-transmitting member TR.

[0019] The first case member CA1 is a cylindrical frame member made of resin, for example, and is attached to the lower part (on the +Z side) of the cover member CV (light-transmitting member TR). The oscillating weight 11 and oscillating weight holder 12 that constitute the first power generation module 10 are covered by the cover member CV and the first case member CA1. More specifically, the first power generation module 10 is covered from the upper side (-Z side) by the cover member CV, and is attached to the lower side (on the +Z side) of the first case member CA1. In the above-described arrangement, for example, the extension portion EX of the oscillating weight holder 12 of the first power generation module 10 is located approximately in the center of the first case member CA1 when viewed from the first direction.

[0020] The second case member CA2 is made of, for example, resin, has a disk-like shape with an edge, and further has a hole HH in the center, and is attached to the lower part (+Z side) of the first case member CA1. The sensor 30 and the power supply antenna FA and control board CB that constitute the second power generation module 20, as well as the sensor 30, are covered by the first case member CA1 and the second case member CA2. More specifically, the second power generation module 20 and the sensor 30 are attached to the first case member CA1 on the upper side (-Z side), and the sensor 30 is attached to the second case member CA2 on the lower side (+Z side).

[0021] In the above case, the first power generation module 10 is attached to one side (-Z side, upper side) of the first case member CA1, and the second power generation module 20 is attached to the other side (+Z side, lower side).

[0022] As described above, sensor 30 emits irradiated light toward a living body and receives return light reflected by the living body to measure a pulse. To accurately perform this operation, sensor 30 is installed so as to emit irradiated light in a direction X while being positioned at a center position, i.e., on axis AX. Specifically, in the above configuration, sensor 30 is installed so as to fit into hole HH in the first direction (Z direction), and lens LS is provided in second case member CA2 at a location corresponding to hole HH so as to protrude outward (downward; +Z side). In this case, sensor 30 and lens LS are arranged side by side on axis AX and overlap in the first direction. As a result, the irradiated light emitted from sensor 30 in the +Z direction is irradiated from the center position on the back surface of wearable device 100 via lens LS toward the outside, that is, toward the living body located on the lower side (+Z side), and the returning light of the irradiated light toward the living body that is reflected by the living body reaches sensor 30 via lens LS and is received by sensor 30. Note that, as a result of the above-mentioned arrangement, sensor 30 is arranged so as to overlap with support portion SU of oscillating weight receiver 12 in the first direction.

[0023] 1, a buffer member CU is provided between the control board CB and the sensor 30. In the illustrated example, an insertion port IP of the control board CB or an attachment member PM associated therewith is present above the sensor 30, and the buffer member CU is attached so as to be sandwiched between the insertion port IP and the sensor 30.

[0024] Hereinafter, a more specific embodiment of the configuration of the first power generation module 10 of the wearable device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. In particular, the plate member (metal plate) PL of the first power generation module 10 and its attachment will be described. In Fig. 4, state DR1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of how the plate member PL is attached to the oscillating weight 11 and oscillating weight holder 12 that constitute the first power generation module 10, and state DR2 is a perspective cross-sectional view showing the state of the first power generation module 10 after the plate member PL has been attached.

[0025] As shown in step α1 of state DR1, a typical oscillating weight 11 and oscillating weight holder 12 may have a shape that does not allow sufficient attachment to other components at their peripheral portions (edge ​​portions). More specifically, in this embodiment, an attachment portion is required for attaching the first power generation module 10 from one side (the -Z side) of the first case member CA1. Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in the figure, a ring-shaped plate member PL having through holes TH for screwing to other components is provided between the oscillating weight 11 and the oscillating weight holder 12 in the first direction. Specifically, as shown in step α1, the oscillating weight 11 and the oscillating weight holder 12 without the plate member PL are temporarily disassembled as shown in step α2, and the plate member PL is sandwiched between them. The disassembled oscillating weight 11 and the oscillating weight holder 12 are then reassembled as shown in step α3 to form the first power generation module 10 with the plate member PL. In this case, the plate member PL forms the peripheral edge of the first power generation module 10, and is a member that is fixed to the first case member CA1 as shown in FIG.

[0026] An example of the structure of the control substrate CB will be described below with reference to the conceptual diagram shown in Fig. 5. In Fig. 5, state ER1 is a conceptual plan view of the control substrate CB, and state ER2 is a conceptual side view of the control substrate CB and its surrounding area.

[0027] As shown in the figure, in this example, the control board CB includes a data management unit DM, a memory (flash) ME, a communication antenna (BLE: Bluetooth Low Energy) CC, a posture detection device PO, a power supply circuit PP, and a power supply antenna circuit AC, in addition to the additionally provided power supply antenna FA. Furthermore, as shown in state ER2, the sensor 30 is also connected to the control board CB. The sensor 30 includes, for example, a drive circuit, receives power from the control board CB, and performs detection operations in accordance with commands from the control board CB. In the example shown, the sensor 30 includes a light-emitting unit 30a and a light-receiving unit 30b. The light-emitting unit 30a of the sensor 30 emits irradiated light toward the living body. The light-receiving unit 30b receives the return light reflected by the living body from the irradiated light emitted from the light-emitting unit 30a. At least one of the light-emitting unit 30a and the light-receiving unit 30b is disposed in the first direction at a position approximately at the center where it overlaps with the support portion SU (see FIG. 1) of the oscillating weight receiver 12. As described above, the wearable device 100 controls the operation of the light-emitting unit 30a and the light-receiving unit 30b that constitute the sensor 30, and acquires and manages data related to emission from the light-emitting unit 30a and data related to reception of returned light by the light-receiving unit 30b.

[0028] In order to perform the above-described operations, the data management unit DM of the wearable device 100 is, for example, composed of an MCU (Memory Control Unit) or the like, and manages various data related to biometric information acquired by sensing with the sensor 30.

[0029] The memory ME is configured with a storage device such as a flash memory, and stores data that is acquired and to be managed according to instructions from the data management unit DM.

[0030] The communication antenna CC is an antenna for performing short-range wireless communication using extremely low power, such as BLE, and transmits various data related to biometric information stored in the memory ME to the outside.

[0031] The posture detection device PO is a device for detecting the posture (movement) of the wearable device 100, and in the illustrated example, is composed of an acceleration sensor AA and a gyro sensor JS. When the wearable device 100 is worn by a user (a user, a wearer), the wearable device 100 also begins to move when the user starts exercising. By capturing this movement, i.e., a change in posture, the posture detection device PO can determine whether the user is currently exercising or resting. In addition, as a usage mode of the wearable device 100, the acceleration sensor AA and the gyro sensor JS can detect specific movements to determine that exercise has begun, which can then be used as a trigger to start acquiring biometric information during exercise by the sensor 30.

[0032] The power supply circuit PP is a circuit for stably supplying the power required for the operation of each of the above-mentioned components, and is configured to include a capacitor, etc. The power supply circuit PP uses the power stored in not only battery BA1 but also battery BA2 (see Figure 1) to ensure stable and continuous operation of acquiring biometric information.

[0033] The power feeding antenna circuit AC is a circuit for controlling the operation of the power feeding antenna FA. As described above, the power feeding antenna FA receives power (charges) from an external source when the wearable device 100 is placed in the cradle CR and is not being used by the user. In this case, the power feeding antenna circuit AC controls the power supply operation by the power feeding antenna FA and controls the operation of storing power in the battery BA2 (see FIG. 1).

[0034] With the above configuration, when the wearable device 100 is not being worn, power is generated (power is fed) in the second power generation module 20, which is composed of a power feeding antenna FA and the like, and power is thereby accumulated. On the other hand, when the wearable device 100 is being worn, the wearable device 100 moves together with the user wearing the wearable device 100, causing vibrations, which in turn generate power in the first power generation module 10, thereby accumulating power. Because the wearable device 100 is configured to operate based on power generation in both the first power generation module 10 and the second power generation module 20, power shortages are further reduced and stable biological detection can be maintained.

[0035] An example of the operating conditions according to the wearing state of the wearable device 100 will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0036] The table shown in FIG. 6 shows the change in the operational status of the wearable device 100 over time from before the user puts on the wearable device 100 to while wearing it and after wearing it, with the horizontal direction in the table representing the flow of time. Here, as an example of a specific usage mode, first, before starting exercise (before wearing the wearable device 100), the wearable device 100 is placed in the cradle CR, and charging (power generation and power supply) is performed in the second power generation module 20. Thereafter, the user puts on the wearable device 100 and starts exercising, and measurement (detection of biological information) by the wearable device 100 begins. After exercising for, for example, about one hour, the user takes a short break (when not exercising), and after the break, the user resumes exercising, for example, after exercising for, for example, about one hour, and then measurement by the wearable device 100 ends. Such an operational mode is assumed as an example. The measurement (detection) results are recorded in memory ME (see Figure 5) within wearable device 100 until the end of exercise, and after the end of exercise, the various recorded data are transmitted together to the outside via communication antenna CC.

[0037] The above aspects will be described in detail below in chronological order. First, before wearing, i.e., when not wearing, the wearable device 100 is charged by being placed, for example, in the cradle CR. That is, power is stored by power generation (power supply) in the second power generation module 20. Meanwhile, in this case, no vibration occurs, and no power is generated in the first power generation module 10. Also, in this case, the sensor 30 does not operate, and no operation to obtain biological information (measurement of pulse) is performed.

[0038] Subsequently, when the wearable device 100 is removed from the cradle CR, the user puts on the wearable device 100 and activates it by performing an appropriate operation (when wearing the device). When the user starts exercising (when exercising), the first power generation module 10 generates power in response to the vibration of the wearable device 100, and electric power is accumulated. Meanwhile, in this case, the second power generation module 20 does not generate (supply) power. Even when wearing the device, if the user stops exercising and rests (when not exercising), vibration ceases, and power generation by the first power generation module 10 ceases. When the user resumes exercising, power generation by the first power generation module 10 resumes. However, the sensor 30 continues sensing whether the user is exercising or not. That is, when wearing the device, the sensor 30 continues to acquire biometric information (measure pulse rate) regardless of whether the user is exercising or resting. As described above, determining whether the user is exercising or not can be done using, for example, the posture detection device PO (see FIG. 5 ). Alternatively, a button or the like (not shown) may be provided on the side of the disc-shaped wearable device 100, and the user may press this to switch between exercising and non-exercising mode.

[0039] Thereafter, when the user finishes exercising and performs an operation to stop the operation of the wearable device 100 to end the pulse measurement, the operation of the sensor 30 is stopped. In this case, for example, before the wearable device 100 is placed in the cradle CR, neither the first power generation module 10 nor the second power generation module 20 generates power (supplies power).

[0040] However, voltage monitoring in the wearable device 100 continues throughout the entire process described above to check the operating status of the wearable device 100. That is, voltage monitoring logs are saved continuously from the time of charging before wearing the wearable device 100 to the time the exercise ends, except for the time from when the voltage drops until it recovers.

[0041] In addition, with regard to time management that is performed in conjunction with operations to acquire the various types of data described above, for example, when charging before wearing the device, absolute time is set based on management by an external device (not shown) using short-range communication via communication antenna CC, but when wearing the device, time is maintained using an RTC (real-time clock) installed inside wearable device 100.

[0042] The above-described operational mode is merely an example and can be changed to various modes. For example, the first power generation module 10 may continue to generate power in response to vibrations even before the wearable device 100 is started or after the wearable device 100 has stopped operating.

[0043] 7, a description will be given of the manner in which charging (power generation; power supply) is performed by the second power generation module 20. Charging by the second power generation module 20 is performed by electromagnetic induction, i.e., by utilizing magnetic force (changes in the magnetic field). In this case, for example, the rotation of the oscillating weight 11 in the first power generation module 10 may affect the magnetic field.

[0044] Therefore, here, when charging (generating power; supplying power) using the second power generation module 20, we will particularly consider the distance from the first power generation module 10, the placement of a ferromagnetic sheet between the second power generation module 20 and the first power generation module 10, and the positional relationship between the rotor 11 and rotor weight holder 12 that make up the first power generation module 10.

[0045] First, in the example shown in state FR1 in Figure 7, the power supply antenna FA constituting the second power generation module 20 is disposed at an appropriate distance X (e.g., X = 10 mm) from the transmitting antenna TA, which is the power supply source, in the first direction (Z direction) in a side cross-sectional view, and further, the distance A from the first power generation module 10 to the second power generation module 20 is set to 2 mm or more. Note that the transmitting antenna TA can be appropriately selected to be suitable for power supply in accordance with the configuration of the power supply antenna FA. Furthermore, in the example of this embodiment described so far, as shown in the figure, the rotatable oscillating weight 11 of the first power generation module 10 is disposed on the farther side (-Z side) from the second power generation module 20 than the oscillating weight holder 12 to which it is fixed (

[0046] It has been found that the above-described arrangement allows stable charging (power generation; power supply) by the second power generation module 20.

[0047] 7, in an example shown in state FR2, the wearable device 100 is configured with a ferromagnetic sheet MS between the first power generation module 10 (feeding antenna FA) and the second power generation module 20. Here, a ferrite sheet is used as an example of the ferromagnetic sheet MS. Note that in this example, as in the example shown in state FR1, the oscillating weight 11 is positioned on the side farther from the second power generation module 20 (the -Z side) than the oscillating weight holder 12.

[0048] It has been found that with the above configuration, charging (power generation; power supply) by the second power generation module 20 can be performed more stably. In particular, it has been found that in this case, the distance A can be set to 2 mm or less. In the illustration, the ferromagnetic sheet (ferrite sheet) MS is depicted as being separate and independent from the power supply antenna FA, but it is also possible to configure the ferrite sheet as the ferromagnetic sheet MS to be joined to the power supply antenna FA.

[0049] 7, in an example shown in state FR3, the positional relationship between the oscillating weight 11 and the oscillating weight holder 12 is reversed from the example shown in state FR2, i.e., from the state in which the ferromagnetic sheet MS is provided. In other words, the positioning is changed so that the oscillating weight 11 is closer to the second power generation module 20 (on the +Z side) than the oscillating weight holder 12. Even with the above configuration, it has been found that charging (power generation; power supply) by the second power generation module 20 can be performed stably by setting the distance A to 2 mm or more.

[0050] However, it was also found that if the example state shown in state FR3 is changed to a configuration that does not use the ferromagnetic sheet MS, charging (power generation; power supply) by the second power generation module 20 cannot be performed normally even if the distance A is set to 2 mm.

[0051] For the above reasons, in the configuration of this embodiment, the distance A is set to 2 mm or more, or a ferromagnetic sheet MS is inserted between the second power generation module 20 (power supply antenna FA) and the first power generation module 10. This makes it possible to stably maintain charging (power generation; power supply) by the second power generation module 20 in a configuration including the first power generation module 10.

[0052] It should be noted that, from the viewpoint of, for example, wearing the wearable device 100 on the arm while exercising, it is desirable to set the upper limit of the distance A within, for example, about 10 mm in order to maintain a thin (compact) shape for ease of wearing. The distance X is determined as appropriate depending on the feeding antenna FA and transmitting antenna TA employed.

[0053] As described above, the wearable device 100 of this embodiment includes a first power generation module 10 as a power generation module having an oscillating weight 11 with the first direction as the axial direction of the rotation center and an oscillating weight receiver 12 including a support portion SU that rotatably supports the oscillating weight 11, and a sensor 30 that detects biological information and is arranged to overlap with the support portion SU in the first direction. In the wearable device 100 described above, in a structure that enables the sensor 30 to receive power from the first power generation module 10 that generates power through the rotation of the oscillating weight 11, the sensor 30 is arranged to overlap with the support portion SU of the oscillating weight receiver 12 that rotatably supports the oscillating weight 11 in the first direction, which is the axial direction of the rotation center. This prevents the sensor 30 from shifting in position due to a load caused by the rotation of the oscillating weight 11, and ensures appropriate detection of biological information.

[0054] In addition, in this embodiment, the configuration is environmentally friendly as it combines power generation technology that utilizes not only external power supply from the second power generation module 20 but also vibrations of the wearable device 100.

[0055] . A modified wearable device 100 will be outlined below with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 corresponds to the state shown as state AR1 in Fig. 1.

[0056] This modified example differs from the above-described example in that it does not have the second power generation module 20. That is, as is clear when comparing the wearable device 100 of this modified example illustrated in Fig. 8 with the case shown in Fig. 1, it does not have the power feeding antenna FA that constitutes the second power generation module 20 or the battery BA2 that stores the power generated in the second power generation module 20. Note that other than this point, it is the same as the case described with reference to Fig. 1 etc., and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0057] In the above embodiment, sensing operation by the sensor 30 is also possible using the power generated in the first power generation module 10 as the rotary weight 11 rotates. Also in this case, by providing the sensor 30 so that it overlaps with the support portion SU that rotatably supports the rotary weight 11 in the first direction, which is the axial direction of the rotation center, it is possible to prevent the sensor 30 from shifting in position due to the load generated when the rotary weight 11 rotates.

[0058] In this modified example, in addition to the case where the power supply source is only the first power generation module 10, it is also possible to configure a configuration in which a separate power supply source different from the second power generation module 20 is provided. For example, it is possible to configure a configuration in which a contact-type charging facility is provided. In the case where only the first power generation module 10 is provided, it is even more environmentally friendly.

[0059] [Variations and Others] The present invention has been described above in accordance with the embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit of the invention, and for example, the following modifications are also possible.

[0060] In the wearable device 100 of each of the above embodiments, the first power generation module 10 is configured with an extension portion EX at the center of the support portion SU of the oscillating weight receiver 12, but this is not limiting and various other configurations are possible as long as the rotation of the oscillating weight 11 accompanying vibration is appropriately maintained, and it is also possible to configure the device without the extension portion EX. Furthermore, if the extension portion EX is not provided, the control board CB may also be configured without the insertion port IP.

[0061] In the above description, the oscillating weight receiver 12 is provided with a battery BA1 that stores electricity generated by the first power generation module 10 and a battery BA2 that stores electricity generated by the second power generation module 20 as secondary batteries, but these may be replaced by a single secondary battery. By combining the power supply from these batteries, the power supply can be stabilized.

[0062] In addition, various modes can be adopted for starting and stopping the biometric information detection operation in the wearable device 100. For example, various operation buttons may be provided on the exterior side of the wearable device 100, and the start and stop of the detection operation may be determined solely by accepting operations from the user.

[0063] Furthermore, in the above, the light emitting section 30a and the light receiving section 30b are provided separately in the sensor 30, but the light emitting section 30a and the light receiving section 30b may be provided integrally.

[0064] In a specific embodiment, the wearable device comprises a power generation module having a rotating weight whose axial direction is the first direction and a rotating weight holder including a support part that rotatably supports the rotating weight, and a sensor that detects biometric information and is arranged to overlap the support part in the first direction.

[0065] In the above-mentioned wearable device, the sensor is configured to receive power from a power generation module that generates electricity through the rotation of the rotating weight. By arranging the sensor so that it overlaps with a support part that rotatably supports the rotating weight in a first direction, which is the axial direction of the rotation center, it is possible to suppress displacement of the sensor due to the load generated when the rotating weight rotates, and maintain appropriate detection of biometric information.

[0066] In a specific aspect, the device includes a control board that controls the sensor, the oscillating weight receiver includes an extending portion that extends in a first direction and is provided in a region that overlaps with the support portion in the first direction, and the control board has an insertion opening into which the extending portion is inserted and that overlaps with the sensor in the first direction. In this case, for example, it is possible to stabilize the rotational operation using the extending portion as a reference, and it is also possible to accurately determine the center position.

[0067] In a specific aspect, the extension portion is provided at approximately the center of the oscillating weight receiver when viewed from the first direction. In this case, it is possible to stabilize the rotation of the oscillating weight with the extension portion as a reference.

[0068] In a specific aspect, the sensor includes a buffer member provided between the control board and the sensor in a side cross-sectional view, whereby interference between the control board and the sensor can be avoided by the buffer member.

[0069] In a specific aspect, the device includes a light-transmitting member covering the surface, a first case member attached to the lower part of the light-transmitting member, and a second case member attached to the lower part of the first case member, the power generation module is covered by the light-transmitting member and the first case member, and the sensor and control board are covered by the first case member and the second case member. In this case, assembly can be performed with high precision, and by covering the surface with the light-transmitting member, the internal state (movement of the power generation module with rotation of the oscillating weight) can be visually confirmed.

[0070] In a specific aspect, the extension portion is provided at approximately the center of the first case member when viewed from the first direction, which makes it possible to assemble each component to the first case member so as to stabilize the rotation of the oscillating weight with the first case member as a reference.

[0071] In a specific aspect, the power generation module has a plate member that forms a peripheral portion and is fixed to the first case member, and the plate member is provided between the oscillating weight and the oscillating weight holder. In this case, forming the peripheral portion with the plate member makes it possible to easily and reliably assemble the oscillating weight and the oscillating weight holder to other members with high precision.

[0072] In a specific aspect, the sensor includes a lens that is provided so as to overlap with the sensor in the first direction, the sensor is provided between the control board and the lens in the first direction, and the lens protrudes outward beyond the second case member in a side cross-sectional view, in which case the sensing operation of the sensor via the lens can be performed appropriately.

[0073] In a specific aspect, the oscillating weight holder is a member having a first radius, and the oscillating weight is a member having a second radius larger than the first radius. In this case, the oscillating weight holder can accurately maintain a state in which the oscillating weight is supported and rotated with high efficiency.

[0074] In a specific aspect, the sensor has a light-emitting unit that emits irradiated light toward a living body and a light-receiving unit that receives return light of the irradiated light reflected by the living body, and at least one of the light-emitting unit and the light-receiving unit overlaps with the support unit in the first direction. In this case, it is possible to reliably acquire target biological information based on data regarding the emission of irradiated light and data regarding the reception of return light. [Explanation of symbols]

[0075] 10...first power generation module, 11...oscillating weight, 12...oscillating weight receiver, 12a...upper part, 12b...lower part, 20...second power generation module, 30...sensor, 30a...light emitting part, 30b...light receiving part, 100...wearable device, A...distance, AA...acceleration sensor, AC...power supply antenna circuit, AX...axis, BA1, BA2...battery, CA1...first case member, CA2...second case member, CB...control board, CC...communication antenna, CR...cradle, CU...buffer member, CV...cover - member, DM...data management unit, EX...extension, FA...power supply antenna, HH...hole, IP...insertion port, JS...gyro sensor, LS...lens, ME...memory, MS...ferromagnetic sheet, PL...plate member, PM...mounting member, PO...posture detection device, PP...power supply circuit, R1...first radius, R2...second radius, RF...frame, SU...supporting portion, TA...transmitting antenna, TH...through hole, TR...light-transmitting member, WW...oscillating weight wheel, X...distance, α1...process, α2...process, α3...process

Claims

1. a power generation module including: an oscillating weight having a rotation axis along a first direction; an oscillating weight holder including a support portion that rotatably supports the oscillating weight; and a battery housed in the oscillating weight holder that stores electric power generated by rotation of the oscillating weight; a sensor that detects biological information and is provided so as to overlap with the support part in the first direction; a control board that controls the sensor, the oscillating weight holder includes an extending portion that extends along the first direction and is provided in a region that overlaps with the support portion in the first direction, The control board is a wearable device having an insertion opening into which the extension portion is inserted and which overlaps with the sensor in the first direction.

2. The wearable device according to claim 1 , wherein the extension portion is provided at a substantial center of the oscillating weight receiver when viewed from the first direction.

3. The wearable device according to claim 1 , further comprising a buffer member provided between the control board and the sensor in a side cross-sectional view.

4. a light-transmitting member covering the surface; a first case member attached to a lower portion of the light-transmitting member; a second case member attached to a lower portion of the first case member, the power generation module is covered with the light-transmitting member and the first case member, The wearable device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the sensor and the control board are covered by the first case member and the second case member.

5. The wearable device according to claim 4 , wherein the extension portion is provided at a substantial center of the first case member when viewed from the first direction.

6. the power generation module has a plate member that forms a peripheral portion and is fixed to the first case member; The wearable device according to claim 4 , wherein the plate member is provided between the oscillating weight and the oscillating weight holder.

7. a lens provided to overlap the sensor in the first direction; the sensor is provided between the control board and the lens in the first direction; The wearable device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the lens protrudes outward beyond the second case member in a side cross-sectional view.

8. the oscillating weight holder is a member having a first radius, The wearable device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the oscillating weight is a member having a second radius larger than the first radius.

9. The sensor includes a light emitting unit that emits irradiation light toward a living body, and a light receiving unit that receives return light of the irradiation light that is reflected by the living body, The wearable device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least one of the light-emitting unit and the light-receiving unit overlaps with the support unit in the first direction.

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