Exhaled breath component measuring device, exhaled breath component measuring system, exhaled breath component measuring method, and exhaled breath component measuring program

Abstract

To enable the miniaturization of a device.SOLUTION: An exhalation component measuring device comprises a sensor that measures an exhalation component and of which duration of service is determined, and a storage section that stores a use start date of the sensor. The exhalation component measuring device comprises a measurement date acquisition section that acquires a measurement date on the basis of date information acquired from an external information terminal when in use. The exhalation component measuring device comprises a measurement allowing section that allows the sensor to execute measurement processing when elapsed time based on a relationship between the use start date stored in the storage section and the measurement date acquired by the measurement date acquisition means within the duration of service.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to an exhaled gas component measuring device, an exhaled gas component measuring system, an exhaled gas component measuring method, and an exhaled gas component measuring program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an alcohol detection system.

[0003] The alcohol detection system stores the history information of an alcohol gas sensor in an EEPROM. Then, the alcohol detection system manages the usage period of the alcohol gas sensor based on the history information stored in the EEPROM.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in a device using such a system, a built-in clock for managing the usage period of the alcohol gas sensor is required. Further, since the built-in clock needs to operate continuously, in addition to the main body power source that operates the control unit and the like, a built-in battery dedicated to the built-in clock is required.

[0006] For this reason, the installation space for the built-in clock and the built-in battery dedicated to the built-in clock is required, which has been a factor inhibiting miniaturization and a factor inhibiting the design freedom. Further, when the battery of the built-in clock runs out, the product life often ends.

[0007] On the other hand, in configurations where the built-in clock battery is replaceable, there were problems such as the need for periodic maintenance to replace the battery, and the possibility that users might continue using the device without realizing that the built-in clock battery had run out.

[0008] This invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to enable miniaturization of the device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A breath component measuring device according to one aspect of the present invention is a breath component measuring device having a sensor for measuring breath components, the sensor having a defined usage period, and a storage unit for storing the date and time the sensor started using. The breath component measuring device includes a measurement time acquisition means for acquiring the measurement date and time based on date and time information obtained from an external information terminal during use. The breath component measuring device includes a measurement permission means for allowing the sensor to perform measurement processing if the elapsed period based on the relationship between the start date and time of use stored in the storage unit and the measurement date and time acquired by the measurement time acquisition means is within the usage period. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to this embodiment of the breath component measuring device, the usage period of the sensor is managed using the measurement date and time obtained from an external information terminal.

[0011] Therefore, this breath component measuring device can manage the sensor's usage period without using a built-in clock, eliminating the need for a built-in clock and its dedicated battery space compared to devices that use a built-in clock to manage the sensor's usage period.

[0012] Therefore, it becomes possible to miniaturize the breath component measurement device.

[0013] Furthermore, the breath component analyzer does not require a built-in clock, nor does it require a dedicated built-in battery for the clock. This eliminates the hassle of periodically replacing the built-in battery, which is necessary when using a device with a built-in clock.

[0014] This improves convenience.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an exhaled component measurement system including an exhaled component measurement device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the inside of an exhaled component measurement device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a state where a sensor cartridge unit is removed from a main body unit of an exhaled component measurement device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an exhaled component measurement device according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration in a state where a sensor cartridge unit is attached to a main body unit of an exhaled component measurement device according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an information terminal according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an exhaled component measurement system according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of an exhaled component measurement system according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart following FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart following FIG. 9. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the display of each message displayed on an information terminal.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0016] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0017] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an exhaled component measurement system 12 including an exhaled component measurement device 10 according to an embodiment.

[0018] The exhaled component measurement system 12 is, as an example, a system that enables an administrator to manage the concentration of a measurement target component in the exhaled components contained in the exhaled breath of a subject.

[0019] As an example of the administrator, there is an administrator of the management department of a transportation company. Also, as an example of the subject, there is a truck driver.

[0020] In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the administrator is an administrator of the management department of a transportation company and the subject is a truck driver, but this embodiment is not limited to this.

[0021] For example, the administrator may be an administrator of a taxi company and the subject may be a taxi driver. Also, the administrator may be an administrator of a railway company and the subject may be a train driver. Furthermore, the administrator may be an administrator of an airline company and the subject may be a pilot.

[0022] The exhaled component measurement system 12 includes an exhaled component measurement device 10, a portable information terminal 14 communicably connected to the exhaled component measurement device 10, and a management device 16 communicably connected to the information terminal 14.

[0023] The exhaled component measurement device 10 operates according to an exhaled component measurement program. The information terminal 14 operates according to an application program installed in the information terminal 14. The exhaled component measurement device 10 and the information terminal 14 communicate with each other by means of a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication function or a wireless LAN communication function.

[0024] The management device 16 is, for example, composed of a personal computer. Furthermore, the management device 16 is formed by this personal computer operating according to a management program. The management device 16 is connected to the information terminal 14 via a computer network 18 such as the Internet, and the management device 16 exchanges data with the information terminal 14.

[0025] A server 19 that distributes time information is connected to the Internet, which constitutes the computer network 18. One example of such a server 19 is an NTP (Network Time Protocol) server that distributes time information using GPS (Global Positioning System) or atomic clocks.

[0026] The measurement results obtained by the breath component analyzer 10 are sent to the information terminal 14 via BLE communication and recorded and managed on the information terminal 14. Furthermore, the measurement results sent to the information terminal 14 are sent to the management device 16 via the computer network 18 and recorded and managed on the management device 16.

[0027] Furthermore, the information terminal 14 obtains time information from the server 19 via the internet, which constitutes the computer network 18. Based on the time information obtained from the server 19, the information terminal 14 can correct the time on its built-in clock.

[0028] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the inside of a breath component measuring device 10 according to one embodiment. Figure 3 is a diagram showing the state in which the sensor cartridge unit 22 has been removed from the main unit 20 of the breath component measuring device 10 according to one embodiment.

[0029] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the breath component measuring device 10 comprises a main unit 20 and a sensor cartridge unit 22 that is detachably attached to the main unit 20.

[0030] The breath component measuring device 10 comprises a vertically elongated rectangular housing 23. The housing 23 includes the main housing 20A of the main unit 20 and the cartridge housing 22A of the sensor cartridge unit 22.

[0031] An identification code (not shown) is printed on the back of the main unit housing 20A. This identification code is different for each breath component measuring device 10, and the code data indicated by the identification code allows for the identification of the device number assigned to each breath component measuring device 10.

[0032] By using the code data indicated by this identification code, it is possible to determine which breath component measuring device 10 is associated with that identification code.

[0033] <Sensor Cartridge> The sensor cartridge unit 22 is provided with a cartridge substrate 30. The cartridge substrate 30 is provided with a cylindrical intake portion 32. The intake portion 32 communicates with the outside through an opening (not shown) provided in the cartridge housing 22A of the sensor cartridge unit 22.

[0034] The intake section 32 can be fitted with, for example, a replaceable mouthpiece (not shown). The mouthpiece is cylindrical in shape and, for example, guides the subject's exhaled breath to the intake section 32 when the subject holds the mouthpiece in their mouth and blows air into it.

[0035] The intake section 32 is connected to the first connection section 38 of the measuring sensor 36 via a pipe 34. A connection nozzle 40 extends from the measuring sensor 36. The tip of the connection nozzle 40 protrudes from the edge of the cartridge substrate 30 and also from the sensor cartridge unit 22 (see Figure 3).

[0036] The measuring sensor 36 is a sensor that measures the concentration of the target component. The measuring sensor 36 has a defined usage period during which it is capable of measuring the target component, which is the breath component.

[0037] The components to be measured include acetone, methyl mercaptan and other gases that cause bad breath, or alcohol components, all of which are present in exhaled breath.

[0038] If the measurement sensor 36 is configured with a sensor that measures acetone components, the measurement sensor 36 measures the concentration of acetone contained in exhaled breath. This allows for the measurement of, for example, the degree of body fat burning.

[0039] Furthermore, if the measurement sensor 36 is configured with a sensor that measures odor-causing gas components such as methyl mercaptan, the measurement sensor 36 will measure the concentration of odor-causing gases contained in the exhaled breath. This allows for, for example, a halitosis test to be performed.

[0040] Furthermore, if the measurement sensor 36 is configured with a sensor that measures the concentration of alcohol components, the measurement sensor 36 will measure the concentration of alcohol contained in the breath. This allows for, for example, a pre-driving alcohol test.

[0041] The measurement sensor 36 in this embodiment is composed of a sensor that measures the concentration of alcohol components, and the component to be measured by the measurement sensor 36 is alcohol.

[0042] Examples of the measuring sensor 36 include an alcohol gas sensor or a fuel cell gas sensor. In this embodiment, the measuring sensor 36 is composed of a fuel cell gas sensor.

[0043] This fuel cell gas sensor generates an electric current corresponding to the concentration of the detected alcohol component. By measuring the generated current, the concentration of the alcohol component in the fluid can be determined.

[0044] In this context, air is an example of a fluid containing the component to be measured. The fluid described in this embodiment is air.

[0045] The measuring sensor 36 measures the concentration of alcohol components by utilizing a chemical reaction with the alcohol component. For this reason, the measuring sensor 36 has a limited usage period, which is determined based on the sensor's lifespan.

[0046] If the usage time of the measurement sensor 36 exceeds the usage period, the measurement sensor 36 built into the sensor cartridge unit 22 can be replaced along with the sensor storage unit 44, which will be described later, by replacing the sensor cartridge unit 22.

[0047] The cartridge board 30 is equipped with a sensor storage unit 44, which stores the start date and time of use of the measurement sensor 36. The sensor storage unit 44 stores information for managing the usage period of the measurement sensor 36. The information stored in the sensor storage unit 44 includes the start date and time of use, which indicates the date and time when the measurement sensor 36 was first used.

[0048] As a result, the sensor cartridge unit 22 includes a measuring sensor 36, which is a sensor, and a sensor storage unit 44.

[0049] Furthermore, electronic components are mounted on the cartridge board 30. The mounted electronic components include a thermistor (not shown) that constitutes a temperature sensor whose resistance value changes according to temperature.

[0050] The electronic circuit, consisting of the measuring sensor 36, the sensor memory unit 44, and the thermistor, is connected to the contacts of the cartridge-side connector 46 via printed wiring formed on the cartridge substrate 30. The cartridge-side connector 46 is positioned along the edge of the cartridge substrate 30.

[0051] <Main Unit> The main unit 20 is provided with a main circuit board 50. A tube holder 52 and a main unit-side connector 54 are provided on the edge of the main circuit board 50. The main circuit board 50 is also provided with a pump section 56 and a pressure sensor 58.

[0052] The pump section 56 consists of a solenoid 60 and an air barrel 62.

[0053] In the mounting state where the sensor cartridge unit 22 is attached to the main unit 20, the connecting nozzle 40 extending from the sensor cartridge unit 22 is detachably connected to the tube holder 52. In addition, in the mounting state, the cartridge-side connector 46 provided on the sensor cartridge unit 22 is detachably connected to the main unit-side connector 54.

[0054] A first tube 64 extends from the tube holder 52. The first tube 64 is connected to the air barrel 62 that constitutes the pump section 56. A second tube 66 extends from the air barrel 62 and is connected to the pressure sensor 58.

[0055] As a result, in the installed state, a passage 68 through which fluid flows is formed by the intake section 32 of the sensor cartridge unit 22, the pipe 34, the measuring sensor 36, the connecting nozzle 40, the tube holder 52 of the main unit 20, and the first tube 64. In addition, a pressure transmission path 70 is formed by the second tube 66 connecting the air barrel 62 and the pressure sensor 58.

[0056] The air barrel 62 is formed in a container shape that can be contracted and expanded. The air barrel 62 communicates with the first tube 64 and the second tube 66 through its internal space. As a result, the pressure in the first tube 64 is transmitted to the pressure sensor 58 through the internal space of the air barrel 62 and the second tube 66.

[0057] The solenoid 60 has an operating shaft 60A connected to an air barrel 62. When the solenoid 60 pushes the operating shaft 60A, the air barrel 62 contracts, supplying positive pressure to the passage 68. When the solenoid 60 retracts the operating shaft 60A, the air barrel 62 expands, supplying negative pressure to the passage 68.

[0058] The main circuit board 50 is provided with a control circuit section 74, which is centered around a control unit. The control circuit section 74 is composed of electronic circuits, and these electronic circuits are powered by dry cell batteries (not shown).

[0059] As a result, the main unit 20 has a communication unit 112 that acquires date and time information from the information terminal 14, and a control circuit unit 74 that is mainly composed of a control unit that acquires measurement results from the measurement sensor 36.

[0060] The control circuit unit 74 is connected to the contacts of the main unit connector 54 via printed wiring formed on the main unit board 50. The control circuit unit 74 is electrically connected to the electronic circuits formed on the cartridge board 30 of the sensor cartridge unit 22 via the respective connectors 46 and 54.

[0061] (Hardware configuration of the breath component analyzer) Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a breath component measuring device 10 according to one embodiment. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the breath component measuring device 10 according to one embodiment, with the sensor cartridge unit 22 attached to the main unit 20.

[0062] The breath component measuring device 10 consists of a computer for measuring the concentration of target components in the subject's exhaled breath.

[0063] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the breath component measuring device 10 is centered around a processor 100 that constitutes the control unit in the control circuit section 74 of the main unit 20. The processor 100 is connected to a storage unit 102, an input unit 104, a display unit 106, an audible notification unit 108, a communication unit 112, and a drive unit 114.

[0064] The breath component measuring device 10 does not have a built-in clock that constitutes a built-in clock on the device side.

[0065] Furthermore, the processor 100 is connected to the measurement sensor 36, the sensor storage unit 44, and the temperature sensor 120, which are provided in the sensor cartridge unit 22, via connectors 46 and 54, respectively.

[0066] Examples of processor 100 include general-purpose processors such as CPUs (Central Processing Units), MPUs (Micro Processing Units), or DSPs (digital signal processors). Alternatively, examples of processor 100 include dedicated processors such as GPUs (Graphics Processing Units), ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), or FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays).

[0067] The memory unit 102 constitutes a storage means. This memory unit 102 is a storage medium readable by a computer and includes ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and a storage device. The storage device is implemented as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory, etc.

[0068] In this embodiment, the storage unit 102 is composed of an EEPROM 122 and a RAM 124.

[0069] The EEPROM 122, which constitutes the memory unit 102, stores a breath component measurement program that shows the processing procedure of the breath component measurement device 10, as well as data such as thresholds used in the breath component measurement program. The processor 100 executes each process according to the breath component measurement program stored in the memory unit 102. The processor 100 also reads and writes data used when executing each process to the RAM 124.

[0070] The input unit 104 constitutes an input device for the processor 100, and as an example of an input device, a tact switch 126 is used.

[0071] The display unit 106 is composed of a display device, and as an example, a liquid crystal display panel 128 (LCD) is used as the display device.

[0072] The sound notification unit 108 may be a speaker or a buzzer, and in this embodiment, a piezoelectric buzzer 130 is used as an example.

[0073] The communication unit 112 constitutes an interface for sending and receiving data. The communication unit 112 enables the sending and receiving of data between the processor 100 and an external device. Examples of the communication unit 112 include USB (universal serial bus) or an internet connection device.

[0074] In this embodiment, the communication unit 112 is, for example, composed of a BLE module 132, and the processor 100 exchanges data with the information terminal 14 by performing BLE communication with the information terminal 14 via the BLE module 132.

[0075] Furthermore, if the communication unit 112 is configured as an internet connection device, the communication unit 112 can receive programs and necessary data from external devices such as servers, and transmit measurement results, via networks such as the Internet and telephone networks.

[0076] The drive unit 114 consists of a drive circuit 134, which drives the solenoid 60.

[0077] As mentioned above, the measuring sensor 36 is composed of a fuel cell gas sensor 136. The sensor memory unit 44 is composed of a sensor EEPROM 138 provided in the sensor cartridge unit 22. As mentioned above, the temperature sensor 120 is composed of a thermistor 140.

[0078] (Hardware configuration of information terminals) Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an information terminal 14 according to one embodiment.

[0079] The information terminal 14 consists of a computer that records and manages the measurement results from the breath component measuring device 10, and also sends the measurement results acquired from the breath component measuring device 10 to the management device 16.

[0080] As shown in Figure 6, the information terminal 14 is centered around the processor 200. The processor 200 is connected to a storage unit 202, an input unit 204, a display unit 206, an audible notification unit 208, a communication unit 212, and an internal clock 216.

[0081] Examples of processor 200 include general-purpose processors such as CPUs (Central Processing Units), MPUs (Micro Processing Units), and DSPs (digital signal processors). Other examples of processor 200 include dedicated processors such as GPUs (Graphics Processing Units), ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), and FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays).

[0082] The memory unit 202 constitutes a storage means. This memory unit 202 is a storage medium readable by a computer and includes ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and a storage device. The storage device is implemented as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory, etc.

[0083] The memory unit 202 stores an application program that indicates the processing procedure for the information terminal 14, as well as data used by the application program. The processor 200 executes each process according to the application program stored in the memory unit 202. The processor 200 also reads and writes data used when executing each process to the memory unit 202.

[0084] The input unit 204 constitutes an input device for the processor 200. As an example of an input device, it is an image input device that realizes touch panel and scanner functions, which is configured by combining a display device and a position input device.

[0085] The display unit 206 is composed of a display device, and as an example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) is used as the display device. The panel of this liquid crystal display constitutes a position input device.

[0086] The sound notification unit 208 may be a speaker or a buzzer, and in this embodiment, a speaker is used as an example.

[0087] The communication unit 212 constitutes a first interface for sending and receiving data between the information terminal 14 and the breath component measuring device 10. The communication unit 212 also constitutes a second interface for sending and receiving data between the information terminal 14 and the management device 16 or server 19.

[0088] The communication unit 212 enables the transmission and reception of data between the processor 200 and an external device. Examples of the communication unit 212 include USB (universal serial bus) or an internet connection device.

[0089] The first interface of the communication unit 212 is, for example, composed of a BLE module. The information terminal 14 can communicate with the breath component measuring device 10 via BLE using the BLE module.

[0090] The second interface of the communication unit 212 is, for example, configured as an internet connection device. The information terminal 14 can communicate with the management device 16 and the server 19 via the internet connection device.

[0091] The information terminal 14 can obtain time information from a server 19 that distributes time information via a computer network 18 such as the Internet by using an internet connection device. Furthermore, the information terminal 14 can transmit measurement results to the management device 16 via a computer network 18 such as the Internet by using an internet connection device.

[0092] Furthermore, by using an internet connection device, the information terminal 14 can receive programs and necessary data from external devices such as servers via a computer network 18, such as the Internet.

[0093] In this embodiment, the communication unit 212 is, for example, composed of a communication device that performs wireless communication, and the communication device performs wireless communication with a wireless base station connected to the Internet.

[0094] As a result, the communication unit 212 exchanges data with the management device 16, which is an external device, via a computer network 18 such as the Internet. The communication unit 212 can also receive application programs and necessary data from external devices such as a server 19 via the computer network 18 such as the Internet.

[0095] The internal clock 216 is a clock built into the information terminal 14. The internal clock 216 outputs the date and time to be measured to the processor 200. The date and time measured by the internal clock 216 can be modified by instructions from the processor 200.

[0096] The date and time of the built-in clock 216 are corrected each time an application program is launched, based on time information obtained from the server 19 via the computer network 18 by the information terminal 14.

[0097] (Functional block diagram) Figure 7 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a breath component measurement system 12 according to one embodiment.

[0098] Figure 7 shows the functional blocks of the breath component measuring device 10 and the information terminal 14 of the breath component measuring system 12.

[0099] <Exhaled breath component analyzer> The breath component measuring device 10 comprises a measurement acquisition unit 300 which constitutes a measurement acquisition means, and a measurement tolerance unit 302 which constitutes an tolerance means or a measurement tolerance means. The breath component measuring device 10 also comprises a start acquisition unit 304 which constitutes a start acquisition means, a start date and time storage unit 306 which constitutes a start date and time storage means, and a notification unit 308 which constitutes a notification means.

[0100] The measurement acquisition unit 300 includes a transmission request unit 310 which constitutes a transmission request means and an information receiving unit 312 which constitutes an information receiving means.

[0101] As shown in Figure 4, the functions of each part of the breath component measuring device 10 are realized when the processor 100 executes the breath component measuring program read from the storage unit 102.

[0102] (Measurement acquisition unit) The measurement time acquisition unit 300 acquires the measurement date and time from the date and time information acquired from the external information terminal 14 during use. The transmission request unit 310 and the information receiving unit 312 are used to acquire the measurement date and time.

[0103] Here, "during use" refers to the period from when the power to the breath component measuring device 10 is turned on and use of the breath component measuring device 10 begins until when the power to the breath component measuring device 10 is turned off and use of the breath component measuring device 10 ends.

[0104] Furthermore, "use" may also refer to "measurement" as an example. In this case, "measurement," as an example of use, refers to the period from when the power to the breath component measuring device 10 is turned on and the breath component measuring device 10 is started until the measurement process by the measurement sensor 36 begins.

[0105] (Transmission Request Section) The transmission request unit 310 requests the information terminal 14 to transmit date and time information indicating the measurement date and time when in use.

[0106] To explain in more detail, the processor 100 communicates with the information terminal 14 via the communication unit 112, and during measurement, which is the time of use, it requests the information terminal 14 to transmit date and time information indicating the current date and time.

[0107] (Information receiving unit) The information receiving unit 312 receives date and time information transmitted from the information terminal 14.

[0108] To explain in more detail, the processor 100 receives the date and time information sent from the information terminal 14 in response to a request to send date and time information, and sets the date and time indicated by the received date and time information as the measurement date and time.

[0109] (Measurement tolerance) The measurement permission unit 302 allows the measurement process by the measurement sensor 36 to be executed if the elapsed period from the start date and time of use stored in the sensor storage unit 44 to the measurement date and time indicated by the date and time information received by the information receiving unit 312 of the measurement acquisition unit 300 is within the usage period.

[0110] Specifically, the processor 100 subtracts the start date and time of use from the measurement date and time to calculate the elapsed time from the start of use of the measurement sensor 36 until the measurement time. Then, if the calculated elapsed time is less than or equal to the usage period, the processor 100 starts measurement using the measurement sensor 36.

[0111] [Measurement using a measurement sensor] Now, let's explain the measurement using the measurement sensor 36.

[0112] When exhaled air is blown from a mouthpiece (not shown) attached to the exhaled air component measuring device 10, the pressure of the blown exhaled air is transmitted to the pressure sensor 58 via the passage 68, the air barrel 62, and the pressure transmission path 70. This exhaled air pressure is measured by the pressure sensor 58.

[0113] When the processor 100 determines that the pressure measured by the pressure sensor 58 has reached a preset reference pressure, the processor 100 outputs a drive signal to the drive unit 114 to activate the solenoid 60, which then contracts and expands the air barrel 62. As a result, the exhaled air blown into the mouthpiece is introduced into the passage 68 and passes through the measurement sensor 36.

[0114] At this time, the measurement sensor 36 measures the concentration of the target component contained in the passing exhaled breath, and the processor 100 obtains the measurement result from the measurement sensor 36.

[0115] Here, the component to be measured is alcohol. Therefore, the concentration of alcohol in the breath is measured by the measurement sensor 36.

[0116] The processor 100 then displays the measurement results on the display unit 106 and stores them in the storage unit 102. The processor 100 also transmits the measurement results to the information terminal 14 via the communication unit 112. The measurement results are then stored in the storage unit 202 of the information terminal 14, associated with the measurement time.

[0117] (Start acquisition section) The start time acquisition unit 304 acquires the start date and time from the date and time information acquired from the information terminal 14 when the measurement sensor 36 is in use and the start date and time of use is not stored in the sensor storage unit 44.

[0118] The startup acquisition unit 304 utilizes a date and time information storage unit, which is a date and time information storage means that stores date and time information acquired from the information terminal 14.

[0119] The procedure for receiving date and time information from the information terminal 14 and obtaining the start date and time of use is the same as that for the measurement time acquisition unit 300 described above, so an explanation will be omitted.

[0120] (Start date and time storage) The start date and time storage unit 306 stores the start date and time of use acquired by the start acquisition unit 304 in the sensor storage unit 44.

[0121] The start date and time storage unit 306 utilizes a date and time information storage unit, which is a date and time information storage means that stores date and time information acquired from the information terminal 14.

[0122] As a result, when the measurement sensor 36 is in use, if the start date and time of use is not stored in the sensor storage unit 44, the start date and time of use storage unit 306 will acquire and store the start date and time of use based on the date and time information acquired from the information terminal 14.

[0123] Furthermore, if the start date and time of use are not stored in the sensor storage unit 44 at the time of use, the start date and time of use indicated by the date and time information obtained from the information terminal 14 is stored in the sensor storage unit 44.

[0124] (News Department) The notification unit 308 will notify the user that the usage period has been exceeded if the elapsed time exceeds the usage period.

[0125] To explain in more detail, if the elapsed time exceeds the usage period, the processor 100 displays a message to that effect on the display unit 106. At this time, the processor 100 outputs an error sound from the sound notification unit 108.

[0126] As a result, the processor 100 informs the subject that the elapsed time since the start of use of the measurement sensor 36 has exceeded the usage period.

[0127] <Information Terminal> The information terminal 14 comprises an information transmission unit 320 which constitutes an information transmission means, a time information acquisition unit 322 which constitutes a time information acquisition means, a correction acceleration unit 324 which constitutes a correction acceleration means, and a message display unit 326 which constitutes a message display means.

[0128] As shown in Figure 6, the functions of each part of the information terminal 14 are realized by the processor 200 executing the application program read from the storage unit 202.

[0129] (Information transmission department) When the information transmission unit 320 receives a request from the breath component measuring device 10 to transmit date and time information, it transmits the date and time information obtained from its built-in clock 216 to the breath component measuring device 10.

[0130] The time on the built-in clock 216 is corrected each time an application program is launched, based on time information obtained from the server 19.

[0131] (Time information acquisition section) The time information acquisition unit 322 acquires time information from the server 19 that distributes time information via the internet.

[0132] As mentioned earlier, server 19 could be an NTP server that distributes time information.

[0133] (Revision Promotion Department) The correction prompting unit 324 prompts the correction of the time on the internal clock 216 if there is a difference of a predetermined value or more between the time information obtained from the server 19 and the time indicated by the internal clock 216.

[0134] If this information terminal 14 is moved across the International Date Line, the time on its internal clock may be off by 24 hours. For this reason, the predetermined value is set to 12 hours, as an example.

[0135] If the processor 200 determines that there is a difference of 12 hours or more between the time information obtained from the server 19 and the time indicated by the built-in clock 216, it displays a message on the display unit 206 indicating that the time on the built-in clock 216 should be corrected. This prompts the subject to correct the time on the built-in clock 216.

[0136] (Message display section) The message display unit 326 displays a message based on the relationship between the previous elapsed time (from the start date and time of use to the previous measurement date and time) and the usage period, which is stored in the sensor storage unit 44, if the time information acquisition unit 322 is unable to acquire time information from the server 19.

[0137] Furthermore, when the processor 200 receives measurement results from the breath component measuring device 10, it stores the received measurement results in the storage unit 202, associating them with the measurement time, each time it receives a measurement result.

[0138] (Operation instructions) Next, the operation of the breath component measurement system 12 will be explained using Figures 8 to 10, as well as the processing procedures performed by the processor 100 of the breath component measurement device 10 and the processor 200 of the information terminal 14.

[0139] The breath component measurement method is performed by the processor 100 of the breath component measurement device 10 operating according to the breath component measurement program stored in the storage unit 102, and the processor 200 of the information terminal 14 operating according to the application program stored in the storage unit 202.

[0140] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the breath component measurement system 12 according to one embodiment. Figure 9 is a flowchart following Figure 8. Figure 10 is a flowchart following Figure 9.

[0141] When the processor 200 of the information terminal 14 operates according to the application program, the processor 200 performs a time acquisition process (step SB1). In the time acquisition process, the processor 200 obtains time information from a server 19 that distributes time information via the communication unit 212 and the Internet of the computer network 18.

[0142] Then, the processor 200 determines whether the difference between the time indicated by the time information obtained from the server 19 and the time indicated by the internal clock is large (step SB2). Specifically, the processor 200 calculates the difference between the time obtained from the server 19 and the time indicated by the internal clock 216, and determines whether the absolute value of that difference is, for example, greater than 12 hours.

[0143] In step SB2, if the absolute value of the calculated difference is 12 hours or less, the processor 200 executes step SB6. If the absolute value of the calculated difference in step SB2 exceeds 12 hours, the processor 200 displays "Please correct the internal clock." on the display unit 206 to prompt the subject to correct the built-in clock 216 (step SB3).

[0144] The processor 200 then determines whether or not an input indicating that the internal clock 216 should be corrected has been input to the input unit 204 (step SB4).

[0145] At this time, if the subject makes an input to correct the internal clock 216, in step SB4, the processor 200 determines that an input has been made to correct the internal clock 216. In this case, the processor 200 corrects the time of the internal clock 216 based on the time information from the server 19 (step SB5).

[0146] Furthermore, if it is determined in step SB4 that no input was received to correct the internal clock 216, the processor 200 executes step SB6 without correcting the time of the internal clock 216.

[0147] In step SB6, the processor 200 waits until the identification code attached to the breath component measuring device 10 is read by the input unit 204 (step SB6).

[0148] In step SB6, if the identification code is read by the input unit 204, the processor 200 identifies the device number assigned to each breath component measuring device 10 from the code data indicated by the identification code (step SB7).

[0149] This allows the information terminal 14 to identify the breath component measurement device 10 that transmits the measurement results. Furthermore, the information terminal 14 can identify the subject using the identified breath component measurement device 10.

[0150] In this embodiment, we will describe the case where the device number is identified by the information terminal 14, but this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the code data indicated by the identification code may be transmitted to the management device 16, and the management device 16 may identify the device number.

[0151] On the other hand, in the breath component measuring device 10, when the processor 100 operates according to the breath component measuring program, the processor 100 determines whether or not the start date and time of use is stored in the sensor storage unit 44 (step S1).

[0152] In step S1, if the sensor storage unit 44 does not have a record of the start date and time, the processor 100 requests the information terminal 14 to send date and time information for the start date and time via the communication unit 112 (step S2). The processor 100 then waits until it receives the date and time information from the information terminal 14 (step S3).

[0153] The processor 200 of the information terminal 14 receives a request from the breath component measuring device 10 to transmit date and time information (step SB8), and transmits the time indicated by the built-in clock 216 as date and time information to the breath component measuring device (step SB9). The processor 200 also stores the start date and time of use indicated by the transmitted date and time information in the storage unit 202, associating it with the identified device number (step SB10).

[0154] When the processor 100 of the breath component measuring device 10 receives date and time information from the information terminal 14 (step S3), it stores the time indicated by the received date and time information in the sensor storage unit 44 (step S4).

[0155] In this embodiment, for the sake of explanation, the time indicated by the date and time information received from the information terminal 14 in step S3 is used as the start date and time of use. However, the start date and time of use can be the date and time when the measurement using the measurement sensor 36 is first completed.

[0156] To explain in more detail, the breath component measuring device 10 has a date and time information storage unit, which is a means for storing date and time information, and the date and time information storage unit stores time information. Then, in step S3, the time information stored in the date and time information storage unit is matched with the date and time information transmitted from the information terminal 14. Next, the time required from the time matching until the completion of the first measurement is added to the time information stored in the date and time information storage unit to obtain the time, and the obtained time can be used as the start date and time.

[0157] In this embodiment, the case in which the start date and time of use are stored in the sensor storage unit 44 immediately before the measurement sensor 36 is used for the first time is described, but this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the start date and time of use may be stored in the sensor storage unit 44 when the measurement sensor 36 is incorporated into the sensor cartridge unit 22.

[0158] Then, before starting the measurement, the processor 100 of the breath component measuring device 10 requests the information terminal 14 via the communication unit 112 to transmit date and time information for the measurement date and time (step S5).

[0159] When the information terminal 14's processor 200 receives a request from the breath component measuring device 10 to transmit date and time information (step SB11), it executes a time acquisition process (step SB12) and determines whether or not the time information was acquired (step SB13). Note that the time acquisition process is the same as in step SB1, so its explanation is omitted.

[0160] In step S13, if time information is obtained, the processor 200 corrects the time of the internal clock 216 based on the time indicated by the obtained time information (step SB14), and then executes step SB17. Note that the correction of the time of the internal clock 216 is the same process as in step SB5, so the explanation is omitted.

[0161] In step S13, for example, if the information terminal 14 is unable to obtain time information due to reasons such as being in a location where it cannot communicate wirelessly with the base station, the processor 200 calculates the previous elapsed time (step SB15).

[0162] To explain in more detail, the elapsed time since the last measurement is calculated by subtracting the start date and time of use, which is stored in the memory unit 202, from the previous measurement date and time, which indicates the date and time of the last breath measurement.

[0163] Here, the measurement results obtained by the breath component analyzer 10 are stored in the storage unit 202 each time, associated with the measurement date and time. In addition, the start date and time of use of the measurement sensor 36 used by the breath component analyzer 10 are stored in the storage unit 202, associated with the device number, as described above.

[0164] Then, the processor 200 displays a message on the display unit 106 corresponding to the relationship between the previous elapsed time and the usage period of the measurement sensor 36 (step SB16), and executes step SB17.

[0165] Here, the usage period of the measurement sensor 36 is a predetermined value, and the usage period is assumed to be stored in the storage unit 102 beforehand.

[0166] The messages displayed on the display unit 106 will be explained in detail using Figure 11.

[0167] Figure 11 shows examples of how each message 400 and 402 is displayed on the information terminal 14.

[0168] In other words, if the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the previous elapsed time from the usage period is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, and the previous elapsed time is sufficiently longer than the usage period, then there is ample time for the measurement sensor 36 to be used. For this reason, if the subtraction value is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the processor 200 displays the first message 400 on the display unit 206, as shown in Figure 11.

[0169] On the other hand, if the subtraction value obtained by subtracting the previous elapsed time from the usage period is less than a predetermined value, and the difference between the previous elapsed time and the usage period is small, there is no margin for error in the period during which the measurement sensor 36 can be used. Therefore, if the subtraction value is less than a predetermined value, the processor 200 displays the second message 402 on the display unit 206, as shown in Figure 11.

[0170] Here, the predetermined value used for comparison with the subtracted value is, for example, 30 days. This predetermined value is not limited to 30 days and can be set arbitrarily.

[0171] Then, the processor 200 of the information terminal 14 transmits date and time information, which indicates the time on the built-in clock 216, to the breath component measuring device 10 (step SB17).

[0172] The processor 100 of the breath component measuring device receives date and time information from the information terminal 14 as the measurement date and time (step S6), and calculates the elapsed period by subtracting the start date and time of use stored in the sensor storage unit 44 from the received measurement date and time (step S7).

[0173] In this embodiment, for the sake of explanation, the date and time information received from the information terminal 14 in step S6 is used as the measurement date and time. However, the measurement date and time can be the date and time when the measurement using the measurement sensor 36 is completed.

[0174] Specifically, the breath component measuring device 10 has a date and time information storage unit, which is a means for storing date and time information, and the date and time information storage unit stores time information. Then, in step S6, the time information stored in the date and time information storage unit is matched with the date and time information transmitted from the information terminal 14. Next, the time required from the time matching until the completion of the measurement is added to the time information stored in the date and time information storage unit to obtain the time, and the obtained time can be set as the measurement date and time.

[0175] Next, the processor 100 determines whether the elapsed time of the calculation is less than or equal to the usage period stored in the memory unit 102 (step S8).

[0176] Here, the usage period of the measurement sensor is a predetermined value, and the usage period is assumed to be stored in the storage unit 102 beforehand.

[0177] In step S8, if the elapsed time exceeds the usage period, the processor 100 notifies the subject that the usage period of the measurement sensor 36 has been exceeded (step S9), turns off the power to the breath component measuring device 10 (step S16), and terminates each process.

[0178] One example of a method for informing the subject is to display the message "This sensor cartridge cannot be used. Please replace the sensor cartridge unit." on the display unit 106.

[0179] This notifies the subject that the measurement sensor 36 of the sensor cartridge unit 22 has exceeded its service life. It also prompts the subject to replace or maintain the sensor cartridge unit 22.

[0180] In step S8, if the elapsed time is less than or equal to the usage period, the processor 100 performs a measurement process (step S10) to measure the concentration of the alcohol component, which is the target component of the subject's breath. This allows measurement by the measurement sensor.

[0181] I will now explain the measurement process in detail.

[0182] The processor 100 of the breath component measuring device 10 acquires the pressure of the exhaled air blown into a mouthpiece (not shown) attached to the breath component measuring device 10 from a pressure sensor 58. When the pressure acquired from the pressure sensor 58 reaches a preset reference pressure, the processor 100 activates a solenoid 60 to contract and expand the air barrel 62.

[0183] The exhaled air blown onto the mouthpiece is then introduced into the passage 68, and the concentration of alcohol in the exhaled air introduced into the passage 68 is measured by the measurement sensor 36. The processor 100 then obtains the measurement result from the measurement sensor 36.

[0184] Then, the processor 100 associates the measurement result from the measurement sensor 36 with the measurement date and time obtained from the information terminal 14 and stores it in the storage unit 102 (step S11), and displays the measurement result on the display unit 106 (step S12).

[0185] Furthermore, the processor 100 transmits the measurement results, associated with the measurement date and time, to the information terminal 14 via the communication unit 112 (step S13).

[0186] The processor 200 of the information terminal 14 receives the measurement results transmitted from the breath component measuring device 10 (SB18), associates the received measurement results with the measurement date and time and the device number of the breath component measuring device 10 that received the measurement results, and stores them in the storage unit 202 (step SB19). The processor 200 also displays the received measurement results on the display unit 206 (step S20).

[0187] Furthermore, the processor 200 associates the measurement result received from the breath component analyzer 10 with the measurement date and time and the device number of the breath component analyzer 10 that received the measurement result, and transmits it to the management device 16 (step SB21).

[0188] The management device 16 then stores the measurement results received from the breath component measuring device 10, the measurement date and time, and the device number of the breath component measuring device 10 that received the measurement results in a storage means, associating them with each other. In this way, the management device 16 records and manages the measurement results.

[0189] On the other hand, the processor 100 of the breath component measuring device 10 determines, for example, whether or not to terminate the measurement of breath components based on the input state of the tact switch 126 that constitutes the input unit 104 (step S14).

[0190] In step S14, if there is no input to the input unit 104 and the measurement of exhaled components continues, the processor 100 performs step S5 to prepare for the measurement of the exhaled components of the next subject.

[0191] On the other hand, in step S14, if there is input to the input unit 104 and the measurement of breath components is to be terminated, the processor 100 transmits a message to the information terminal 14 via the communication unit 112 indicating that the measurement is to be terminated (step S15). Then, the processor 100 turns off the power to the breath component measuring device 10 (step S16) and terminates each process.

[0192] The processor 200 of the information terminal 14 determines whether or not to terminate the measurement based on whether or not it has received a notification from the breath component measuring device 10 that the measurement should be terminated (step SB22).

[0193] If it is determined in step SB22 that the measurement should not be terminated, the processor 200 executes step SB1 to prepare for measuring the breath components of the next subject.

[0194] On the other hand, if it is determined in step SB22 to terminate the measurement, the processor 200 terminates each process.

[0195] (Mechanism of Action and Effects) Next, the effects and advantages of this embodiment will be described.

[0196] The breath component measuring device 10 in this embodiment is a breath component measuring device 10 having a measuring sensor 36 for measuring breath components, the measuring sensor 36 having a defined usage period, and a sensor storage unit 44 that stores the start date and time of use of the measuring sensor 36. The breath component measuring device 10 includes a measurement time acquisition unit 300 that acquires the measurement date and time based on date and time information acquired from an external information terminal 14 when in use. The breath component measuring device 10 includes a measurement allowance unit 302 that allows the measurement process by the measuring sensor 36 to be executed when the elapsed period based on the relationship between the start date and time of use stored in the sensor storage unit 44 and the measurement date and time acquired by the measurement time acquisition unit 300 is within the usage period.

[0197] Furthermore, the breath component measurement system 12 in this embodiment includes a breath component measurement device 10 having a measurement sensor 36 for which a usage period for measuring breath components is defined, and a sensor storage unit 44 that stores the start date and time of use of the measurement sensor 36. The breath component measurement system 12 includes an information terminal 14 capable of communication using the Internet. The breath component measurement system 12 is a breath component measurement system 12 in which the breath component measurement device 10 and the information terminal 14 are communicated together.

[0198] The system includes an information transmission unit 320 that transmits date and time information stored in the information terminal 14 to the breath component measuring device 10.

[0199] The breath component measuring device 10 includes a date and time information storage unit that stores date and time information acquired from the information terminal 14. The breath component measuring device 10 also includes a measurement allowance unit 302 that allows measurement by the measurement sensor 36 if the elapsed period based on the relationship between the start date and time of use stored in the sensor storage unit 44 and the measurement date and time determined based on the date and time information acquired from the information terminal 14 is within the usage period.

[0200] According to the breath component measuring device 10 and breath component measuring system 12 in this configuration, the usage period of the measuring sensor 36 is managed using the measurement date and time obtained from an external information terminal 14.

[0201] Therefore, the breath component measuring device 10 can manage the usage period of the measuring sensor 36 without using a built-in clock. Compared to the case where the usage period of the measuring sensor 36 is managed using a built-in clock, the space required for the built-in clock and its dedicated built-in battery is eliminated, improving design flexibility.

[0202] Therefore, it becomes possible to miniaturize the breath component measuring device 10.

[0203] Furthermore, the breath component analyzer 10 does not require a built-in clock, nor does it require a dedicated built-in battery for the clock. This eliminates the need for periodic battery replacement, which is required when using a built-in clock.

[0204] This allows for a smaller device and improves convenience by eliminating the need for battery replacement. Furthermore, it prevents situations where measurements continue without noticing the built-in battery running out, preventing the sensor usage period from being calculated and causing it to exceed its expiration date.

[0205] Furthermore, the breath component measuring device 10 manages the usage period of the measuring sensor 36 using the measurement date and time obtained from the external information terminal 14.

[0206] Therefore, it becomes possible to prevent misuse, such as extending the usable period of the measurement sensor 36 by changing the time of the built-in clock, as in the case where the usage period of the measurement sensor 36 is managed by the built-in clock of the breath component measuring device.

[0207] In the breath component measuring device 10 and breath component measuring system 12 of this embodiment, the breath component measuring device 10 does not have a built-in clock.

[0208] This configuration eliminates the need for integrated circuits and batteries specifically for the internal clock. This reduces the number of components in the electronic circuitry that makes up the breath component measuring device 10. As a result, the breath component measuring device 10 can be made smaller and less expensive.

[0209] In this embodiment, the breath component measuring device 10 includes a start date and time storage unit 306 that, when the measurement sensor 36 is in use and the start date and time of use is not stored in the sensor storage unit 44, acquires and stores the start date and time of use based on the date and time information acquired from the information terminal 14.

[0210] With this configuration, the start date and time can be stored in the sensor storage unit 44 using date and time information acquired from the information terminal 14. Therefore, compared to the case where the start date and time is stored in the sensor storage unit 44 in advance, no prior work is required to store the start date and time in the sensor storage unit 44.

[0211] Furthermore, the sensor memory unit 44 stores the start date and time of use acquired from the information terminal 14. Therefore, by adjusting the start date and time of use stored in the sensor memory unit 44, it becomes possible to deter misuse, such as extending the usage period of the measurement sensor 36.

[0212] The breath component measuring device 10 in this embodiment further includes a notification unit 308 that notifies the user that the usage period has been exceeded if the elapsed time exceeds the usage period.

[0213] This configuration makes it possible to suppress the use of the measurement sensor 36 beyond its service life. This makes it possible to suppress the decrease in measurement accuracy caused by the use of the measurement sensor 36 beyond its service life.

[0214] The breath component measuring device 10 in this embodiment comprises a main unit 20 and a sensor cartridge unit 22 that is detachably attached to the main unit 20. The sensor cartridge unit 22 has a measuring sensor 36 and a sensor storage unit 44.

[0215] With this configuration, if the period of use of the measurement sensor 36 exceeds its usage period, the measurement sensor 36 can be replaced by replacing the used sensor cartridge unit 22 with a new sensor cartridge unit 22.

[0216] Furthermore, by replacing the sensor cartridge unit 22, the sensor memory unit 44 can also be replaced. This allows for miniaturization of the sensor and reduction of costs, as well as preventing malfunctions caused by the start date and time of use stored in the sensor memory unit 44.

[0217] In this case, if the main unit 20 has a sensor storage unit 44, it is necessary to store the combination of the individual number of the measurement sensor 36 and its usage period in the sensor storage unit 44. However, in this embodiment, the sensor cartridge unit 22 has both the measurement sensor 36 and the sensor storage unit 44. Therefore, it is not necessary to store the combination of the individual number of the measurement sensor 36 and its usage period in the sensor storage unit 44, improving convenience.

[0218] In this embodiment, the effects of having a measurement sensor 36 in the sensor cartridge unit 22 have been described, but this embodiment does not exclude the case where the main unit 20 has a sensor storage unit 44.

[0219] In the breath component measurement system 12 of this embodiment, the information terminal 14 includes a time information acquisition unit 322 that acquires time information from a server 19 that distributes time information via the Internet. The information terminal 14 also includes a correction acceleration unit 324 that prompts the correction of the time on the built-in clock 216 if there is a difference of a predetermined value or more between the time information acquired from the server 19 and the time indicated by the built-in clock 216.

[0220] This configuration makes it possible to correct the time shown by the built-in clock 216 of the information terminal 14 based on time information obtained from the server 19.

[0221] This makes it possible to improve the accuracy of the start date and time of use or measurement date and time, which are determined by the date and time information obtained from the built-in clock 216 of the information terminal 14.

[0222] In the breath component measurement system 12 of this embodiment, the information terminal 14 includes a message display unit 326. The message display unit 326 displays a message based on the relationship between the previous elapsed period from the start date and time of use to the previous measurement date and time of the previous measurement, which is stored in the sensor storage unit 44, and the usage period, when the time information acquisition unit 322 is unable to acquire time information from the server 19.

[0223] With this configuration, it becomes possible to manage the usage period of the measurement sensor 36, for example, by notifying the subject if it lacks accuracy.

[0224] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments only represent a part of the application examples of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention to the specific configurations of the above embodiments.

[0225] In this embodiment, the start date and time of use was defined as the date and time when the subject first used the measurement sensor 36, but this embodiment is not limited to this.

[0226] For example, the manufacturer may store the production date of the breath component measuring device 10, the inspection date and time of the produced breath component measuring device 10, or the shipping date and time as the start date and time of use in the sensor storage unit 44.

[0227] Furthermore, the date and time information acquired by the breath component measuring device 10 shall include the time acquired by the information terminal 14 from the server 19 or the time set by the information terminal 14. [Explanation of symbols]

[0228] 10. Breath component measuring device 12. Breath component measurement system 14 Information terminals 18. Computer Networks 19 Servers 20 Main Unit 22 Sensor cartridge unit 36 measuring sensors 44 Retrieval memory unit 74 Control circuit section 100 processors 102 Storage section 106 Display section 108 Sound and Information Department 112 Communications Department 128 LCD display board 130 Piezoelectric buzzer 132 BLE modules 136 Fuel cell gas sensor 200 processors 202 Storage section 204 Input section 206 Display section 208 Sound and Information Department 210 Storage section 212 Communications Department 216 Built-in clock 300 Acquisition part during measurement 302 Measurement tolerance 304 Start acquisition section 306 Start date and time storage section 308 News Department 310 Transmission Request Section 312 Information Receiving Unit 320 Information Transmission Unit 322 Time information acquisition unit 324 Correction Promotion Department 326 Message display section 400 First Message 402 Second Message

Claims

1. A breath component measuring device comprising a sensor for measuring exhaled breath components, the sensor having a defined usage period, and a storage unit for storing the date and time of the start of use of the sensor, A measurement time acquisition means that acquires the measurement date and time based on date and time information obtained from an external information terminal during use, The system includes a measurement permission means that allows the execution of a measurement process by the sensor if the elapsed period based on the relationship between the start date and time of use stored in the storage unit and the measurement date and time acquired by the measurement time acquisition means is within the usage period, The breath component measuring device comprises a main unit and a sensor cartridge unit that is detachably attached to the main unit. The storage unit of the sensor cartridge unit stores the date and time when the sensor started to be used. Breath component analyzer.

2. A breath component measuring device comprising a sensor for measuring breath components, the sensor having a defined usage period, and a storage unit for storing the date and time of the start of use of the sensor, A measurement time acquisition means that acquires the measurement date and time based on date and time information obtained from an external information terminal during use, The system includes a measurement permission means that allows the execution of a measurement process by the sensor if the elapsed period based on the relationship between the start date and time of use stored in the storage unit and the measurement date and time acquired by the measurement time acquisition means is within the usage period, It does not have a built-in clock separate from the processor's clock function. Breath component analyzer.

3. A breath component measuring device according to claim 1 or claim 2, If the elapsed period exceeds the usage period, a notification means for notifying that the usage period has been exceeded. A breath component measuring device that also includes additional features.

4. A breath component measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, When the sensor is in use, if the start date and time of use are not stored in the storage unit, a start date and time storage means acquires and stores the start date and time of use based on the date and time information obtained from the information terminal. A breath component measuring device that also includes additional features.

5. A breath component measurement system comprising a breath component measurement device having a sensor with a defined usage period for measuring breath components and a storage unit that stores the start date and time of use of the sensor, and an information terminal capable of communication using the Internet, which are connected in a communicative manner, The aforementioned information terminal is Information transmission means for transmitting the date and time information stored in the information terminal to the breath component measuring device. Equipped with, The aforementioned exhaled component measuring device is A date and time information storage means for storing date and time information acquired from the aforementioned information terminal, The system includes a means for allowing measurement by the sensor if the elapsed period based on the relationship between the start date and time of use stored in the storage unit and the measurement date and time determined based on the date and time information acquired from the information terminal is within the usage period, The breath component measuring device comprises a main unit and a sensor cartridge unit that is detachably attached to the main unit. The storage unit of the sensor cartridge unit stores the date and time when the sensor started to be used. Breath component measurement system.

6. A breath component measuring device having a sensor for which a usage period for measuring breath components is defined and a storage unit for storing the date and time on which the sensor is to be used, and an information terminal capable of communication using the Internet, which are communicated together, The aforementioned information terminal is Information transmission means for transmitting the date and time information stored in the information terminal to the breath component measuring device. Equipped with, The aforementioned exhaled component measuring device is A date and time information storage means for storing date and time information acquired from the aforementioned information terminal, The system includes a means for allowing measurement by the sensor if the elapsed period based on the relationship between the start date and time of use stored in the storage unit and the measurement date and time determined based on the date and time information acquired from the information terminal is within the usage period, The aforementioned breath component measuring device does not have a built-in clock on the device side that is different from the clock function of the processor. Breath component measurement system.

7. A breath component measurement system according to claim 5 or claim 6, The aforementioned information terminal is A time information acquisition means that acquires the time information from a server that distributes time information via the internet, A correction prompting means that prompts correction of the time on the built-in clock when there is a difference of a predetermined value or more between the time information obtained from the server and the time indicated by the built-in clock, Equipped with, Breath component measurement system.

8. A breath component measurement system according to claim 7, The aforementioned information terminal is If the time information acquisition means fails to acquire the time information from the server, the system includes a message display means that displays a message based on the relationship between the previous elapsed period, stored in the storage unit, from the start date and time of use to the previous measurement date and time when the previous measurement was performed, and the usage period. Breath component measurement system.

9. A method for measuring exhaled breath components, performed using an exhaled breath component measuring device having a sensor for which a usage period for measuring exhaled breath components is specified, and a storage unit for storing the date and time when the sensor is first used, A measurement time acquisition step that acquires the measurement date and time based on date and time information obtained from an external information terminal during use, The system includes a measurement permission step which allows measurement by the sensor if the elapsed period based on the relationship between the start date and time of use stored in the storage unit and the measurement date and time acquired in the measurement acquisition step is within the usage period, The breath component measuring device comprises a main unit and a sensor cartridge unit that is detachably attached to the main unit. The storage unit of the sensor cartridge unit stores the date and time when the sensor started to be used. Method for measuring exhaled breath components.

10. A method for measuring exhaled breath components, performed using an exhaled breath component measuring device having a sensor for which a usage period for measuring exhaled breath components is specified, and a storage unit for storing the date and time on which the sensor was to be put into use, A measurement time acquisition step that acquires the measurement date and time based on date and time information obtained from an external information terminal during use, The system includes a measurement permission step which allows measurement by the sensor if the elapsed period based on the relationship between the start date and time of use stored in the storage unit and the measurement date and time acquired in the measurement acquisition step is within the usage period, The aforementioned breath component measuring device does not have a built-in clock separate from the processor's clock function. Method for measuring exhaled breath components.

11. A processor in a breath component measuring device having a sensor for which a specified usage period for measuring breath components and a storage unit that stores the start date and time of use of the sensor, A measurement time acquisition procedure that acquires the measurement date and time based on date and time information obtained from an external information terminal during use, A measurement permission procedure that allows measurement by the sensor if the elapsed period based on the relationship between the start date and time of use stored in the memory unit and the measurement date and time obtained in the measurement acquisition procedure is within the usage period, A breath component measurement program for performing the following: The breath component measuring device comprises a main unit and a sensor cartridge unit that is detachably attached to the main unit. The storage unit of the sensor cartridge unit stores the date and time when the sensor started to be used. Breath component measurement program.

12. A processor for a breath component measuring device having a sensor for which a usage period for measuring breath components is defined and a storage unit for storing the date and time when the sensor is to be used, A measurement time acquisition procedure that acquires the measurement date and time based on date and time information obtained from an external information terminal during use, A measurement permission procedure that allows measurement by the sensor if the elapsed period based on the relationship between the start date and time of use stored in the memory unit and the measurement date and time obtained in the measurement acquisition procedure is within the usage period, A breath component measurement program for performing the following: The aforementioned breath component measuring device does not have a built-in clock separate from the processor's clock function. Breath component measurement program.

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