Operating time measuring device, operating time measuring method, and program

Abstract

To suppress a variation in measurement results by improving measurement accuracy of an individual motion time in measurement of motor function data by a Timed Up and Go test.SOLUTION: A motion time measuring device 10 for measuring respective required times T1 to T5 of individual motions P1 to P5, comprises pressure detection means 1, first passage detection means 21 and second passage detection means 22 for detecting passage of a subject, and control means 4 for acquiring output signals from the pressure detection means, the first passage detection means, and the second passage detection means and calculating a plurality of individual motion times. The pressure detection means is mounted on a seat surface of a chair Ch, the first passage detection means is disposed at a first position X1 25 cm or more and 65 cm or less away from the chair on a walking path Pt from the chair to a turn-back marker 3 a prescribed distance away from the chair, and the second passage detection means is disposed at a second position X2 farther from the chair than a halfway point between the chair and the turn-back marker and closer to the chair than the turn-back marker on the walking path Pt.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an operation time measurement device capable of measuring the exercise ability of a subject, and particularly to an operation time measurement device for exercise function determination, health risk determination, and rehabilitation effect determination in preventive care services and long-term care insurance services for the elderly. Here, the health risks referred to herein include falls that increase the risk of fracture, frailty that represents physical weakness, sarcopenia that represents muscle loss, and the like.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, preventive care services and services related to long-term care insurance for the elderly have been carried out in administrative agencies, healthcare institutions, etc., and exercise function data of the elderly has been acquired.

[0003] For the measurement of exercise function data, as a test method capable of measuring the comprehensive exercise ability of a subject such as walking ability, dynamic balance, and agility, the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "TUG test") is widely used (for example, Non-Patent Document 1).

[0004] In the TUG test, as shown in FIG. 15, the subject Ob is made to perform a series of operations of standing up from a seated state on the chair Ch, walking toward the turning marker Mk in front at a predetermined distance, turning the turning marker Mk, then returning to the chair Ch, changing direction, and sitting on the chair Ch, and the time required for the series of operations is measured by the measurer, or the time T1 to T5 (individual operation times) required for each of the individual operations consisting of standing up, forward walking, turning, backward walking, and sitting are measured.

[0005] In recent years, techniques have been proposed for differentiating the differences in individual operations using image analysis and optical sensing technologies and automating the measurement of each operation time (for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2016-137226 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-29706 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-81413 [Non-patent literature]

[0007] [Non-Patent Document 1] "The Timed "Up & Go": A Test of Basic Functional Mobilitv for Frail Elderly Persons ",Diane Podsiadlo, in BScPT, and Sandra Richardson, in MD, Journal of American Geriafrics Society (JAGS) vol.39, 1991,P 142-148 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] Motor function data used in long-term care insurance programs by administrative agencies and health organizations must be obtained based on objective criteria that are independent of the person taking the measurement or the location of the measurement.

[0009] However, in measuring individual action times in the TUG test, when a subject transitions from one action to the next, there is no clear boundary between the preceding and succeeding actions, making it difficult to determine the boundary between actions. Furthermore, in the conventional measurement method where the measurer uses a clock to measure the time between individual actions, the timing of the transition between individual actions tended to depend on the measurer's relative judgment.

[0010] Furthermore, walking movements and other actions exhibit strong individuality from subject to subject, and the timing of movement transitions tends to differ from subject to subject. Therefore, even if a method for analyzing movement boundaries using subject images and sensor outputs as described in Patent Documents 1 to 3 is used, there can be significant variability in boundary determination between movements, leading to a decrease in data accuracy.

[0011] Therefore, there was a problem in that the acquired motor function data could vary depending on the measuring institution (such as a government agency or health organization), the person performing the measurement, the measurement location, and the characteristics of the subject, which could affect the accuracy of health risk assessment.

[0012] Furthermore, since the measurement of motor function data related to long-term care insurance is widely carried out by administrative agencies and health organizations, it needs to be possible to perform the measurement using simple and inexpensive equipment.

[0013] This disclosure has been made in view of the above issues, and aims to provide a simple and inexpensive motion time measurement device, motion time measurement method, and program that can improve the accuracy of measuring individual motion times in the measurement of motor function data using the TUG test, and suppress fluctuations in measurement results due to the measurement institution such as administrative agencies and health organizations, the measurer, the measurement location, the characteristics of the subject, etc. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] To achieve the above objective, an action time measuring device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an action time measuring device for measuring the time required for each of a plurality of individual actions included in the action to be measured in the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, comprising: pressure detection means; first passage detection means and second passage detection means for detecting the passage of a subject; and control means for acquiring output signals from the pressure detection means, the first passage detection means and the second passage detection means and calculating the time required for the plurality of individual actions, wherein the pressure detection means is mounted on the seat of a chair, the first passage detection means is positioned at a first position at a distance of 25 cm or more and 65 cm or less from the chair in a walkway from the chair to a turnaround marker at a predetermined distance from the chair, and the second passage detection means is positioned at a second position in the walkway that is further from the chair than the midpoint between the chair and the turnaround marker and closer to the chair than the turnaround marker. The plurality of individual actions consist of a standing action in which the subject stands up from a seated position in the chair, a forward walking action in which the subject walks from the first position to the second position on the walkway after the standing action, a turning action in which the subject turns around the turnaround marker after the forward walking action, a return walking action in which the subject walks from the second position to the first position on the walkway after the turning action, and a sitting action in which the subject sits down in the chair after the return walking action, and the control means is determined by the pressure detection means from the time of pressure release detection to the first time of passage detection by the first passage detection means The time until the first passage detection time is defined as the time required for the standing-up operation, the time from the first passage detection time to the second passage detection time by the second passage detection means is defined as the time required for the outward walking operation, the time from the second passage detection time to the third passage detection time by the second passage detection means is defined as the time required for the turning operation, the time from the third passage detection time to the fourth passage detection time by the first passage detection means is defined as the time required for the return walking operation, and the time from the fourth passage detection time to the pressure biasing detection time by the pressure detection means is defined as the time required for the sitting-down operation. It is characterized by the following: [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to one aspect of this disclosure, it is possible to provide a simple and inexpensive motion time measurement device, motion time measurement method, and program that can improve the accuracy of measuring individual motion times and suppress fluctuations in measurement results when measuring motor function data using the TUG test.

[0016] This allows for the differentiation of individual movements that make up the TUG test, increasing the reliability of motor function data and enabling its effective use in administrative agencies and other organizations for assessing motor function related to long-term care insurance for the elderly, evaluating the effectiveness of preventive care programs, assessing health risks, or evaluating the effectiveness of rehabilitation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the operating time measuring device 10 according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing the electrical configuration of the operating time measuring device 10. [Figure 3](a) is a perspective view showing the configuration of the light receiving unit 2b, (b) is a side sectional view, and (c) is a perspective view showing another aspect of the light receiving unit 2b. [Figure 4] It is a diagram for explaining a method of measuring the individual movement time of a subject by the movement time measuring device 10. [Figure 5] It is a flowchart of the movement time measurement process by the movement time measuring device 10. [Figure 6] (a) is the detection position during the turn operation when there are multiple detections (6 times) in the second passage detection means, (b) is the relationship between each detection and the elapsed time in the movement time measurement, and (c) is a diagram showing an example of the temporal change of the interval (difference time) between two consecutive passage detection times when there are multiple passage detections during the turn operation. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart showing another aspect of the detection operation shown in step S100 of FIG. 5 in the movement time measuring device 10. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing another aspect of the detection operation shown in step S100 of FIG. 5. [Figure 9] (a) is the detection position of the walking motion in the first passage detection means when there are multiple detections (8 times) when an assistant located behind the subject assists the subject, and (b) is a diagram showing the relationship between each detection and the elapsed time in the movement time measurement. [Figure 10] (a) is a scatter diagram of the sit-to-stand time SST and the 5 - time sit-to-stand test based on the measurement results by the movement time measuring device 10, (b) is a scatter diagram of the walking time WT and the 4 - m walking test time, and (c) is a scatter diagram of the balance time BT and the single - leg standing time. [Figure 11] It is a three - dimensional scatter diagram showing the results of principal component analysis for T1 - T5 measured by the movement time measuring device 10 with respect to principal components 1 - 3. [Figure 12] It is a two - dimensional scatter diagram representing the results of principal component analysis for T1 - T5 measured by the movement time measuring device 10 in two dimensions. [Figure 13] It is a perspective view showing the configuration of the movement time measuring device 10A according to the modified example. [Figure 14]This is a schematic diagram of the operating time measurement system 100 in a modified form. [Figure 15] This diagram illustrates how to measure individual action times of subjects using the TUG test. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0018] Summary of Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention The operating time measuring device according to the embodiment of this disclosure is An operation time measuring device that measures the duration of each of several individual operations included in the target operation in a Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, Pressure detection means and A first passage detection means and a second passage detection means for detecting the passage of a subject, The system comprises a pressure detection means, a first passage detection means, and a control means that acquires output signals from the second passage detection means and calculates the required time for each of the multiple individual operations. The pressure detection means is mounted on the seat of the chair, The first passage detection means is positioned at a first location at a distance of 25 cm to 65 cm from the chair in the walkway from the chair to a turnaround marker located at a predetermined distance from the chair. The second passage detection means is characterized in that it is positioned in the walkway at a second location that is further from the chair than the midpoint between the chair and the return marker, and closer to the chair than the return marker.

[0019] With this configuration, the boundary positions that demarcate actions are fixed based on first and second passage detection means fixed to the walkway, and the boundaries between actions can be set based on an absolute standard that does not fluctuate due to various factors related to measurement. This suppresses the fluctuations in the boundaries between actions in the measurement results that occurred in the past due to various factors related to measurement, such as the administrative agency or other measurement organization, the measurer, the measurement location, and the characteristics of the subject. Furthermore, this prevents the false detection of movements below the lower leg caused by the subject's arm swing or knee flexion and extension during standing up as the subject passing by.

[0020] In another embodiment, in any of the above embodiments, the plurality of individual actions consist of a standing action in which the subject stands up from a seated position in a chair, a forward walking action in which the subject walks from the first position to the second position in the walkway after the standing action, a turning action in which the subject turns around the turnaround marker after the forward walking action, a return walking action in which the subject walks from the second position to the first position in the walkway after the turning action, and a sitting action in which the subject sits down in the chair after the return walking action. The control means defines the time from the time of pressure release detection by the pressure detection means to the time of first passage detection by the first passage detection means as the required time for the rise operation. The time from the first passage detection time to the second passage detection time by the second passage detection means is defined as the time required for the forward walking motion. The time from the second passage detection time to the third passage detection time by the second passage detection means is defined as the time required for the turn operation. The time from the third passage detection time to the fourth passage detection time by the first passage detection means is defined as the time required for the return walking motion. The time from the fourth passage detection time to the pressure biasing detection time by the pressure detection means may be set as the required time for the seating operation.

[0021] This configuration enables the differentiation of individual operations that constitute the TUG test, thereby improving the accuracy of measuring individual operation times and suppressing fluctuations in measurement results. It also provides a simple and inexpensive operation time measurement device. Furthermore, it improves the accuracy of measuring the time required for a series of operations in the TUG test.

[0022] In another embodiment, in any of the above embodiments, when the second passage detection means detects the passage of a subject multiple times, the second passage detection time may be the time when the second passage detection means first detected the passage of a subject during the measured operation, and the third passage detection time may be the later time among the multiple times when the second passage detection means detected the passage of a subject, in the combination of times where the difference time between two consecutive times is the maximum.

[0023] This configuration makes it possible to suppress false detections caused by multiple passes of the second passage detection means at both the start and end of a turn. As a result, false detections of the start and end times of a turn can be suppressed for all subjects, from those with high athletic ability to those with significantly low athletic ability.

[0024] In another embodiment, in any of the above embodiments, the first passage detection time is the time when the first passage detection means first detects passage after the pressure release detection time, and the fourth passage detection time is the time when the first passage detection means last detects passage after the third passage detection time. It can also be used as a composition.

[0025] This configuration makes it possible to suppress false detections caused by multiple passes of the first passage detection means 21 during the return walking motion P4. As a result, false detections of the start time of the sitting motion P5 can be suppressed regardless of the level of the subject Ob's motor ability.

[0026] In another embodiment, in any of the above embodiments, the first passage detection time may be the time when the first passage detection means first detects passage after the pressure release detection time, and the fourth passage detection time may be the time when the first passage detection means first detects passage after the third passage detection time.

[0027] This configuration makes it possible to detect the passage of an elderly subject during a TUG test when an assistant is present behind them. Therefore, the assistant can support the elderly subject from behind during the measurement, preventing falls and ensuring accurate measurement results.

[0028] In another embodiment, in any of the above embodiments, the second position is up to 50 degrees from the folding marker. cm The configuration may also be such that the length is close to the chair.

[0029] With this configuration, considering that the subject's turning motion begins in front of the marker, the start and end times of the turning motion can be detected more accurately from the position X0 of the chair Ch, in accordance with the subject's actions.

[0030] In another embodiment, in any of the above embodiments, the first passage detection means and the second passage detection means may be configured to be positioned higher than the midpoint of the subject's lower leg and at a height capable of detecting the passage of the body portion below the knee.

[0031] This configuration allows for the detection of the subject's lower leg movement, preventing them from stepping over the optical sensor, and suppressing the detection of arm swing movements, thereby enabling more accurate detection of the subject's passage.

[0032] In another embodiment, in any of the above embodiments, the first passage detection means and the second passage detection means may be configured to be positioned at a height capable of detecting the passage of the torso portion of the subject.

[0033] With this configuration, the passage of the subject can be detected with greater accuracy and stability by detecting the passage of the subject's body, primarily the trunk below the shoulders, where the photocell's light-shielding time is relatively longer than that of the lower limbs.

[0034] In another embodiment, in any of the above embodiments, the first passage detection means may consist of a first gate means including a pair of light-emitting units and light-receiving units arranged across the walkway, and the second passage detection means may consist of a second gate means including a pair of light-emitting units and light-receiving units arranged across the walkway.

[0035] This configuration enables the realization of a passage detection means that can detect when a subject has passed a predetermined position on a walkway, based on an absolute standard that is fixed at a predetermined position on the walkway and does not fluctuate due to various factors related to measurement, thereby setting a boundary between actions.

[0036] In another embodiment, in any of the above embodiments, the light-receiving unit has an outer lens barrel and an inner lens barrel, the inner lens barrel is provided with a light-diffusing sheet disposed near one end of the barrel and a light-receiving element disposed at a predetermined distance away from the light-diffusing sheet toward the other end, and the light-emitting Department The light emitted from the device enters the light-receiving section through the outer lens barrel, and the light that enters the section may be further diffused into the inner lens barrel by the light-diffusing sheet before being incident on the light-receiving element.

[0037] With this configuration, the passage detection means can be designed to be less affected by brightly lit measurement environments, to be able to detect the passage of a person regardless of the color of their clothing, and to suppress delays in detecting people who walk at high speeds.

[0038] In another embodiment, in any of the above embodiments, the second passage detection means may be configured to include a third gate means including a pair of light-emitting and light-receiving units arranged across the portion of the walkway corresponding to the outward path, and a fourth gate means including another pair of light-emitting and light-receiving units arranged across the portion of the walkway corresponding to the return path.

[0039] With this configuration, the opposing light-receiving and light-emitting units are positioned closer together, allowing the passage of the subject in the forward and return paths to be detected independently by different gate means, thereby improving detection accuracy in each case. At this time, the light-receiving and light-emitting units are positioned in front of the marker at the center of the Y-direction of the walkway, so they do not obstruct the subject's path when the subject makes a turning motion.

[0040] In another embodiment, the first passage detection means and / or the second passage detection means may include a light-emitting unit, a reflector facing the light-emitting unit across the walkway and reflecting light emitted from the light-emitting unit, and a light-receiving unit facing the reflector across the walkway and positioned on the same side as the light-emitting unit. With such a configuration, when an infrared light-emitting element is used as the light-emitting element, alignment can be made easier or simpler.

[0041] In another embodiment, in any of the above embodiments, the control means may be configured to calculate a principal component score for each obtained principal component, which is a score of a variable based on the time required for each of the individual movements, based on principal component analysis that takes as input multiple pieces of information selected from the information on the time required for the multiple individual movements, and to output the principal component score as an index indicating the subject's motor function. In this case, the index may be configured to include an index indicating motor function related to walking, an index indicating motor function related to muscle strength, or an index indicating motor function related to balance function.

[0042] This configuration makes it possible to clearly communicate what kind of motor function the measured movement time T1-T5 results represent, thereby improving the convenience of the TUG test for both the measurer and the subject.

[0043] In another embodiment, in any of the above embodiments, the information on the time required for the multiple individual actions may include information obtained from multiple TUG tests performed on the subject under different conditions.

[0044] This configuration allows for the more effective calculation of values ​​that reflect the motor function of elderly individuals, and enables a more accurate display of the subjects' exercise ability and health risks.

[0045] Furthermore, the action time measurement method according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is an action time measurement method for measuring the time required for each of a plurality of individual actions included in the action to be measured in the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, wherein the plurality of individual actions consist of a standing action in which the subject stands up from a seated position in a chair, a forward walking action in which the subject walks from a first position to a second position on a walkway from the chair to a turn marker located a predetermined distance from the chair, a turning action in which the subject turns around the turn marker after the forward walking action, a return walking action in which the subject walks from the second position to the first position on the walkway after the turn action, and a sitting action in which the subject sits down in the chair after the return walking action. The pressure detection means mounted on the seat of the chair is detected to release pressure by the subject, The passage of a subject is detected by a first passage detection means positioned at a first position in the walkway, at a distance of 25 cm to 65 cm from the chair, and a second passage detection means positioned at a second position in the walkway, further from the chair than the midpoint between the chair and the return marker, and closer to the chair than the return marker. The pressure bias applied by the subject to the pressure detection means is detected, The time from the time of pressure release detection by the pressure detection means to the time of first passage detection by the first passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the rise-up operation. The time from the first passage detection time to the second passage detection time by the second passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the outward walking motion. The time from the second passage detection time to the third passage detection time by the second passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the turn operation. The time from the third passage detection time to the fourth passage detection time by the first passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the return walking motion. The configuration may also be such that the time from the fourth passage detection time to the pressure biasing detection time by the pressure detection means is calculated as the required time for the seating operation.

[0046] This configuration provides a simple and inexpensive method for measuring operating time that can improve the accuracy of individual operating time measurements and suppress fluctuations in measurement results.

[0047] Furthermore, in another embodiment relating to the method for measuring operating time, in any of the above embodiments, when the second passage detection means detects the passage of a subject multiple times, The second passage detection time is the time when the second passage detection means first detects the passage of the subject during the measured operation. The third passage detection time may be configured to be the later time among a combination of times in the measurement target operation in which the second passage detection means detects the passage of the subject, and the time difference between two consecutive times is the maximum.

[0048] This configuration suppresses false detections caused by multiple passes of the second passage detection means at both the start and end of the turn operation, thereby suppressing false detections of the start and end times of the turn operation.

[0049] Furthermore, in another embodiment relating to the operating time measurement method, in any of the above embodiments, the first passage detection time is the time when the first passage detection means first detects passage after the pressure release detection time. The fourth passage detection time may be configured to be the time after the third passage detection time when the first passage detection means first detects passage.

[0050] This configuration enables detection of the subject's passage when accompanied by an assistant, preventing falls among elderly subjects by allowing for close monitoring of the subject, and also allows for obtaining accurate measurement results when accompanied by an assistant.

[0051] Furthermore, the program according to the embodiment of this disclosure is a program that causes a computer to perform an action time measurement process for measuring the time required for each of a plurality of individual actions included in the action to be measured in the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, wherein the plurality of individual actions consist of a standing action in which the subject stands up from a seated position in a chair, a forward walking action in which the subject walks from a first position to a second position on a walkway from the chair to a turn marker located a predetermined distance from the chair, a turning action in which the subject turns around the turn marker after the forward walking action, a return walking action in which the subject walks from the second position to the first position on the walkway after the turn action, and a sitting action in which the subject sits down in the chair after the return walking action. The aforementioned operating time measurement process is: The pressure detection means mounted on the seat of the chair is detected to release pressure by the subject, The passage of a subject is detected by a first passage detection means positioned at a first position in the walkway, at a distance of 25 cm to 65 cm from the chair, and a second passage detection means positioned at a second position in the walkway, further from the chair than the midpoint between the chair and the return marker, and closer to the chair than the return marker. The pressure bias applied by the subject to the pressure detection means is detected, The time from the time of pressure release detection by the pressure detection means to the time of first passage detection by the first passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the rise-up operation. The time from the first passage detection time to the second passage detection time by the second passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the outward walking motion. The time from the second passage detection time to the third passage detection time by the second passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the turn operation. The time from the third passage detection time to the fourth passage detection time by the first passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the return walking motion. The configuration may also be such that the time from the fourth passage detection time to the pressure biasing detection time by the pressure detection means is calculated as the required time for the seating operation.

[0052] This configuration makes it possible to provide a simple and inexpensive program for measuring operating time that can improve the accuracy of individual operating time measurements and suppress fluctuations in measurement results.

[0053] <Embodiment> The operating time measuring device according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the drawings are schematic diagrams and their scale may differ from that of actual diagrams. Furthermore, the following description is illustrative to explain the configuration and operation / effect of one aspect of this disclosure and is not limited to the following form except for the essential parts of this disclosure. Also, including the following description, the up and down directions in this specification and the claims indicate relative positional relationships, with the top of the drawing being the "up" direction and the bottom of the drawing being the "down" direction. However, this does not necessarily coincide with an absolute (vertical) up and down positional relationship. Furthermore, in this specification and the claims, the symbol "~" used to indicate a numerical range includes the numerical values ​​at both ends.

[0054] <Overall configuration of the operating time measuring device 10> The motion time measuring device 10 (hereinafter referred to as "measuring device 10") is a device that measures the time required for each of several individual movements included in the target movement in the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, as well as the time required for a series of movements. It is used by administrative agencies, health organizations, etc., to acquire motor function data of the elderly for the purpose of assessing motor function, health risk, and rehabilitation effectiveness in the context of long-term care insurance for the elderly.

[0055] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a measuring device 10 according to an embodiment, illustrating the configuration of the measuring device 10 when used in a TUG test. Figure 2 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the electrical configuration of the measuring device 10.

[0056] In the TUG test, as described above, the subject Ob performs a series of actions: standing up from a seated position in chair Ch, walking towards a turnaround marker 3 placed on the floor a specified distance (e.g., 3m) ahead, turning around the turnaround marker 3, returning to chair Ch, changing direction, and sitting down in chair Ch. In this example, the direction of rotation of subject Ob in the turning action P3 is clockwise in the plan view of Figure 1, but it may also be counterclockwise.

[0057] According to the measuring device 10, the time T1 to T5 (individual movement time) required for each individual movement performed by subject Ob, consisting of standing up movement P1, walking forward movement P2, turning movement P3, walking back movement P4, and sitting down movement P5, can be automatically measured.

[0058] The measuring device 10 is supplied to administrative agencies, health organizations, and other organizations as a measuring device kit that includes a pressure detection means 1, a passage detection means 2 for detecting the passage of a subject Ob, and a control means 4 as its components. Furthermore, the measuring device 10 may also include a folded marker 3 as a component.

[0059] At the measurement site, the components of the measuring device 10, namely the pressure detection means 1, the first passage detection means 21, and the second passage detection means 22, are arranged in the manner shown in Figure 1, and are connected to the control means 4 by wiring 1w, 21w, and 22w, respectively, thereby configuring a device capable of measuring individual operating times.

[0060] <Each part configuration> The following describes each component that makes up the measuring device 10.

[0061] (Pressure detection means 1) The pressure detection means 1 is a pressure sensor that is mounted on the seat surface of the chair Ch and is used to detect the pressure applied to the seat surface by the subject Ob. For example, a film-type pressure sensor sheet using a piezoelectric effect, capacitance change type, or resistive film type can be used.

[0062] As shown in Figure 2, the pressure detection means 1 includes a communication unit 1c and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the detected pressure to the control means 4.

[0063] Based on the change in the electrical signal from the pressure detection means 1, the control means 4 detects the time when the pressure on the seat surface by the subject Ob is released as the start time of the rise-up operation P1, and detects the time when the pressure on the seat surface is increased by the subject Ob as the end time of the seating operation P5.

[0064] (Passage detection means 2) The passage detection means 2 is a photoelectric passage sensor, including, for example, a laser sensor, that detects the passage of the subject Ob. For example, a transmissive sensor can be used.

[0065] The passage detection means 2 consists of a passage detection means 21 located closer to chair Ch and a passage detection means 22 located closer to the return marker 3, within the walkway Pt from chair Ch to a return marker 3 located a predetermined distance (for example, 3 m) in front of it (in the X direction in Figure 1).

[0066] As shown in Figure 2, the passage detection means 21 and 22 are each equipped with communication units 21c and 22c, and output an electrical signal corresponding to the detected light intensity to the control means 4.

[0067] Based on the change in electrical signals from the passage detection means 21 during the subject Ob's outward walk, the control means 4 detects the end time of the subject Ob's standing up motion P1, and based on the change in electrical signals from the passage detection means 21 during the return walk, it detects the start time of the sitting down motion P5.

[0068] Furthermore, based on the change in electrical signals from the passage detection means 22 during the subject Ob's outward walk, the control means 4 detects the start time of the turn operation P3 by the subject Ob, and based on the change in electrical signals from the passage detection means 22 during the return walk, it detects the end time of the turn operation P3 by the subject Ob.

[0069] Here, the passage detection means 21 is positioned at a first position X1 on the line segment X0-X3, which extends from the position X0 of chair Ch to the position X3 of marker 3, and is separated from the position X0 of chair Ch by a first distance x1. The first distance x1 is preferably 25 cm or more and 65 cm or less, more preferably 35 cm or more and 55 cm or less. This prevents false detection of movements below the lower leg caused by the swinging of the subject Ob's arms or the bending and straightening of the knees during the standing up motion P1 as the subject Ob passing by.

[0070] Furthermore, the passage detection means 22 is positioned at a second position X2 on the line segment X0-X3, which is a second distance x2 away from the position X0 of chair Ch. The second position X2 is further from chair Ch than the midpoint between the position X0 of chair Ch and the position X3 of the return marker 3, which is a distance x3 away from the position X0 of chair Ch, and closer to chair Ch than the position X3 of the return marker 3. In other words, the second distance x2 is within the range defined by equation 1.

[0071]

number

[0072] Furthermore, it is even more preferable to configure the second distance x2 to be at least 10 cm shorter than distance x3, as this allows the movement of subject Ob from the starting position of the turn movement P3 to position X3 to be included in the turn movement P3.

[0073] In the measuring device 10, in order to install the passage detection means 21 and 22 at predetermined positions X1 and X2 on the line segment X0-X3 along the walkway Pt, it is preferable that the positions X1, X2, and X3 where the chair Ch, passage detection means 21 and 22, and return marker 3 should be installed are clearly indicated in the instruction manual and measurement specifications, so that the measurer can install the passage detection means 21 and 22, chair Ch, and return marker 3 based on the description in the instruction manual.

[0074] Alternatively, the kit for the measuring device 10 may include a dedicated measuring tape as an accessory that allows for easy measurement of lengths x1, x2, and x3 from position X0 to positions X1, X2, and X3, respectively.

[0075] Alternatively, the kit for the measuring device 10 may include a special sheet on which positions X0, X1, X2, and X3 are printed in actual size, allowing the TUG test to be performed by laying it on the floor.

[0076] At this time, by using a dedicated sheet that displays the installation locations of the chair Ch and the return marker 3, as well as the installation locations of the passage detection means 21 and 22, the alignment of the light-emitting unit 21a and the light-receiving unit 21b during installation becomes easier, and the time required to install the light-emitting unit 21a and the light-receiving unit 21b can be shortened. Furthermore, by arranging the display on the sheet in a way that takes into account the movement characteristics of the elderly, it is possible to eliminate areas where the elderly do not normally move, thereby saving space in the device.

[0077] Furthermore, the passage detection means 21 and 22 are positioned at a height that allows detection of the passage of the body portion of the subject Ob from the midpoint of the lower leg to below the knee. For example, they may be positioned at a height of 5 cm to 50 cm from the floor. This allows for the detection of movement of the subject Ob's lower leg, prevents the subject from stepping over the optical sensor, and suppresses the detection of arm swinging movements, thereby enabling more accurate detection of the subject Ob's passage.

[0078] Alternatively, the first passage detection means 21 and the second passage detection means 22 may be configured to be positioned at a height capable of detecting the passage of the torso portion of the subject Ob. This allows for more accurate and stable detection of the subject's passage by detecting the passage of the portion of the subject's body, mainly the torso below the shoulders, where the photocell's light-shielding time is relatively longer than that of the lower limbs.

[0079] Next, the structure of the passage detection means 2 will be described. In this example, the passage detection means 21 consists of a first gate means comprising a transmissive sensor including a pair of light-emitting units 21a and light-receiving units 21b arranged across the walkway Pt, as shown in Figure 1. Here, the first gate means may also be a retroreflective photoelectric passage sensor in which a light emitter / receiver including a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit and a reflector face each other across the walkway Pt.

[0080] Furthermore, the passage detection means 22 consists of a second gate means comprising a transmissive sensor including a pair of light-emitting units 22a and light-receiving units 22b arranged across the walkway Pt. A retroreflective photoelectric passage sensor can also be used for the second gate means.

[0081] Here, "gate means" refers to means fixed at a predetermined position on the walkway Pt and capable of detecting when a subject Ob has passed a predetermined position on the walkway Pt. The gate means includes optical, electrical, magnetic, and mechanical means.

[0082] The measuring device 10 employs first and second gate means, which are fixed at predetermined positions on the walkway Pt. Based on an absolute standard that does not fluctuate due to various factors affecting the measurement results, such as administrative agencies or other organizations performing the measurements, the measurers, the measurement location, and the characteristics of the subject Ob, it is possible to detect when the subject Ob has passed a predetermined position on the walkway Pt and set boundaries between individual actions P1 to P5.

[0083] Furthermore, in this specification, the light-emitting units 21a and 22a may be collectively referred to as light-emitting unit 2a, and the light-receiving units 21b and 22b may be collectively referred to as light-receiving unit 2b.

[0084] The light-emitting unit 2a can be, for example, a visible red semiconductor laser or other light-emitting element.

[0085] The light-receiving unit 2b can be a light-receiving element or a photocell capable of detecting light of a wavelength emitted from the light-emitting unit 2a.

[0086] Figure 3(a) is a perspective view showing the configuration of the light-receiving unit 2b, (b) is a side cross-sectional view, and (c) is a perspective view showing another embodiment of the light-receiving unit 2b. As shown in Figure 3(a), the light-receiving unit 2b comprises an outer lens barrel 2b1 and a housing 2b2, and the light LD emitted from the light-emitting unit 2a enters the housing 2b2 through the outer lens barrel 2b1. The outer lens barrel 2b1 is positioned to extend from the side wall of the housing 2b2, and the length L0 of the portion of the outer lens barrel 2b1 that protrudes from the side wall may be, for example, 6 to 10 cm.

[0087] As shown in Figure 3(b), the light-receiving unit 2b includes an inner lens barrel 2b3 inside the housing 2b2, a light-diffusing sheet 2b4 positioned near one end of the inner lens barrel 2b3, and a light-receiving element 2b5 positioned behind the light-diffusing sheet 2b4, that is, at a predetermined distance away from the light-diffusing sheet 2b4 in the direction toward the other end. With this configuration, the light LD that enters the housing 2b2 from one end of the outer lens barrel 2b1 is diffused into the inner lens barrel 2b3 by the light-diffusing sheet 2b4 before being incident on the light-receiving element 2b5.

[0088] Here, the light diffusion sheet 2b4 can be a sheet made of a material in which light-reflective particles are dispersed in a translucent resin material, or it can be glass, paper, or the like.

[0089] If an infrared light-emitting element is used in the light-emitting unit 2a and an infrared sensor is used in the light-receiving unit 2b, the following issues may arise: 1) In measurement environments with a lot of lighting, such as commercial facilities, the system may not detect the passage of a subject; 2) If the subject's clothing is a low-reflectivity color such as black, the system may not detect the passage of a subject; and 3) Due to the characteristics of the infrared sensor (temperature changes), there may be a delay in detection when measuring walking, etc.

[0090] In contrast, the passage detection means 2 uses a highly directional visible light red semiconductor laser as the light-emitting element in the light-emitting section 2a, and employs the above configuration in the light-receiving section 2b. This double structure consisting of an outer barrel 2b1 and an inner barrel 2b3 prevents the intrusion of external light, and the light diffusion sheet 2b4 diffuses the directional light LD that enters the barrel 2b3, thereby improving the sensitivity of the light-receiving element 2b5 to the signal light.

[0091] This makes it possible to achieve A) a structure that is less affected by brightly lit measurement environments, B) a configuration that can detect the passage of a subject regardless of the color of their clothing, and C) a configuration that can suppress delays in detecting subjects walking at high speeds.

[0092] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3(c), the light-receiving unit 2b may be configured with a canopy 2b11 that covers the opening 2b1a of the outer lens barrel 2b1 into which the optical LD ​​enters. The canopy 2b11 may be shaped like a sun visor, for example, extending from the upper half 90 near the outer edge of the side wall of the housing 2b2 in which the outer lens barrel 2b1 is disposed, in the direction in which light enters, by a predetermined length L1 with respect to the opening 2ba of the outer lens barrel 2b1. In this case, the length L1 of the canopy 2b11 may be, for example, 0.5 times or more and 3 times or less the length of the vertical opening 2b1a. In this example, the length L1 of the canopy was set to 5 to 10 cm as an example. This suppresses the intrusion of external light from above, such as illumination, into the light-receiving unit 2b, and improves the sensitivity of the light-receiving element 2b5 to the signal light. As a result, the stability of the measurement can be improved. Furthermore, since the canopy 2b11 can suppress the intrusion of external light from above, the length L0 of the outer tube 2b1 may be shortened from the 6-10 cm mentioned above when the canopy 2b11 is provided.

[0093] (Folding marker 3) A cone, such as a traffic cone, can be used as the folded marker 3. The folded marker 3 is an optional component of the measuring device 10, and a commercially available cone or the like may be prepared separately to perform the TUG test.

[0094] (Control means 4) Control means 4 is electrically connected to pressure detection means 1, first passage detection means 21, and second passage detection means 22 by wiring 1w, 21w, and 22w, and is a circuit that acquires output signals from pressure detection means 1, first passage detection means 21, and second passage detection means 22, and calculates multiple individual operating times T1 to T5 in the TUG test.

[0095] As shown in Figure 2, the control means 4 includes a communication unit 41, a data storage unit 42, a control unit 43, a display unit 44, and an operation input unit 45. The CPU (Central Processing Unit) constituting the control unit 43 executes program 43p to realize the functions of the measuring device 10. Furthermore, it may also include a speaker means 46 for emitting sound signals.

[0096] The communication unit 41 is an interface circuit that is wiredly connected to the communication units 1c, 21c, and 22c of the pressure detection means 1, the first passage detection means 21, and the second passage detection means 22, and acquires output signals emitted from the pressure detection means 1, the first passage detection means 21, and the second passage detection means 22. Alternatively, the communication units 1c, 21c, and 22c and the communication unit 41 may be connected by a short-range wireless communication standard such as wireless LAN (Local Area Network) according to the IEEE 802.11 standard or Bluetooth® communication.

[0097] The data storage unit 42 stores the output signals transmitted from the communication unit 41. It also stores the individual operation times T1 to T5 calculated by the control unit 43. In addition, it stores the program necessary to execute the operation time measurement method according to this embodiment, and also functions as a temporary storage area for temporarily storing the calculation results of the control unit 43. The data storage unit 42 is composed of a volatile memory such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and a non-volatile memory such as a hard disk.

[0098] The display unit 44 is a display device such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL display, and displays the display screen generated by the control unit 43.

[0099] The operation input unit 45 is an input device that allows the inspector, who is the operator, to input information for operating the operation time measurement method according to this embodiment. For example, it can be implemented as an input device such as a touch panel with a touch sensor on the front of the display unit 44, a mouse, or a keyboard.

[0100] The control unit 43 reads and executes program 43p from the CPU and data storage unit 42, thereby realizing the functions of the operating time measuring device 10.

[0101] <About operation> The following describes the individual operation time measurement process in the operation time measurement device 10 by the control means 4.

[0102] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the process for measuring the individual operating time of subject Ob using the measuring device 10. Figure 5 is a flowchart of the operating time measurement process by the measuring device 10.

[0103] (Detection process of the subject's action time) First, we will explain the detection process for the operating time shown in step S100 of Figure 5, namely, the detection operation for the pressure release detection time, the first to fourth passage detection times, and the pressure biasing detection time. In Figure 5, the control means 4 first detects the time when the pressure on the seat surface by the subject Ob is released, based on the change in the electrical signal emitted from the pressure detection means 1, as the start time of the rise-up operation P1 (step S1).

[0104] Next, based on the change in the electrical signal emitted from the passage detection means 21 during the subject Ob's outward walking, the first passage detection time by the first passage detection means 21 is detected as the first passage detection time (step S2), and this is set as the end time of the subject Ob's standing up movement P1. This end time of the standing up movement P1 becomes the start time of the outward walking movement P2.

[0105] Next, based on the change in the electrical signal emitted from the passage detection means 22 during the subject Ob's outward walking, the first passage detection time by the second passage detection means 22 is detected as the second passage detection time (step S3), and this is set as the start time of the turn operation P3 by subject Ob. This start time of the turn operation P3 becomes the end time of the outward walking operation P2.

[0106] Next, based on the change in the electrical signal emitted from the second passage detection means 22 during the return walk, the end time of the maximum interval (maximum time difference) between two consecutive passage detection times by the second passage detection means 22 is detected as the third passage detection time (step S4), and this is set as the end time of the turn operation P3 by subject Ob. This end time of the turn operation P3 becomes the start time of the return walk operation P4. Details of the method for detecting the end time of the turn operation P3 in step S4 will be described later.

[0107] Next, based on the change in the electrical signal emitted from the passage detection means 21 during the return walk, the last passage detection time by the first passage detection means 21 is detected as the fourth passage detection time (step S5), and this is set as the start time of the sitting operation P5. This start time of the sitting operation P5 becomes the end time of the return walk operation P4.

[0108] Next, based on the change in the electrical signal emitted from the pressure detection means 1, the time when the subject Ob applied pressure to the seat surface is detected as the end time of the sitting motion P5 (step S6).

[0109] In steps S1 to S6 described above, the output signals acquired by the communication unit 41, and the start and end times of the detected individual operations P1 to P5 are output to and stored in the data storage unit 42.

[0110] (Pass detection process during turning maneuvers) Next, we will explain how to detect the start and end times of the turn operation P3. According to the inventors' experiments, during the operation of steps S3 and S4, the subject Ob may pass the second passage detection means 22 multiple times. In this case, that is, when the second passage detection means 22 detects the passage of subject Ob multiple times, there was a problem in determining which detection corresponds to the start and end of the turn operation.

[0111] In response to this, one possible countermeasure is to set a predetermined delay time after detection by the second passage detection means 22 in step S3, so that multiple passages of the second passage detection means 22 during the subject Ob's outward walk are not counted.

[0112] However, even in this case, there are cases where a subject Ob with high motor function completes the turning motion within the unresponsive time, and the second passage detection means 22 fails to detect their passage during the return walk. Furthermore, in the case of a subject Ob suffering from an illness or with significantly low motor function, there is a possibility that they may pass the second passage detection means 22 again during the outward walk after the unresponsive time, and in methods that set an unresponsive time (delay time), false detections could occur in these cases.

[0113] In contrast, the measuring device 10 employs the first passage detection of the second passage detection means 22 to detect the start of a turn operation, and in step S3, the first passage detection time by the second passage detection means 22 is detected as the second passage detection time. Based on the inventor's knowledge that the turn operation takes the most time, the detection of the end of the turn operation is configured such that in step S4, the end time of the maximum interval (maximum time difference) between two consecutive passage detection times by the second passage detection means 22 is detected as the third passage detection time. This makes it possible to suppress false detections caused by multiple passages by the second passage detection means 22 at both the start and end of the turn operation P3.

[0114] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram regarding false detections, showing an example where the second passage detection means 22 repeatedly detects passage because the turn operation P3 is not performed properly. (a) is an example of the detection result when the walking speed is slow, showing the detection position during the turn operation when the second passage detection means receives input multiple times (6 times). (b) is a diagram showing the relationship between each detection and the elapsed time in the operation time measurement.

[0115] In the example shown in Figure 6(a), the second passage detection means 22 detects the subject's passage near the start of their turning motion at positions a, b, c, and d, and detects the subject's passage near the end of their turning motion at positions e and f. In this case, in step S3 described above, if the first passage detection time corresponding to the passage detection at position a, shown by a solid line in Figure 6(a), is defined as the second passage detection time, then it is necessary to determine which of the five times corresponding to the passage detection at positions b, c, d, e, and f corresponds to the third passage detection time. In Figure 6(a), the detection positions at positions a and e, which are legitimate passage detections, are shown by solid lines, and the detection positions at positions b, c, d, and f, which are false detections, are shown by dashed lines. The method for distinguishing between legitimate passage detections and false detections will be explained below.

[0116] For example, in step S3, after the first passage detection time by the second passage detection means 22 is detected as the second passage detection time, if the subject Ob's movement is slow, the unresponsive time Tdelay is exceeded, and the passage of subject Ob is detected multiple times in place by the second passage detection means 22.

[0117] Here, let's assume that after the detection of the subject in step S3 (detection 3), the passage of subject Ob is detected three times by the processing in step S4 (detections 4-6), further detection is made by the processing in step S4 that is recognized as the passage of a legitimate subject Ob (detection 7), and then the passage of subject Ob is detected one more time (detection 8).

[0118] In this case, since six detections are performed, including the detection in step S3, a genuine detection and a false detection are distinguished by calculating the time interval (difference time) between detections.

[0119] Figure 6(c) shows an example of the change over time of the interval (difference time) between two consecutive passage detection times when multiple passage detections occur during a turn operation.

[0120] In Figure 6(c), the difference time (1) represents the time interval between detection 3 and detection 4, the difference time (2) represents the time interval between detection 4 and detection 5, the difference time (3) represents the time interval between detection 5 and detection 6, the difference time (4) represents the time interval between detection 6 and detection 7, and the difference time (5) represents the time interval between detection 7 and detection 8.

[0121] In the example shown in Figure 6(c), it can be seen that the time difference (4) between detection 6 and detection 7 is significantly longer than the other time differences (1), (2), (3), and (5). Subject Ob exhibiting the signal sequence shown in Figure 6 is a subject Ob with a very slow walking speed. In subjects Ob with such low motor ability, when passage detection occurs repeatedly in succession, there is a tendency for passage detection to occur almost immediately after the unresponsive time Tdelay is exceeded.

[0122] From this, it can be inferred that detections 4-6 and 8 were detected immediately after the unresponsive time Tdelay, and that subject Ob, who walked at a very slow walking speed, repeatedly crossed the second passage detection means 22 in succession.

[0123] On the other hand, in the difference time (4), a relatively long time interval is detected, so it can be estimated that the detection 7 corresponding to the end time of the difference time (4) is not due to subject Ob, who walks at a very slow walking speed, repeatedly crossing the second passage detection means 22 in succession, but rather due to subject Ob properly passing the second passage detection means 22 during the return walk after performing the turn operation P3.

[0124] Therefore, in the example shown in Figure 6(c), detections 4, 5, 6, and 8, which correspond to the end times of the relatively short difference times (1), (2), (3), and (5), are false detections and are not used in the measurement data. Detection 7, which corresponds to the end time of the relatively long difference time (4), detects that the vehicle has properly passed the second passage detection means 22 after the turn operation P3 has been performed. Therefore, the end time of the relatively long difference time (4) (detection 7) is taken as the end time of the turn operation P3.

[0125] Therefore, detections 4, 5, 6, and 8 in Figure 6(b) can be determined to be false detections at positions b, c, d, and f in Figure 6(a), while detections 3 and 7 in Figure 6(b) can be determined to be legitimate detections at positions a and e in Figure 6(a).

[0126] Based on the above, the measuring device 10 detects the end time of the maximum interval (maximum time difference) between two consecutive passage detection times by the second passage detection means 22 as the third passage detection time in step S4, thereby suppressing erroneous detections caused by multiple passages by the second passage detection means 22 at the end of the turn operation P3.

[0127] This makes it possible to suppress misdetection of the start and end times of the turn movement P3 for all subjects Ob, regardless of walking speed, from subjects Ob with high motor skills who move like jogging, to subjects Ob with significantly low motor skills who walk slowly with a shuffling gait.

[0128] Furthermore, in step S2, the measuring device 10 detects the first time of passage detection by the first passage detection means 21 as the first passage detection time, and sets a delay time of 0.1 to 10.0 seconds. This configuration makes it possible to suppress false detections caused by multiple passages by the first passage detection means 21 during the outward walking motion P2. As a result, false detections of the end time of the standing-up motion P1 can be suppressed regardless of the level of the subject Ob's motor ability.

[0129] Similarly, in step S5, the measuring device 10 is configured to detect the last passing time as the fourth passing time after a delay following the first passing detection by the first passing detection means 21. This configuration makes it possible to suppress erroneous detections associated with multiple passing by the first passing detection means 21 during the return walking motion P4. As a result, erroneous detection of the start time of the sitting motion P5 can be suppressed regardless of the level of the subject Ob's motor ability.

[0130] (Calculation process for operating times T1 to T5) Next, the control means 4 reads information regarding the start and end times of individual operations P1 to P5 from the data storage unit 42 and calculates the operation times T1 to T5.

[0131] First, the time T1 from the time of pressure release detection by the pressure detection means 1 to the time of first passage detection by the first passage detection means 21 is calculated as the time required for the stand-up operation P1 (step S7). The lower limb muscle strength of subject Ob can be evaluated by the stand-up operation time T1.

[0132] Next, the time T2 from the first passage detection time to the second passage detection time by the second passage detection means 22 is calculated as the required time for the outward walking motion P2 (step S8).

[0133] Next, the time T3 from the second passage detection time to the third passage detection time by the second passage detection means 22 is calculated as the required time for the turn operation P3 (step S9).

[0134] Next, the time T4 from the third passage detection time to the fourth passage detection time by the first passage detection means 21 is calculated as the required time for the return walking operation P4 (step S10).

[0135] Next, the time T5 from the fourth passage detection time to the time of pressure biasing detection by the pressure detection means 1 is calculated as the required time for the seating operation P5 (step S11).

[0136] (Calculation process for evaluation parameters) Next, the evaluation parameters shown in Equations 2 to 6 are calculated (Step S12).

[0137]

number

[0138]

number

[0139]

number

[0140]

number

[0141]

number

[0142] In steps S7 to S12 described above, the calculated individual operating times T1 to T5 are output to and stored in the data storage unit 42. At this time, information regarding the positions X1, X2, X3, or distances x1, x2, x3 where the passage detection means 21, 22 and the return marker 3 are installed, or the distances x1, x2, x3, relative to the chair Ch, may also be stored in the data storage unit 42 as reference information regarding the measurement conditions.

[0143] The above steps complete the process of calculating the operating time by the measuring device 10.

[0144] (Regarding another aspect of the operation time detection process) Below, we will explain, with reference to the drawings, another processing mode that realizes the detection of a series of operating times shown in steps S1 to S6 in step S100 of Figure 5, namely, the detection of the pressure release time, the first to fourth passage detection times, and the pressure biasing detection time. Figures 7 and 8 are flowcharts showing another mode of the operation time detection operation shown in step S100 of Figure 5 in the measuring device 10.

[0145] First, the subject Ob is instructed to perform a series of actions in the TUG test, and the control means 4 acquires the output signals DT(I, ID(I), T(I)) output from the pressure detection means 1, the first passage detection means 21, and the second passage detection means 22, and arranges the obtained signals in chronological order based on the reception time (step S101). The output signal DT(I) consists of an index I(1~N) indicating the acquisition order, a detection means identifier ID(I), and the signal detection time T(I). In this example, the identifier ID consists of an identifier that distinguishes between the pressure detection means 1, the first passage detection means 21, and the second passage detection means 22.

[0146] Next, after initializing index I (step S102), the output signals DT(I) and DT(I+1) are acquired (step S103), and it is determined whether the detection means indicated by identifier ID(I) is pressure detection means 1 or not (step S104).

[0147] In the determination in step S104, if the detection means is the pressure detection means 1, it is determined whether the detection means indicated by the identifier ID(I+1) is the first passage detection means 21 (step S105). Then, in the determination in step S105, if it is the first passage detection means 21, the detection time T(I) is detected as the pressure release detection time, the detection time T(I+1) is detected as the first passage detection time (step S106), the index I is incremented (step S107), the process returns to step S103, the output signals DT(I) and DT(I+1) are updated (step S103), and the subsequent processing is carried out.

[0148] On the other hand, if the determination in step S105 determines that the detection means is not the first passage detection means 21, then, since this is a false detection from the pressure detection means 1, the index I is incremented (step S107), the process returns to step S103, the output signals DT(I) and DT(I+1) are updated (step S103), and the subsequent processing is performed.

[0149] In the determination in step S104, if the detection means indicated by identifier ID(I) is not the pressure detection means 1, it is determined whether the detection means indicated by identifier ID(I) is the first passage detection means 21 (step S108). If it is the first passage detection means 21, it is then determined whether the detection means indicated by identifier ID(I+1) is the second passage detection means 22 (step S109). In the determination in step S109, if it is the second passage detection means 22, the detection time T(I+1) is detected as the second passage detection time (step S110), the index I is incremented (step S107), and the process returns to step S103, updating the output signals DT(I) and DT(I+1) (step S103) to continue processing.

[0150] In the determination in step S108, if the detection means indicated by identifier ID(I) is not the first passage detection means 21, the process proceeds to step S112 in Figure 8, where it is determined whether the detection means indicated by identifier ID(I) is the second passage detection means 22. If it is not the second passage detection means 22, the index I is incremented (step S107), the process returns to step S103, the output signals DT(I) and DT(I+1) are updated (step S103), and the process continues.

[0151] In the determination in step S112, if the detection means indicated by identifier ID(I) is the second passage detection means 22, then it is determined whether the detection means indicated by identifier ID(I+1) is the second passage detection means 22 (step S113). If it is the second passage detection means 22, the difference time ΔT between detection time T(I+1) and T(I) is calculated (step S114), and it is determined whether the obtained difference time ΔT is greater than the maximum value maxΔT (step S115). Here, the maximum value maxΔT is a variable that indicates the provisional maximum value of ΔT, and its initial value is set to -1. If the difference time ΔT is not greater than the maximum value maxΔT, the index I is incremented (step S107), the process returns to step S103, the output signals DT(I) and DT(I+1) are updated (step S103), and the process up to step S115 is repeated.

[0152] In the determination in step S115, if the difference time ΔT is greater than the maximum value maxΔT, the maximum value maxΔT is updated to ΔT (step S116), the variable Temp_T is updated to the detection time T(I+1) (step S117), the index I is incremented (step S107), the process returns to step S103, the output signals DT(I) and DT(I+1) are updated (step S103), and the process up to step S117 is repeated. Here, the variable Temp_T is a default variable that represents the detection time when the difference time ΔT is at its maximum, and its initial value is set to 0.

[0153] In the determination in step S113, if the detection means indicated by identifier ID(I+1) is not the second passage detection means 22, the detection of the third passage detection time is terminated, and the time in variable Temp_T is detected as the third passage detection time (step S118). At the same time, the detection time T(I+1) is detected as the fourth passage detection time (step S118). In this case as well, the index I is incremented (step S107), the process returns to step S103, the output signals DT(I) and DT(I+1) are updated, and the subsequent processing is carried out.

[0154] Through the above process, the detection operation of the third passage detection time calculates the difference time between consecutive detection times after the passage detection at the start of the turn operation, extracts the longest difference time, and detects the end time of the longest difference time as the third passage detection time, i.e., the end time of the turn operation.

[0155] In the determination in step S109 of Figure 7, if the detection means indicated by identifier ID(I+1) is not the second passage detection means 22, it is determined whether the detection means is the pressure detection means 1 (step S119). If it is not the pressure detection means 1, the index I is incremented (step S107), and the process returns to step S103, updating the output signals DT(I) and DT(I+1) and then proceeding with the subsequent processing.

[0156] On the other hand, in the determination in step S119, if the detection means indicated by identifier ID(I+1) is pressure detection means 1, the detection time T(I+1) is detected as the pressure biasing detection time (step S120). If the processing of all output signals DT(I)(I=1~N) is not completed (step S121: No), the index I is incremented (step S107), and the process returns to step S103. If the processing is completed (step S121: Yes), the operation time detection process is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S7 in Figure 5.

[0157] Through the above process, it is possible to realize the detection operations for a series of operation times shown in steps S1 to S6 in step S100 of Figure 5, namely, the detection of the pressure release time, the first to fourth passage detection times, and the pressure biasing detection time.

[0158] (Passage detection process when a caregiver is accompanying the subject) When the subject is elderly, it is necessary for an assistant to accompany them to prevent accidents such as falls during measurement. However, in this case, since multiple people will be passing through, it may be impossible to accurately measure the subject's passage time.

[0159] In the TUG test, when an assistant accompanies and supports the subject, it is necessary that the assistant's movements do not affect the subject's walking direction or speed. Therefore, it is preferable for the assistant to watch over the subject from behind to prevent falls, and for the assistant to perform the TUG test while following behind the subject. Accordingly, the measurement device 10 is configured to perform the TUG test based on the measurement rule that, when an assistant is present, the assistant is positioned behind the subject and assists the subject from behind.

[0160] [Regarding passage detection in the first passage detection means 21] In the measuring device 10, when an assistant is present, in step S2 of Figure 5, after detecting the start of the rise operation P1 in the pressure detection means 1, the time of the first passage detection by the first passage detection means 21 is detected as the first passage detection time for the subject.

[0161] Furthermore, in step S5 of Figure 5, if an assistant is present, the configuration is such that the time of the first pass detection by the first pass detection means 21 after the second pass detection means 22 detects the end of the turn operation P3 is detected as the fourth pass detection time for the subject. In this case, the detection operation of the fourth pass detection time in step S5 of Figure 5 may be made different depending on whether or not an assistant is present, based on the operation input to the operation input unit 45.

[0162] Figure 9(a) shows the detection position of walking motion in the first passage detection means when there are multiple inputs (8 times) when an assistant Sp is positioned behind the subject assisting the subject, and (b) shows the relationship between each detection and the elapsed time in motion time measurement.

[0163] In the example shown in Figure 9(a), during the outward journey, the first passage detection means 21 detects the passage of the preceding subject Ob at positions a and b, and the passage of the following caregiver Sp at positions c and d. During the return journey, the first passage detection means 21 detects the passage of the preceding subject Ob at positions e and f, and the passage of the following caregiver Sp at positions g and h. In Figure 9(a), the detection positions at positions a and e, which are normal passage detections, are shown with solid lines, and the detection positions at positions b, c, d, f, g, and h, which are false detections, are shown with dashed lines.

[0164] In this case, as shown in Figure 9(b), the operation of step S2 described above enables the detection of the first passage detection (detection 2) after detecting the start of the rise operation P1 in step S1 (detection 1), by setting the time of the first passage detection (detection 2) as the first passage detection time, thereby enabling the subject Ob to pass through position a. Similarly, as shown in Figure 9(b), the operation of step S5 described above enables the detection of the first passage detection (detection 8) after detecting the end of the turn operation P3 in step S4 (detection 7), by setting the time of the first passage detection (detection 8) as the first passage detection time, thereby enabling the subject Ob to pass through position e.

[0165] Therefore, detections 3, 4, and 5 in step 2 and detections 9, 10, and 11 in step 5 of Figure 9(b) can be determined to be false detections at positions b, c, d, and f, g, and h in Figure 9(a). Furthermore, detection 2 in step 2 and detection 8 in step 5 of Figure 9(b) can be determined to be legitimate detections at positions a and e in Figure 9(a).

[0166] Furthermore, in step S2, the measuring device 10 detects the start of the standing-up motion P1, then detects the first time the first passage detection means 21 detects the passage as the first passage detection time, and sets a delay time. This configuration makes it possible to suppress false detections caused by multiple passages of the first passage detection means 21, including the passage of the caregiver, during the outward walking motion P2.

[0167] Similarly, in step S5, after the second passage detection means 22 detects the end of the turn operation P3, the first passage detection time by the first passage detection means 21 is detected as the fourth passage detection time, and a delay time is set after this first passage detection. This configuration makes it possible to suppress false detections by the first passage detection means 21, including the passage of the caregiver during the return walking operation P4, due to multiple passages.

[0168] As described above, the measuring device 10 is configured such that the first passage detection time is the time when the first passage detection means 21 first detects passage after the pressure release detection time, and the fourth passage detection time is the time when the first passage detection means 21 first detects passage after the third passage detection time. This makes it possible to detect the passage of an elderly subject Ob when accompanied by a caregiver Sp in the TUG test, allowing the caregiver Sp to support the elderly subject Ob from behind during the measurement, preventing falls by keeping a close eye on the subject Ob, and enabling the acquisition of accurate measurement results.

[0169] [Regarding passage detection in the second passage detection means 22] On the other hand, in detecting the start of a turn by the second passage detection means 22, the measuring device 10, as described above, detects the first passage detection time by the second passage detection means 22 as the second passage detection time in step S3, making it possible to detect the passage of a subject accompanied by an assistant behind them.

[0170] Furthermore, the detection of the end of a turning motion also enables the detection of the subject's passage when accompanied by an assistant. Since the assistant is positioned close behind the subject to support them, the assistant's passage is detected immediately after the subject's passage. In the measuring device 10, as described above, the detection of the end of a turning motion is configured such that the end time of the maximum interval (maximum time difference) between two consecutive passage detection times by the second passage detection means 22 in step S4 is detected as the third passage detection time. Therefore, the passage detection time of an assistant positioned close behind the subject does not affect the selection of the maximum interval between the two passage detection times, nor does it become the end time of the maximum interval between the two passage detection times. Thus, the detection of the end of the subject's turning motion is possible even when accompanied by an assistant.

[0171] In addition, if an assistant is present, the measuring device 10 may be configured to wait for a period of time equivalent to the unresponsive time Tdelay after the second passage detection means 22 performs the initial passage detection in step S3 until the assistant passes. In this case, the unresponsive time Tdelay may be set to, for example, 0.1 to 10.0 seconds, taking into consideration the distance between the subject and the assistant, the subject's age, walking speed, and other characteristics.

[0172] By providing a delay (Tdelay) that corresponds to the time from the start of the turn movement P3 until the caregiver passes through, and is shorter than the time until the subject performs the turn movement and passes through the second passage detection means 22 again, it is possible to suppress the second passage detection means 22 from detecting the passage of the subject or caregiver multiple times when the subject passes through the second passage detection means 22 at the start of the turn movement, when a caregiver is present.

[0173] <Evaluation Test> The performance of the measuring device 10 was evaluated through the following evaluation tests. The results are described below. (Test 1) The accuracy of motion detection was evaluated using examples and comparative examples of the measuring device 10.

[0174] [Examples] As an embodiment of the measuring device 10, an operating time measuring device in the manner shown in Figures 1 to 3 was created and evaluated. In the embodiment of the measuring device 10, the light-emitting unit 2a of the passage detection means 21 and 22 used a red semiconductor laser. The light-receiving unit 2b was configured to include an outer lens barrel 2b1, a housing 2b2, an inner lens barrel 2b3, and a light-diffusing sheet 2b4 as shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b), and the light-receiving element 2b5 used a light-receiving element capable of detecting red light.

[0175] Furthermore, in the embodiment of the measuring device 10, in the passage detection process during a turn operation, the configuration shown in Figure 5 is adopted, that is, the first passage detection time of the second passage detection means 22 is set as the start time of the turn operation, and the end time of the maximum interval (maximum time difference) between two consecutive passage detection times by the second passage detection means 22 is detected as the third passage detection time.

[0176] [Comparative Example] As a comparative example, the following measuring device was used. Instead of the passage detection means 21 and 22 in the embodiment, an infrared light-emitting element was used in the light-emitting part, and an infrared sensor in which a light-receiving element capable of detecting red light was built into the housing was used in the light-receiving part. Furthermore, the passage detection process in the turning operation was configured such that the first passage detection time in the second passage detection means was used as the start time of the turning operation, and the next passage detection time in the second passage detection means was used as the third passage detection time.

[0177] [Test Method] Using the examples and comparative examples of the measurement device 10, the TUG test was performed on different elderly subjects, and the percentage of cases in which the subject's movement change could be correctly identified by each detection means was calculated. Measurements were performed on each subject under one condition of normal walking speed (Number of subjects in the examples: 72 or more, Number of measurements in the examples: 72, Number of subjects in the comparative examples: 60, Number of measurements in the comparative examples: 116 (with some overlap in measurements)).

[0178] [Test Results] The percentage of subjects whose motion changes could be correctly identified was 10% in the comparative example compared to 75% in the example for detecting passage during turning movements. For motion detection of standing up and sitting down, the accuracy was 100% in both the comparative example and the example. From the above results, it can be seen that the discrimination rate of passage detection operation during turning motion was improved in the embodiment of measuring device 10 compared to the comparative example. This confirms that the detection accuracy was improved by the adoption of a laser and housing structure in the passage detection means and the passage detection processing during turning motion in the embodiment, and that normal motion detection of about 75% was possible even when there was a decrease in the movement speed due to elderly subjects.

[0179] (Exam 2) We verified whether the indicators calculated based on the measurement results of the measuring device 10 reflect the actual physical functions of elderly people, and we verified the validity of the measurement results of the measuring device 10.

[0180] [Test Method] Using the measuring device 10, the TUG test was performed on 66 elderly subjects. Based on the measured time taken for standing up (T1), walking outwards (T2), turning (T3), walking back (T4), and sitting down (T5), indicators representing motor ability were calculated as stand-to-sit time (SST), walking time (WT), and balance time (BT). As a reference measurement of physical function in elderly individuals, the same subjects underwent separate tests in addition to the TUG test, and the correlation between the index values ​​calculated based on the measurement device 10 and the results of the physical function measurements of elderly individuals was investigated.

[0181] [Test Results] Figure 10(a) is a scatter plot of sit-to-stand time (SST) and the 5-repetition sit-to-stand test based on the measurement results from the measuring device 10, (b) is a scatter plot of walking time (WT) and the 4m walking test time, and (c) is a scatter plot of balance time (BT) and single-leg standing time. As shown in the figure, the correlation coefficient between walking time (WT) and the measured value of the 4m walking test time, which indicates walking function, based on the measurement results from the measuring device 10, is 0.74, indicating a good correlation between the two. Similarly, the correlation coefficient between sit-to-stand time (SST) and the 5-repetition sit-to-stand test, which indicates lower limb muscle strength, is 0.43, and the correlation coefficient between balance time (BT) and single-leg standing time, which indicates balance function, is 0.40, indicating a correlation between the two. From the above, it was confirmed that all of the indices calculated based on the measurement results from the measuring device 10 reflect the physical function of the elderly at the necessary level. From this, it can be seen that the measuring device 10 is useful as a method for evaluating the function of the elderly.

[0182] (Exam 3) Principal component analysis was performed on the measurement results from the measuring device 10 to examine indicators that appropriately represent the motor function of elderly people.

[0183] [Test Method] Using the measuring device 10, the TUG test was performed on elderly subjects, and principal component analysis was performed on the measured time taken for standing up (T1), walking outwards (T2), turning (T3), walking back (T4), and sitting down (T5) to examine the principal components that serve as indicators of the motor function of elderly people.

[0184] [Test Results] Figure 11 is a three-dimensional scatter plot showing the results of principal component analysis for T1 to T5 measured using the measuring device 10, with respect to principal components 1 to 3. Figure 12 is a two-dimensional scatter plot showing the results of principal component analysis in two dimensions. As shown in the figures, of the first to third principal components extracted by principal component analysis of the measurement results T1 to T5 from the measuring device 10, the first principal component shows a strong positive correlation with all measurement results T1 to T5, including the time required for walking on the outward journey (T2) and the time required for walking on the return journey (T4), indicating that it represents overall motor function, including walking time (WT). Furthermore, the second principal component shows a strong positive correlation with the time required for standing up (T1), indicating that it represents motor function related to standing up and sitting down, i.e., muscle strength. Furthermore, the third principal component shows a strong positive correlation with the time required for standing up and turning (T3), indicating that it represents motor function related to balance function.

[0185] Therefore, the principal components extracted by principal component analysis of the measurement results from the measuring device 10 were suggested to be indicators representing the motor skills of elderly people.

[0186] <Summary> As described above, the operating time measuring device 10 according to the embodiment is an operating time measuring device 10 that measures the required time T1 to T5 for each of the multiple individual operations P1 to P5 included in the operation to be measured in the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, Pressure detection means 1, A first passage detection means 21 and a second passage detection means 22 for detecting the passage of subject Ob, The system comprises a pressure detection means 1, a first passage detection means 21, and a control means 4 that acquires output signals from the second passage detection means 22 and calculates the required times T1 to T5 for multiple individual operations. The pressure detection means 1 is mounted on the seat surface of the chair Ch. The first passage detection means 21 is positioned at a first position X1 at a distance of 25 cm or more and 65 cm or less from the chair in the walking path Pt from chair Ch to a turnaround marker 3 located a predetermined distance from chair Ch. The second passage detection means 22 is characterized by being positioned at a second position X2 in the walkway Pt that is further from chair Ch than the midpoint between chair Ch and return marker 3, and closer to chair Ch than return marker 3.

[0187] Furthermore, the multiple individual movements P1 to P5 consist of: a standing movement P1 in which subject Ob stands up from a seated position in chair Ch; a forward walking movement P2 in which, after the standing movement P1, walks from a first position X1 to a second position X2 on the walkway; a turning movement P3 in which, after the forward walking movement P2, turns around the turn marker 3; a return walking movement P4 in which, after the turning movement P3, walks from a second position X2 to a first position X1 on the walkway; and a sitting movement P5 in which, after the return walking movement P4, sits down in chair Ch. The control means 4 defines the time required for the rise-up operation P1 as the time from the time of pressure release detection by the pressure detection means 1 to the time of first passage detection by the first passage detection means 21. The time from the first passage detection time to the second passage detection time by the second passage detection means 22 is defined as the required time T2 for the outward walking motion P2. The time from the second passage detection time to the third passage detection time by the second passage detection means 22 is defined as the required time T3 for the turn operation P3. The time from the third passage detection time to the fourth passage detection time by the first passage detection means 21 is defined as the required time T4 for the return walking operation P4. The time from the fourth passage detection time to the pressure biasing detection time by the pressure detection means 1 may be set as the required time T5 for the seating operation P5.

[0188] Ideally, motor function data used by administrative agencies and other organizations for assessing motor function, health risk, and rehabilitation effectiveness related to long-term care insurance should be obtained based on objective criteria independent of the measurer or measurement location. However, in conventional measurement methods, the measurement of individual movement times in the TUG test lacks clear boundaries between movements, leading to ambiguity in determining the boundaries between movements, and the timing of switching between individual movements tends to depend on the relative judgment of the measurer.

[0189] Furthermore, walking movements and other actions exhibit strong individuality for each subject (Ob), and the timing of movement transitions tends to differ among subjects (Ob). As a result, there was significant variability in boundary determination between movements, sometimes leading to decreased accuracy.

[0190] Therefore, the acquired motor function data could vary depending on the administrative or health agency, the measurement provider, the measurement location, and the characteristics of the subject (Ob), which could affect the accuracy of health risk assessment.

[0191] Furthermore, the measurement of motor function needs to be widely available to government agencies and other organizations using simple and inexpensive equipment.

[0192] In contrast, according to the measurement device 10 of the embodiment, by adopting the above configuration, the boundary between individual movements is determined based on passage detection means 21 and 22 fixed to the walking path Pt when measuring motor function data by TUG test. This suppresses the fluctuation of the boundary between individual movements P1 to P5 in the measurement results of the TUG test, which was previously caused by various factors related to measurement, such as the administrative agency or other organization performing the measurement, the measurer or measurement location, and the characteristics of the subject Ob.

[0193] In other words, the above configuration fixes the boundary positions that separate the actions based on passage detection means 21 and 22 fixed to the walkway Pt, and sets the boundaries between actions based on an absolute standard that does not fluctuate due to various factors related to measurement.

[0194] This enables the differentiation of individual operations that constitute the TUG test, improving the accuracy of measuring individual operation times and suppressing fluctuations in measurement results, thereby providing a simple and inexpensive operation time measurement device. Furthermore, it improves the accuracy of measuring the time required for a series of operations in the TUG test.

[0195] Specifically, for example, during the standing-up motion P1, it is possible to prevent the system from mistakenly detecting the subject Ob's arm movements or knee flexion / extension movements as the subject Ob passing by.

[0196] Furthermore, considering that the subject Ob's turning motion starts from in front of marker 3, by setting the second distance x2 from the position X0 of chair Ch to the second position X2 where the second passage detection means 22 is located to the length defined by equation 1, the start and end times of the turning motion P3 can be detected with greater accuracy in accordance with the subject Ob's movements.

[0197] In another embodiment, when the second passage detection means 22 detects the passage of subject Ob multiple times, the second passage detection time may be the time in the measured operation P1 to P5 when the second passage detection means 22 first detects the passage of subject Ob, and the third passage detection time may be the later time in the combination of times in the measured operation P1 to P5 where the difference time between two consecutive times is maximized.

[0198] This configuration makes it possible to suppress false detections caused by multiple passes of the second passage detection means 22 at both the start and end of the turn operation P3. As a result, false detections of the start and end times of the turn operation P3 can be suppressed for all subjects Ob, from subjects Ob with high motor skills to subjects Ob with significantly low motor skills.

[0199] In another embodiment, the first passage detection time may be the time when the first passage detection means 21 first detects passage after the pressure release detection time, and the fourth passage detection time may be the time when the first passage detection means 21 first detects passage after the third passage detection time.

[0200] This configuration makes it possible to detect the passage of an elderly subject (Ob) when accompanied by a caregiver (Sp) during a TUG test. Therefore, the caregiver (Sp) can support the elderly subject (Ob) from behind during the measurement, preventing falls by keeping a close eye on the subject (Ob) and ensuring accurate measurement results.

[0201] In another embodiment, the light-emitting unit 2a has a light-emitting element made of a visible red semiconductor laser, and the light-receiving unit 2b has an outer lens barrel 2b1 and an inner lens barrel 2b3. The inner lens barrel 2b3 is equipped with a light-diffusing sheet 2b4 placed near one end of the barrel and a light-receiving element 2b5 placed at a predetermined distance from the light-diffusing sheet 2b4 toward the other end of the inner lens barrel 2b3. Light emitted from the light-emitting element enters the light-receiving unit 2b through the outer lens barrel 2b1, and the entered light is further diffused into the inner lens barrel 2b3 by the light-diffusing sheet 2b4 before being incident on the light-receiving element 2b5.

[0202] According to the passage detection means 2 with the above configuration, by using a highly directional visible light red semiconductor laser as the light-emitting element in the light-emitting section 2a and adopting the above configuration in the light-receiving section 2b, a double structure consisting of an outer barrel 2b1 and an inner barrel 2b3 is adopted to prevent the intrusion of external light, and the sensitivity of the light-receiving element 2b5 to signal light can be improved by diffusing the directional light LD that enters the barrel 2b3 with the light diffusion sheet 2b4.

[0203] This makes it possible to realize a structure that is less affected by brightly lit measurement environments, a configuration that can detect the passage of a subject regardless of the color of their clothing, and a configuration that can suppress delays in detecting subjects walking at high speeds.

[0204] As described above, the measurement device 10 according to this embodiment makes it possible to differentiate the individual movements that constitute the TUG test, thereby increasing the reliability of the motor function data. As a result, it can be effectively used by administrative agencies and other organizations for motor function assessment related to long-term care insurance for the elderly, evaluation of the effectiveness of preventive care programs, assessment of health risks, or evaluation of the effectiveness of rehabilitation.

[0205] ≪Variations≫ The specific configuration of this disclosure has been described above using embodiments as examples. However, this disclosure is not limited in any way to the embodiments described above, except for its essential characteristic components. For example, forms obtained by applying various modifications to the embodiments, and forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of each embodiment without departing from the spirit of the present invention are also included in this disclosure.

[0206] Below, we will describe a variation as an example of such a form. (1) In the above embodiment, an example of performing a single-task TUG test using the measuring device 10 was described. However, in addition to a single-task test, for example, a dual-task test may be performed in which the subject Ob is asked to repeat numbers in reverse (repeated in descending order) while performing the TUG test, and DG (Dual Task Gait) may be calculated using Equation 7, DB (Dual Task Balance) may be calculated using Equation 8, and changes in brain function may be evaluated based on the decline in motor ability when the subject is asked to repeat numbers in reverse.

number

[0207]

number

[0208] In the above equation, D represents the operating time during dual-task operation, and S represents the operating time during single-task operation. (2) In the measuring device 10 according to the above embodiment, the passage detection means 22 is configured to consist of a second gate means comprising a transmissive sensor including a pair of light-emitting units 22a and a light-receiving unit 22b arranged across the walkway Pt.

[0209] Figure 13 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a modified operating time measuring device 10A. As shown in Figure 13, in the operating time measuring device 10A, the second passage detection means 22 is configured to include a third gate means including a pair of light-emitting units 22a2 and light-receiving units 22b2 arranged across the portion of the walkway Pt corresponding to the outward path, and a fourth gate means including another pair of light-emitting units 22a1 and light-receiving units 22b1 arranged across the portion of the walkway Pt corresponding to the return path.

[0210] Control means 4 is electrically connected to pressure detection means 1, first passage detection means 21, third gate means as second passage detection means 22, and fourth gate means by wiring 1w, 21w, 22w1, and 22w2, and acquires output signals from pressure detection means 1, first passage detection means 21, third gate means, and fourth gate means, and individual operating time in TUG test Calculate T1 to T5.

[0211] Subject Ob tends to walk significantly slower before and after turning. In contrast, with the configuration according to this modified example, the opposing light-receiving and light-emitting parts are closer together than in the measuring device 10, and the passage of subject Ob in the forward and return paths can be independently detected by different gate means. Therefore, it is possible to use the simple algorithm shown in this embodiment (Figure 5, etc.) for detection at each gate, and the detection accuracy at each gate can be improved.

[0212] Furthermore, the position X2 in the X direction where the third and fourth gate means are positioned may be set independently according to the motion characteristics of the subject Ob.

[0213] Furthermore, since the light-receiving unit 22b1 and the light-emitting unit 22a2 are positioned in front of the marker 3 at the center of the walkway Pt in the Y direction, they do not obstruct the path of the subject Ob when the subject Ob performs a turning motion P3. (3) In another modified example, the operating time measuring device may be connected to a communication network N via a wireless base station or the like, and may be implemented as a client computer that realizes the functions of the operating time measuring device by executing a program on a server means connected to the communication network N.

[0214] The modified operating time measurement system 100 will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the modified operating time measurement system 100. As shown in Figure 14, the operating time measurement system 100 consists of a plurality of operating time measurement devices 10B connected to a communication network N, a server means 5, and a data storage means 6.

[0215] The communication network N is, for example, the Internet, and the operating time measuring device 10B, the server means 5, and the data storage means 6 are connected to each other so that they can exchange information.

[0216] The operating time measuring device 10B is a terminal device used by the operator, the inspector, when performing the TUG test. The operating time measuring device 10B comprises a pressure detection means 1, a first passage detection means 21, a second passage detection means 22, and a control means 4A, the control means 4A having a communication unit 41, a control unit 43A, a display unit 44, and an operation input unit 45.

[0217] The control unit 43A is connected to the communication network N via the communication unit 41 and functions as a measurement terminal by executing a program using its built-in CPU. It differs from the control means 4 shown in Figure 2 in that it is a client computer that realizes the function of an operating time measurement device by issuing instruction signals to the server means 5 based on operation input from the operation input unit 45 and causing the server means 5 to execute a program.

[0218] The communication unit 41 is connected to the communication units of the pressure detection means 1, the first passage detection means 21, and the second passage detection means 22 by means of, for example, a short-range wireless communication standard such as IEEE 802.11 or Bluetooth® communication, and acquires output signals emitted from the pressure detection means 1, the first passage detection means 21, and the second passage detection means 22. The control means 4A transmits the output signals acquired by the communication unit 41 to the data storage means 6 via the communication network N for storage.

[0219] Server means 5 is implemented as a server computer that executes program 5p using its internal CPU. The operating time measuring device 10B calculates the individual operating time of subject Ob by reading the output signals from the pressure detection means 1, the first passage detection means 21, and the second passage detection means 22 stored in the data storage means 6 and executing program 5p. The obtained individual operating time is transmitted to the operating time measuring device 10B via the communication network N for display and also transmitted to the data storage means 6 for storage.

[0220] The data storage means 6 stores the output signal acquired by the communication unit 41, the start and end times of the detected individual operations P1 to P5, and the obtained individual operation times T1 to T5. Reference information regarding measurement conditions, such as information on distances x1, x2, and x3, is also stored simultaneously.

[0221] With this configuration, the functions of the operating time measuring device 10B are simplified by consolidating the individual operating time calculation function of the operating time measuring device in the server means 5, and the individual operating times and acquired output signals obtained for each of the multiple operating time measuring devices 10B or for each subject Ob are stored in the data storage means 6, thereby constructing a database of test results.

[0222] (4) In the above embodiment, when the second passage detection means 22 detects the passage of subject Ob multiple times, the third passage detection time is configured to be the later time in the combination of times in which the difference time between two consecutive times is maximized among the multiple times in which the second passage detection means 22 detects the passage of subject Ob. In this case, if the second passage detection means 22 detects signals of the same voltage value a predetermined number of times or more, such as three times, it is possible that the subject has stopped and is unable to move, so the speaker means 46 may issue an alert with an audible signal and stop the measurement operation.

[0223] According to the inventor's findings, elderly individuals with reduced physical function tend to stop in place during turning and sitting down in a chair. By adopting the above configuration, it becomes possible to measure the motor skills of elderly individuals in accordance with their physical function.

[0224] (5) In the above embodiment, the light-emitting unit 2a of the passage detection means 2 employs a configuration in which a highly directional visible light red semiconductor laser is used as the light-emitting element. However, by ensuring sufficient output of the light-emitting element and ensuring sensitivity of the light-receiving element 2b5 to the signal light with the light-receiving unit 2b shown in Figure 3(b) or (c), a configuration in which an infrared light-emitting element that spreads light radially is used instead of a highly directional laser as the light-emitting element may be used. In this case, the passage detection means 2 may use a retroreflective type photoelectric sensor in which a light emitter and receiver including a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit and a retroreflective plate face each other across the walkway Pt. Since light from an infrared light-emitting element spreads radially, by selecting an appropriate reflector that effectively reflects the incident light, light can be guided to the light-receiving unit 2b even if there is some misalignment between the light-emitting unit 2a and the light-receiving unit 2b. Therefore, alignment of the light-emitting unit 2a and the light-receiving unit 2b becomes easier, or can be simplified.

[0225] This configuration expands the illumination range of the light emitted from the light-emitting unit 21a, thereby expanding the range in which the light-receiving unit 21b can be installed, making it easier to align the light-emitting unit 21a and the light-receiving unit 21b. As a result, the time required to install the light-emitting unit 21a and the light-receiving unit 21b can be shortened while ensuring the sensitivity of the light-receiving element 2b5 to the signal light.

[0226] (6) In the above embodiment, the control means 4 is configured to calculate stand-up time (SST), walking time (WT), and balance time (BT) as indicators of motor ability based on the measured time required for standing up (T1), walking on the outward journey (T2), turning (T3), walking on the return journey (T4), and sitting down (T5). However, it is also possible to perform principal component analysis (PCA) on the measured movement times T1 to T5, and score variables based on the time required for each individual movement for each obtained principal component, thereby calculating and outputting principal component scores that serve as indicators of motor function in the elderly. For principal component analysis, known methods such as those described in (Brodie MA, Menz HB, Lord SR. Age-associated changes in head jerk while walking reveal altered dynamic stability in older people. Exp Brain Res. 2014 Jan;232(1):51-60. doi: 10.1007 / s00221-013-3719-6. Epub 2013 Oct 5. PMID: 24091775.) can be used.

[0227] For example, the first principal component based on the activity time T1-T5 may be output as an index representing overall motor function, including walking time (WT). Alternatively, the second principal component based on the activity time T1-T5 may be output as an index representing sit-to-stand function, i.e., motor function related to muscle strength. Furthermore, the third principal component based on the activity time T1-T5 may be output as an index representing motor function related to balance function.

[0228] It is anticipated that the individual numerical values ​​of the measured movement times T1 to T5 may be difficult for both the measurer and the subject to understand as indicators of what kind of motor function each represents, making it difficult to evaluate the effectiveness. In contrast, by displaying the first to third principal components extracted by principal component analysis of the measurement results of the measuring device 10 as indicators of the motor ability of the elderly, together with indicators such as sit-to-stand time (SST), walking time (WT), and balance time (BT), it is possible to communicate to the subject in an easy-to-understand manner what kind of motor function each indicator represents, thereby improving the convenience of the TUG test for both the measurer and the subject.

[0229] Furthermore, when performing principal component analysis, in addition to the movement times T1-T5 obtained from the TUG test under normal speed conditions, the analysis may also be performed on measurement results that include movement times T1-T5 obtained from the TUG test under the subject's maximum speed conditions, which have a greater impact on muscle strength, and from the TUG test under dual-task conditions that reflect daily living abilities. For each principal component obtained, a principal component score may be calculated as an indicator representing the exercise capacity and health risks of the elderly by scoring variables based on the time required for each individual movement based on the load. This allows for the calculation of values ​​that reflect the exercise function and health risks of the elderly with greater accuracy, and enables a more precise display of the subject's exercise capacity and health risks.

[0230] (7) In the measuring device 10 according to the above embodiment, the passage detection means 2 is a photoelectric passage sensor that detects the passage of the subject Ob, and is configured to use a transmissive sensor. However, the passage detection means 2 may also be configured to use a reflective sensor.

[0231] ≪Additional Information≫ The embodiments described above all show preferred specific examples of the present invention. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions and connection forms of the components, processes, order of processes, etc. shown in the embodiments are only examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. Also, among the components in the embodiments, those not described in the independent claims indicating the highest concept of the present invention are described as arbitrary components constituting a more preferred form.

[0232] Also, the order in which the above method is executed is for illustrative purposes in order to specifically describe the present invention, and other orders may be used. Also, a part of the above method may be executed simultaneously (in parallel) with other methods.

[0233] Also, for ease of understanding of the invention, the scales of the components in each of the figures cited in the above embodiments may be different from the actual ones. Also, the present invention is not limited by the descriptions of the above embodiments and can be appropriately changed without departing from the gist of the present invention.

[0234] Also, at least a part of the functions of each of the embodiments and their modifications may be combined.

Industrial Applicability

[0235] The operation time measuring device according to one aspect of the present disclosure can be widely used as a means for measuring individual operation times in the measurement of motion function data by a TUG test.

Explanation of Signs

[0236] 1 Pressure detection means 2 Passage detection means 21 First passage detection means 21a Light emitting part 21b Light receiving part 21c Communication part 22 Second passage detection means 22a, 22a1, 22a2 Light emitting part 22b 22b1, 22b2 Light receiving part 22c Communication part 2b1 Outer lens barrel 2b11 Visor 2b2 Housing part 2b3 Inner lens barrel 2b4 Light diffusion sheet 2b5 Light receiving element 3 Reflective marker 4, 4A Control means 41 Communication part 42 Data storage part 43, 43A Control means 44 Display part 45 Operation input part 46 Speaker means 5 Server means 6 Data storage means 10, 10A, 10B Operation time measuring device 100 Operation time measuring system

Claims

1. An operation time measuring device for measuring the duration of each of multiple individual operations included in the target operation in a Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, Pressure detection means and A first passage detection means and a second passage detection means for detecting the passage of a subject, The system comprises a pressure detection means, a first passage detection means, and a control means that acquires output signals from the second passage detection means and calculates the required time for the plurality of individual operations. The pressure detection means is mounted on the seat of the chair, The first passage detection means is positioned at a first location at a distance of 25 cm to 65 cm from the chair in the walkway from the chair to a turnaround marker located at a predetermined distance from the chair. The second passage detection means is positioned in the walkway at a second location that is further from the chair than the midpoint between the chair and the return marker, and closer to the chair than the return marker. The aforementioned multiple individual actions consist of a standing action in which the subject stands up from a seated position in the chair, a forward walking action in which the subject walks from the first position to the second position on the walkway after the standing action, a turning action in which the subject turns around the turnaround marker after the forward walking action, a return walking action in which the subject walks from the second position to the first position on the walkway after the turning action, and a sitting action in which the subject sits down in the chair after the return walking action. The control means defines the time from the time of pressure release detection by the pressure detection means to the time of first passage detection by the first passage detection means as the required time for the rise operation. The time from the first passage detection time to the second passage detection time by the second passage detection means is defined as the time required for the outward walking motion. The time from the second passage detection time to the third passage detection time by the second passage detection means is defined as the time required for the turn operation. The time from the third passage detection time to the fourth passage detection time by the first passage detection means is defined as the time required for the return walking motion. The time from the fourth passage detection time to the pressure biasing detection time by the pressure detection means is defined as the required time for the seating operation. Operating time measuring device.

2. When the second passage detection means detects the passage of a subject multiple times, The second passage detection time is the time when the second passage detection means first detects the passage of the subject during the measurement target operation. The third passage detection time is the later time among the multiple times in the measured operation when the second passage detection means detects the passage of the subject, in the combination of times where the difference time between two consecutive times is the maximum. The operating time measuring device according to claim 1.

3. The first passage detection time is the time after the pressure release detection time when the first passage detection means first detects passage. The fourth passage detection time is the time after the third passage detection time when the first passage detection means last detected passage. The operating time measuring device according to claim 1.

4. The first passage detection time is the time after the pressure release detection time when the first passage detection means first detects passage. The fourth passage detection time is the time after the third passage detection time when the first passage detection means first detects passage. The operating time measuring device according to claim 1.

5. The second position is located up to 50 cm closer to the chair than the folding marker. An operating time measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The first passage detection means and the second passage detection means are positioned at a height that allows them to detect the passage of a body part that is higher than the middle of the subject's lower leg and lower than the subject's knee. An operating time measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

7. The first passage detection means and the second passage detection means are positioned at a height capable of detecting the passage of the torso portion of the subject's body. An operating time measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

8. The first passage detection means comprises a first gate means including a pair of light-emitting and light-receiving units arranged across the walkway. The second passage detection means comprises a second gate means including a pair of light-emitting and light-receiving units arranged across the walkway. An operating time measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

9. The light-receiving unit has an outer lens barrel and an inner lens barrel. The inner lens barrel is equipped with a light-diffusing sheet located near one end of the barrel and a light-receiving element located at a predetermined distance from the light-diffusing sheet toward the other end. The light emitted from the light-emitting unit enters the light-receiving unit through the outer lens barrel, and the incoming light is then diffused into the inner lens barrel by the light-diffusing sheet before being incident on the light-receiving element. The operating time measuring device according to claim 8.

10. The second passage detection means is, A third gate means including a pair of light-emitting and light-receiving units arranged across the portion of the walkway corresponding to the forward path, This consists of a fourth gate means including another pair of light-emitting and light-receiving units arranged across the portion of the walkway corresponding to the return path. An operating time measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

11. The first passage detection means and / or the second passage detection means includes a light-emitting unit, a reflector facing the light-emitting unit across the walkway and reflecting light emitted from the light-emitting unit, and a light-receiving unit facing the reflector across the walkway and positioned on the same side as the light-emitting unit. An operating time measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

12. The control means calculates a principal component score for each principal component obtained from principal component analysis, which takes as input multiple pieces of information selected from the time required for each of the multiple individual movements, a variable based on the time required for each of the individual movements, and outputs the principal component score as an indicator of the subject's motor function. An operating time measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

13. The aforementioned indicators include indicators showing motor function related to walking, indicators showing motor function related to muscle strength, or indicators showing motor function related to balance function. The operating time measuring device according to claim 12.

14. The information on the time required for each of the aforementioned individual actions includes information obtained from multiple TUG tests conducted on the subject under different conditions. The operating time measuring device according to claim 12.

15. A method for measuring the duration of each of several individual actions included in the target operation in a Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, The aforementioned multiple individual actions consist of: a standing-up action in which the subject stands up from a seated position in a chair; a forward walking action in which, after the standing-up action, the subject walks from a first position to a second position on a walkway from the chair to a turnaround marker located a predetermined distance from the chair; a turning action in which, after the forward walking action, the subject turns around the turnaround marker; a return walking action in which, after the turning action, the subject walks from the second position to the first position on the walkway; and a sitting-down action in which, after the return walking action, the subject sits down in the chair. The system detects the release of pressure from the pressure detection means mounted on the seat of the chair by the subject, In the aforementioned walkway, the passage of a subject is detected by a first passage detection means positioned at a first position located 25 cm to 65 cm away from the chair, and a second passage detection means positioned at a second position in the walkway located further from the chair than the midpoint between the chair and the return marker, and closer to the chair than the return marker. The pressure bias applied by the subject to the pressure detection means is detected, The time from the time of pressure release detection by the pressure detection means to the time of first passage detection by the first passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the rise-up operation. The time from the first passage detection time to the second passage detection time by the second passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the outward walking motion. The time from the second passage detection time to the third passage detection time by the second passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the turn operation. The time from the third passage detection time to the fourth passage detection time by the first passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the return walking motion. The time from the fourth passage detection time to the pressure biasing detection time by the pressure detection means is calculated as the required time for the seating operation. Method for measuring operating time.

16. When the second passage detection means detects the passage of a subject multiple times, The second passage detection time is the time when the second passage detection means first detects the passage of the subject during the measurement target operation. The third passage detection time is the later time among the multiple times in the measured operation when the second passage detection means detects the passage of the subject, in the combination of times where the difference time between two consecutive times is the maximum. The method for measuring operating time according to claim 15.

17. The first passage detection time is the time after the pressure release detection time when the first passage detection means first detects passage. The fourth passage detection time is the time after the third passage detection time when the first passage detection means first detects passage. The method for measuring operating time according to claim 15.

18. A program that causes a computer to perform an operation time measurement process to measure the duration of each of several individual operations included in the operation to be measured in a Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, The aforementioned multiple individual actions consist of: a standing-up action in which the subject stands up from a seated position in a chair; a forward walking action in which, after the standing-up action, the subject walks from a first position to a second position on a walkway from the chair to a turnaround marker located a predetermined distance from the chair; a turning action in which, after the forward walking action, the subject turns around the turnaround marker; a return walking action in which, after the turning action, the subject walks from the second position to the first position on the walkway; and a sitting-down action in which, after the return walking action, the subject sits down in the chair. The aforementioned operating time measurement process is: The system detects the release of pressure from the pressure detection means mounted on the seat of the chair by the subject, The passage of a subject is detected by a first passage detection means positioned at a first position in the walkway, at a distance of 25 cm to 65 cm from the chair, and a second passage detection means positioned at a second position in the walkway, further from the chair than the midpoint between the chair and the return marker, and closer to the chair than the return marker. The pressure bias applied by the subject to the pressure detection means is detected, The time from the time of pressure release detection by the pressure detection means to the time of first passage detection by the first passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the rise-up operation. The time from the first passage detection time to the second passage detection time by the second passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the outward walking motion. The time from the second passage detection time to the third passage detection time by the second passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the turn operation. The time from the third passage detection time to the fourth passage detection time by the first passage detection means is calculated as the required time for the return walking motion. The time from the fourth passage detection time to the pressure biasing detection time by the pressure detection means is calculated as the required time for the seating operation. program.

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