Skin resistance measuring device, method for evaluating skin responsiveness, and method for determining behavioral and emotional states

Abstract

A skin resistance measurement device according to the present invention comprises a pair of electrode parts to be arranged on the epidermis, and a measurement unit that measures the skin resistance between the pair of electrode parts. The pair of electrode parts have a structure that allows for drying to naturally occur on the epidermis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a skin resistance measuring device, a method for evaluating the response ability of the skin, and a method for determining behavior and emotion. This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-039017 filed in Japan on March 11, 2021, and incorporates its content herein.

[0002] In recent years, flexible electronics has various application uses due to the softness of materials and has attracted high attention. Among them, with the global aging of society, the interest in the healthcare field is increasing. For example, by being worn on the surface or inside of the human body, it has attracted attention as a means to directly obtain biological information from cells and tissues. As an effective means, electrodes that can be directly attached to the skin (for example, Patent Document 1) have attracted attention.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When an electrode is directly attached to the skin to measure skin resistance and the like over time, natural moisture evaporation from the skin may be inhibited. In addition, wearing for a long time may have an adverse effect on the skin, such as inflammation. When an electrode is directly attached to the skin, it is required to be able to measure for a long time without inhibiting natural moisture evaporation from the skin. In particular, by evaluating the change rate of skin resistance, it becomes possible to evaluate the response ability of the skin to external environments and changes in life behaviors. The skin is an organ that is constantly affected by the external environment, and it is known that diseases may worsen or the health state of the skin may change due to environmental changes.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and provides a skin resistance measuring device that does not inhibit natural water evaporation from the skin when electrodes are directly attached to the skin and can measure for a long period of time, a method for evaluating the responsiveness of the skin, and a method for determining behavioral emotions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention was made to solve the above problems, and one aspect of the present invention comprises a pair of electrode portions provided on the epidermis, By applying a DC voltage to the pair of electrode portions It comprises a measuring unit for measuring the skin resistance between the pair of electrode portions, The aforementioned skin resistance is the resistance along the path from one location in the epidermis through the subcutaneous tissue to the other location in the epidermis, and is the resistance component excluding the volume component of the skin. The pair of electrode portions are located in the skin. The aforementioned epidermis It has a structure that allows drying to occur naturally. The device comprises a skin contact portion and a thin, film-shaped connecting portion that electrically connects the electrode portion and the measurement portion, wherein the distance between one of the skin contact portions provided on the pair of electrode portions is greater than a predetermined distance that suppresses the generation of current flowing along a path from one position on the skin through the skin to the other position on the skin, and the connecting portion is composed of an electrode contact portion, a connecting portion and a connector contact portion, wherein the connecting portion is narrower than the electrode contact portion and the connector contact portion, and the connector contact portion contacts the connector provided on the measurement portion. This is a skin resistance measuring device.

[0007] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the above-described skin resistance measuring device comprises a fiber network in the electrode portion.

[0008] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described skin resistance measuring device, the electrode portion has fine linear members arranged at predetermined intervals.

[0009] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the above-described skin resistance measuring device has stripe-shaped openings in the electrode portion.

[0010] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described skin resistance measuring device, the electrode portion is a foil-shaped electrode provided with cracks or pinholes.

[0011] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the above-described skin resistance measuring device has a structure in which the electrode portion releases moisture absorbed on the surface in contact with the epidermis.

[0013] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the skin resistance measuring device described above has a connection portion that is breathable.

[0014] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described skin resistance measuring device, the area of ​​the portion of the surface of the epidermal contact portion that is in contact with the connecting portion is smaller than the area of ​​the portion that is not in contact with the connecting portion.

[0015] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described skin resistance measuring device, a breathable conductive member is inserted between the electrode portion and the connection portion.

[0016] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, in the above-described skin resistance measuring device, the electrode portion further comprises an epidermal non-contact portion that does not come into contact with the epidermis, the epidermal non-contact portion and the connection portion have overlapping regions, and the electrode portion further comprises an insulating portion that electrically insulates the epidermal non-contact portion and the epidermis in the region.

[0017] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the above-described skin resistance measuring device further comprises a detection circuit for detecting whether or not the electrode portion and the connection portion are connected. Based on the detection results of the detection circuit, data measured when a contact failure occurred, or data measured immediately after a contact failure occurred, are excluded from the measurement data. .

[0020] Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, a device is provided on the epidermis of the object to be measured, and in the epidermis The epidermis It has a structure that allows drying to occur naturally. By applying a DC voltage to the pair of electrode portions, the above A method for evaluating skin responsiveness, comprising: a measurement step of measuring skin resistance between a pair of electrode portions using a measurement unit; and an evaluation step of evaluating the skin's ability to respond to changes in the external environment and lifestyle behaviors of the object being measured based on the skin resistance measured in the measurement step, The aforementioned skin resistance is the resistance along the path from one location in the epidermis through the subcutaneous tissue to the other location in the epidermis, and is the resistance component excluding the volume component of the skin. The pair of electrode portions comprises a skin contact portion having a structure that contacts the skin and allows drying to occur naturally on the skin, and a thin, film-shaped connecting portion that electrically connects the electrode portion and the measuring portion. The distance between one of the skin contact portions provided in the pair of electrode portions is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance such that the generation of current flowing through a path from one position on the skin to the other position on the skin is suppressed. The connection portion consists of an electrode contact portion, a connecting portion, and a connector contact portion. The connecting portion is narrower in width than the electrode contact portion and the connector contact portion, and the connector contact portion is a method for evaluating the responsiveness of skin in contact with a connector provided in the measurement unit.

[0021] Also, one aspect of the present invention is provided on the epidermis of the measurement target, and the The epidermis has a structure in which drying naturally occurs on the epidermis By applying a DC voltage to the pair of electrode portions, the above a measurement step of measuring the skin resistance between a pair of electrode portions by a measurement unit, and a determination step of determining the measurement target behavior and / or emotion based on the skin resistance measured in the measurement step, The aforementioned skin resistance is the resistance along the path from one location in the epidermis through the subcutaneous tissue to the other location in the epidermis, and is the resistance component excluding the volume component of the skin. the pair of electrode portions includes an epidermis contact portion that contacts the epidermis and has a structure in which drying naturally occurs on the epidermis, and a connection portion formed in a thin film shape that electrically connects the electrode portion and the measurement unit, The distance between one of the skin contact portions provided in the pair of electrode portions is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance such that the generation of current flowing through a path from one position on the skin to the other position on the skin is suppressed. the connection portion is composed of an electrode contact portion, a connection portion, and a connector contact portion, the connection portion is narrower in width than the electrode contact portion and the connector contact portion, and the connector contact portion is a behavior and emotion determination method that contacts a connector provided in the measurement unit.

Advantages of the Invention

[0022] According to the present invention, when an electrode is directly attached to the skin, natural moisture evaporation from the skin is not inhibited, and long-term measurement can be performed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a skin resistance measurement device attached to the skin according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a skin resistance measurement device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view of a skin resistance measurement device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] An example of the relationship between the surface area of an electrode and skin resistance according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view of a skin resistance measurement device according to a modified example of an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a skin resistance measurement device according to a modified example of an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7]An example of the appearance of a skin resistance measuring device attached to the skin according to a modified embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of a cross-sectional view of a skin resistance measuring device according to a modified embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of a cross-sectional view of a skin resistance measuring device according to a modified embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of a DC voltage application pattern according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of the measurement results of the time change of skin resistance according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This figure shows an example of the appearance of a skin resistance measuring device in which an electrode according to the first embodiment of the present invention is attached to the epidermis with the electrode covered by a film cover. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of the measurement results of the time change of skin resistance according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] This figure shows an example of the time change in skin resistance, extracted from the measurement results of the first embodiment of the present invention for the period from 1 hour to 2 hours from the start of measurement. [Figure 15] This figure shows an example of a change in skin resistance that occurs when attaching or detaching a film according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] This figure shows an example of the drying process of sweat caused by exercise according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] This figure shows an example of the appearance of a skin resistance measuring device in which an electrode according to a second embodiment of the present invention is attached to the epidermis with the electrode covered by an adhesive bandage. [Figure 18] This figure shows an example of the measurement results of the change in skin resistance over time when an adhesive bandage is applied to the epidermis according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] This figure shows an example of measurement results for verifying the reproducibility of the effect on skin resistance when an adhesive bandage is applied to the epidermis according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20]This figure shows an example of measurement results for verifying the reproducibility of the effect on skin resistance when a polyurethane film according to the second embodiment of the present invention is applied to the epidermis. [Figure 21] This figure shows an example of the measurement results of skin resistance when a film cover according to a second embodiment of the present invention is attached to the epidermis so as to cover the electrode and then removed. [Figure 22] This figure shows an example of the measurement results of transepidermal water loss using a comparative skin measuring instrument according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] This figure shows an example of comparing the measurement results of skin resistance using the skin resistance measuring device according to the second embodiment of the present invention with the measurement results of transepidermal water loss using a comparative skin measuring instrument. [Figure 24] This figure shows an example of the results of calculating the correlation coefficient between skin resistance and transepidermal water loss according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 25] This figure shows an example of the results of measuring the moisture content of the stratum corneum using a comparative skin measuring instrument according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 26] This figure shows an example of skin resistance measurement results when polyethylene is used as the film cover covering the electrode according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 27] This figure shows an example of skin resistance measurement results when polyurethane is used as a film cover to cover the electrode according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28] This figure shows an example of measurement results when the subject of measurement according to the third embodiment of the present invention is a man in his 60s and polyethylene is used as the film cover. [Figure 29] This figure shows an example of measurement results when the subject of measurement according to the third embodiment of the present invention is the male in question, and polyurethane is used as the film cover. [Figure 30] This figure shows an example of measurement results when the subject of measurement according to the third embodiment of the present invention is a woman in her 40s and polyethylene is used as the film cover. [Figure 31]This figure shows an example of the results obtained by expanding a certain range of the measurement results in Figure 30 according to the third embodiment of the present invention in the direction of the skin resistance value. [Figure 32] This figure shows an example of skin resistance measurement results related to a comparative example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 33] This figure shows an example of skin resistance measurement results related to a comparative example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 34] This figure shows an example of skin resistance measurement results according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] (Embodiment) Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. [Configuration of the skin resistance measurement device] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the configuration of the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the skin resistance measuring device 1 attached to the skin according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the skin resistance measuring device 1 is attached directly to the skin of the person being measured, and skin resistance is measured. The skin resistance measuring device 1 is a wearable measuring device.

[0025] Generally, skin resistance includes resistance along a pathway from one point in the epidermis through the epidermis to the other point in the epidermis, and resistance along a pathway from one point in the epidermis through the subcutaneous tissue to the other point in the epidermis. In this embodiment, skin resistance mainly refers to the latter. In other words, in this embodiment, skin resistance mainly refers to resistance along a pathway from one point in the epidermis through the subcutaneous tissue to the other point in the epidermis.

[0026] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 3 shows an example of a cross-sectional view of the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment. The skin resistance measuring device 1 comprises an electrode unit 2 and a measurement unit 3.

[0027] The electrode section 2 is provided on the epidermis 4. The electrode section 2 comprises an electrode 20 and a connecting section 21. The electrode 20 consists of a pair of electrodes, electrode 20-1 and electrode 20-2. Since electrodes 20-1 and 20-2 have the same configuration, in the following explanation, when electrodes 20-1 and 20-2 are not distinguished, they will be referred to simply as electrode 20.

[0028] Electrode 20 is provided in contact with the epidermis 4. The shape of electrode 20 is not particularly limited and may be rectangular, circular, or comb-shaped. Circular or comb-shaped electrodes are commonly used in commercially available electrodermal activity (EDA) and skin moisture content measuring devices. However, for practical use, it is essential that the device is easy for anyone to use, so a simple configuration is very important. One example is a rectangular plate or foil (film). The shape of electrode 20 is also called a strip. The size of electrode 20 is large enough to cover one or more sweat glands on the epidermis 4. For example, the size of electrode 20 is approximately 6 mm on the short side and 24 mm to 35 mm on the long side. For example, the distance between electrode 20-1 and electrode 20-2 is approximately 1 mm to 2 mm. Furthermore, current paths passing through the epidermis may occur due to excessive sweating, etc., and the distance between electrode 20-1 and electrode 20-2 may be 2 mm or more as necessary to prevent the occurrence of such current paths.

[0029] Electrode 20, for example, has a fiber network made of nanofibers. In other words, electrode 20 has a nanomesh structure. Electrode 20, for example, consists of an electrode layer formed by electrospinning a fiber network of nanofibers made of water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), onto which gold is deposited. The nanofibers constituting the fiber network of electrode 20 have a diameter of 200 nm to 2 μm. The thickness of the deposited gold is 10 nm to 200 nm. Electrode 20, by having the nanomesh structure described above, exhibits enhanced surface conformability, lateral extensibility, gas and moisture permeability, and transparency.

[0030] The electrode 20 has a nanomesh structure, which provides breathability. Breathability means that it has high permeability to gases and moisture. Therefore, when sweat secreted from sweat glands distributed on the epidermis 4 in contact with the electrode 20, or moisture from the stratum corneum of the skin evaporates, the amount of moisture evaporation is close to the amount of evaporation that would occur if the electrode 20 were not present. In other words, because the electrode 20 has a nanomesh structure, drying occurs naturally on the epidermis 4 in contact with the electrode 20.

[0031] Thus, the electrode 20 has a structure that allows for natural drying on the epidermis 4. Natural drying on the epidermis 4 means that it has higher breathability compared to, for example, polyurethane. This breathability is, for example, about 1000 g / m2·24h to 20000 g / m2·24h. The electrode 20 is an example of an epidermal contact portion provided in the electrode part. Furthermore, the electrode 20 may have a structure other than a nanomesh structure, as it is a structure that allows for natural drying on the epidermis 4. Here are some other examples of structures that allow for natural drying on the epidermis 4.

[0032] The electrode 20 may have a structure in which a plurality of fine linear members, such as nanofibers, are arranged substantially parallel to each other. Alternatively, the electrode 20 may have a lattice structure formed by arranging the plurality of linear members substantially orthogonally. In other words, the electrode 20 may have fine linear members arranged at predetermined intervals. When the electrode 20 has fine linear members arranged at predetermined intervals, the spacing between the plurality of linear members is, for example, wider than the diameter of the sweat gland. Even when the spacing between the plurality of linear members is narrower than the diameter of the sweat gland, it is provided to be wide enough so that the opening ratio of the surface of the electrode 20 in contact with the epidermis 4 is above a predetermined value. The width of the fine linear members is, for example, 1 mm or less. The fine linear members are arranged so that the opening ratio is, for example, 50%.

[0033] Furthermore, the electrode 20 may have stripe-shaped openings. In this case, the openings are, for example, rectangular in shape. The area of ​​the openings and the spacing between adjacent openings are made wide enough so that the opening ratio of the surface of the electrode 20 in contact with the skin 4 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. The area of ​​the openings and the spacing between adjacent openings are arranged, for example, so that the opening ratio is, for example, 50%.

[0034] Furthermore, the electrode 20 may be a foil-shaped electrode with cracks. In this case, the width of the cracks, the average spacing between cracks, and the number of cracks are determined so that the opening ratio of the surface of the electrode 20 in contact with the surface 4 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. The foil-shaped electrode is, for example, gold foil. Furthermore, the electrode 20 may have multiple holes in order to allow for natural drying on the epidermis 4. In this case, for example, the electrode 20 may be a foil-shaped electrode with multiple pinholes. Multiple pinholes are provided on the foil-shaped electrode such that the diameter of the multiple pinholes, the average spacing between the pinholes, and the number of pinholes are such that the opening ratio of the surface of the electrode 20 in contact with the epidermis 4 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. For example, the diameter of the pinholes is several tens of μm to several hundred μm, and the average spacing between the pinholes is 0.1 mm to 1 mm.

[0035] In any of the above cases, in order for the electrode 20 to have a structure that allows for natural drying of the epidermis 4, such as breathability, it is preferable that the electrode 20 has gaps of a predetermined size or larger so that it does not cover each sweat gland by a predetermined proportion or more. In other words, it is preferable that the surface area of ​​the electrode 20 that contacts the epidermis 4 is less than or equal to a predetermined size. On the other hand, if the surface area of ​​the electrode 20 becomes small, the contact resistance of the electrode 20 increases, making it difficult for current to flow between electrode 20-1 and electrode 20-2, and making it difficult to measure skin resistance itself. For this reason, it is preferable that the size of the gaps provided in the electrode 20 be within a predetermined range. The opening ratio of the surface of the electrode 20 that contacts the epidermis 4 is, for example, 10 percent or more. More preferably, the opening ratio is 30 percent or more. Figure 4 shows an example of the relationship between the surface area of ​​the electrode 20 and skin resistance according to this embodiment. In Figure 4, the surface area of ​​the electrode 20 is shown as a value calculated from the outer shape of the electrode 20, but the actual surface area of ​​the electrode is calculated by multiplying the surface area of ​​the outer shape of the electrode by the proportion of the outer shape occupied by the electrode.

[0036] Furthermore, the electrode 20 may have a structure that allows for natural drying on the epidermis 4, and even if it absorbs moisture (including sweat) evaporating from the skin, it may have a structure that releases the absorbed moisture from the surface in contact with the epidermis 4. For example, the electrode 20 releases the moisture absorbed from the surface in contact with the epidermis 4 from the surface opposite to that surface. If the electrode 20 has a structure that releases the moisture absorbed from the surface in contact with the epidermis 4, the material of the electrode 20 may be, for example, a water-retaining material used for skin. Such water-retaining materials may be, for example, polyvinyl alcohol, modified polyvinyl alcohol, sodium polyacrylate, collagen, or glycerin.

[0037] Let's continue with the explanation of the configuration of the skin resistance measuring device 1. The connection part 21 electrically connects the electrode 20 and the measurement unit 3. The connection part 21 consists of connection part 21-1 and connection part 21-2. Connection part 21-1 electrically connects the electrode 20-1 and the measurement unit 3. Connection part 21-2 electrically connects the electrode 20-2 and the measurement unit 3. Since connection part 21-1 and connection part 21-2 have the same configuration, in the following explanation, unless otherwise distinguished, connection part 21-1 and connection part 21-2 will be referred to as connection part 21.

[0038] The connecting portion 21 is molded into a thin film. The connecting portion 21 consists of an electrode contact portion 210, a connecting portion 211, and a connector contact portion 212. In Figure 2, the electrode contact portion 210, the connecting portion 211, and the connector contact portion 212 are shown only for the connecting portion 21-2, but similar to the connecting portion 21-2, the connecting portion 21-2 also consists of an electrode contact portion 210, a connecting portion 211, and a connector contact portion 212. The electrode contact portion 210 contacts the surface of the electrode 20. The connector contact portion 212 contacts the connector provided on the measuring unit 3. The connecting portion 211 connects the electrode contact portion 210 and the connector contact portion 212. The electrode contact portion 210 and the connector contact portion 212 are in the shape of thin plates.

[0039] The electrode contact portion 210 contacts the electrode 20 from above. The electrode contact portion 210 may also be biased towards the skin 4 from above by the biasing force of the connecting portion 211. Here, "above" refers to the side of the electrode 20 surface that is not in contact with the skin 4. The adhesive portion 22, including the electrode contact portion 210 of the connecting portion 21, is attached to the skin 4. In this embodiment, as an example, the electrode contact portion 210 of connecting portion 21-1 and connecting portion 21-2 are attached to the skin 4 by one adhesive portion 22.

[0040] In Figure 2, the adhesive portion 22 is attached to the electrode 20 and the electrode contact portion 210. However, if a highly conductive adhesive is used, it may be provided separately between electrode 20-1 and the electrode contact portion 210, and between electrode 20-2 and the electrode contact portion 210. Furthermore, to prevent deterioration of the contact between electrode 20 and electrode contact portion 210 due to body movement, a conductive and stretchable material, such as a sponge coated with a highly conductive carbon material, may be provided above and below electrode 20 and electrode contact portion 210. Here, coating the sponge with a certain substance means adhering that substance to the surface of each of the fine fibers that make up the sponge. In addition, to increase the pressure with which the electrode contact portion 210 presses against electrode 20, a highly stretchable material such as a sponge may be provided between the adhesive portion 22 and the electrode contact portion 210.

[0041] The adhesive portion 22 prevents the electrode 20 and electrode contact portion 210 from peeling off the epidermis 4. The material of the adhesive portion 22 should be adhesive, allow it to be attached to the epidermis 4 for a long time, and be less likely to cause inflammation or other adverse effects on the epidermis 4. The adhesive portion 22 is preferably breathable. One example of the adhesive portion 22 is medical surgical tape.

[0042] In Figure 2, the connector contact portion 212 is connected on the side opposite to the skin on the measurement portion 3, but as shown in Figure 3, the connector contact portion 212 may be connected between the skin and the measurement portion 3. Similarly, in Figure 2, the electrode contact portion 210 is connected on the side opposite to the side where the electrode 20 contacts the skin, but the electrode contact portion 210 may be connected between the skin and the electrode 20. In Figure 2, a connection part 21 is used as wiring to electrically connect the electrode 20 and the measurement unit 3, but the electrode 20 may be directly electrically connected to the measurement unit 3 without using the connection part 21.

[0043] In the cross-sectional view shown in Figure 3, the breathable region R1 represents the portion of the electrode 20 surface that is not in contact with the electrode contact portion 210. The non-breathable region R2 represents the portion of the electrode 20 surface that is in contact with the electrode contact portion 210. As described above, the electrode 20 is breathable. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the connection portion 21 is not breathable. Therefore, the electrode portion 2 is breathable in the breathable region R1, but not in the non-breathable region R2. In this embodiment, the area of ​​the non-breathable region R2 on the surface of the electrode portion 2 is smaller than the area of ​​the breathable region R1. In other words, the area of ​​the portion of the electrode 20 surface that is in contact with the connection portion 21, which is an example of an epidermal contact portion, is smaller than the area of ​​the portion that is not in contact with the connection portion 21. Therefore, the skin resistance measuring device 1 can have higher breathability compared to the case where the area of ​​the portion of the electrode 20 surface that is in contact with the connection portion 21 is larger than the area of ​​the portion that is not in contact with the connection portion 21.

[0044] Furthermore, the contact resistance between the electrode contact portion 210 and the electrode 20 is sufficiently small compared to the contact resistance between the skin 4 and the electrode 20. Furthermore, since the connection portion 21 is covered with insulating material except for the connection portion, it may have a portion that comes into contact with the outer skin 4. For example, a part of the connecting portion 211 may come into contact with the outer skin 4.

[0045] The connecting portion 211 is narrower than the electrode contact portion 210 and the connector contact portion 212. This allows the connecting portion 211 to bend and absorb external force when an external force is applied to the skin resistance measuring device 1, thereby preventing damage to the skin resistance measuring device 1 and the electrode 20.

[0046] The connecting portion 21 is formed, for example, by plating or vapor-depositing gold onto the surface of copper formed on a polyurethane film. The material constituting the connecting portion 21 only needs to be conductive. For example, metals such as copper, gold, aluminum, silver, and zinc can be used. From the viewpoint of conductivity, copper and silver are preferred. Furthermore, if the connecting portion 21 has a portion that comes into contact with the surface 4, it is preferable to use stable gold in order to suppress unwanted reactions. The connecting portion 21 may also be made of conductive polyurethane.

[0047] More specifically, the connection portion 21 has copper wiring formed on a polyurethane film, which is then covered with another polyurethane film. The electrode contact portion 210 and the connector contact portion 212 are open, and their outermost surfaces are plated with gold. Therefore, the parts of the connection portion 21 other than the electrode contact portion 210 and the connector contact portion 212 are electrically insulated.

[0048] The measurement unit 3 measures the skin resistance between electrode 20-1 and electrode 20-2. Here, the measurement unit 3 measures the skin resistance between electrode 20-1 and electrode 20-2 by applying a DC voltage between them. The skin resistance measuring device 1 applies a DC voltage. When an AC voltage is applied, the impedance including the capacitive and resistive components of the skin is measured, and it is not possible to directly measure the DC resistance of the skin. Unlike when an AC voltage is applied, the skin resistance measuring device 1 allows for the direct measurement of skin resistance by applying a DC voltage.

[0049] The measurement unit 3 comprises a circuit board 30, a switch 31, a memory 32, and a battery 33. The substrate 30 has various components, including a switch 31, a memory 32, a battery 33, and an arithmetic circuit IC (not shown) for measuring resistance values, which are electrically connected and arranged on the substrate 30. The substrate 30 is provided in contact with the epidermis 4. The substrate 30 is, for example, about 23 mm in length and 16 mm in width. Since the skin resistance measuring device 1 is a wearable measuring device, it is preferable for the size of the substrate 30 to be small. If the size of the substrate 30 is too large, it will be difficult to attach it to the epidermis 4. The substrate 30 is, for example, a film substrate such as a polyimide film. Since the substrate 30 is a film substrate, it is possible to ensure ease of attachment to the epidermis 4 and the ability to follow skin deformation.

[0050] Switch 31 switches the power of the measurement unit 3 on and off. When switch 31 is in the ON position, the measurement unit 3 measures skin resistance. Memory 32 stores the time-series pattern of on and off states of the voltage applied to the electrode 20. Memory 32 also stores the skin resistance values ​​measured by the measurement unit 3 in time series. The battery 33 supplies power to the measurement unit 3 when the switch 31 is in the ON position.

[0051] Note that the configuration of the skin resistance measuring device 1 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 3. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view of a modified skin resistance measuring device 1a according to this embodiment. The skin resistance measuring device 1a comprises an electrode section 2a and a measuring section 3. The electrode section 2a comprises an electrode 20a and a connecting section 21a. The connecting section 21a consists of an electrode contact section 210a, a connecting section 211, and a connector contact section 212.

[0052] The skin resistance measuring device 1a differs from the skin resistance measuring device 1 shown in Figure 3 in that the electrode 20a and the electrode contact portion 210a are different. However, the configuration of the skin resistance measuring device 1a is the same as that of the skin resistance measuring device 1 shown in Figure 3 in that the electrode 20a consists of a pair of electrodes and the connection portion 21a consists of a pair of connection portions. The shape of the electrode 20a differs from that of the electrode 20 shown in Figure 3 in that the longer side of the rectangle is shorter. For example, the surface area of ​​the electrode contact portion 210a and the surface area of ​​the electrode 20a are approximately equal. In the cross-sectional view shown in Figure 5, the adhesive portion 22 shown in Figure 2 is omitted, but a highly breathable adhesive material is attached to the surface 4, including the electrode contact portion 210a of the connecting portion 21a.

[0053] In the cross-sectional view shown in Figure 5, the breathable region R3 represents the area where the electrode 20a and the electrode contact portion 210a overlap. The non-breathable region R4 represents the connecting portion 211 of the connection portion 21a. The skin resistance measuring device 1a is breathable in the breathable region R3 and not breathable in the non-breathable region R4. Here, similar to the connection portion 21 shown in Figure 2, the connecting portion 211 in the connection portion 21a is configured to be narrower in width than the electrode contact portion 210a and the connector contact portion 212a. Therefore, in the non-breathable region R4, which represents the connection portion 21a, the accumulation of secretions such as sweat during measurement can be suppressed.

[0054] The electrode contact portion 210a, for example, has a structure in which multiple holes of a predetermined diameter are provided. In this portion, the electrode contact portion 210a may have a mesh-like structure instead of a structure in which multiple holes of a predetermined diameter are provided. The opening ratio in this portion is greater than or equal to a predetermined value.

[0055] The electrode contact portion 210a has a structure that allows for natural drying on the epidermis. Therefore, even when the electrode 20a and the electrode contact portion 210a overlap, the overlapping portion remains breathable. In the skin resistance measuring device 1a, while having a structure that allows for natural drying on the epidermis, the size of the device can be made compact only in the area where the electrode 20a and the electrode contact portion 210a overlap.

[0056] In Figure 5, an example is shown where the surface area of ​​the electrode contact portion 210a is approximately the same as the surface area of ​​the electrode 20a, but this is not the only example. The surface area of ​​the electrode contact portion 210a may be smaller than the surface area of ​​the electrode 20a. In other words, the area of ​​the electrode 20a that is in contact with the connection portion 21a may be smaller than the area of ​​the portion that is not in contact with the connection portion 21a.

[0057] In this embodiment, an example has been described in which the connecting portion 21 or connecting portion 21a is provided on the upper side of the electrode 20 (i.e., on the side of the electrode 20 surface opposite to the epidermis 4), but it is not limited to this. The connecting portion 21 may also be provided between the electrode 20 and the epidermis 4 (i.e., on the side of the electrode 20 surface facing the epidermis 4).

[0058] Furthermore, although this embodiment describes an example in which the electrode 20 is connected to the measurement unit 3 via the connection part 21, it is not limited to this. The electrode unit 2 may not have a connection part 21, and the electrode 20 may be directly connected to the measurement unit 3.

[0059] Furthermore, the measurement unit 3, or both the measurement unit 3 and the connection unit 21, may be detachable while the electrode 20 remains attached to the skin 4. For example, during the measurement process, only the measurement unit 3 may be replaced while the electrode 20 remains attached to the skin 4.

[0060] In this embodiment, an example has been described in which the connection portion 21 is made of a wiring material that does not have breathability, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the connection portion 21 may be made of a wiring material in which electrodes are formed in a mesh pattern on a highly breathable polyurethane substrate with a thickness of 50 μm or less. In that case, not only the electrodes 20 but also the connection portion 21 can have breathability. Furthermore, if a highly breathable adhesive member is used for the adhesive portion 22, it is possible to ensure breathability even in the non-breathable region R2 shown in Figure 3. Therefore, skin resistance can be accurately measured even if the area of ​​the R2 region is not sufficiently smaller than the area of ​​the R1 region. Also, when a highly breathable adhesive member is used for the adhesive portion 22, it is not necessary to make the area of ​​the R2 region sufficiently smaller than the area of ​​the R1 region, so it is possible to stably form the connection between the electrodes 20 and the connection portion 21.

[0061] In the configuration of the skin resistance measuring device, a breathable conductive member may be inserted between the electrode and the connection part. Referring to Figures 6 to 8, another modified example of the configuration of the skin resistance measuring device will be described in which a breathable conductive member is inserted between the electrode and the connection part. Figure 6 shows an example of the configuration of a modified skin resistance measuring device 1b according to this embodiment. Figure 7 shows an example of the appearance of the modified skin resistance measuring device 1b attached to the skin according to this embodiment. Figure 8 shows an example of a cross-sectional view of the modified skin resistance measuring device 1b according to this embodiment. Note that in Figure 8, the components on the circuit board 30, such as the switch 31 and memory 32 shown in Figure 6, are collectively shown as circuit components 34.

[0062] The skin resistance measuring device 1b comprises an electrode unit 2b, a measuring unit 3, and a case 8b. The configuration of the measuring unit 3 shown in Figure 6 is the same as that of the measuring unit 3 shown in Figure 2, so its explanation is omitted. The electrode section 2b comprises an electrode 20b, a connecting section 21b, and a conductive sponge 23b. Electrode 20b consists of a pair of electrodes, electrode 20b-1 and electrode 20b-2. Since electrodes 20b-1 and 20b-2 have the same configuration, in the following explanation, when there is no distinction between electrode 20b-1 and electrode 20b-2b, they will be referred to simply as electrode 20b.

[0063] The conductive sponge 23b is a component that has both breathability and conductivity. The conductive sponge 23b is made of foamed sponge such as polyurethane, and conductivity is imparted by coating a portion of the foamed sponge with a conductive substance. Coating a portion of the foamed sponge with a conductive substance means adhering the substance to the surface of each of the fine fibers that make up that portion. Examples of conductive substances include silver / silver chloride, silver, or carbon.

[0064] The conductive sponge 23b is composed of a conductive portion 23b-1, a conductive portion 23b-2, and a non-conductive portion 23b-3. Conductive portions 23b-1 and 23b-2 are conductive. Conductive portions 23b-1 and 23b-2 are portions of the foamed sponge coated with a conductive substance. The non-conductive portion 23b-3 is not conductive. The non-conductive portion 23b-3 is made of foamed sponge and is not coated with a conductive material. The non-conductive portion 23b-3 is positioned between the conductive portion 23b-1 and the conductive portion 23b-2, and insulates the conductive portion 23b-1 from the conductive portion 23b-2.

[0065] The conductive portion 23b-1 is positioned between the electrode 20b-1 and the connector 21b-1. This electrically connects the electrode 20b-1 and the connector 21b-1. The conductive portion 23b-2 is positioned between the electrode 20b-2 and the connector 21b-2. This electrically connects the electrode 20b-2 and the connector 21b-2. In other words, the connection part 21b electrically connects the electrode 20b and the measuring unit 3 via the conductive parts 23b-1 and 23b-2.

[0066] Case 8b covers the electrode section 2b and the measurement section 3. As shown in Figure 7, in the skin resistance measuring device 1b, the measurement section 3 is covered by case 8b, preventing it from being exposed when the skin resistance measuring device 1b is attached to the skin.

[0067] A ventilation opening 80b is provided in case 8b. In the cross-sectional view of the skin resistance measuring device 1b shown in Figure 8, case 8b is shown divided into three parts: part 8b-1, part 8b-2, and part 8b-3. The ventilation opening 80b is provided between part 8b-1 and part 8b-2. When case 8b covers the measuring unit 3, the conductive sponge 23b is exposed through the ventilation opening 80b. Therefore, in the skin resistance measuring device 1b, even when case 8b covers the measuring unit 3, the electrode 20b has a structure that allows for natural drying on the epidermis 4.

[0068] Part 8b-3 is the portion of case 8b that comes into contact with the epidermis 4. Part 8b-3 is adhesive on its surface and can be attached to the epidermis 4. Part 8b-3 may be equipped with a seal. In that case, when attaching the skin resistance measuring device 1b to the epidermis 4, the backing paper of the seal provided on part 8b-3 is peeled off and part 8b-3 is attached to the epidermis 4.

[0069] Because part 8b-3 is adhesive, the skin resistance measuring device 1b can be easily attached to the epidermis 4. In the skin resistance measuring device 1b, the case 8b covers the electrode part 2b and the measuring part 3, so when the case 8b is attached to the epidermis 4, the electrode part 2b and the measuring part 3 can be fixed to the epidermis 4. The material for case 8b may be any material that is soft and less likely to damage the skin. Examples of materials for case 8b include silicone, polyurethane with a certain thickness or greater, and foaming agents.

[0070] Furthermore, as explained in Figure 3, in the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment, the electrode 20 is not permeable in the non-permeable region R2, which is the part of the electrode surface 20 that is in contact with the electrode contact portion 210 of the connection portion 21. In the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment, the area of ​​the part of the electrode 20 surface that is in contact with the connection portion 21 is made smaller than the area of ​​the part that is not in contact with the connection portion 21, thereby providing a configuration that has higher permeability compared to the case where the area of ​​the part of the electrode 20 surface that is in contact with the connection portion 21 is larger than the area of ​​the part that is not in contact with the connection portion 21. In other words, in the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment, the part of the electrode 20 that is in contact with the skin that is not permeable is made as small as possible, thereby minimizing the influence of the part that is not permeable on the measurement results of skin resistance.

[0071] As a configuration for the skin resistance measuring device, the influence on the measurement results of skin resistance in the non-permeable region may be further reduced by electrically insulating the electrode from the skin in the non-permeable region, which is the part of the electrode surface that is in contact with (overlapping with) the connection part. Referring to Figure 9, another modified configuration of the skin resistance measuring device will be described in which an insulating material is provided between the electrode and the skin in the part of the electrode surface that is in contact with the electrode contact part, to electrically insulate the electrode from the skin.

[0072] Figure 9 shows an example of a cross-sectional view of a modified skin resistance measuring device 1c according to this embodiment. The skin resistance measuring device 1c comprises an electrode section 2c, a measuring section 3c, an adhesive tape 91c, and a double-sided tape 92c. The electrode section 2c comprises an electrode 20c and a connecting section 21c. Note that the configuration of the skin resistance measuring device 1c is the same as that of the skin resistance measuring device 1 shown in Figure 3, in that the electrode 20c consists of a pair of electrodes and the connecting section 21c consists of a pair of connecting sections.

[0073] The electrode portion 2c has a different shape from the electrode 20 shown in Figure 3. Like the electrode 20, the electrode portion 2c has a structure such as a nanomesh structure that allows for natural drying on the epidermis 4. The electrode 20c consists of a skin contact portion 200c, a connecting portion 201c, and a tape contact portion 202c. The skin contact portion 200c, the connecting portion 201c, and the tape contact portion 202c are each in the shape of a thin plate.

[0074] The skin contact portion 200c is provided in contact with the epidermis 4. The tape contact portion 202c is in contact with the adhesive tape 91c on the side facing the epidermis 4. The tape contact portion 202c is in contact with the electrode contact portion 210c on the side opposite to the epidermis 4. In other words, the electrode 20c is sandwiched between the adhesive tape 91c and the connecting portion 21c at the tape contact portion 202c. In other words, the electrode 20c overlaps with the adhesive tape 91c and the connecting portion 21c at the tape contact portion 202c. Because the tape contact portion 202c is provided on top of the adhesive tape 91c, its height from the epidermis 4 is higher than that of the skin contact portion 200c. The connecting portion 201c connects the skin contact portion 200c and the tape contact portion 202c. The connecting portion 201c has a curved plate-like shape in order to connect the skin contact portion 200c and the tape contact portion 202c, which are at different heights from the epidermis 4.

[0075] The adhesive tape 91c is attached to the skin 4 and placed between the skin 4 and the tape contact portion 202c. In this way, the adhesive tape 91c insulates the electrode 20c from the skin 4 at the tape contact portion 202c. The material of the adhesive tape 91c should be adhesive, similar to the adhesive portion 22 (Figure 1), and should be able to adhere to the epidermis 4 for a long time without causing inflammation or other adverse effects on the epidermis 4. The adhesive tape 91c is preferably breathable. One example of the adhesive tape 91c is a medical surgical tape.

[0076] The connecting portion 21c electrically connects the electrode 20c and the measuring portion 3c. The connecting portion 21c is molded into a thin film. The connecting portion 21c consists of an electrode contact portion 210c, a connecting portion 211c, and a connector contact portion 212c. The electrode contact portion 210c contacts the surface of the electrode 20c at the tape contact portion 202c. The connector contact portion 212c contacts the connector provided on the measuring portion 3c. The electrode contact portion 210c and the connector contact portion 212c are in the shape of thin plates.

[0077] The connecting portion 211c connects the electrode contact portion 210c and the connector contact portion 212c. The connecting portion 211c has a bent plate shape in order to connect the electrode contact portion 210c and the connector contact portion 212c, which are at different heights from the surface 4. However, if the height of the electrode contact portion 210c from the surface 4 and the height of the connector contact portion 212c from the surface 4 are the same, the connecting portion 211c may have an unbent plate shape.

[0078] The measurement unit 3c has the same configuration as the measurement unit 3 (Figure 3), except for the part where the connector is provided. In the measurement unit 3c, the connector is provided on the side opposite to the outer layer 4.

[0079] The double-sided tape 92c has adhesive properties on both sides. The double-sided tape 92c is attached to the measuring section 3c on one side. The double-sided tape 92c is attached to the epidermis 4 on the other side. At least one side of the double-sided tape 92c that is attached to the epidermis 4 should have adhesive properties similar to the adhesive portion 22 (Figure 1), be able to be attached to the epidermis 4 for a long time, and be made of a material that is unlikely to cause inflammation or other adverse effects on the epidermis 4. In the cross-sectional view shown in Figure 9, the adhesive portion 22 shown in Figure 2 is omitted, but a highly breathable adhesive material is attached to the surface 4, including the electrode contact portion 210c of the connecting portion 21c.

[0080] In the cross-sectional view shown in Figure 9, the breathable region R5 represents the portion of the electrode 20c surface that is not in contact with the electrode contact portion 210c but is in contact with the epidermis 4. The breathable region R6 represents the portion of the electrode 20c surface that is not in contact with either the electrode contact portion 210c or the epidermis 4. The non-breathable region R7 represents the portion of the electrode 20c surface that is in contact with the adhesive tape 91c. The non-breathable region R7 corresponds to the tape contact portion 202c of the electrode 20c that overlaps with the connection portion 21c. Electrode 20c is breathable. On the other hand, connection portion 21c is not breathable. Therefore, electrode portion 2c is breathable in breathable region R5 and breathable region R6, but electrode portion 2 is not breathable in non-breathable region R7.

[0081] In the skin resistance measuring device 1c, the electrode part 2c and the epidermis 4 are electrically insulated by adhesive tape 91c in the non-permeable region R7. Because the electrode part 2c and the epidermis 4 are electrically insulated, the skin resistance of the epidermis 4 is not measured in the non-permeable region R7 of the skin resistance measuring device 1c.

[0082] In the skin resistance measuring device 1c, the electrode portion 2c further has an epidermal non-contact portion (in this modified example, the tape contact portion 202c) that does not come into contact with the epidermis 4. The epidermal non-contact portion (in this modified example, the tape contact portion 202c) and the connection portion 21c have overlapping regions (in this modified example, the non-permeable region R7). The skin resistance measuring device 1c is equipped with an insulating portion (in this modified example, the adhesive tape 91c). The insulating portion (in this modified example, the adhesive tape 91c) electrically insulates the epidermal non-contact portion (in this modified example, the tape contact portion 202c) and the epidermis 4 in the region (in this modified example, the non-permeable region R7). This configuration allows the skin resistance measuring device 1c to minimize the influence on the skin resistance measurement results in areas where drying does not occur naturally in the epidermis 4 (in this modified example, the non-permeable area R7).

[0083] [Pattern of DC voltage application] Next, referring to Figure 10, the pattern of the DC voltage applied between electrode 20-1 and electrode 20-2 will be described. Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of the DC voltage application pattern according to this embodiment. The measurement unit 3 applies a DC voltage for a predetermined time before measurement, and stops applying the DC voltage for a predetermined time after measurement. Thereafter, the measurement unit 3 repeats the operation of applying a DC voltage for a predetermined time, and then stopping the application of the DC voltage for a predetermined time after measurement.

[0084] In the example shown in Figure 10, the measurement unit 3 starts applying a DC voltage of value V1 between electrodes 20-1 and 20-2 at time T1. The measurement unit 3 applies the DC voltage of value V1 for 5 seconds from time T1 to time T2 and measures the skin resistance at time T2. Immediately after taking the measurement at time T2, the measurement unit 3 stops applying the DC voltage. After 5 seconds have elapsed from time T2 to time T3, the measurement unit 3 starts applying the DC voltage again at time T3. The measurement unit 3 applies the DC voltage of value V1 for 5 seconds from time T3 to time T4 and measures the skin resistance at time T4. Immediately after taking the measurement at time T4, the measurement unit 3 stops applying the DC voltage again. After 5 seconds have elapsed from time T4 to time T5, the measurement unit 3 starts applying the DC voltage again at time T5. The measurement unit 3 repeats the same operation thereafter.

[0085] The measurement unit 3 does not apply voltage continuously, but applies voltage only when necessary for measurement. Therefore, the skin resistance measuring device 1 can reduce the power consumption of the battery 33 compared to when voltage is applied continuously. In addition, the skin resistance measuring device 1 can suppress the effect of voltage application on the epidermis 4 compared to when voltage is applied continuously.

[0086] The reason for applying a DC voltage for a certain period of time before taking a measurement is as follows: When the skin is considered as an equivalent electrical circuit, as mentioned above, the resistance of the skin has both a resistive component and a capacitive component. Immediately after applying a voltage to the skin, current flows to charge the capacitive component. Therefore, if the resistance is calculated by dividing the applied voltage by the current, the apparent resistance decreases and the correct resistance value cannot be measured. To avoid this, the voltage is applied for a period of time during which the capacitive component is sufficiently charged, and then the measurement is taken, allowing for an accurate measurement of the resistance value.

[0087] Furthermore, due to body movement or other reasons, temporary poor contact may occur between the electrode 20 and the connection part 21. In this case, the measured resistance value will be infinite because no current flows even when voltage is applied. On the other hand, although the resistance value should ideally be measured 5 seconds after voltage application, it is also conceivable that data may be measured immediately after the poor contact is restored. In this case, a current flows to charge the capacitive component, resulting in a measured resistance value smaller than the accurate resistance value.

[0088] To remove such erroneous data, the measurement unit 3 may be equipped with a detection circuit. This detection circuit detects whether the electrode 20 and the connection part 21 are properly connected. Based on the detection result of the detection circuit, data measured when a contact failure occurs or immediately after a contact failure occurs may be excluded from the measurement data.

[0089] Furthermore, while Figure 10 describes a sequence in which the resistance value is measured after applying voltage for a certain period of time, the procedure is not limited to this. The resistance value may also be measured at regular intervals while the voltage is applied continuously, without any pauses in voltage application. In this case, there is an advantage in that the resistance value can be measured at shorter intervals compared to the case where pauses are included in the voltage application.

[0090] The following describes the results of measuring skin resistance under various conditions using the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment. In each of the embodiments described below, the electrode 20 has a nanomesh structure in which gold is deposited on a nanofiber network, as described above.

[0091] [First Embodiment] Figure 11 shows an example of the measurement results of the time change of skin resistance according to this embodiment. In the example shown in Figure 11, at time 0 minutes, the electrode 20 of the skin resistance measuring device 1 is attached to the epidermis 4 of the person being measured. The measurement was performed continuously for about 120 minutes. The room temperature at the time of measurement was 23.5 degrees Celsius and the humidity was 38 percent.

[0092] After the electrode 20 was attached to the epidermis 4, the electrode 20 was allowed to dry for about 20 minutes. During this drying process, breath was blown onto the electrode 20. Once drying was complete, the measurement operation was checked for about 20 minutes. During the measurement operation check, a very small amount of water was sprayed onto the electrode 20 with a spray bottle at predetermined intervals. Immediately after the water was sprayed, the measured skin resistance decreased, and as it dried, the skin resistance increased. When the amount of water sprayed onto the electrode 20 was reduced, the skin resistance no longer decreased as it did when the amount of water was not reduced.

[0093] Next, approximately 45 minutes after the start of measurement, the electrode 20 was covered with the film cover 5. Figure 12 shows the appearance of the skin resistance measuring device 1 attached to the epidermis 4 with the electrode 20 covered by the film cover 5. In this embodiment, the epidermis 4 is the forearm of the person being measured. The film cover 5 is, for example, a polyethylene film with a thickness of 50 μm. When the electrode 20 is covered with the film cover 5, the epidermis 4 is also covered with the film cover 5, preventing water evaporation from the skin surface. As a result, skin resistance decreases immediately after the electrode 20 is covered with the film cover 5. Ten minutes after the electrode 20 was covered with the film cover 5, the film cover 5 was removed. Because the film cover 5 was removed, natural water evaporation from the skin resumed, and skin resistance began to increase.

[0094] Subsequently, the subjects engaged in conversation. During the conversation, skin resistance tended to decrease. Approximately 90 minutes after the start of measurement, the electrode 20 was covered again with the film cover 5. Fifteen minutes after covering the electrode 20 with the film cover 5, the film cover 5 was removed. Due to the removal of the film cover 5, skin resistance began to increase.

[0095] Next, we will explain that the skin resistance measurement device 1 can perform measurements continuously for a long period of time, and that the measurement results are reproducible. Figure 13 shows an example of the measurement results of the time change of skin resistance according to this embodiment. In Figure 13, the first half (the period from the start of measurement to approximately 3 hours later) shows the change in skin resistance in a non-exercise state, and the second half (the period from approximately 3 to 5 hours from the start of measurement) shows the change in skin resistance during exercise. A non-exercise state is a state in which no exercise is performed. Exercise, as an example, is performing 30 squats. The measurement method is the same for both the first and second halves, and the skin resistance measuring device 1 is attached to the skin. The measurements in the first half and the second half are performed consecutively, and the total measurement time is 5 hours or more. During the period from the start of measurement to approximately 3 hours later, corresponding to the first half, the electrode 20 was repeatedly covered with and then removed with the film cover 5.

[0096] Figure 14 shows the time-dependent changes in skin resistance, extracted and enlarged from the measurement results for the period from 1 to 2 hours after the start of measurement. In Figure 14, covering the electrode 20 with the film cover 5 is indicated as "covered," and removing the film cover 5 is indicated as "removed." During this period, the skin resistance value after approximately 5 minutes had elapsed with the electrode 20 covered by the film cover 5, and the skin resistance value after the film cover 5 was removed and the skin resistance value increased due to water evaporation from the skin surface, were both approximately constant, and the skin resistance value remained stable between the minimum and maximum values.

[0097] Returning to Figure 13, let's continue the explanation. During the period from 3 to 5 hours after the start of measurement, the subjects repeatedly performed squats followed by rest. During exercise, skin resistance decreased due to sweating. During rest, skin resistance increased due to sweat evaporation. Even during the period of repeated exercise and rest, the skin resistance values ​​remained almost constant between the minimum and maximum values, both immediately after exercise and after rest. Furthermore, after 5 hours from the start of the measurement, the subjects of the measurement took a break after cleaning up the equipment related to the experiment.

[0098] From the measurement results shown in Figures 13 and 14, it was confirmed that continuous measurements for more than 5 hours are possible using the skin resistance measurement device 1, and that the measurements are reproducible.

[0099] Next, referring to Figures 15 and 16, we compare the processes of decrease and increase in skin resistance during non-exercise (film application and removal) and exercise (squats). Figure 15 shows an example of the change in skin resistance that occurs when attaching and detaching the film according to this embodiment. This change in skin resistance is thought to be a phenomenon related to water evaporation from the skin, and can be visualized in more detail than conventional methods using the skin resistance measuring device 1. Figure 15 is an extracted and enlarged view of the measurement results from the period from 1 hour to 1.6 hours from the start of measurement, as shown in Figure 13. Figure 16 shows an example of the sweating and drying process due to exercise according to this embodiment. Figure 16 is an extracted view of the measurement results from the period from 3 hours to 4.6 hours from the start of measurement, as shown in Figure 13.

[0100] Comparing Figures 15 and 16, the decrease in skin resistance differs between the case where the electrode 20 is covered with the film cover 5 and the case where sweating occurs due to exercise. Furthermore, the increase in skin resistance differs between the drying process due to water evaporation from the skin after the removal of the film cover 5 and the drying process after sweating due to exercise. In the drying process due to water evaporation from the skin, skin resistance increases at a rate that decreases over time. On the other hand, in the drying process after sweating due to exercise, skin resistance increases in proportion to time.

[0101] Thus, the skin resistance measuring device 1 can measure skin resistance with such high accuracy that it can distinguish between the way skin resistance changes when the epidermis 4 is covered with a film cover 5 and then removed, followed by a drying process due to water evaporation from the skin, and when the drying process occurs after sweating due to exercise.

[0102] [Second Example] We evaluated the effect on skin resistance when adhesive bandages or polyurethane films are applied to the epidermis. Figure 17 shows the appearance of the skin resistance measuring device 1, with the electrode 20 covered by an adhesive bandage 6 and attached to the epidermis 4. The adhesive bandage is applied to the epidermis 4 in a position that covers the electrode 20. The adhesive bandage is roughly square in shape, with sides of approximately 35 mm. Therefore, the size of the adhesive bandage is smaller than the size of the film cover 5 used in the above-described Example 1.

[0103] Figure 18 shows an example of the measurement results of the time change in skin resistance when an adhesive bandage 6 is applied to the epidermis 4 according to this embodiment. In Figure 18, the arrows from "Bandage 1" to "Bandage 4" indicate the measurement results immediately after applying an adhesive bandage without an adhesive layer, and the arrows from "Bandage 4 with adhesive" to "Bandage 6 with adhesive" indicate the measurement results immediately after applying an adhesive bandage with an adhesive layer. In the measurement, the adhesive bandage 6 was repeatedly applied to and removed from the epidermis 4. After applying the adhesive bandage 6, it was removed when the skin resistance decreased and stabilized. After removing the adhesive bandage 6, it was reapplied when the skin resistance increased and stabilized. From the measurement results shown in Figure 18, it can be seen that even when an adhesive bandage with a smaller surface area than the film cover 5 is placed, the skin resistance reacts sensitively. Adhesives and film covers are just examples of materials applied to the skin, and the skin resistance measuring device 1 can evaluate the effects of a wide range of materials on the skin. Other examples of materials whose effects on the skin can be evaluated using the skin resistance measurement device 1 include gauze, cloth, clothing that covers the skin on a daily basis, and medications used to protect and moisturize the skin. Regarding moisturizing medications, the effects on the skin when commercially available moisturizers are applied directly to electrodes 20 attached to the skin have already been evaluated using the skin resistance measurement device 1.

[0104] Figure 19 shows an example of measurement results to verify the reproducibility of the effect on skin resistance when an adhesive bandage 6 is applied to the epidermis 4 according to this embodiment. In the measurement results shown in Figure 19, the operation of applying the adhesive bandage 6 to cover the electrode 20 and then removing it was repeated from 32 minutes in, over a period of 20 to 90 minutes after the skin resistance measuring device 1 was attached to the epidermis 4. This operation was repeated 10 times, and from the time change of skin resistance shown in Figure 19, it can be seen that the effect on skin resistance when the adhesive bandage 6 is applied to the epidermis 4 is repeatedly reproducible.

[0105] Here, to verify the reproducibility of the effect on skin resistance, we show the measurement results when a polyurethane film 7 was used instead of the adhesive bandage 6. Figure 20 is a diagram showing an example of measurement results to verify the reproducibility of the effect on skin resistance when the polyurethane film 7 is applied to the epidermis 4. In the measurement results shown in Figure 19, from 100 to 170 minutes after the skin resistance measuring device 1 was attached to the epidermis 4, the operation of applying the polyurethane film 7 to cover the electrode 20 and then peeling it off was repeatedly performed from 112 minutes. This operation was repeated 10 times, and from the time change of skin resistance shown in Figure 19, it can be seen that the effect on skin resistance when the polyurethane film 7 is applied to the epidermis 4 is repeatedly reproducible.

[0106] Next, referring to Figures 21 to 25, we compare the measurement results of skin resistance using the skin resistance measuring device 1 with the measurement results other than skin resistance using the comparison skin measuring instrument. In this example, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured as a measurement result other than skin resistance.

[0107] Figure 21 shows an example of skin resistance measurement results when the film cover 5 according to this embodiment is attached to the epidermis 4 so as to cover the electrode 20 and then removed. Figure 21 shows the measurement results for a period of 130 to 140 minutes after the start of measurement. As described above, once the film cover 5 is removed, drying by evaporation begins. In this embodiment, during the period T17 shown in Figure 21, the skin resistance measurement results using the skin resistance measuring device 1 were compared with the TEWL measurement results using a comparative skin measuring instrument. Period T17 corresponds to the drying process by evaporation after the removal of the film cover 5, and the length of period T17 is approximately 140 seconds.

[0108] Figure 22 shows an example of TEWL measurement results using a comparative skin measuring instrument according to this embodiment. The measurement results represent the evaporative drying process for 140 seconds after removing the film cover 5. Note that the comparative skin measuring instrument cannot perform measurements when the film cover 5 is attached.

[0109] Figure 23 shows an example of a comparison between the skin resistance measurement results using the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment and the TEWL measurement results using a comparison skin measuring instrument. According to the measurement results shown in Figure 23, a strong correlation can be seen between skin resistance and TEWL during the drying process by evaporation. Figure 24 shows the results of calculating the correlation coefficient for this correlation. The correlation coefficient was -0.90491.

[0110] For comparison, Figure 25 shows the results of measuring the moisture content (in arbitrary units) of the stratum corneum using a comparison skin measuring instrument after removing the film cover 5. As can be seen from Figure 25, no significant trend was observed in the time change of the moisture content of the stratum corneum while evaporation was occurring in the epidermis after the removal of the film cover 5. Therefore, it can be seen that there is no correlation between skin resistance and the moisture content of the stratum corneum during the drying process by evaporation.

[0111] [Third embodiment] Next, we will describe an example in which we investigated the effects of differences in the material of the film cover covering the electrode 20, or differences in the physical characteristics of the person being measured, on skin resistance.

[0112] Figure 26 shows the skin resistance measurement results when a 50 μm thick polyethylene (PE) film cover was used to cover the electrode 20. Figure 27 shows the skin resistance measurement results when a 75 μm thick polyurethane (PU) film cover was used to cover the electrode 20. In both Figure 26 and Figure 27, the subject of the measurement was a male in his 30s.

[0113] In both Figure 26 and Figure 27, the procedure of covering the electrode 20 with a film cover, leaving it for 2 minutes, then removing the film cover and drying for 3 minutes was repeated. In both Figure 26 and Figure 27, the skin resistance 2 minutes after covering with the film cover and the skin resistance 3 minutes after removing the film cover remained almost constant between the repeated operations. The measurement results shown in Figures 26 and 27 suggest that the irritation received by the skin differed depending on the material of the film cover, which may have resulted in differences in the process of water evaporation from the skin.

[0114] Figure 28 shows the measurement results when the subject of measurement is a man in his 60s and PE is used as the film cover. Figure 29 shows the measurement results when the subject of measurement is the same man and PU is used as the film cover. As shown in Figure 28, the skin resistance tended to gradually decrease as the procedure of covering and removing the electrode 20 with a film cover was repeated. After 25 minutes from the start of measurement, the skin resistance did not increase again. This is thought to be due to the subject's tendency to sweat easily or the presence of a skin condition.

[0115] In Figure 29, the subject of measurement is talking or making a phone call while the electrode 20 is covered with a film cover and then removed. The measurement results in Figure 29 show that these actions, such as talking or making a phone call, affect the skin resistance.

[0116] Figure 30 shows the measurement results when the subject was a woman in her 40s and PE was used as the film cover. The subject was often tense during the measurement, and skin resistance decreased sharply when tense. In Figure 30, the estimated time when tension began is indicated by arrows A26-1, A26-2, and A26-3.

[0117] Figure 31 shows the measurement results within the range R26 shown in Figure 30, magnified in the direction of skin resistance values ​​(i.e., the direction of the vertical axis). In Figure 31, the range R26 shown in Figure 30 is divided into three ranges: range R26-1, range R26-2, and range R26-3. From Figure 31, it can be seen that in the three ranges R26-1, range R26-2, and range R26-3, the skin resistance is vigorous even though the electrode 20 is not covered and removed with a film cover.

[0118] Furthermore, during periods T26-1 and T26-2, the subjects attempted to alleviate their tension by closing their eyes and calming themselves. During periods T26-1 and T26-2, the tendency for skin resistance to fluctuate violently, which was observed in the tense state, was not seen, and skin resistance steadily increased. This change is thought to be due to a shift from a sympathetic nervous system dominant state to a parasympathetic nervous system state by closing the eyes, and the gradual increase in skin resistance reflects this result. Although the baseline skin resistance increased gradually in this way, during periods T26-1 and T26-2, we also conducted an investigation in which the procedure of covering and removing the electrode 20 with a film cover was repeatedly performed.

[0119] The measurement results shown in Figures 30 and 31 indicate that the subject's tension and emotional state were reflected in the skin resistance. Thus, the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment demonstrates the possibility of estimating an individual's tension and emotional state from subtle changes in skin resistance simply by attaching it to the skin, such as the forearm.

[0120] [Fourth embodiment] To confirm the effect of having a structure that allows for natural drying on the epidermis 4, a comparative example was performed by removing electrode 20 from the skin resistance measuring device 1 and taking measurements. Figure 32 shows an example of skin resistance measurement results for a comparative example of this embodiment. The measurement results shown in Figure 32 were obtained by removing the electrode 20 from the skin resistance measuring device 1 and directly contacting the connector of the measuring unit 3 with the epidermis 4. As shown in Figure 32, the skin resistance value decreased over time and remained decreased, never returning to its original value. This is thought to be because the electrode 20 was removed from the skin resistance measuring device 1, and natural drying did not occur on the epidermis 4, causing moisture such as sweat to accumulate over time.

[0121] Next, the effect on skin resistance when the film cover is repeatedly applied to and removed from the epidermis 4 was compared between the case where the skin resistance measuring device 1 is equipped with electrodes 20 and the case where the electrodes 20 are removed from the skin resistance measuring device 1.

[0122] Figure 33 shows an example of skin resistance measurement results according to a comparative example of this embodiment. The measurement results shown in Figure 33 were obtained by removing the electrode 20 from the skin resistance measuring device 1 and directly contacting the connector of the measurement unit 3 with the epidermis 4. When the film cover was attached to the epidermis 4 with the electrode 20 removed from the skin resistance measuring device 1, the film cover was attached so as to cover the connector of the measurement unit 3. Figure 34 shows an example of skin resistance measurement results according to this embodiment. The measurement results shown in Figure 34 are obtained when the skin resistance measuring device 1 is equipped with the electrode 20.

[0123] In Figures 33 and 34, the time the film cover was attached to the epidermis 4 is indicated by a downward arrow, and the time the film cover was removed is indicated by an upward arrow. From Figure 34, it can be seen that when the skin resistance measuring device 1 is equipped with electrodes 20 that have a structure that allows drying on the epidermis 4 to occur naturally, the effect of the film cover on skin resistance could be accurately measured. On the other hand, from Figure 33, it can be seen that when the measurement was performed by directly contacting the connector of the measuring unit 3 with the epidermis 4, the effect could not be measured with any accuracy compared to the measurement results shown in Figure 34. Furthermore, as explained in Figure 32, when the measurement was performed by directly contacting the connector of the measuring unit 3 with the epidermis 4, it is thought that moisture such as sweat accumulated over time, and the skin resistance value tended to decrease, which is less stable compared to the measurement results shown in Figure 34.

[0124] Based on the measurement results of each of the embodiments described above, it can be seen that the skin resistance measuring device 1 can measure skin resistance with sufficient accuracy to distinguish between states such as when the subject is talking, exercising, or feeling stressed. In other words, the skin resistance measuring device 1 can be fully applied to determine the behavior and / or emotions of the subject.

[0125] A behavioral and emotional determination method using measurement results from a skin resistance measuring device 1 includes, for example, an attachment step, a measurement step, and a determination step. In the attachment step, electrodes 20 are attached to the epidermis of the person being measured using adhesive tape or the like, and the skin resistance measuring device 1 is attached to the person being measured. In the measurement step, the skin resistance between electrodes 20 is measured by applying a DC voltage between electrodes 20. In the determination step, the behavior and / or emotional state of the person being measured is determined based on the skin resistance measured in the measurement step. The pattern of change in skin resistance over time is pre-associated with the content of the behavior or emotional state. Information showing this correspondence is called pattern information.

[0126] For example, the determination step is performed by a determination device separate from the skin resistance measuring device 1. In this case, the skin resistance measuring device 1 outputs the skin resistance value measured in the measurement step to the determination device. The determination device stores pattern information and determines the behavior and / or emotions of the person being measured based on this information and the skin resistance value measured by the skin resistance measuring device 1. The determination device may be a smartphone, a personal computer (PC), a server, or the like.

[0127] When the skin resistance value is output, the skin resistance measuring device 1 and the determination device communicate wirelessly or via wired connection. The skin resistance measuring device 1 is equipped with a communication module in the measurement unit 3 for communicating with the skin resistance measuring device 1.

[0128] The determination step may also be performed by the skin resistance measuring device 1. In that case, the skin resistance measuring device 1 stores the program for performing the determination step and the pattern information in the memory 32.

[0129] Furthermore, the responsiveness of the skin to changes in the external environment and lifestyle of the subject may be evaluated using the measurement results from the skin resistance measuring device 1. The method for evaluating the skin's responsiveness using the skin resistance measuring device 1 includes, for example, an attachment step, a measurement step, and an evaluation step. The attachment step and the measurement step are the same as the attachment step and measurement step in the behavioral and emotional determination method described above. In the evaluation step, the responsiveness of the skin to changes in the external environment and lifestyle of the subject is evaluated based on the skin resistance measured in the measurement step.

[0130] External environmental factors include temperature, humidity, climate, measurement location, and measurement conditions. Changes in lifestyle behavior refer to various actions performed in daily life, and broadly include daily activities such as conversation, telephone use, and exercise, as well as the application of beauty and skincare products and topical medications, the use of skin-adhesive sheets, dressing and undressing, and activities such as sleeping and waking up. The skin's responsiveness, as defined here, is evaluated based on changes in skin resistance. These changes in skin resistance are indicated by whether the resistance increases or decreases, and by the rate of change over time.

[0131] This section will explain specific examples of evaluating the skin's responsiveness. First, we will explain the evaluation of the skin's responsiveness to changes in daily activities, referring to Figures 11 and 29. From the measurement results during the period of conversation shown in Figure 11 (between 50 and 90 minutes), or from the measurement results during the period of conversation or phone call shown in Figure 29, it can be seen that skin resistance temporarily decreases due to behavioral changes such as conversation.

[0132] Next, we will explain the evaluation of the skin's responsiveness to the external environment. Comparing Figure 15 and Figure 16, the time it takes for the resistance value to return to approximately the value before covering the electrode with the film cover during the drying process after removing the film cover shown in Figure 15 is longer than the time it takes for the resistance value to return to approximately the value before performing the squat during the drying process after performing the squat shown in Figure 16. Furthermore, it can be seen that the rate at which the resistance value returns during the drying process after performing the squat, as shown in Figure 16, is closer to a linear change than the rate at which the resistance value returns during the drying process after removing the film cover, as shown in Figure 15.

[0133] Furthermore, comparing Figure 15 and Figure 18, the changes in skin resistance after applying and then removing the film cover shown in Figure 15 are different from the changes in resistance after applying and then removing the adhesive bandage shown in Figure 18. These differences in the patterns of change indicate that the skin's responsiveness differs depending on the external environment. As described above, the skin's ability to respond to changes in the external environment and lifestyle can be evaluated using the measurement results from the skin resistance measurement device 1.

[0134] [summary] As described above, the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment comprises a pair of electrode parts 2 provided on the epidermis 4 and a measuring unit 3 for measuring the skin resistance between the pair of electrode parts 2. The pair of electrode parts 2 have a structure (in this embodiment, a nanomesh structure) that allows drying on the epidermis 4 to occur naturally.

[0135] With this configuration, when the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment measures skin resistance by directly attaching a sensor like the skin resistance measuring device 1 to the skin of the person being measured, the pair of electrode parts provided on the epidermis have a structure that allows for natural drying on the epidermis. Therefore, when electrodes are directly attached to the skin, it does not hinder natural moisture evaporation from the skin, and measurement can be performed for a long time. The skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment can be used for extended periods and can measure various processes related to skin condition over time, such as water evaporation from the skin and the effects of changes in the external environment. The skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment makes it possible to continuously monitor skin resistance values ​​close to their natural state over long periods without restricting movement.

[0136] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 23 and 24, skin resistance values ​​have been shown to correlate with TEWL (transepidermal water loss), an important indicator of the skin barrier. By continuously measuring skin resistance values ​​over a long period, it is possible to clarify the close relationship between daily activities and skin condition. Since the relationship between daily activities and skin condition reflects individual (genetic) characteristics, the results of skin resistance measurement can be used to evaluate lifestyle activities at the general or individual level that are directly related to skin health or aging. Furthermore, by analyzing the data measured by the skin resistance measurement device 1 according to this embodiment in association with other multimodal clinical information, it is expected that diagnostic or monitoring biomarkers that could previously only be obtained invasively will be able to be evaluated through non-invasive measurements. By evaluating the skin's ability to respond to environmental changes, it is expected that disease onset and deterioration of skin condition can be predicted, and that personalized skincare methods can be proposed based on the prediction results. In addition, the data measured by the skin resistance measurement device 1 is thought to be closely related to genetic factors and disease pathology, and it is expected that this data can be utilized for diagnosis and as a biomarker.

[0137] Furthermore, the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment comprises a pair of electrode parts 2 provided on the epidermis 4 and a measuring unit 3 for measuring the skin resistance between the pair of electrode parts 2. The electrode part 2 comprises an epidermal contact part (electrode 20 in this embodiment) having a structure (nanomesh structure in this embodiment) that contacts the epidermis 4 and allows drying on the epidermis 4 to occur naturally, and a connecting part 21 that electrically connects the electrode part 2 and the measuring unit 3. With this configuration, the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment is less prone to damage than a device without the connecting part 21, because the connecting part 21 can bend and absorb the external force when an external force is applied to the device.

[0138] Furthermore, the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment comprises a pair of electrode sections 2 provided on the epidermis 4, and a measuring unit 3 that measures the skin resistance between the pair of electrode sections 2 by applying a DC voltage to the pair of electrode sections 2. The pair of electrode sections 2 have a structure (in this embodiment, a nanomesh structure) that allows for natural drying on the epidermis 4. With this configuration, the skin resistance measuring device 1 according to this embodiment can measure the DC resistance value of the skin, unlike when an AC voltage is applied.

[0139] In the embodiments described above, an example was described in which the electrodes are placed on the epidermis of the forearm of the person being measured, but the invention is not limited to this. The electrodes may be placed on the skin of other parts of the person being measured. In the embodiments described above, an example was given where the skin resistance measuring device was used to measure human skin resistance, but this is not the only example. The skin resistance measuring device may be attached to the skin of animals other than humans and used to measure skin resistance.

[0140] Although one embodiment of this invention has been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to that described above, and various design changes can be made without departing from the spirit of this invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0141] 1, 1a, 1b, 1c...Skin resistance measuring device, 2, 2a, 2c...Electrode part, 20, 20a, 20b, 20c...Electrode, 21, 21a, 21b, 21c...Connection part, 3, 3c...Measurement part, 4...Edermis

Claims

1. A pair of electrode portions provided on the epidermis, A measuring unit that measures the skin resistance between the pair of electrode parts by applying a DC voltage to the pair of electrode parts, Equipped with, The aforementioned skin resistance is the resistance along the path from one location in the epidermis through the subcutaneous tissue to the other location in the epidermis, and is the resistance component excluding the volume component of the skin. The pair of electrode portions comprises a skin contact portion having a structure that contacts the epidermis and allows the epidermis to dry naturally, and a thin, film-shaped connecting portion that electrically connects the electrode portion and the measuring portion. The distance between one of the skin contact portions provided in the pair of electrode portions is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance such that the generation of current flowing through a path from one position on the skin to the other position on the skin is suppressed. The aforementioned connection portion consists of an electrode contact portion, a connecting portion, and a connector contact portion. The connecting portion is narrower in width than the electrode contact portion and the connector contact portion. The connector contact portion contacts the connector provided in the measuring unit. Skin resistance measuring device.

2. The electrode portion has a fiber network The skin resistance measuring device according to claim 1.

3. The electrode portion has fine linear members arranged at predetermined intervals. The skin resistance measuring device according to claim 1.

4. The electrode portion has stripe-shaped openings. The skin resistance measuring device according to claim 1.

5. The electrode portion is a foil-shaped electrode having cracks or pinholes. The skin resistance measuring device according to claim 1.

6. The electrode portion has a structure that releases moisture absorbed on the surface in contact with the epidermis. The skin resistance measuring device according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned connection part is breathable. The skin resistance measuring device according to claim 1.

8. The area of ​​the surface of the skin contact portion that is in contact with the connecting portion is smaller than the area of ​​the portion that is not in contact with the connecting portion. The skin resistance measuring device according to claim 7.

9. A breathable conductive member is inserted between the electrode portion and the connecting portion. The skin resistance measuring device according to claim 7 or claim 8.

10. The electrode portion further has a non-contact portion that does not come into contact with the epidermis, The non-contact portion of the surface and the connecting portion have overlapping regions. The region further comprises an insulating portion that electrically insulates the non-contact portion of the surface from the surface. The skin resistance measuring device according to claim 1.

11. The system further includes a detection circuit for detecting whether or not the electrode portion and the connection portion are connected. Based on the detection results of the aforementioned detection circuit, data measured when a contact failure occurred, or data measured immediately after a contact failure occurred, is excluded from the measurement data. A skin resistance measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The measuring unit applies a DC voltage to the pair of electrodes for a first time when the capacitive component is sufficiently charged before measuring the skin resistance, and then measures the skin resistance, and then pauses applying the DC voltage to the pair of electrodes for a second time after the capacitive component has been sufficiently charged. A skin resistance measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. A measurement step in which a measuring unit measures the skin resistance between a pair of electrode parts by applying a DC voltage to a pair of electrode parts provided on the epidermis of the object to be measured and having a structure that allows the epidermis to dry naturally on said epidermis, An evaluation step in which the skin's ability to respond to changes in the external environment and lifestyle of the subject to be measured is evaluated based on the skin resistance measured in the measurement step. A method for evaluating the responsiveness of skin having, The aforementioned skin resistance is the resistance along the path from one location in the epidermis through the subcutaneous tissue to the other location in the epidermis, and is the resistance component excluding the volume component of the skin. The pair of electrode portions comprises a skin contact portion having a structure that contacts the skin and allows drying to occur naturally on the skin, and a thin, film-shaped connecting portion that electrically connects the electrode portion and the measuring portion. The distance between one of the skin contact portions provided in the pair of electrode portions is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance such that the generation of current flowing through a path from one position on the skin to the other position on the skin is suppressed. The aforementioned connection portion consists of an electrode contact portion, a connecting portion, and a connector contact portion. The connecting portion is narrower in width than the electrode contact portion and the connector contact portion. The connector contact portion contacts the connector provided in the measuring unit. Methods for evaluating the responsiveness of the skin.

14. A measurement step in which a measuring unit measures the skin resistance between a pair of electrode parts by applying a DC voltage to a pair of electrode parts provided on the epidermis of the object to be measured and having a structure that allows the epidermis to dry naturally on said epidermis, A determination step in which the behavior and / or emotion of the subject to be measured is determined based on the skin resistance measured in the measurement step. A method for determining behavioral and emotional states, The aforementioned skin resistance is the resistance along the path from one location in the epidermis through the subcutaneous tissue to the other location in the epidermis, and is the resistance component excluding the volume component of the skin. The pair of electrode portions comprises a skin contact portion having a structure that contacts the skin and allows drying to occur naturally on the skin, and a thin, film-shaped connecting portion that electrically connects the electrode portion and the measuring portion. The distance between one of the skin contact portions provided in the pair of electrode portions is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance such that the generation of current flowing through a path from one position on the skin to the other position on the skin is suppressed. The aforementioned connection portion consists of an electrode contact portion, a connecting portion, and a connector contact portion. The connecting portion is narrower in width than the electrode contact portion and the connector contact portion. The connector contact portion contacts the connector provided in the measuring unit. A method for determining behavioral and emotional states.

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