Artificial epiglottis, and swallowing and breathing switching device

Abstract

This artificial epiglottis comprises: a membrane-like piezoelectric element that bends depending on the voltage; and a first drive electrode that applies a voltage to the piezoelectric element. The piezoelectric element is disposed on the larynx. Depending on the voltage, the piezoelectric element assumes a first shape in which the piezoelectric element blocks the entrance of the trachea and a second shape in which piezoelectric element opens the entrance of the trachea.

Description

Artificial epiglottis and swallowing / breathing switching device

[0001] The present invention relates to an artificial epiglottis and an artificial technique for switching between swallowing and breathing using an artificial epiglottis.

[0002] As we become a super-aging society, the number of patients with swallowing disorders is increasing. Swallowing disorders can lead to aspiration. Aspiration occurs when food that should enter the esophagus from the mouth ends up in the airway, causing various adverse effects on the human body.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a swallowing movement assisting device. The device in Patent Document 1 mechanically assists in the laryngeal elevation movement that occurs during the pharyngeal phase of swallowing by pushing the thyroid cartilage upward from anteriorly and inferiorly.

[0004] Patent Document 2 describes a method for treating dysphagia by electrical stimulation, which stimulates muscles with electrical stimulation to assist swallowing.

[0005] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-54528 Special Publication No. Hei 11-500339

[0006] However, the conventional techniques disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are intended to assist or train swallowing, and therefore it is difficult to sufficiently prevent aspiration with the conventional techniques.

[0007] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a device that more reliably suppresses aspiration.

[0008] An artificial epiglottis according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a membrane-shaped piezoelectric element that bends when subjected to voltage, and a drive electrode that applies a voltage to the piezoelectric element. The piezoelectric element is disposed in the larynx. When subjected to voltage, the piezoelectric element assumes a first shape that closes the entrance to the trachea or a second shape that opens the entrance to the trachea.

[0009] In this configuration, the bending of the piezoelectric element is utilized to switch the state in which the tracheal entrance is blocked and the state in which the tracheal entrance is open by the artificial epiglottis. Furthermore, because the artificial epiglottis is formed from a piezoelectric element, the switching speed is fast, the switching accuracy is high, and the posture retention ability for each state is high. Therefore, switching between swallowing and breathing can be more reliably performed.

[0010] According to this invention, aspiration can be more reliably prevented.

[0011] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a swallowing respiration switching device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 2(A) and 2(B) are configuration diagrams of a swallowing respiration switching device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3(A) is a schematic diagram showing a breathing state in which an artificial epiglottis and a swallowing respiration switching device according to the first embodiment of the present invention are attached, and FIG. 3(B) is a schematic diagram showing a swallowing state in which an artificial epiglottis and a swallowing respiration switching device according to the first embodiment of the present invention are attached. FIGS. 4(A) and 4(B) are configuration diagrams of a swallowing respiration switching device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram of a swallowing respiration switching device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a configuration diagram of a swallowing respiration switching device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram of a swallowing respiration switching device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a configuration diagram of a swallowing respiration switching device according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a configuration diagram of a swallowing respiration switching device according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram of a swallowing respiration switching device according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram of a swallowing respiration switching device according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. Figures 12(A), 12(B), and 12(C) are perspective views showing examples of the configuration of an artificial epiglottis according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing a curved state of the artificial epiglottis in Figure 12(A). Figure 14 is a diagram showing the configuration of a swallowing respiration switching device according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] [First embodiment] An artificial epiglottis and a swallowing respiration switching device according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is an external perspective view of the swallowing respiration switching device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figs. 2(A) and 2(B) are configuration diagrams of the swallowing respiration switching device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, with Fig. 2(A) showing a first shape of the artificial epiglottis and Fig. 2(B) showing a second shape of the artificial epiglottis. Fig. 3(A) is a schematic diagram showing a breathing state in which the artificial epiglottis and the swallowing respiration switching device according to the first embodiment of the present invention are attached, and Fig. 3(B) is a schematic diagram showing a swallowing state in which the artificial epiglottis and the swallowing respiration switching device according to the first embodiment of the present invention are attached.

[0013] (Physical configuration of swallowing respiration switching device 10) As shown in Figures 1, 2(A), and 2(B), the swallowing respiration switching device 10 includes an artificial epiglottis 20, a drive signal generating unit 31, an appliance 32, a physical switch 39, and a cable 40.

[0014] The drive signal generating section 31 is configured using at least one of electric circuit elements and electronic circuit elements, and is housed in a predetermined housing H31.

[0015] The physical switch 39 is provided in the housing H31 and is electrically connected to the drive signal generating unit 31.

[0016] The equipment 32 is belt-shaped. The housing H31 is fixed to the front side of the equipment 32.

[0017] The cable 40 includes a first cable 41, a second cable 42, and a third cable 43. The first cable 41, the second cable 42, and the third cable 43 are, for example, conductors whose circumferential surfaces are covered with an insulating material. The insulating material of the first cable 41, the second cable 42, and the third cable 43 may be a biocompatible material.

[0018] One end of the cables 40 (first cable 41, second cable 42, and third cable 43) is connected to the drive signal generating unit 31. The cables 40 (first cable 41, second cable 42, and third cable 43) are arranged to extend from the rear surface of the prosthesis 32. The other end of the cables 40 (first cable 41, second cable 42, and third cable 43) is connected to the artificial epiglottis 20.

[0019] The artificial epiglottis 20 includes a piezoelectric element 210, a first drive electrode 221, a second drive electrode 222, and a third drive electrode 223. The piezoelectric element 210 includes a first piezoelectric element 211 and a second piezoelectric element 212.

[0020] The first piezoelectric element 211 and the second piezoelectric element 212 are flat membrane-shaped and made primarily of, for example, polylactic acid. The first piezoelectric element 211 and the second piezoelectric element 212 expand or contract in a direction parallel to the flat membrane surface in response to an applied voltage.

[0021] The first piezoelectric element 211 and the second piezoelectric element 212 are stacked so that their flat film surfaces are parallel to each other.

[0022] The first drive electrode 221 is arranged on the flat membrane surface of the first piezoelectric element 211 opposite to the surface facing the second piezoelectric element 212. The second drive electrode 222 is arranged on the flat membrane surface of the second piezoelectric element 212 opposite to the surface facing the first piezoelectric element 211. The third drive electrode 223 is arranged between the first piezoelectric element 211 and the second piezoelectric element 212. As a result, the first piezoelectric element 211 is sandwiched between the first drive electrode 221 and the third drive electrode 223. The second piezoelectric element 212 is sandwiched between the second drive electrode 222 and the third drive electrode 223.

[0023] In the artificial epiglottis 20 configured as described above, the first piezoelectric element 211 does not expand or contract when the third drive electrode 223 and the first drive electrode 221 are at the same potential. Similarly, the second piezoelectric element 212 does not expand or contract when the third drive electrode 223 and the second drive electrode 222 are at the same potential. Therefore, the artificial epiglottis 20 is not bent (curved) as shown in FIG. 2(A). This state is the first shape of the artificial epiglottis 20.

[0024] On the other hand, the first piezoelectric element 211 expands in a direction parallel to the flat membrane surface when a voltage is applied so that the first drive electrode 221 has a positive potential relative to the third drive electrode 223. Furthermore, the second piezoelectric element 212 contracts in a direction parallel to the flat membrane surface when a voltage is applied so that the first drive electrode 221 has a positive potential relative to the third drive electrode 223.

[0025] The first piezoelectric element 211 and the second piezoelectric element 212 are laminated in a direction perpendicular to the flat membrane surface. As described above, the first piezoelectric element 211 expands and the second piezoelectric element 212 contracts, causing the artificial epiglottis 20, which is formed by the laminated structure of the first piezoelectric element 211 and the second piezoelectric element 212, to bend (curve) toward the second piezoelectric element 212, as shown in FIG. 2B . This state is the second shape of the artificial epiglottis 20. At this time, the expansion caused by application of a voltage to the first piezoelectric element 211 and the contraction caused by application of a voltage to the second piezoelectric element 212 are multiplied, causing the artificial epiglottis 20 to bend more than when only the first piezoelectric element 211 or only the second piezoelectric element 212 is present.

[0026] The first piezoelectric element 211, the second piezoelectric element 212, the first drive electrode 221, the second drive electrode 222, and the third drive electrode 223 that constitute the artificial epiglottis 20 are preferably made of a biocompatible material. However, as shown in FIG. 1 , the artificial epiglottis 20 may also be provided with a cover C20. The cover C20 has flexibility to the extent that it does not inhibit the bending of the artificial epiglottis 20. When the cover C20 is provided, as long as the cover C20 is made of a biocompatible material, the first piezoelectric element 211, the second piezoelectric element 212, the first drive electrode 221, the second drive electrode 222, and the third drive electrode 223 do not have to be made of a biocompatible material.

[0027] (Electrical Configuration of Swallowing Respiration Switching Device 10) The drive signal generating section 31 of the swallowing respiration switching device 10 includes a power supply circuit 311, an electric switch 312, an electric switch 313, and a switch control circuit 310.

[0028] The power supply circuit 311 includes a DC power supply DC1 and a DC power supply DC2. The DC power supplies DC1 and DC2 are, for example, primary batteries or secondary batteries.

[0029] The negative pole of DC power supply DC1 is connected to the negative pole of DC power supply DC2. The node of the negative pole of DC power supply DC1 and the negative pole of DC power supply DC2 is connected to the third drive electrode 223 of the artificial epiglottis 20 through the third cable 43.

[0030] The positive electrode of the DC power supply DC1 is connected to the electric switch 312. The electric switch 312 is connected to the first drive electrode 221 of the artificial epiglottis 20 through the first cable 41.

[0031] The positive electrode of the DC power supply DC2 is connected to the electric switch 313. The electric switch 313 is connected to the second drive electrode 222 of the artificial epiglottis 20 through the second cable 42.

[0032] The switch control circuit 310 is connected to the physical switch 39 and also to the electric switch 312 and the electric switch 313 .

[0033] The switch control circuit 310 generates a switch control signal for the electric switches 312 and 313 in accordance with the operation state of the physical switch 39. The electric switches 312 and 313 switch between open and short circuits in accordance with the switch control signal.

[0034] For example, when the physical switch 39 is not operated, the switch control circuit 310 does not output a switch control signal to the electric switches 312 and 313. In this case, the electric switches 312 and 313 are in an open state. Therefore, no driving DC voltage is applied to the artificial epiglottis 20. As a result, the artificial epiglottis 20 assumes the first shape shown in FIG. 2(A).

[0035] On the other hand, when the physical switch 39 is operated, the switch control circuit 310 generates a switch control signal that switches between a high state and a low state at a predetermined cycle, and outputs the signal to the electric switches 312 and 313 .

[0036] The electric switches 312 and 313 are short-circuited when the switch control signal is in the Hi state, and are open when the switch control signal is in the Low state.

[0037] When the electric switches 312 and 313 are in the open state, no driving DC voltage is applied to the artificial epiglottis 20 (an example of a first state of the drive signal), and therefore the artificial epiglottis 20 assumes the first shape shown in FIG.

[0038] When the electric switches 312 and 313 are short-circuited, a driving DC voltage is applied to the artificial epiglottis 20 (an example of a second state of the drive signal), causing the artificial epiglottis 20 to assume the second shape shown in FIG.

[0039] In this way, the swallowing respiration switching device 10 can switch between a first shape in which the artificial epiglottis 20 is not bent and a second shape in which the artificial epiglottis 20 is bent.

[0040] (Attachment to the human body and practical use) As shown in Figures 3(A) and 3(B), the artificial epiglottis 20 is placed in the larynx of the body. More specifically, one end of the artificial epiglottis 20 in the direction in which the first piezoelectric element 211 and the second piezoelectric element 212 expand and contract is fixed to the larynx. The other end of the artificial epiglottis 20 in the direction in which the first piezoelectric element 211 and the second piezoelectric element 212 expand and contract is not fixed to the larynx and is a free end.

[0041] The artificial epiglottis 20 is positioned so as not to block the entrance of the trachea, as shown in Fig. 3(A) when no voltage is applied to the artificial epiglottis 20. Furthermore, when a voltage is applied to the artificial epiglottis 20, the artificial epiglottis 20 is positioned so as to block the entrance of the trachea, as shown in Fig. 3(B).

[0042] The housing H31 incorporating the drive signal generating unit 31 is attached to the front of the neck of the body by an appliance 32. The cables 40 (first cable 41, second cable 42, and third cable 43) are arranged to pass through the larynx and connect the drive signal generating unit 31 and the artificial epiglottis 20.

[0043] In this state, when the wearer presses the physical switch 39, the switch control circuit 310 is activated. The switch control circuit 310 switches the electric switches 312 and 313 between open and short-circuit states.

[0044] More specifically, when the drive signal generating unit 31 (switch control circuit 310) opens the electric switches 312 and 313, the artificial epiglottis 20 assumes the first shape, as shown in Fig. 3A, and the entrance to the trachea is not blocked. Therefore, air from the nasal cavity enters the trachea, and breathing is performed without any problems.

[0045] On the other hand, when the drive signal generating unit 31 (switch control circuit 310) short-circuits the electric switches 312 and 313, the artificial epiglottis 20 assumes the second shape as shown in Fig. 3(B), and the entrance to the trachea is blocked by the artificial epiglottis 20. Therefore, food (drinks) from the oral cavity enter the esophagus, and swallowing is carried out without any problems.

[0046] In the above configuration, the electric switches 312 and 313 are opened and shorted, i.e., the first shape and the second shape of the artificial epiglottis 20 are switched at a predetermined cycle. However, the swallowing respiration switching device 10 may selectively open and short-circuit the electric switches 312 and 313. Specifically, the swallowing respiration switching device 10 performs control to short-circuit the electric switches 312 and 313 only when swallowing is performed. The swallowing respiration switching device 10 then performs control to open the electric switches 312 and 313 at times other than swallowing (when breathing).

[0047] As described above, by providing the artificial epiglottis 20 and the swallowing respiration switching device 10, aspiration can be more reliably suppressed.

[0048] Furthermore, by being able to more reliably prevent aspiration, it is possible to prevent aspiration pneumonia. Furthermore, by being able to more reliably prevent aspiration, it is possible to take food through the mouth without the need for a gastrostomy or enterostomy. Furthermore, by being able to more reliably prevent aspiration, it is possible to eliminate food restrictions such as the requirement that food be thickened.

[0049] Furthermore, by providing the artificial epiglottis 20 and the swallowing and respiration switching device 10, it is possible to prevent problems associated with tracheal cannulas (such as pain during periodic replacement and suffocation due to blockage inside the tracheal cannula). Furthermore, by providing the artificial epiglottis 20 and the swallowing and respiration switching device 10, it is not necessary to perform rehabilitation to strengthen the area around the throat.

[0050] Furthermore, the swallowing respiration switching device 10 uses the first piezoelectric element 211 and the second piezoelectric element 212 in the artificial epiglottis 20. With this configuration, the swallowing respiration switching device 10 can quickly switch the artificial epiglottis 20 between the first shape and the second shape. Furthermore, the artificial epiglottis 20 can stably maintain the first shape and the second shape. Furthermore, the artificial epiglottis 20 can be realized with low power consumption. Furthermore, electromagnetic noise generated by the artificial epiglottis 20 is suppressed. Furthermore, the artificial epiglottis 20 can be formed small and thin, and can be easily placed in a desired location on the larynx. Furthermore, the artificial epiglottis 20 can be realized with a simple configuration.

[0051] The artificial epiglottis 20 also has two stacked piezoelectric elements, a first piezoelectric element 211 and a second piezoelectric element 212. Furthermore, the first piezoelectric element 211 and the second piezoelectric element 212 expand and contract (displace in opposite directions) when a voltage is applied. Therefore, the bending effect of the first piezoelectric element 211 and the bending effect of the second piezoelectric element 212 are multiplied. This allows the artificial epiglottis 20 to achieve a greater amount of bending. As a result, the artificial epiglottis 20 can have a larger difference between its first shape, which does not block the entrance to the trachea, and its second shape, which blocks the entrance to the trachea, thereby more reliably suppressing aspiration.

[0052] In this embodiment, a laminate (bimorph drive) of the first piezoelectric element 211 and the second piezoelectric element 212 is used as the piezoelectric element 210. However, it is sufficient for the piezoelectric element 210 to include at least one of the first piezoelectric element 211 and the second piezoelectric element 212 (unimorph drive).

[0053] [Second embodiment] An artificial epiglottis and a swallowing respiration switching device according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Figures 4(A) and 4(B) are configuration diagrams of the swallowing respiration switching device according to the second embodiment of the present invention, where Figure 4(A) shows a first shape of the artificial epiglottis and Figure 4(B) shows a second shape of the artificial epiglottis.

[0054] 4(A) and 4(B), the swallowing breathing switching device 10A according to the second embodiment differs from the swallowing breathing switching device 10 according to the first embodiment in that it includes an artificial epiglottis 20A and a drive signal generating unit 31A. Other configurations of the swallowing breathing switching device 10A are the same as those of the swallowing breathing switching device 10, and descriptions of similar parts will be omitted.

[0055] The swallowing respiration switching device 10A includes an artificial epiglottis 20A, a drive signal generating unit 31A, and a cable 40A. The cable 40A includes a first cable 41 and a second cable 42.

[0056] The artificial epiglottis 20A includes a first piezoelectric element 211, a second piezoelectric element 212, a first drive electrode 221, and a second drive electrode 222. The first piezoelectric element 211 and the second piezoelectric element 212 are stacked in contact with each other. The first drive electrode 221 is disposed on the surface of the first piezoelectric element 211 opposite to the surface in contact with the second piezoelectric element 212. The second drive electrode 222 is disposed on the surface of the second piezoelectric element 212 opposite to the surface in contact with the first piezoelectric element 211.

[0057] The first piezoelectric element 211 expands in a direction parallel to the flat membrane surface when a voltage is applied so that the first drive electrode 221 has a positive potential relative to the second drive electrode 222. Furthermore, the second piezoelectric element 212 contracts in a direction parallel to the flat membrane surface when a voltage is applied so that the first drive electrode 221 has a positive potential relative to the second drive electrode 222.

[0058] The drive signal generation unit 31A includes a power supply circuit 311A, an electric switch 312, and a switch control circuit 310. The power supply circuit 311A ​​includes a DC power supply DC10. The positive electrode of the DC power supply DC10 is connected to the first drive electrode 221 through the electric switch 312 and a first cable 41. The negative electrode of the DC power supply DC10 is connected to the second drive electrode 222 through a second cable 42.

[0059] In this configuration, when the electrical switch 312 is shorted, voltage from the DC power supply DC10 is applied to the artificial epiglottis 20A (an example of a first state of the drive signal). When the electrical switch 312 is open, no voltage is applied to the artificial epiglottis 20A (an example of a second state of the drive signal).

[0060] With this configuration, the swallowing respiration switching device 10A, like the swallowing respiration switching device 10, can switch between a state in which the tracheal entrance is not blocked and a state in which the tracheal entrance is blocked, thereby more reliably suppressing aspiration.

[0061] [Third embodiment] An artificial epiglottis and a swallowing respiration switching device according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 5 is a configuration diagram of the swallowing respiration switching device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] 5, the swallowing respiration switching device 10B according to the third embodiment differs from the swallowing respiration switching device 10 according to the first embodiment in that it includes an artificial epiglottis 20B, a drive signal generating unit 31B, and a cable 40B. The artificial epiglottis 20B is the same as the artificial epiglottis 20B according to the second embodiment, and the cable 40B is the same as the cable 40A according to the second embodiment.

[0063] The drive signal generation unit 31B includes a power supply circuit 311B. The power supply circuit 311B includes an alternating current power supply AC. One output terminal of the alternating current power supply AC is connected to the first drive electrode 221 through a first cable 41. The other output terminal of the alternating current power supply AC is connected to the second drive electrode 222 through a second cable 42. The physical switch 39 is connected to the power supply circuit 311B.

[0064] The power supply circuit 311B receives an operation signal from the physical switch 39 and drives the AC power supply AC. The AC power supply AC applies an AC voltage to the artificial epiglottis 20B. The AC voltage is a voltage that alternates between a high state (an example of a first state of the drive signal) and a low state (an example of a second state of the drive signal).

[0065] The artificial epiglottis 20B assumes, for example, a first shape in which it does not bend when the AC voltage is in a low state, and assumes a second shape in which it bends when the AC voltage is in a high state.

[0066] For example, the cycle of the AC voltage corresponds to the cycle of saliva secretion and breathing during sleep.

[0067] With this configuration, the swallowing respiration switching device 10B, like the swallowing respiration switching device 10, can switch between a state in which the tracheal entrance is not blocked and a state in which the tracheal entrance is blocked, thereby more reliably suppressing aspiration.

[0068] [Fourth embodiment] An artificial epiglottis and a swallowing respiration switching device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 6 is a configuration diagram of the swallowing respiration switching device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] 6, the swallowing breathing switching device 10C according to the fourth embodiment differs from the swallowing breathing switching device 10 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a drive signal generating unit 31C. Other configurations of the swallowing breathing switching device 10C are similar to those of the swallowing breathing switching device 10, and descriptions of similar parts will be omitted.

[0070] The swallowing respiration switching device 10C includes a drive signal generation unit 31C. The drive signal generation unit 31C includes a power supply circuit 311C, a power transmission control unit 314, a power transmission coil 315, a power receiving coil 316, and a power receiving control unit 317. The power supply circuit 311C, the power transmission control unit 314, and the power transmission coil 315 are arranged outside the body. The power receiving coil 316 and the power receiving control unit 317 are arranged inside the body.

[0071] The power supply circuit 311C includes a DC power supply DC10. The DC power supply DC10 is connected to a power transmission control unit 314. The power transmission control unit 314 is connected to a power transmission coil 315.

[0072] The power receiving coil 316 is connected to a power receiving control unit 317. The power receiving control unit 317 is connected to the artificial epiglottis 20 via the cable 40 (the first cable 41, the second cable 42, and the third cable 43).

[0073] The power transmission control unit 314 receives an operation signal from the physical switch 39, converts the DC voltage from the DC power supply DC10, and supplies an AC transmission current to the power transmission coil 315. The power transmission coil 315 excites an alternating magnetic field by the AC transmission current.

[0074] The power receiving coil 316 is coupled to the alternating magnetic field and generates an AC power receiving current. The power receiving control unit 317 rectifies the power receiving current to generate a DC voltage and supplies it to the artificial epiglottis 20.

[0075] In this way, the drive signal generating unit 31C employs a wireless power supply system.

[0076] With this configuration, the swallowing respiration switching device 10C, like the swallowing respiration switching device 10, can switch between a state in which the tracheal entrance is not blocked and a state in which the tracheal entrance is blocked, thereby more reliably suppressing aspiration.

[0077] The power receiving control unit 317 may include a storage battery. By charging the storage battery, the swallowing respiration switching device 10C can supply voltage to the artificial epiglottis 20 even in a state where there is no external unit of the drive signal generation unit 31C.

[0078] [Fifth embodiment] An artificial epiglottis and a swallowing respiration switching device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 7 is a configuration diagram of the swallowing respiration switching device according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] 7, the swallowing breathing switching device 10D according to the fifth embodiment differs from the swallowing breathing switching device 10 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a drive signal generating unit 31D. Other configurations of the swallowing breathing switching device 10D are similar to those of the swallowing breathing switching device 10, and descriptions of similar parts will be omitted.

[0080] The swallowing respiration switching device 10D includes a drive signal generating unit 31D. The drive signal generating unit 31D differs from the drive signal generating unit 31 in that the switch control circuit 310 is omitted.

[0081] In the drive signal generating unit 31D, the electric switches 312 and 313 are directly connected to the physical switch 39. The electric switches 312 and 313 switch between an open state and a short-circuit state in response to an operation signal from the physical switch 39.

[0082] With this configuration, the swallowing respiration switching device 10D can switch between a state in which the entrance to the trachea is not blocked and a state in which the entrance to the trachea is blocked, directly reflecting the operation of the wearer.

[0083] [Sixth embodiment] An artificial epiglottis and a swallowing respiration switching device according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 8 is a configuration diagram of the swallowing respiration switching device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] 8, the swallowing breathing switching device 10E according to the sixth embodiment differs from the swallowing breathing switching device 10 according to the first embodiment in that it omits the physical switch 39 and includes an electromyographic sensor 51 and a control signal generating unit 52. Other configurations of the swallowing breathing switching device 10E are similar to those of the swallowing breathing switching device 10, and a description of similar parts will be omitted.

[0085] The swallowing respiration switching device 10E includes an electromyographic sensor 51 and a control signal generating unit 52. The electromyographic sensor 51 is placed in the oral cavity of the body to which the artificial epiglottis 20 is attached. The electromyographic sensor 51 detects the movement of muscles in the oral cavity and generates an electromyographic detection signal. The electromyographic sensor 51 outputs the electromyographic detection signal to the control signal generating unit 52.

[0086] The control signal generating unit 52 stores in advance in a memory the myoelectric detection signal during swallowing and the myoelectric detection signal during breathing. Note that it is sufficient for the control signal generating unit 52 to store at least the myoelectric detection signal during swallowing in the memory.

[0087] If the myoelectric detection signal from the myoelectric sensor 51 and the myoelectric detection signal during swallowing are the same, the control signal generation unit 52 outputs a control signal indicating the swallowing state to the switch control circuit 310. Upon receiving the input of the control signal indicating the swallowing state, the switch control circuit 310 generates a switch control signal that short-circuits the electric switches 312 and 313. The switch control circuit 310 outputs the switch control signal to the electric switches 312 and 313.

[0088] When the electric switches 312 and 313 are short-circuited by the switch control signal, a voltage is applied to the artificial epiglottis 20. Therefore, the artificial epiglottis 20 assumes a second shape that blocks the entrance to the trachea.

[0089] On the other hand, if the myoelectric detection signal from the myoelectric sensor 51 and the myoelectric detection signal during swallowing are not the same, the control signal generation unit 52 does not output a control signal to the switch control circuit 310. If the switch control circuit 310 does not receive a control signal from the control signal generation unit 52, it does not generate a switch control signal that short-circuits the electric switches 312 and 313.

[0090] When the electric switches 312 and 313 are open, no voltage is applied to the artificial epiglottis 20. Therefore, the artificial epiglottis 20 assumes the first shape in which it does not block the entrance to the trachea.

[0091] With the above configuration and control, the swallowing respiration switching device 10E, like the swallowing respiration switching device 10, can switch between a state in which the tracheal entrance is not blocked and a state in which the tracheal entrance is blocked, thereby more reliably suppressing aspiration.

[0092] Furthermore, the swallowing respiration switching device 10E can switch between a state in which the entrance to the trachea is not blocked and a state in which the entrance to the trachea is blocked, depending on the movement of the mouth of the person wearing the artificial epiglottis 20. Therefore, the swallowing respiration switching device 10E can more reliably suppress aspiration.

[0093] [Seventh embodiment] An artificial epiglottis and a swallowing respiration switching device according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 9 is a configuration diagram of the swallowing respiration switching device according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] 9 , the swallowing breathing switching device 10F according to the seventh embodiment differs from the swallowing breathing switching device 10 according to the first embodiment in that it omits the physical switch 39 and includes an electroencephalogram sensor 61 and a control signal generating unit 62. Other configurations of the swallowing breathing switching device 10F are similar to those of the swallowing breathing switching device 10, and descriptions of similar parts will be omitted.

[0095] The swallowing respiration switching device 10F includes an electroencephalogram sensor 61 and a control signal generator 62. The electroencephalogram sensor 61 is placed on the head where the artificial epiglottis 20 is attached. The electroencephalogram sensor 61 detects electroencephalograms and generates an electroencephalogram detection signal. The electroencephalogram sensor 61 outputs the electroencephalogram detection signal to the control signal generator 62.

[0096] The control signal generating unit 62 stores in advance in a memory the brain wave detection signal during swallowing and the brain wave detection signal during breathing. Note that it is sufficient for the control signal generating unit 62 to store at least the brain wave detection signal during swallowing in the memory.

[0097] If the brain wave detection signal from the brain wave sensor 61 and the brain wave detection signal during swallowing are the same, the control signal generation unit 62 outputs a control signal indicating the swallowing state to the switch control circuit 310. Upon receiving the input of the control signal indicating the swallowing state, the switch control circuit 310 generates a switch control signal that short-circuits the electric switches 312 and 313. The switch control circuit 310 outputs the switch control signal to the electric switches 312 and 313.

[0098] When the electric switches 312 and 313 are short-circuited by the switch control signal, a voltage is applied to the artificial epiglottis 20. Therefore, the artificial epiglottis 20 assumes a second shape that blocks the entrance to the trachea.

[0099] On the other hand, if the brain wave detection signal from the brain wave sensor 61 and the brain wave detection signal during swallowing are not the same, the control signal generation unit 62 does not output a control signal to the switch control circuit 310. If the switch control circuit 310 does not receive a control signal input from the control signal generation unit 62, it does not generate a switch control signal that short-circuits the electric switches 312 and 313.

[0100] When the electric switches 312 and 313 are open, no voltage is applied to the artificial epiglottis 20. Therefore, the artificial epiglottis 20 assumes the first shape in which it does not block the entrance to the trachea.

[0101] With the above configuration and control, the swallowing respiration switching device 10F, like the swallowing respiration switching device 10, can switch between a state in which the tracheal entrance is not blocked and a state in which the tracheal entrance is blocked, thereby more reliably suppressing aspiration.

[0102] Furthermore, the swallowing respiration switching device 10F can switch between a state in which the entrance to the trachea is not blocked and a state in which the entrance to the trachea is blocked, depending on the electroencephalogram (EEG) of the wearer of the artificial epiglottis 20 during swallowing and breathing. Therefore, the swallowing respiration switching device 10F can more reliably suppress aspiration.

[0103] [Eighth embodiment] An artificial epiglottis and a swallowing respiration switching device according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 10 is a configuration diagram of the swallowing respiration switching device according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] 10 , the swallowing breathing switching device 10G according to the eighth embodiment differs from the swallowing breathing switching device 10 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a drive signal generating unit 31G. Other configurations of the swallowing breathing switching device 10G are the same as those of the swallowing breathing switching device 10, and descriptions of similar parts will be omitted.

[0105] The swallowing respiration switching device 10G includes a drive signal generation unit 31G. The drive signal generation unit 31G differs from the drive signal generation unit 31 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a power supply circuit 311G and a drive control circuit 390. Other configurations of the drive signal generation unit 31G are the same as those of the drive signal generation unit 31, and descriptions of similar parts will be omitted.

[0106] The power supply circuit 311G includes a variable voltage generator 3161, a variable voltage generator 3162, and a memory 3163. The variable voltage generators 3161 and 3162 are programmable variable voltage generators, and can set the voltage value of the DC voltage to be output.

[0107] Voltage values ​​corresponding to the wearer are stored in the memory 3163. More specifically, the memory 3163 stores the relationship between the bending angle of the artificial epiglottis 20 with respect to the wearer of the stored artificial epiglottis 20 and the voltage corresponding to the bending angle.

[0108] The drive control circuit 390 controls the variable voltage generator 3161 and the variable voltage generator 3162 based on the relationship between the bending angle of the artificial epiglottis 20 and the voltage corresponding to the bending angle. The variable voltage generators 3161 and 3162 generate DC voltages corresponding to the voltage values ​​stored in the memory 3163 under the control of the drive control circuit 390.

[0109] Drive control circuit 390 controls the drive of variable voltage generators 3161 and 3162, and also controls the opening and shorting of electric switches 312 and 313. The control of electric switches 312 and 313 by drive control circuit 390 is similar to the control by switch control circuit 310 described above.

[0110] With the above configuration and control, the swallowing respiration switching device 10G, like the swallowing respiration switching device 10, can switch between a state in which the tracheal entrance is not blocked and a state in which the tracheal entrance is blocked, thereby more reliably suppressing aspiration.

[0111] Furthermore, the swallowing respiration switching device 10G can control the voltage value of the voltage applied to the artificial epiglottis 20 by the variable voltage generators 3161 and 3162. This allows the amount of bending of the artificial epiglottis 20 to be adjusted according to the wearer. Therefore, the swallowing respiration switching device 10G can more reliably suppress aspiration.

[0112] [Ninth embodiment] An artificial epiglottis and a swallowing respiration switching device according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 11 is a configuration diagram of the swallowing respiration switching device according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] 11 , the swallowing breathing switching device 10H according to the ninth embodiment differs from the swallowing breathing switching device 10 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a connector 318 and a connector 49. Other configurations of the swallowing breathing switching device 10H are similar to those of the swallowing breathing switching device 10, and a description of similar parts will be omitted.

[0114] The swallowing respiration switching device 10H includes a drive signal generation unit 31H. The drive signal generation unit 31H differs from the drive signal generation unit 31 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a connector 318. Other configurations of the drive signal generation unit 31H are the same as those of the drive signal generation unit 31, and a description of similar parts will be omitted.

[0115] The connector 318 is connected to the electric switch 312 , the electric switch 313 , and the node between the DC power source DC 1 and the DC power source DC 2 in the power supply circuit 311 .

[0116] The connector 49 is connected to the cable 40 (the first cable 41, the second cable 42, and the third cable 43).

[0117] The connector 318 and the connector 49 are detachable from each other. When the connector 318 and the connector 49 are connected, the electric switch 312 is connected to the first cable 41, and the electric switch 313 is connected to the second cable 42. The node between the DC power supply DC1 and the DC power supply DC2 in the power supply circuit 311 is connected to the third cable 43.

[0118] With the above configuration, the swallowing respiration switching device 10H, like the swallowing respiration switching device 10, can switch between a state in which the tracheal entrance is not blocked and a state in which the tracheal entrance is blocked, thereby more reliably suppressing aspiration.

[0119] Furthermore, the swallowing breathing switching device 10H has a replaceable drive signal generating section 31H, which makes the swallowing breathing switching device 10H easier to use for the wearer.

[0120] [Tenth Embodiment] An artificial epiglottis according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Figures 12(A), 12(B), and 12(C) are perspective views showing examples of the configuration of an artificial epiglottis according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing the curved state of the artificial epiglottis shown in Figure 12(A). The dotted line in Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a case where there are no portions with different piezoelectric constants (consisting of one type of piezoelectric constant) as shown in Figure 12(A).

[0121] 12A, the artificial epiglottis 20I1 according to the tenth embodiment differs from the artificial epiglottis 20 according to the first embodiment in that the piezoelectric element is composed of a plurality of portions with different piezoelectric constants. The basic configuration of the artificial epiglottis 20I1 is the same as that of the artificial epiglottis 20, and a description of similar parts will be omitted.

[0122] The artificial epiglottis 20I1 includes a first piezoelectric element 211I and a second piezoelectric element 212I.

[0123] The first piezoelectric element 211I includes a first portion 2111 and a second portion 2112. The first portion 2111 and the second portion 2112 are arranged in this order from one end (a fixed end fixed to the pharynx) of the first piezoelectric element 211I toward the other end (a movable end) (direction L in the figure).

[0124] The piezoelectric constant of the second portion 2112 is higher than the piezoelectric constant of the first portion 2111 .

[0125] The second piezoelectric element 212I includes a third portion 2121 and a fourth portion 2122. The third portion 2121 and the fourth portion 2122 are arranged in this order from one end (a fixed end fixed to the pharynx) of the second piezoelectric element 212I toward the other end (a movable end) (direction L in the figure).

[0126] The piezoelectric constant of the fourth portion 2122 is higher than the piezoelectric constant of the third portion 2121. The piezoelectric constant of the fourth portion 2122 is the same as the piezoelectric constant of the second portion 2112, and the piezoelectric constant of the third portion 2121 is the same as the piezoelectric constant of the first portion 2111.

[0127] The first drive electrode 221 overlaps the first portion 2111 and the second portion 2112. The second drive electrode 222 overlaps the third portion 2121 and the fourth portion 2122. The third drive electrode 223 is disposed between the first portion 2111 and the third portion 2121, and between the second portion 2112 and the fourth portion 2122.

[0128] As a result, the same voltage is applied to the first stacked portion in which the first portion 2111 and the third portion 2121 are stacked, and the second stacked portion in which the second portion 2112 and the fourth portion 2122 are stacked.

[0129] The piezoelectric constant of the second laminated portion in which the second portion 2112 and the fourth portion 2122 are laminated is higher than the piezoelectric constant of the first laminated portion in which the first portion 2111 and the third portion 2121 are laminated.

[0130] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 13, the second laminated portion curves more than the first laminated portion.

[0131] Here, if the tracheal entrance or esophagus is small, as shown by the dotted line in Figure 13, an artificial epiglottis that does not have multiple piezoelectric constants may block part of the esophagus or may have difficulty in fitting tightly to the tracheal entrance.

[0132] However, the portion of the artificial epiglottis 20I1 closer to the movable end is more curved than the portion closer to the fixed end, which more reliably ensures an opening area for the esophagus and more reliably brings the artificial epiglottis 20I1 into close contact with the tracheal entrance.

[0133] At this time, the curvature of the artificial epiglottis 20I1 can be adjusted by adjusting the voltage, so the artificial epiglottis 20I1 more reliably ensures an esophageal opening area depending on the wearer, and the artificial epiglottis 20I1 more reliably fits tightly against the tracheal entrance.

[0134] 12B, the artificial epiglottis 20I2 differs from the artificial epiglottis 20I1 in the configuration of the drive electrodes. Other configurations of the artificial epiglottis 20I2 are the same as those of the artificial epiglottis 20I1, and a description of similar parts will be omitted.

[0135] The artificial epiglottis 20I2 includes a first drive electrode 2211, a second drive electrode 2221, a third drive electrode 2231, a fourth drive electrode 2212, a fifth drive electrode 2222, and a sixth drive electrode 2232.

[0136] The first driving electrode 2211 and the fourth driving electrode 2212 are arranged side by side and spaced apart from each other in the L direction of the artificial epiglottis 20I2. The second driving electrode 2221 and the fifth driving electrode 2212 are arranged side by side and spaced apart from each other in the L direction of the artificial epiglottis 20I2. The third driving electrode 2231 and the sixth driving electrode 2232 are arranged side by side and spaced apart from each other in the L direction of the artificial epiglottis 20I2.

[0137] The first drive electrode 2211 and the third drive electrode 2231 are arranged to sandwich the first portion 2111 of the first piezoelectric element 211I. The fourth drive electrode 2212 and the sixth drive electrode 2232 are arranged to sandwich the second portion 2112 of the first piezoelectric element 211I.

[0138] The second drive electrode 2221 and the third drive electrode 2231 are arranged to sandwich the first portion 2121 of the second piezoelectric element 212I. The fifth drive electrode 2222 and the sixth drive electrode 2232 are arranged to sandwich the second portion 2122 of the second piezoelectric element 212I.

[0139] The first drive electrode 2211 and the fourth drive electrode 2212 are connected to a first cable 41I2, the second drive electrode 2221 and the fifth drive electrode 2212 are connected to a second cable 42I2, and the third drive electrode 2231 and the sixth drive electrode 2232 are connected to a third cable 43I2.

[0140] With this configuration, the artificial epiglottis 20I2 exhibits the same effects as the artificial epiglottis 20I1.

[0141] 12C, the artificial epiglottis 20I3 differs from the artificial epiglottis 20I2 in the configuration of the cables connected to the drive electrodes. The other configuration of the artificial epiglottis 20I3 is the same as that of the artificial epiglottis 20I2, and a description of the similar parts will be omitted.

[0142] The artificial epiglottis 20I2 includes a first cable 411, a second cable 421, a third cable 431, a fourth cable 412, a fifth cable 422, and a sixth cable 432.

[0143] The first cable 411 connects to the first drive electrode 2211, and the fourth cable 412 connects to the fourth drive electrode 2212. The second cable 421 connects to the second drive electrode 2221, and the fifth cable 422 connects to the fifth drive electrode 2212. The third cable 431 connects to the third drive electrode 2231, and the sixth cable 432 connects to the sixth drive electrode 2232.

[0144] With this configuration, the artificial epiglottis 20I3 exhibits the same effects as the artificial epiglottis 20I1 and 20I2.

[0145] Furthermore, different voltages can be applied to the fixed end and movable end of the artificial epiglottis 20I3. This allows the amount of curvature of the artificial epiglottis 20I3 to be further adjusted. This allows the shape of the artificial epiglottis 20I3 to be adjusted to suit the wearer with greater precision.

[0146] In this embodiment, a configuration has been shown in which the artificial epiglottis has a plurality of portions with different piezoelectric constants along the L direction. However, a configuration in which the artificial epiglottis has a plurality of portions with different piezoelectric constants along the W direction (a direction perpendicular to the L direction) is also possible. Furthermore, the number of portions with different piezoelectric constants is not limited to two, and may be three or more.

[0147] [Eleventh embodiment] An artificial epiglottis and a swallowing respiration switching device according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 14 is a configuration diagram of the swallowing respiration switching device according to the eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0148] 14 , the swallowing breathing switching device 10J according to the eleventh embodiment differs from the swallowing breathing switching device 10 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a drive signal generating unit 31J. Other configurations of the swallowing breathing switching device 10J are similar to those of the swallowing breathing switching device 10, and descriptions of similar parts will be omitted.

[0149] The drive signal generating section 31J includes a drive control circuit 390J and a power supply circuit 311J. The power supply circuit 311J includes a variable voltage generator 3161J and a variable voltage generator 3162J.

[0150] The drive control circuit 390J controls the output voltages of the variable voltage generators 3161J and 3162J, i.e., the voltages supplied to the artificial epiglottis 20, based on the depression state and depression history of the physical switch 39.

[0151] For example, when the drive control circuit 390J detects pressing of the physical switch 39, it performs output control in the first state. In the output control in the first state, the drive control circuit 390J controls the variable voltage generator 3161J to output +3 V and controls the variable voltage generator 3162J to output −3 V.

[0152] Next, when the drive control circuit 390J detects a further depression of the physical switch 39, it performs output control in the second state. In the output control in the second state, the drive control circuit 390J performs output control of −3 V for the variable voltage generator 3161J and output control of +3 V for the variable voltage generator 3162J.

[0153] Next, when the drive control circuit 390J detects a further depression of the physical switch 39, it performs output control in the first state. In the output control in the first state, the drive control circuit 390J controls the variable voltage generator 3161J to output +3 V and controls the variable voltage generator 3162J to output −3 V.

[0154] Thereafter, the drive control circuit 390J repeats such output control in the first state and output control in the second state.

[0155] With this configuration, the swallowing respiration switching device 10J can easily control the voltage supplied to the artificial epiglottis 20. Furthermore, the swallowing respiration switching device 10J can shape the artificial epiglottis 20 as desired by the wearer at a timing desired by the wearer.

[0156] The configurations of the above-described embodiments can be appropriately combined, and effects corresponding to each combination can be achieved. For example, the configuration of the swallowing respiration switching device 10E according to the sixth embodiment can be combined with the configuration of the swallowing respiration switching device 10F according to the seventh embodiment. The swallowing respiration switching device formed by this combination can switch between a state in which the tracheal entrance is not blocked and a state in which the tracheal entrance is blocked, using electroencephalograms and electromyograms. Therefore, aspiration can be more reliably suppressed.

[0157] <1> An artificial epiglottis comprising: a membrane-shaped piezoelectric element that bends when subjected to voltage; and a drive electrode that applies the voltage to the piezoelectric element, wherein the piezoelectric element is placed in the larynx and takes on a first shape that closes the entrance to the trachea or a second shape that opens the entrance to the trachea when subjected to the voltage.

[0158] <2> The artificial epiglottis according to <1>, wherein the piezoelectric element is a plurality of piezoelectric elements, the plurality of piezoelectric elements are stacked with their membrane surfaces parallel to each other, and the plurality of piezoelectric elements generate bending that is multiplied by the voltage.

[0159] <3> The artificial epiglottis according to <2>, wherein the plurality of piezoelectric elements are composed of a first piezoelectric element and a second piezoelectric element, and the displacement direction when the voltage is applied is opposite between the first piezoelectric element and the second piezoelectric element.

[0160] <4> A swallowing respiration switching device comprising: the artificial epiglottis according to any one of <1> to <3>; and a drive signal generating unit that generates a drive signal that generates the voltage.

[0161] <5> The swallowing respiration switching device of <4>, wherein the drive signal generation unit switches between a first state of the drive signal and a second state of the drive signal, and the artificial epiglottis switches between the first shape and the second shape depending on the first state and the second state.

[0162] <6> The swallowing respiration switching device according to <5>, wherein the drive signal generating unit includes an electric switch, and switches between the first state and the second state by opening or short-circuiting the electric switch.

[0163] <7> The swallowing respiration switching device according to <6>, comprising a physical switch for controlling the electric switch.

[0164] <8> The swallowing respiration switching device according to <5>, wherein the drive signal generating unit includes an AC power supply and switches between the first state and the second state depending on whether the voltage from the AC power supply is positive or negative.

[0165] <9> The swallowing respiration switching device according to any one of <4> to <8>, wherein the drive signal generation unit is disposed outside a body to which the artificial epiglottis is attached, and the drive signal generation unit includes a cable connecting the drive signal generation unit and the artificial epiglottis.

[0166] <10> The swallowing respiration switching device according to any one of <4> to <8>, wherein the drive signal generation unit is arranged outside a body to which the artificial epiglottis is attached, and the drive signal generation unit comprises: a power transmitting coil arranged outside the body; and a power receiving coil arranged inside the body and connected to the artificial epiglottis.

[0167] <11> The swallowing respiration switching device of <6>, comprising: an electromyography sensor that detects movement of muscles in the oral cavity of a body to which the artificial epiglottis is attached and generates an electromyography detection signal; and a switch control circuit that controls the opening and short-circuiting of the electric switch, wherein the switch control circuit switches between opening and short-circuiting the electric switch based on the electromyography detection signal.

[0168] <12> The swallowing and respiration switching device of <11>, comprising: a memory that stores the relationship between the electromyographic detection signal and swallowing and respiration; and a switch control circuit that controls the opening and short-circuiting of the electric switch, wherein the switch control circuit switches between opening and short-circuiting the electric switch based on the relationship between the electromyographic detection signal and swallowing and respiration stored in the memory.

[0169] <13> The swallowing and respiration switching device of <6>, comprising: an electroencephalogram sensor that detects electroencephalograms of a body to which the artificial epiglottis is attached and generates an electroencephalogram detection signal; and a switch control circuit that controls the opening and short-circuiting of the electric switch, wherein the switch control circuit switches between the opening and short-circuiting of the electric switch based on the electroencephalogram detection signal.

[0170] <14> The swallowing and respiration switching device of <13>, comprising: a memory that stores the relationship between the electroencephalogram detection signal and swallowing and respiration; and a switch control circuit that controls the opening and short-circuiting of the electric switch, wherein the switch control circuit switches between opening and short-circuiting the electric switch based on the relationship between the electroencephalogram detection signal and swallowing and respiration stored in the memory.

[0171] <15> The swallowing respiration switching device according to any one of <4> to <14>, wherein the drive signal generating unit includes a programmable variable voltage generator.

[0172] <16> The swallowing respiration switching device of <15>, comprising: a memory that stores a relationship between a bending angle of the artificial epiglottis relative to a wearer of the artificial epiglottis and a voltage corresponding to the bending angle; and a drive control circuit that controls an output voltage of the programmable variable voltage device, wherein the drive control circuit controls the output voltage of the programmable variable voltage device based on the relationship between the bending angle of the artificial epiglottis relative to a wearer of the artificial epiglottis and a voltage corresponding to the bending angle, which is stored in the memory.

[0173] 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, 10G, 10H, 10J: swallowing respiration switching device 20, 20A, 20B, 20I1, 20I2, 20I3: artificial epiglottis 31, 31A, 31B, 31C, 31D, 31G, 31H: drive signal generating unit 32: orthosis 39: physical switch 40, 40A, 40B: cable 41: first cable 42: second cable 43: third cable 49: connector 51: electromyography sensor 52: control signal generating unit 61: electroencephalogram sensor 62: control signal generating unit 211, 211I: first piezoelectric element 2111: first part 2122: second part 212, 212I: second piezoelectric element 2121: third part 2122: Fourth part 221, 2211: First drive electrode 222, 2221: Second drive electrode 223, 2231: Third drive electrode 2212: Fourth drive electrode 2222: Fifth drive electrode 2232: Sixth drive electrode 310: Switch control circuit 311, 311A, 311B, 311C, 311G, 311J: Power supply circuit 312, 313: Electric switch 314: Power transmission control unit 315: Power transmitting coil 316: Power receiving coil 317: Power receiving control unit 318: Connector 390, 390J: Drive control circuit 41, 41I2, 411: First cable 42, 42I2, 421: Second cable 43, 43I2, 431: Third cable 412: Fourth cable 422: Fifth cable 432: 6th cable 3161, 3162, 3161J, 3162J: Variable voltage generator 3163: Memory AC: AC power supply C20: Cover DC1, DC10, DC2: DC power supply H31: Housing

Claims

1. A film-like piezoelectric element that bends by voltage, A drive electrode for applying the voltage to the piezoelectric element, Comprising, The piezoelectric element, Is arranged in the larynx, It becomes the first shape that closes the tracheal inlet or the second shape that opens the tracheal inlet by the voltage, Artificial epiglottis.

2. There are a plurality of the piezoelectric elements, The plurality of piezoelectric elements are laminated in a state where their film surfaces are parallel to each other, The plurality of piezoelectric elements generate a bending that is multiplied by the voltage, The artificial epiglottis according to claim 1.

3. The plurality of piezoelectric elements are composed of a first piezoelectric element and a second piezoelectric element, The displacement directions when the voltage is applied are opposite in the first piezoelectric element and the second piezoelectric element, The artificial epiglottis according to claim 2.

4. The artificial epiglottis according to claim 1 or claim 2, and A drive signal generation unit that generates a drive signal that generates the voltage, Comprising, Swallowing respiration switching device.

5. The drive signal generation unit switches between a first state and a second state of the drive signal, The artificial epiglottis switches between the first shape or the second shape according to the first state and the second state, The swallowing respiration switching device according to claim 4.

6. The drive signal generation unit includes an electric switch, and switches between the first state and the second state by opening and short-circuiting the electric switch, The swallowing respiration switching device according to claim 5.

7. Comprising a physical switch for controlling the electric switch, The swallowing respiration switching device according to claim 6.

8. The drive signal generation unit includes an AC power supply, and switches between the first state and the second state according to the positive and negative of the voltage from the AC power supply, The swallowing respiration switching device according to claim 5.

9. The drive signal generation unit is arranged outside the body on which the artificial epiglottis is mounted, Comprising a cable for connecting the drive signal generation unit and the artificial epiglottis, The swallowing respiration switching device according to claim 4.

10. The drive signal generation unit is arranged outside the body on which the artificial epiglottis is mounted, The drive signal generation unit, A power transmission side coil arranged outside the body, A power reception coil arranged inside the body and connected to the artificial epiglottis, Comprising, The swallowing respiration switching device according to claim 4.

11. An electromyogram sensor that detects the movement of the muscles in the oral cavity of the body on which the artificial epiglottis is mounted and generates an electromyogram detection signal, A switch control circuit that controls the opening and short - circuiting of the electric switch; comprising; Based on the myoelectric detection signal, the switch control circuit switches the opening and short - circuiting of the electric switch. The swallowing - respiration switching device according to claim 6.

12. A memory that stores the relationship between the myoelectric detection signal obtained by detecting the movement of the muscles in the oral cavity of the body where the artificial larynx is worn and swallowing and respiration; A switch control circuit that controls the opening and short - circuiting of the electric switch; comprising; Based on the relationship between the myoelectric detection signal stored in the memory and swallowing and respiration, the switch control circuit switches the opening and short - circuiting of the electric switch. The swallowing - respiration switching device according to claim 6.

13. An electroencephalogram sensor that detects the electroencephalogram of the body where the artificial larynx is worn and generates an electroencephalogram detection signal; A switch control circuit that controls the opening and short - circuiting of the electric switch; comprising; Based on the electroencephalogram detection signal, the switch control circuit switches the opening and short - circuiting of the electric switch. The swallowing - respiration switching device according to claim 6.

14. A memory that stores the relationship between the electroencephalogram detection signal obtained by detecting the electroencephalogram of the body where the artificial larynx is worn and swallowing and respiration; A switch control circuit that controls the opening and short - circuiting of the electric switch; comprising; Based on the relationship between the electroencephalogram detection signal stored in the memory and swallowing and respiration, the switch control circuit switches the opening and short - circuiting of the electric switch. The swallowing - respiration switching device according to claim 6.

15. The drive signal generation unit includes a programmable variable voltage device. The swallowing - respiration switching device according to claim 4.

16. A memory that stores the relationship between the bending angle of the artificial larynx with respect to the wearer of the artificial larynx and the voltage corresponding to the bending angle; A drive control circuit that controls the output voltage of the programmable variable voltage device; comprising; Based on the relationship between the bending angle of the artificial larynx with respect to the wearer of the artificial larynx stored in the memory and the voltage corresponding to the bending angle, the drive control circuit controls the output voltage of the programmable variable voltage device. The swallowing - respiration switching device according to claim 15.