Analog signal conversion device for wired biological monitor, biological signal measurement device for wired biological monitor, and analog signal conversion method for wired biological monitor

Abstract

Provided are: an analog signal conversion device for a wired biological monitor, applied to a wired biological monitor for analog signals installed in hospitals to monitor biological signals (body temperature, etc.) of a patient; a biological signal measurement device for a wired biological monitor, including the analog signal conversion device for a wired biological monitor; and an analog signal conversion method for a wired biological monitor. The analog signal conversion device comprises: an input unit for receiving a digital output from a digital biological signal measurement device for measuring biological signals; a biological signal conversion unit for converting, into an analog output, the digital output, which is input into the input unit; and an output unit for transmitting an analog output of the biological signal conversion unit to a biological monitor, wherein the biological signal conversion unit includes: a first parallel resistance network formed by connecting a plurality of first resistors in parallel with each other; a second parallel resistance network connected in series with the first parallel resistance network and formed by connecting a plurality of second resistors in parallel with each other; and a resistance selector which receives the digital output, and which selects one first resistor and one second resistor from the first parallel resistance network and the second parallel resistance network so as to conduct electricity, and generates the analog output by using a selected combination of elements of a first resistance group included in the first parallel resistance network and elements of a second resistance group included in the second parallel resistance network.

Description

Analog signal converter for wired bio-monitor, bio-signal measuring device for wired bio-monitor, and analog signal conversion method for wired bio-monitor

[0001] The present invention relates to a technology for monitoring a patient's vital signs (such as body temperature), and more specifically, to an analog signal converter for a wired vital sign monitor, a vital sign measuring device for a wired vital sign monitor, and a method for converting analog signals for a wired vital sign monitor, which are applied to a wired vital sign monitor for analog signals installed in a hospital.

[0002] Hospitals require the monitoring of various vital signs, such as heart rate, body temperature, blood pressure, and electrocardiograms. From emergency patients whose conditions are rapidly changing to those in the recovery phase after procedures or surgery, the collection and monitoring of vital signs is crucial for assessing the patient's condition and providing appropriate treatment.

[0003] To this end, hospitals use a bio-monitor (or patient monitoring device or patient monitor) that displays the patient's vital signs (heart rate, body temperature, etc.) to monitor their condition and supervise the patient. The bio-monitor has a display device and a signal input and processing device, and is connected to peripheral devices (e.g., heart rate monitor, thermometer, etc.) via cables (e.g., Korean Patent 10-1183053, etc.).

[0004] While such patient monitoring systems are very useful, they become difficult to use if there are connection issues between the vital signs monitor and peripheral devices. For example, use may be difficult if the input and output signals between the measuring device and the vital signs monitor do not match. Although vital signs monitors are already supplied to hospitals and are difficult to replace frequently, measuring devices are developed in various forms by individual companies, so problems may arise when changing products or connecting new products to existing vital signs monitors.

[0005] In particular, while most conventional vital signs monitors are designed to operate by receiving analog signals (continuously fluctuating signals), new digital products (measurement devices) provide digital output; consequently, problems may arise where they are difficult to use due to input-output signal mismatch. Since this issue ultimately restricts the use of medical equipment and negatively impacts patient treatment and therapy, improvements are being requested.

[0006] Meanwhile, the present invention has been carried out with the support of the state as follows.

[0007] [National R&D projects that supported this invention]

[0008] [Project ID] 1711196788

[0009] [Project No.] RS-2023-00242778

[0010] [Ministry Name] Ministry of Science and ICT

[0011] [Name of Project Management (Specialized) Agency] Pan-Governmental Medical Device Research & Development Foundation

[0012] [Project Name] Pan-Governmental Full-Cycle Medical Device Research and Development (R&D)

[0013] [Research Project Title] Non-contact Real-time Monitoring CBT Measuring Device Applying Zero Heat Flux Technology

[0014] [Name of Project Performing Organization] Choice Technology Co., Ltd.

[0015] [Research Period] April 1, 2023 ~ December 31, 2025

[0016] The technical objective of the present invention is to solve these problems by providing an analog signal converter for a wired bio-monitor, a bio-signal measuring device for a wired bio-monitor, and an analog signal conversion method for a wired bio-monitor applicable to a wired bio-monitor for analog signals installed in a hospital, thereby enabling a digital measuring device to be connected and used directly to a wired bio-monitor for analog signals installed in a hospital.

[0017] The technical problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0018] An analog signal converter for a wired bio-monitor according to the present invention comprises: an input unit that receives a digital output from a digital bio-signal measuring device that measures a person's bio-signal and generates a corresponding digital output; and a bio-signal converter that converts the digital output received by the input unit into an analog output recognizable by the bio-monitor. The device includes an output unit that transmits the analog output to the bio-signal converter and the bio-monitor via a wired connection, wherein the bio-signal converter comprises a first parallel resistor network configured by connecting a plurality of first resistors in parallel, a second parallel resistor network configured by connecting a plurality of second resistors in parallel and connecting them in series with the first parallel resistor network, and a resistor selector that receives the digital output and selects and conducts current to one of the first resistor and one of the second resistor from the first parallel resistor network and the second parallel resistor network, thereby generating the analog output through a selected combination of elements of a first resistor group included in the first parallel resistor network and elements of a second resistor group included in the second parallel resistor network.

[0019] The resistor selector may include a first selector connected to the first parallel resistor network to select and power one of the first resistors from the first resistor group, and a second selector connected to the second parallel resistor network to select and power another of the second resistors from the second resistor group.

[0020] The first selector and the second selector may each include a multiplexer connected to the first parallel resistor network and the second parallel resistor network, respectively, for selecting a specific resistor according to the digital output.

[0021] A plurality of the above-mentioned first resistors may all have different resistance values, and a plurality of the above-mentioned second resistors may also all have different resistance values.

[0022] The above biosignal conversion unit may further include a termination resistor connected in series to the first parallel resistor network or the second parallel resistor network to set the level of the analog output.

[0023] The above-mentioned termination resistor may include at least one fixed resistor having a fixed resistance value.

[0024] The above-mentioned termination resistor may further include a variable resistor whose resistance value is variable, so that the deviation of the analog output can be adjusted using the variable resistor.

[0025] The digital biosignal measuring device and the input unit each include a wireless transceiver connected wirelessly to each other, so that the digital output can be received wirelessly.

[0026] The digital biosignal measuring device includes a core body temperature measuring device, and the digital output may include a core body temperature signal measured by the digital biosignal measuring device.

[0027] A biosignal measuring device for a wired biomonitor according to the present invention comprises: an analog signal converter; and includes a digital biosignal measuring device that measures a person's biosignal to generate a corresponding digital output and is connected to the analog signal converter to input the digital output to the analog signal converter, wherein the analog signal converter includes an input unit that receives the digital output, a biosignal converter that converts the digital output input to the input unit into an analog output recognizable by a biomonitor, and an output unit that transmits the analog output to the biomonitor by connecting the biosignal converter and the biomonitor via a wire, wherein the biosignal converter includes a first parallel resistor network configured by connecting a plurality of first resistors in parallel, a second parallel resistor network configured by connecting a plurality of second resistors in parallel and being connected in series with the first parallel resistor network, and a resistor selector that receives the digital output and selects and conducts current to one of the first resistor and one of the second resistor from the first parallel resistor network and the second parallel resistor network, wherein the elements of the first resistor group included in the first parallel resistor network and the The analog output is generated by a selected combination of elements of the second resistor group included in the second parallel resistor network.

[0028] The resistor selector may include a first selector connected to the first parallel resistor network to select and power one of the first resistors from the first resistor group, and a second selector connected to the second parallel resistor network to select and power another of the second resistors from the second resistor group.

[0029] The first selector and the second selector may each include a multiplexer connected to the first parallel resistor network and the second parallel resistor network, respectively, for selecting a specific resistor according to the digital output.

[0030] The digital biosignal measuring device and the analog signal converter may each include a wireless transceiver that wirelessly transmits and receives the digital output.

[0031] The above digital biosignal measuring device may include a probe that measures biosignals by adhering to a human body, and a main body to which the probe is detachably coupled and which has a wireless transceiver formed therein.

[0032] The probe is connected to a battery that supplies power, and the combination of the probe and the battery can be formed as a disposable device that is replaced when its lifespan ends.

[0033] The probe may include a core body temperature measurement module comprising a heat conduction block that contacts human skin to introduce heat, and at least two temperature sensors spaced apart from each other on the heat conduction block to sense temperatures at different points.

[0034] The analog signal conversion method for a wired bio-monitor according to the present invention comprises: (a) a step of receiving the digital output through an input unit; and (b) a step of providing the digital output to a bio-signal conversion unit comprising a first parallel resistor network configured by connecting a plurality of first resistors in parallel, a second parallel resistor network configured by connecting a plurality of second resistors in series with the first parallel resistor network and connecting a plurality of second resistors in parallel, and a resistor selector that receives the digital output and selects and conducts current to one of the first resistor and one of the second resistor from the first parallel resistor network and the second parallel resistor network, thereby generating the analog output with a selected combination of an element of a first resistor group included in the first parallel resistor network and an element of a second resistor group included in the second parallel resistor network.

[0035] The resistor selector may include a first selector connected to the first parallel resistor network to select and power one of the first resistors from the first resistor group, and a second selector connected to the second parallel resistor network to select and power another of the second resistors from the second resistor group.

[0036] The first selector and the second selector may each include a multiplexer connected to the first parallel resistor network and the second parallel resistor network, respectively, for selecting a specific resistor according to the digital output.

[0037] According to the present invention, the output signal (digital signal) of a digital biosignal measuring device (e.g., heart rate monitor, thermometer, etc.) is converted into an input signal (analog signal) of a biomonitor and provided, thereby enabling seamless monitoring of a patient's condition without replacing the biomonitor. In particular, since various newly developed digital devices (e.g., digital thermometers) can be integrated with analog biomonitors commonly installed in hospitals, costs can be reduced and restrictions on the use of medical devices can be effectively eliminated. Furthermore, since newly developed digital measuring devices can be used without issues without changing the hospital system, the scalability for new devices can also be enhanced. Consequently, improvements across the entire medical industry related to patient monitoring are possible, and medical services can be improved by assisting in patient monitoring and treatment in actual medical settings.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an analog signal converter according to one embodiment of the present invention and a medical bio-monitor to which the analog signal converter is applied.

[0039] FIG. 2 is a block diagram conceptually illustrating the relationships between the components of the analog signal converter of FIG. 1 and the resulting effects of operation.

[0040] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the configuration of the biosignal conversion unit of the analog signal conversion device of Figure 2.

[0041] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the circuit configuration of the biosignal conversion unit of Figure 3.

[0042] Figure 5 is an operation diagram illustrating the signal conversion operation of the analog signal converter of Figure 2.

[0043] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a biosignal measuring device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 7 is a usage state diagram illustrating the usage method of the biosignal measuring device of Figure 6.

[0045] The advantages and features of the present invention and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the claims. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components.

[0046] Hereinafter, an analog signal converter for a wired bio-monitor, a bio-signal measuring device for a wired bio-monitor, and an analog signal conversion method for a wired bio-monitor according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7. First, the analog signal converter and the bio-signal measuring device will be described in detail, and then, based thereon, the analog signal conversion method will also be described in detail.

[0047] Below, an analog signal converter (a signal converter that converts digital output into analog output) will be described in detail.

[0048] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an analog signal converter according to an embodiment of the present invention and a medical bio-monitor to which the analog signal converter is applied, and FIG. 2 is a block diagram conceptually illustrating the relationship between the components of the analog signal converter of FIG. 1 and the resulting effects.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 1, the analog signal converter (10) for a wired bio-monitor of the present invention (hereinafter, analog signal converter) is connected to a medical bio-monitor (M) via a wire and converts the digital output (S1) of a digital bio-signal measuring device (20) into an analog output (S2) for the bio-monitor (M). Therefore, even with a general wired bio-monitor (M) whose input signal is an analog signal, the bio-signal (e.g., body temperature) measured by the digital bio-signal measuring device (20) can be smoothly output (see FIG. 5).

[0050] The bio-monitor (M) considered in the present invention is a wired bio-monitor (M) installed in a hospital or the like, and may operate by an analog signal (e.g., continuously changing voltage and / or current value) input through a wired line. Since such a bio-monitor (M) has a plurality of connection ports for wired connection, an analog signal converter (10) can be connected to a connection port (Ma) to conveniently receive a converted analog output (S2).

[0051] The analog signal converter (10) may have a jack or plug that connects to the connection port (Ma) of the bio-monitor (M) and may be miniaturized. Therefore, it can be carried around and connected to the bio-monitor (M) to be used whenever needed. Since there is no restriction on the connection method between the analog signal converter (10) and the digital bio-signal measuring device (20), such as wireless and / or wired methods, it is not limited to examples (a wireless connection method is exemplified in the drawing).

[0052] This analog signal converter (10) can be configured as follows. The analog signal converter (10) includes an input unit (110) that receives a digital output (S1) from a digital biosignal measuring device (20) that measures a person's biosignal and generates a corresponding digital output, a biosignal converter (120) that converts the digital output received by the input unit (110) into an analog output (S2) recognizable by a biomonitor (M), and an output unit (130) that transmits the analog output (S2) to the biomonitor (M) by connecting the biosignal converter (120) and the biomonitor (M) via a wire. The biosignal converter (120) includes a first parallel resistor network (see 121 in FIG. 3) configured by connecting a plurality of first resistors (see 1211 in FIG. 3) in parallel, a second parallel resistor network (122) configured by connecting a plurality of second resistors (1221) in parallel and connecting in series with the first parallel resistor network (121), and receiving the digital output (S1). A resistor selector (123 in FIG. 3) that selects and conducts one first resistor (1211) and one second resistor (1221) from the first parallel resistor network (121) and the second parallel resistor network (122) can be included to generate an analog output (S2) with a selected combination of an element of the first resistor group (see Group 1 in FIG. 3) included in the first parallel resistor network [i.e., the first resistor (1211)] and an element of the second resistor group (see Group 2 in FIG. 3) included in the second parallel resistor network [i.e., the second resistor (1221)].

[0053] That is, the present invention uses a method of finding a resistance value corresponding to the output to convert a digital output (e.g., discontinuous or discrete current and / or voltage signal) into an analog output (e.g., continuous current and / or voltage signal), and by selecting two appropriate resistors from a group of resistors containing a series of resistors and connecting them in series, the resolution (combination of possible resistance values) can be increased while the number of resistors connected in series can be reduced. Accordingly, problems that occur in resistor strings where multiple resistors are connected in a line (e.g., increased power consumption, increased heat generation and noise resulting therefrom, slow conversion speed, resolution limit, etc.) can also be effectively resolved.

[0054] In the present invention, the first resistance group and the second resistance group refer to a collection of multiple resistors forming the first parallel resistance network (121) and the second parallel resistance network (122), and the elements of the resistance group may refer to multiple individual resistors included in each collection. An input / output selector, such as the multiplexer described later, is combined with each parallel resistance network to form an appropriate resistance selector, and only two appropriate resistors [the first resistor (1211) and the second resistor (1221)] among the multiple resistors included in each resistance group are energized in series to generate various resistance values ​​corresponding to various outputs (increased resolution). Below, the configuration and effects of the present invention are explained in more detail based on an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Referring to the enlarged view of FIG. 1, the analog signal converter (10) may have an input section (110), a bio-signal converter (120), and an output section (130) embedded within a block-shaped body (140). A digital output (S1) is received by the input section (110), converted into an analog output (S2) by the bio-signal converter (120), and the converted analog output (S2) can be provided to the bio-monitor (M) through the output section (130). For example, the analog signal converter (10) may be formed in the form of a small conversion adapter that can be held by hand and inserted into the connection port (Ma), etc., of the bio-monitor (M) for use. The operating power of the analog signal converter (10) may be provided from a built-in battery (not shown), but may also be provided from the bio-monitor (M) through a terminal, etc., formed in the output section (130).

[0056] The digital output (S1) may be provided from a digital biosignal measuring device (20) that measures a person's biosignal (e.g., body temperature). The digital biosignal measuring device (20) may include a main body (210) and a probe (220) (a part that comes into direct contact with the body) and may be wirelessly connected to an analog signal converter (10) to transmit the digital output. However, if necessary, it may be connected to enable wired data communication using a wired line (not shown), so it is not necessary to be limited to the example (wireless communication) of the drawing.

[0057] The digital biosignal measuring device (20) does not need to be limited in type or method, as long as it can measure a person's biosignal and transmit it as a digital signal. For example, the digital biosignal measuring device (20) can be formed as various types of biosignal measuring devices such as a thermometer, heart rate monitor, electrocardiogram, or blood pressure monitor, and depending on the situation, a device capable of measuring two or more biosignals simultaneously is also possible. However, in this specification, a digital thermometer that measures a person's body temperature and outputs it as a digital signal is described as an example. The digital biosignal measuring device (20) will be described again later.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 2, the analog signal converter (10) is structured to convert a digital output (S1) input through an input unit (110) into an analog output (S2) in a biosignal converter (120) and output it to a biomonitor (see M in FIG. 1) through an output unit (130). The input unit (110) can be formed as a signal input / output circuit of various types capable of receiving a digital output (a digital output transmitted from a digital biosignal measuring device), for example, and the structure or method of formation is not limited as long as signal input / output is possible. The input unit (110) may include a wireless transceiver (see 111 in FIG. 1) to receive the digital output (S1) wirelessly, and may also include a processor for preprocessing the input signal or a memory for storing data.

[0059] The output unit (130) has the function of outputting the analog output (S2) converted by the bio-signal conversion unit (120) to the bio-monitor (M). The output unit (130) may also include various types of signal input / output circuits, etc., and is not limited to a specific structure within such limits. The output unit (130) may also include a connection terminal (e.g., a plug that can be inserted into the connection port of the bio-monitor) that is connected to the connection port (Ma) of the bio-monitor (M) to output the converted signal via a wire.

[0060] The biosignal conversion unit (120) converts a digital output (S1) into an analog output (S2) between the input unit (110) and the output unit (130). The process of generating an analog output of a corresponding size according to the digital output can be understood as a signal conversion process that converts a digital signal into an analog signal, and the biosignal conversion unit (120) can implement this by selecting and combining one resistor from each of the first resistor group and the second resistor group as follows. Hereinafter, the configuration and effects of the biosignal conversion unit (120) will be explained in more detail with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5.

[0061] FIG. 3 is a conceptual configuration diagram illustrating the configuration of the biosignal conversion unit of the analog signal conversion device of FIG. 2, and FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the circuit configuration of the biosignal conversion unit of FIG. 3.

[0062] In FIG. 3, the detailed configuration of the biosignal conversion unit (120) is illustrated in the form of a block diagram. The biosignal conversion unit (120) includes a first parallel resistance network (121) composed of a plurality of first resistors (1211), a second parallel resistance network (122) composed of a plurality of second resistors (1221), and a resistance selector (123) that selects and conducts current to one first resistor (1211) and one second resistor (1221) from the first parallel resistance network (121) and the second parallel resistance network (122). In FIG. 3, the resistance selector (123) is illustrated conceptually. The resistance selector (123) may include a first selector (123-1) acting on the first parallel resistance network (121) and a second selector (123-2) acting on the second parallel resistance network (122).

[0063] The first parallel resistor network (121) and the second parallel resistor network (122) are each composed of parallel circuits of first resistors (1211) and second resistors (1221), and are connected to each other in series. Therefore, by selecting and combining one element (i.e., the first resistor and the second resistor) from the first resistor group (group of first resistors - see Group 1) included in the first parallel resistor network (121) and the second resistor group (group of second resistors - see Group 2) included in the second parallel resistor network (122), a combination resistor in which the first resistor (1211) and the second resistor (1221) are connected in series can be produced.

[0064] Since digital signals are discontinuous, if they are input into a device that operates on analog signals, errors may occur or the device may malfunction. Therefore, in order to operate a device that operates on analog signals (e.g., the bio-monitor of the present invention) normally, a process of converting digital signals into analog signals is required. Since digital signals are expressed in various discretized values ​​(depending on the number of bits), in order to convert them accurately, it may be necessary to generate analog signals of various sizes capable of expressing at least the corresponding various values ​​(e.g., continuous current and / or voltage values). The present invention generates various resistance values ​​by selecting one first resistor (1211) and one second resistor (1221) that are grouped separately, and combining the two resistors, so that various analog signals (e.g., continuous current and / or voltage values ​​that vary depending on the resistance value) can also be output in various ways.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 3, the first resistor group (Group 1) is the entire set (R) of first resistors (1211) included in the first parallel resistor network (121). 11 ~R 1n It is identical to ), and the second resistor group (Group 2) is the entire set (R) of the second resistors (1221) included in the second parallel resistor network (122). 21 ~R 2m It is identical to ). That is, the first resistance group and the second resistance group are identical to the first resistances (1211) and the second resistances (1221) that are connected in parallel to each other so that they can be selectively energized by the resistance selector (123) and form the first parallel resistance network (121) and the second parallel resistance network (122), respectively. Therefore, it is acceptable to understand the entire first resistance (1211) included in the first parallel resistance network (121) as the first resistance group, the entire second resistance (1221) included in the second parallel resistance network (122) as the second resistance group, the elements of the first resistance group as individual first resistances (1211), and the elements of the second resistance group as individual second resistances (1221).

[0066] The first resistors (1211) and the second resistors (1221) are energized only by one selected by the resistor selector (123). That is, the first parallel resistor network (121) is configured to group multiple first resistors (1211) in parallel and select only one of them to energize the circuit, and the second parallel resistor network (122) is also configured to group multiple second resistors (1221) in parallel and select only one of them to energize the circuit. For example, switches (not shown) may be formed on all lines where the resistors of each parallel resistor network are located, and the switches (not shown) may be operated by the resistor selector (123) to selectively energize only one of the first resistors (1211) and the second resistor (1221). The resistor selector (123) is substantially configured to perform this switching operation (see FIG. 5).

[0067] However, in this embodiment, a resistor selector (123) is implemented more simply and efficiently by using a multiplexer that selects and outputs one of a plurality of inputs. Through this, the switching action exemplified can be performed more efficiently. This will be described in detail later.

[0068] When the first resistor (1211) and the second resistor (1221) are energized by the resistor selector (123), they are connected in series to produce a combined resistance value (the sum of the first and second resistors). To produce various resistance values ​​through the combination of the first resistor (1211) and the second resistor (1221), the number and size of each resistor can be precisely adjusted. The number of the first resistor (1211) and the number of the second resistor (1221) may be the same or different. As shown in the example, the first resistor (1211) is R 11 From R 1n Up to n, the second resistor (1221) is R 21 From R 2mIn the case where it is composed of m resistors (n and m are both natural numbers), the first resistor (1211) and the second resistor (1221) can output n × m combined resistance values. The number of resistors can be adjusted as needed.

[0069] For example, the number of first resistors (1211) and second resistors (1221) may also vary depending on the resolution of the digital output (S1) (depending on the number of bits). For example, if the digital output (S1) is 16 bits (256 steps), the number of first resistors (1211) and second resistors (1221) can be adjusted in correspondence so that at least all steps of the digital output (S1) can be distinguished and a combination of outputs can be generated.

[0070] In order to output a wider variety of resistance values ​​with the combined resistors, it is desirable that the plurality of first resistors (1211) all have different resistance values, and the plurality of second resistors (1221) also all have different resistance values. For example, the first resistors (1211) are R 11 From R 1n They may have resistance values ​​that increase sequentially up to, and the second resistors (1221) may also have R 21 From R 2m It may have resistance values ​​that increase sequentially up to. Preferably, the size or range of the first resistors (1211) and the size or range of the second resistors (1221) can also be selected and adjusted more precisely so that the resistance values ​​of the combined resistors do not overlap and differ from each other.

[0071] In this way, a plurality of first resistors (1211) and a plurality of second resistors (1221) are arranged in parallel in the first parallel resistor network (121) and the second parallel resistor network (122), respectively, to form a first resistor group and a second resistor group, respectively, and a specific pair of first resistors (1211) and second resistors (1221) in each resistor group is selected by a resistor selector (123) [e.g., R in FIG. 3 (b) 1x and R 2Y , At this time, only [subscript x represents a natural number between 1 and n, and subscript Y represents a natural number between 1 and m] can be energized in series (see FIG. 5). Then, the combined resistance value of the first resistor (1211) and the second resistor (1221) (which appears as the sum of the first and second resistors since they are connected in series) is output, so it is possible to generate various analog outputs (S2) corresponding to it.

[0072] The resistor selector (123) selects one first resistor (1211) and one second resistor (1221) to conduct power in series. At this time, the unselected resistors are not conducted and may be in a practically disconnected state. That is, the resistor selector (123) is configured to receive a digital output (S1) and to select one first resistor (1211) and one second resistor (1221) from the first parallel resistor network (121) and the second parallel resistor network (122) to conduct power in order to generate a corresponding analog output (S2). Since the first parallel resistance network (121) and the second parallel resistance network (122) are connected in series with each other, if only one first resistor (1211) in the first parallel resistance network (121) is energized and only one second resistor (1221) in the second parallel resistance network (122) is energized, the first resistor (1211) and the second resistor (1221) form a series circuit and output a combined resistance value (the sum of the selected first and second resistors). Accordingly, various analog outputs (S2) corresponding thereto (e.g., continuous current and / or voltage values ​​that vary depending on the resistance value) are also possible.

[0073] Since there are various ways to configure the resistor selector (123), it is not necessary to limit it to a specific method, but it is possible to configure it more efficiently by utilizing a multiplexer, which is a type of switching device. The implementation form of the resistor selector (123) will be described in more detail below.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 4, the resistor selector (see 123 in FIG. 3) may include a first selector (123-1) connected to a first parallel resistor network (121) to select and power one of the first resistors (1211) from a first resistor group [i.e., a set of first resistors (1211)], and a second selector (123-2) connected to a second parallel resistor network (122) to select and power another second resistor (1221) from a second resistor group [i.e., a set of second resistors (1221)]. At this time, the first selector (123-1) and the second selector (123-2) may each include a multiplexer (123d) that is connected to the first parallel resistor network (121) and the second parallel resistor network (122), respectively, and selects a specific resistor according to the digital output (see S1 in FIG. 3).

[0075] Since the multiplexer (123d) can select and output one from multiple inputs according to a control signal (or selection signal), as shown in the example, the lines where the resistors of each parallel resistance network are located are connected to the input terminal (123a) of the multiplexer (123d), and by receiving a control signal (control) from the signal input terminal (123c) to select one of the inputs, it is possible to select and output only one resistance value to the output terminal (123b) (see dotted arrow). At this time, the multiplexer can conduct current only to a specific resistor corresponding to the output. Such a multiplexer (123d) can be placed in the first parallel resistance network (121) and the second parallel resistance network (122), respectively, to select and conduct current only to one first resistor (1211) and one second resistor (1221) from each parallel resistance network.

[0076] In this configuration, the control signal provided to the signal input terminal (123c) of the multiplexer (123d) may change according to the digital output (S1 in FIG. 3) input to the resistor selector (123). That is, the resistor selector (123) may provide a control signal to select an appropriate resistor of each parallel resistor network to generate a corresponding analog output whenever the input digital output changes. For this purpose, for example, the resistor selector (see 123 in FIG. 3) may include a processor (not shown) that calculates a resistor value capable of generating an analog output corresponding to the digital output and transmits a control signal to the signal input terminal (123c) of each multiplexer (123d) to output a resistor combination capable of generating the corresponding resistor value.

[0077] In this way, the multiplexer (123d) is connected to each parallel resistance network, making it possible to select and output only one required resistor from each parallel resistance network. When the first resistor (1211) and the second resistor (1221) are output (or energized) one by one from each parallel resistance network, they are connected in series to form a kind of output circuit, and voltage and / or current values ​​that vary according to the resistance value can be output as an analog output (S2) by an applied reference signal (e.g., may be provided as voltage and / or current from the bio-monitor side).

[0078] At this time, a termination resistor section (124) may also be formed to set the level of the analog output (S2) by being connected in series to the first parallel resistor network (121) or the second parallel resistor network (122). For example, the termination resistor section (124) may include at least one fixed resistor (1241) with a fixed resistance value to adjust the output signal level, and may also include a variable resistor (1242) with a variable resistance value as needed to allow for adjustment of the deviation of the analog output (S2) using the variable resistor (1242). In this way, the resistor selector (123) can be configured, and the level of the analog signal finally output to the termination resistor section can also be adjusted.

[0079] Figure 5 is an operation diagram illustrating the signal conversion operation of the analog signal converter of Figure 2.

[0080] As a result, the present invention rapidly converts a digital output (S1) into an analog output (S2) as follows. As shown in FIG. 5, when a digital output (S1) transmitted from the aforementioned digital biosignal measuring device (see 20 in FIG. 1) is input to a biosignal conversion unit (120) via an input unit (110), the biosignal conversion unit (120) outputs an appropriate resistance value and transmits an analog output (S2) corresponding to the input digital output (S1). That is, when the aforementioned resistor selector (123) receives a digital output (S1) and selects and energizes one appropriate first resistor (1211) and one second resistor (1221) from the first parallel resistor network (121) and the second parallel resistor network (122) (see dotted arrow - the remaining resistors may be in a substantially disconnected state), the energized first resistor (1211) and second resistor (1221) are connected in series to generate a constant resistance value (the sum of the resistance of the first and second resistors), so an analog output (S2) (current and / or voltage signal corresponding to the resistance value) corresponding to the resistance value can be provided to the bio-monitor (M) through the output unit (130).

[0081] Through this signal conversion process, the present invention is characterized by outputting a resistance value that generates an analog output (e.g., a continuous current and / or voltage signal) using only a combination of two resistors. That is, as described above, since it is possible to select and output only two appropriate resistors from a resistor group containing a series of resistors through a resistor selector (123), the resolution (combination of possible resistance values) can be increased while the number of resistors connected in series can be reduced. Therefore, problems that occur in resistor strings where multiple resistors are connected in a row (e.g., increased power consumption, increased heat generation and noise resulting therefrom, slow conversion, resolution limitations, etc.) can also be effectively resolved.

[0082] At this time, the level of the final transmitted analog output (S2) can also be adjusted by using the fixed resistor (1241) and the variable resistor (1242) of the terminal resistor section (124). As described above, the output section (130) includes a plug, etc., that is connected to the connection port (Ma) of the bio-monitor (M), so it can be connected to the bio-monitor (M) via a wired connection to provide the analog output (S2) to the bio-monitor (M). In this way, since the digital output is converted into an analog output by an analog signal converter and provided, the bio-monitor (M) can output a bio-signal using the digital output (S1) as a source, even though it is an analog device.

[0083] At this time, the bio-monitor (M) can output bio-signals in the form of curves, etc., through a display device as illustrated. Since the bio-monitor (M) can display various types of bio-signals (e.g., heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, etc.) depending on the type of linked digital bio-signal measuring device (see 20 in FIG. 1), the types of bio-signals that can be output are not limited. As described below, if the digital bio-signal measuring device (20) is formed as a core body thermometer capable of measuring core body temperature, changes in the patient's core body temperature can also be effectively monitored through the bio-monitor (M). That is, as in the embodiment described below, the digital bio-signal measuring device (20) may include a core body temperature measuring device, and in such a case, the digital output may include the core body temperature signal measured by the digital bio-signal measuring device (20) as a bio-signal. Therefore, more accurate monitoring of the patient's body temperature is also possible through the bio-monitor (M). In this way, various digital measuring devices can be used in conjunction with the bio-monitor (M) by using an analog signal converter (see 10 in FIG. 1).

[0084] Hereinafter, a biosignal measuring device according to the present invention (a biosignal measuring device including an analog signal converter and a digital biosignal measuring instrument) will be described in detail. The biosignal measuring device of the present invention includes an analog signal converter, and the analog signal converter included in the biosignal measuring device is substantially the same as the analog signal converter described above. Therefore, a repetitive description of the analog signal converter is omitted below, and matters not described in the aforementioned embodiments will be described in detail.

[0085] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a biosignal measuring device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a usage state diagram illustrating the method of using the biosignal measuring device of FIG. 6.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 6, the biosignal measuring device (1) according to the present invention may include an analog signal converter (10) and a digital biosignal measuring device (20) that measures a person's biosignal to generate a corresponding digital output (S1) and is connected to the analog signal converter (10) to input the digital output (S1) to the analog signal converter (10). As described above, the analog signal converter (10) converts the digital output (S1) into an analog output (S2) and provides it to a biomonitor (see M in FIG. 1). Therefore, the digital biosignal measuring device (20) and the analog signal converter (10) can be configured as a pair to form an effective biosignal measuring device (1). Such a biosignal measuring device (1) not only has the advantages of a digital measuring device but also simultaneously has the advantage of being able to interact with an analog device (i.e., a biomonitor) through the analog signal converter (10).

[0087] That is, the analog signal converter (10) included in the biosignal measuring device (1) is substantially identical to the analog signal converter (10) described above, and therefore equally includes the features of the analog signal converter described above. That is, the analog signal converter (10) includes an input unit (110) that receives a digital output (S1) as described above, a biosignal converter (120) that converts the digital output (S1) input to the input unit (110) into an analog output (S2) recognizable by the biomonitor (M), and an output unit (130) that transmits the analog output (S2) to the biomonitor (M) by connecting the biosignal converter (120) and the biomonitor (M) by a wire.

[0088] The biosignal conversion unit (130) comprises a first parallel resistor network (see 121 in FIG. 3) configured by connecting a plurality of first resistors (see 1211 in FIG. 3) in parallel, a second parallel resistor network (see 122 in FIG. 3) configured by connecting a plurality of second resistors (see 1221 in FIG. 3) in parallel and connecting them in series with the first parallel resistor network (121), and a resistor selector (see 123 in FIG. 3) that receives a digital output (S1) and selects and energizes one first resistor (1211) and one second resistor (1221) from the first parallel resistor network (121) and the second parallel resistor network (122), wherein an element of the first resistor group (see Group 1 in FIG. 3) included in the first parallel resistor network (121) (i.e., the first resistor) and an element included in the second parallel resistor network (122) An analog output (S2) can be generated by a selected combination of elements (i.e., the second resistor) of the second resistor group (see Group 2 in FIG. 3).

[0089] In addition, the resistance selector (123) of the biosignal conversion unit (120) may also include a first selector (see 123-1 in FIG. 3) connected to the first parallel resistance network (121) as described above to select and power one of the first resistances (1211) from the first resistance group, and a second selector (see 123-2 in FIG. 3) connected to the second parallel resistance network (122) to select and power another second resistance (1221) from the second resistance group, and the first selector (123-1) and the second selector (123-2) may each include a multiplexer (see 123d in FIG. 4) connected to the first parallel resistance network (121) and the second parallel resistance network (122), respectively, to select a specific resistance according to the digital output (S1).

[0090] Since the configuration and effects of such an analog signal converter (10) have been described in detail in the previous embodiment, all related explanations are replaced by the description of the aforementioned embodiment. That is, the analog signal converter (10) is substantially the same as the analog signal converter described above.

[0091] The digital biosignal measuring device (20) and the analog signal converter (10) may be connected by a wire to transmit and receive digital output (S1) through the wired line, or they may be connected wirelessly to transmit and receive digital output (S1) wirelessly. Although this embodiment is described based on a wireless connection, it is also possible to connect the digital biosignal measuring device (20) to the analog signal converter (10) by a wire using a wired line.

[0092] For example, the digital biosignal measuring device (20) and the analog signal converter (10) may each include a wireless transceiver (111, 211) that wirelessly transmits and receives a digital output (S1). The input section (110) of the digital biosignal measuring device (20) and the analog signal converter (10) may be formed to receive the digital output (S1) wirelessly by including a wireless transceiver (111, 211) that is wirelessly connected to each other. The wireless transceiver (111) of the analog signal converter (10) may be formed in the input section (110), and the wireless transceiver (211) of the digital biosignal measuring device (20) may be formed in the main body (210).

[0093] The wireless transceiver (111, 211) may include a communication circuit and an antenna capable of wireless communication, and may be modified into various forms capable of transmitting and receiving data between both sides via wireless connection. The wireless transceiver may use a short-range communication method, but long-range communication methods do not need to be excluded.

[0094] The digital biosignal measuring device (20) may be composed of a main body (210) and a probe (220). The probe (220) is a part that measures biosignals by being in close contact with a person's body, and the main body (210) may be a part that fixes the probe (220) by being detachably coupled to such a probe (220). Since the main body (210) includes a wireless transceiver (211), it may also serve the role of transmitting the digital output (S1) provided by the probe (220) to an analog signal converter (10).

[0095] Preferably, the probe (220) may include a core body temperature measurement module (221). The core body temperature measurement module (221) is a module capable of measuring core body temperature in a non-invasive manner using heat flux, and may be composed of a part that generates heat flux (or heat flow) by contacting human skin and a part that measures a temperature gradient between two points when the heat flux is constant in a steady state. That is, the probe (220) may include a heat conduction block (221a) that introduces heat by contacting human skin, and at least two temperature sensors (221b, 221c) spaced apart from each other on the heat conduction block (221a) to sense temperatures at different points.

[0096] Therefore, the probe (220) can be placed in close contact with the human body, and the human body temperature can be monitored as a biosignal through the core body temperature measurement module (221). Since the measurement signal is a digital output (S1) of the temperature value, it can be converted into an analog output (S2) through the aforementioned signal conversion process in the analog signal converter (10) and then provided to the biomonitor.

[0097] The core body temperature measurement principle of the core body temperature measurement module (221) is explained as follows.

[0098] The core body temperature measurement module (221) includes two temperature sensors (221b, 221c) on both sides of the heat conduction block (221a). Therefore, when one side of the heat conduction block (221a) (e.g., the lower surface of the drawing) is brought into contact with the skin, heat is introduced to the contact surface, and a heat flux passing through the two temperature sensors is generated inside the heat conduction block (221a). At this time, the core of the skin, the skin (not shown), and the heat conduction block are stacked together and thermally connected in series. Thus, in a stable state (or steady state), the heat flux (heat flow per unit time, heat flow per unit area) passing through them is constant according to Ohm's law of heat transfer (a relationship in which the heat flow rate, thermal resistance, and temperature difference described later form a proportional equation equivalent to the current, electrical resistance, and voltage difference). Therefore, in a state where a stable heat flow is formed (e.g., a state where the measured temperature difference is constant), the following equation holds true.

[0099]

[0100] [Formula 1]

[0101] I= (T1-T2) / R1=(T0-T1) / R0

[0102]

[0103] Here, I represents the heat flow rate (heat flow per unit time, e.g., in W), and R0 and R1 represent the thermal resistance of the skin and the heat conduction block, respectively (e.g., in W / K), which can be measured by a measuring instrument or calculated from the material and shape. Additionally, T0 represents the core body temperature, T1 represents the measurement of a temperature sensor in contact with the skin (e.g., 221b), and T2 represents the measurement of another temperature sensor spaced apart from it (e.g., 221c) (e.g., in K), reflecting the temperature gradient from the inside of the skin toward the heat conduction block.

[0104] Therefore, when the measured values ​​(T1, T2) of the temperature sensors (221b, 221c) are provided, the known thermal resistance (R 0, R 1)The unknown core body temperature (T0) can be calculated from a variation of the above equation (e.g., T0=T1+[R0(T1-T2)] / R1). The above formula is also known as Ohm's law for heat transfer and can be derived from Fourier's law of heat conduction.

[0105] At this time, the digital biosignal measuring device (20) may include a microcomputer, etc. capable of performing calculations to calculate the core body temperature through the above formula, etc., in the main body (210) and / or probe (220). Thus, the patient's core body temperature value can be provided as a digital output (S1). That is, as in this embodiment, the digital biosignal measuring device (20) can be configured as a core body temperature measuring device by applying a core body temperature measuring module, and it is also possible to make the digital output (S1) include a core body temperature signal. Since the digital output (S1) is transmitted to an analog signal converter (10) and then converted into an analog output (S2) and output on a biomonitor, the core body temperature can also be conveniently monitored on the biomonitor (see M in FIG. 1).

[0106] Referring to FIG. 7, the digital biosignal measuring device (20) may be formed with a detachable structure for the probe (220) portion so that it can be replaced and used. In this case, the probe (220) may be connected to a battery (230) that supplies power, and the combined assembly of the probe (220) and the battery (230) may be formed to be separated entirely from the main body (210). For example, it is possible to connect the battery (230) and the probe (220) with a cable (231) capable of transmitting power and signals, and to detachably connect the battery (230) side to the main body (210). In such a case, when the battery (230) is connected, the power from the battery (230) can also be utilized on the main body (210) side.

[0107] At this time, the combination of the probe (220) and the battery (230) can be formed as a disposable device that is replaced when its lifespan ends. That is, as shown in FIG. 7 (b), the combination of the probe (220) and the battery (230) that is detachable from the main body (210) can be configured as a disposable device so that the part containing the probe (220) is discarded after use. Therefore, by preventing the contact part (probe) that has come into contact with a specific patient from being used repeatedly on another patient, problems such as infection caused by the repeated use of the same device can be resolved.

[0108] In this way, a digital biosignal measuring device (20) can be combined with an analog signal converter (10) to form a biosignal measuring device (1) that can be used with a wired biomonitor (M). Since the biosignal measuring device (1) has the function of converting digital output into analog output, it can also be connected to a biomonitor (M) to effectively monitor the patient's condition.

[0109] Hereinafter, based on the above-described matters, the analog signal conversion method of the present invention (a method for converting a digital output into an analog output to be provided to a wired bio-monitor operating with an analog signal) will be described in detail. Since the signal conversion method of the present invention is performed by the analog signal conversion device described above and is substantially identical to the signal conversion operation of the analog signal conversion device described above, the method will be described in accordance with that. For matters not separately described below, please refer to the relevant descriptions described above.

[0110] The analog signal conversion method for a wired bio-monitor according to the present invention is a method for converting the digital output of a digital bio-signal measuring device (see 20 in FIG. 1) that measures a human bio-signal and generates a corresponding digital output into an analog output recognizable by a wired bio-monitor (see M in FIG. 1) and providing it.

[0111] A step of receiving a digital output through an input unit (see 110 in FIG. 1) [step (a)], and

[0112] The method may include a step [step (b)] of providing a digital output to a biosignal converter (see 120 in FIG. 3) comprising a first parallel resistor network (see 121 in FIG. 3) configured by connecting a plurality of first resistors in parallel, a second parallel resistor network (see 122 in FIG. 3) configured by connecting a plurality of second resistors in parallel and connecting them in series with the first parallel resistor network, and a resistor selector (see 123 in FIG. 3) that receives the digital output and selects and conducts one first resistor and one second resistor from the first parallel resistor network and the second parallel resistor network, thereby generating an analog output with a selected combination of an element of the first resistor group (see Group 1 in FIG. 3) included in the first parallel resistor network (i.e., the first resistor) and an element of the second resistor group (see Group 2 in FIG. 3) included in the second parallel resistor network (i.e., the second resistor).

[0113] In the above steps, the input unit (110) and the biosignal conversion unit (120) are identical to those formed in the analog signal conversion device (see 10 in FIG. 1) described above, so the details of each component are described above. That is, as described above, the resistance selector (123) of the biosignal conversion unit (120) may include a first selector (see 123-1 in FIG. 3) connected to the first parallel resistance network (121) to select and power one of the first resistances (1211) from the first resistance group, and a second selector (see 123-2 in FIG. 3) connected to the second parallel resistance network (122) to select and power another second resistance (1221) from the second resistance group, and the first selector (123-1) and the second selector (123-2) may each include a multiplexer (see 123d in FIG. 4) connected to the first parallel resistance network (121) and the second parallel resistance network (122), respectively, to select a specific resistance according to the digital output (S1).

[0114] Since the specific description and operation of this configuration have been detailed in the previous embodiment, all related descriptions are replaced by the description of the aforementioned embodiment. That is, the configuration of the input unit (110), the bio-signal conversion unit (120), and the output unit that outputs the analog output (S2) to the bio-monitor is substantially the same as the configuration described above. Through the steps above, the digital output (see S1 in FIG. 2) can be rapidly converted into an analog output (see S2 in FIG. 2) that can be input to the bio-monitor (M).

[0115] In particular, in the digital-to-analog signal conversion step [step (b)], the present invention has the characteristic of outputting a resistance value that generates an analog output (e.g., a continuous current and / or voltage signal) using only a combination of two resistors, as described above. That is, since it is possible to select and output only two appropriate resistors from a resistor group containing a series of resistors through a resistor selector (123) as described above, the resolution (combination of possible resistance values) can be increased while the number of resistors connected in series can be reduced. Therefore, problems that occur in resistor strings where multiple resistors are connected in a row (e.g., increased power consumption, increased heat generation and noise resulting therefrom, slow conversion, resolution limit, etc.) can also be effectively resolved.

[0116] That is, a plurality of first resistors (see 1211 in FIG. 3) are grouped in parallel to form a first parallel resistor network (121), a plurality of second resistors (1221 in FIG. 3) are grouped in parallel to form a second parallel resistor network (122), and a combination resistor of various values ​​can be generated by selecting one first resistor (1211) and one second resistor (1221) from each resistor group using a resistor selector (123). When a combination resistor is generated, a corresponding analog signal (a current and / or voltage signal that changes according to the resistance value) is output.

[0117] In particular, when the first resistor (1211) and the second resistor (1221) are energized by the resistor selector (123), they are connected in series to generate a combined resistance value (the sum of the first and second resistors). Therefore, the number and size of each resistor can be adjusted more precisely to generate various resistance values ​​by combining the first resistor (1211) and the second resistor (1221). As described above, the first resistor (1211) is R 11 From R 1n Up to n, the second resistor (1221) is R 21 From R 2m In the case where it is composed of m (n and m are both natural numbers), the first resistor (1211) and the second resistor (1221) can output n × m combined resistance values ​​(see FIG. 3).

[0118] In order to output a wider variety of resistance values ​​through a combination of the first resistor and the second resistor, it is desirable that the plurality of first resistors (1211) all have different resistance values, and the plurality of second resistors (1221) also all have different resistance values. For example, the first resistors (1211) are R 11 From R 1n They may have resistance values ​​that increase sequentially up to, and the second resistors (1221) may also have R 21 From R 2m It may have resistance values ​​that increase sequentially up to. Preferably, the size or range of the first resistors (1211) and the size or range of the second resistors (1221) can be selected and adjusted more precisely so that the resistance values ​​of the combined resistors do not overlap and differ from each other (see FIG. 3).

[0119] In this way, a plurality of first resistors (1211) and a plurality of second resistors (1221) are grouped into a first resistor group and a second resistor group, respectively, and a specific pair of first resistors (1211) and second resistors (1221) from each resistor group is selected using a resistor selector (123) [e.g., R in FIG. 3 (b) 1x and R 2Y , At this time, by selecting [where the subscript x represents a natural number between 1 and n and the subscript Y represents a natural number between 1 and m] and conducting current in series, the combined resistance value of the first resistor (1211) and the second resistor (1221) (which appears as the sum of the first resistor and the second resistor since they are connected in series) can be output in various ways (see FIG. 5).

[0120] At this time, as described above, the resistor selector (123) can be configured more efficiently by utilizing a multiplexer, which is a type of switching device, so it is possible to conveniently output only one resistor needed from each parallel resistor network by using the multiplexer (see 123d in FIG. 4). When the first resistor (1211) and the second resistor (1221) are output one by one from each parallel resistor network, they are connected in series to form a type of output circuit, and voltage and / or current values ​​that vary according to the resistance value can be output as an analog output (S2) by means of an applied reference signal (e.g., may be provided as voltage and / or current from the bio-monitor side). In this way, problems that occur when connecting multiple resistors in series (e.g., increased power consumption, increased heat generation and noise resulting therefrom, slow conversion, resolution limitations, etc.) can be eliminated, and the digital output can be converted into an analog output quickly and efficiently.

[0121] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be implemented in other specific forms without changing its technical concept or essential features. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive.

[0122] [Explanation of the symbol]

[0123] 1: Biosignal measuring device 10: Analog signal converter

[0124] 20: Digital biosignal measuring device 110: Input section

[0125] 111: Wireless transceiver 120: Biosignal converter

[0126] 121: 1st Parallel Resistor Network 122: 2nd Parallel Resistor Network

[0127] 123: Resistor selector 123-1: First selector

[0128] 123-2: Second selector 123a: Input terminal

[0129] 123b: Output terminal 123c: Signal input terminal

[0130] 123d: Multiplexer 124: Termination resistor

[0131] 130: Output section 140: Body

[0132] 210: Main body 211: Wireless transceiver

[0133] 220: Probe 221: Core body temperature measurement module

[0134] 221a: Heat conduction block 221b, c: Temperature sensor

[0135] 230: Battery 1211: First resistor

[0136] 1221: Second resistor 1241: Fixed resistor

[0137] 1242: Variable resistor S1: Digital output

[0138] S2: Analog Output M: Biometric Monitor

[0139] This invention is useful in medical settings because it enables the use of digital biosignal measuring devices (e.g., heart rate monitors, thermometers, etc.) by connecting them to analog biomonitors installed in hospitals. Furthermore, since medical facilities requiring patient monitoring can use newly developed digital measuring devices to monitor patients without modifying or reinstalling existing biomonitors, it offers advantages in terms of patient surveillance and scalability for new medical devices. Therefore, this invention has high industrial applicability as it is utilized across the entire medical industry related to patient surveillance and can improve medical services by assisting in patient monitoring and treatment.

Claims

1. An input unit that receives a digital output from a digital biosignal measuring device that measures a human biosignal and generates a corresponding digital output; A biosignal conversion unit that converts the digital output input to the above input unit into an analog output recognizable by a biomonitor; and It includes an output unit that transmits the analog output to the bio-monitor by connecting the bio-signal converter and the bio-monitor via a wire. The above biosignal conversion unit is, A first parallel resistance network configured by connecting multiple first resistors in parallel, and A second parallel resistance network configured by being connected in series with the first parallel resistance network and having a plurality of second resistors connected in parallel, and An analog signal converter for a wired bio-monitor, comprising a resistor selector that receives the digital output and selects and conducts one of the first resistor and one of the second resistor from the first parallel resistor network and the second parallel resistor network, and generates the analog output through a selected combination of elements of a first resistor group included in the first parallel resistor network and elements of a second resistor group included in the second parallel resistor network.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above resistance selector is, A first selector connected to the first parallel resistor network and selecting and energizing one of the first resistors from the first resistor group, and An analog signal converter for a wired bio-monitor, comprising a second selector connected to the second parallel resistor network and selecting and energizing another second resistor from the second resistor group.

3. In Paragraph 2, An analog signal converter for a wired bio-monitor, wherein the first selector and the second selector each include a multiplexer connected to the first parallel resistance network and the second parallel resistance network, respectively, and selecting a specific resistance according to the digital output.

4. In Paragraph 1, An analog signal converter for a wired bio-monitor, wherein a plurality of first resistors all have different resistance values ​​and a plurality of second resistors all have different resistance values.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned biosignal converter further comprises a terminating resistor connected in series to the first parallel resistor network or the second parallel resistor network to set the level of the analog output, thereby forming an analog signal converter for a wired biomonitor.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above-mentioned termination resistor comprises at least one fixed resistor having a fixed resistance value, an analog signal converter for a wired bio-monitor.

7. In Paragraph 6, The above-mentioned termination resistor further includes a variable resistor whose resistance value is variable, and is an analog signal converter for a wired bio-monitor capable of adjusting the deviation of the analog output with the variable resistor.

8. In Paragraph 1, An analog signal converter for a wired bio-monitor, wherein the digital bio-signal measuring unit and the input unit each include a wireless transceiver unit wirelessly connected to each other to receive the digital output wirelessly.

9. In Paragraph 8, An analog signal converter for a wired bio-monitor, wherein the digital bio-signal measuring device includes a core body temperature measuring device, and the digital output includes a core body temperature signal measured from the digital bio-signal measuring device.

10. Analog signal converter; and A digital biosignal measuring device that measures a person's biosignal to generate a corresponding digital output and is connected to the analog signal converter to input the digital output to the analog signal converter, The above analog signal converter is, It includes an input unit that receives the digital output, a biosignal converter that converts the digital output received by the input unit into an analog output recognizable by the biomonitor, and an output unit that transmits the analog output to the biomonitor by connecting the biosignal converter and the biomonitor via a wire. The above biosignal conversion unit is, A first parallel resistance network configured by connecting multiple first resistors in parallel, and A second parallel resistance network configured by being connected in series with the first parallel resistance network and having a plurality of second resistors connected in parallel, and A biosignal measuring device for a wired biomonitor, comprising a resistor selector that receives the digital output and selects and conducts current to one of the first resistor and one of the second resistor from the first parallel resistor network and the second parallel resistor network, and generates the analog output through a selected combination of elements of a first resistor group included in the first parallel resistor network and elements of a second resistor group included in the second parallel resistor network.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above resistance selector is, A first selector connected to the first parallel resistor network and selecting and energizing one of the first resistors from the first resistor group, and A biosignal measuring device for a wired biomonitor, comprising a second selector connected to the second parallel resistor network and selecting and energizing another second resistor from the second resistor group.

12. In Paragraph 11, A biosignal measuring device for a wired biomonitor, wherein the first selector and the second selector each include a multiplexer connected to the first parallel resistance network and the second parallel resistance network, respectively, for selecting a specific resistance according to the digital output.

13. In Paragraph 10, A biosignal measuring device for a wired biomonitor, wherein the digital biosignal measuring device and the analog signal converter each include a wireless transceiver that wirelessly transmits and receives the digital output.

14. In Paragraph 13, The above digital biosignal measuring device is, A probe that measures biosignals by adhering closely to the human body, and A biosignal measuring device for a wired biomonitor, comprising a main body in which the above-mentioned probe is detachably coupled and the above-mentioned wireless transceiver is formed.

15. In Paragraph 14, A biosignal measuring device for a wired biomonitor, wherein the probe is connected to a battery that supplies power, and the combination of the probe and the battery is formed as a disposable device that is replaced when its lifespan ends.

16. In Paragraph 14, The above probe is, A biosignal measuring device for a wired biomonitor, comprising a heat conduction block that comes into contact with human skin and introduces heat, and a core body temperature measuring module comprising at least two temperature sensors spaced apart from each other on the heat conduction block and sensing temperatures at different points.

17. An analog signal conversion method for a wired bio-monitor, wherein the digital output of a digital bio-signal measuring device that measures a human bio-signal and generates a corresponding digital output is converted into an analog output recognizable by the wired bio-monitor and provided, (a) receiving the digital output through an input unit; and (b) a first parallel resistance network configured by connecting multiple first resistors in parallel, and A second parallel resistance network configured by being connected in series with the first parallel resistance network and having a plurality of second resistors connected in parallel, and A method for converting analog signals for a wired bio-monitor, comprising the step of receiving the digital output and providing the digital output to a bio-signal converter including a resistor selector that selects and conducts one of the first resistor and one of the second resistor from the first parallel resistor network and the second parallel resistor network, thereby generating the analog output with a selected combination of an element of the first resistor group included in the first parallel resistor network and an element of the second resistor group included in the second parallel resistor network.

18. In Paragraph 17, The above resistance selector is, A first selector connected to the first parallel resistor network and selecting and energizing one of the first resistors from the first resistor group, and An analog signal conversion method for a wired bio-monitor, comprising a second selector connected to the second parallel resistor network and selecting and energizing another second resistor from the second resistor group.

19. In Paragraph 18, An analog signal conversion method for a wired bio-monitor, wherein the first selector and the second selector each include a multiplexer connected to the first parallel resistance network and the second parallel resistance network, respectively, and selecting a specific resistance according to the digital output.

Images