Blood pressure monitor cuff, method for manufacturing the same, and blood pressure monitor

A blood pressure monitor cuff is formed by stacking an outer circumferential layer arranged on a side opposite to that of a measurement site and a fluid bladder arranged on the measurement site side. The outer circumferential layer and the fluid bladder are formed of an elastomer material. Two edge portions in a lengthwise direction of the outer circumferential layer protrude in a thickness direction toward the measurement site. The fluid bladder includes a base layer that opposes the outer circumferential layer and a top layer overlapping with the base layer, and the edge portions of the base layer and the top layer are welded together forming a bladder shape. Additional sheets are welded in the thickness direction to the welded edge portions of the top layer and the base layer. The fluid bladder is arranged between the two edge portions of the outer circumferential layer in the width direction.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a blood pressure monitor cuff, and more specifically relates to a blood pressure monitor cuff that is to be attached to a rod-shaped measurement site such as a wrist, for example. Also, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a blood pressure cuff. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a blood pressure monitor that includes the above-described blood pressure monitor cuff.

BACKGROUND ART

In recent years, requirements of wrist-type blood pressure monitors have been increasing. For example, Patent Documents 2 and 3 disclose watch-type blood pressure measurement devices with an arm-wrapping belt (band) to which a cuff (air bladder) is attached, the arm-wrapping belt being attached to both sides of a main body and being fixed to the arm using an adjustment belt. Also, Patent Document 4 discloses a watch-type blood pressure monitor in which the leading end of a belt (band) made of cloth that extends from one end of a blood pressure monitor main body portion is passed through a band ring provided on the end portion on the opposite side of the main body portion, is folded over, and is fixed with Magic Tape (registered trademark). A cuff is constituted such that an air bladder composed of a nylon upper portion and a nylon lower portion is stored inside of the band (cuff case) of the watch-type blood pressure monitor. Here, the cuff is formed so as to be short enough to cover the blood pressure measurement portion and the pump portion so that the cuff is located near the artery, and the main body portion (includes the blood pressure measurement portion and pump portion) is rotated inward of the wrist during blood pressure measurement.

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

However, none of the above-described Patent Documents disclose a countermeasure against lateral bulging of the air bladder.

In view of this, an advantage of one or more embodiments of the present invention is providing a blood pressure monitor cuff that can suppress lateral bulging that occurs when the air bladder swells, a method for manufacturing the same, and a blood pressure monitor including the blood pressure monitor cuff.

Solution to the Problem

In the present specification, “base end portion”, “leading end portion”, “one end portion”, and “other end portion” are not limited to the base end, the leading end, the one end, and the other end respectively, and may denote portions within certain ranges.

Also, “inner surface” denotes a surface on the measurement site side in a state in which the bodily information measurement apparatus has been attached by being wrapped around the measurement site. “Outer surface” denotes a surface on the side opposite to that of the inner surface in a state in which the bodily information measurement apparatus has been attached by being wrapped around the measurement site.

Also, “bodily information” widely encompasses blood pressure values, a pulse value, an activity amount, a blood oxygen concentration, and the like.

Thus, a blood pressure monitor cuff according to one or more embodiments of the present invention is

a band-shaped blood pressure monitor cuff to be wrapped around a measurement site, wherein

an outer circumferential layer arranged on a side opposite to that of the measurement site and a fluid bladder that is arranged on the measurement site side and swells and contracts by letting a fluid in and out are stacked so as to form the blood pressure monitor cuff,

the outer circumferential layer and the fluid bladder are formed of an elastomer material,

two edge portions extending in a lengthwise direction of the outer circumferential layer protrude in a thickness direction toward the measurement site,

the fluid bladder includes a base layer that opposes the outer circumferential layer, and a top layer that is arranged so as to overlap with the base layer, edge portions of the base layer and the top layer are welded and formed into a bladder shape, and separate additional sheets for preventing lateral bulging are further welded in the thickness direction at the welded edge portions of the top layer and the base layer, and

the fluid bladder is arranged between the two edge portions of the outer circumferential layer in a width direction, which is perpendicular to the lengthwise direction.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the separate sheets for preventing lateral bulging (additional sheets) are further welded in the thickness direction on the edge portions obtained by welding the base layer and the top layer that form the fluid bladder, and therefore lateral bulging that occurs when the fluid bladder swells can be suppressed.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff of an embodiment, the fluid bladder is pressed between the protrusions of the two edge portions of the circumferential layer in the width direction and is adhered to the outer circumferential layer.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff of this embodiment, the gaps between the protrusions of the two edge portions of the outer circumferential layer and the fluid bladder are eliminated in the width direction of the belt. For this reason, dust is less likely to accumulate and the appearance improves.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff of an embodiment,

a reinforcing layer for suppressing outward swelling of the fluid bladder is provided between the outer circumferential layer and the fluid bladder,

on an inner circumferential surface of the reinforcing layer, grooves with recessed cross-sections extend linearly on the inner sides of the two edge portions in the width direction, and

the base layer is provided with protruding lines that fit into the linear grooves.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff of the embodiment, the adhesion step becomes easier, while protrusion of the adhesive can be suppressed.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff of an embodiment, a depth dimension of the linear grooves and a height dimension of the protruding lines are equal.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff of this embodiment, the adhesion strength in the width direction and the thickness direction of the belt can be increased.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff of an embodiment, the base layer is less flexible than the top layer.

With the bodily information measurement apparatus of the embodiment, the base layer is less likely to separate from the inner circumferential layer of the belt during swelling of the fluid bladder.

A manufacturing method according to one or more embodiments of the present invention is

a manufacturing method for manufacturing the blood pressure monitor cuff, wherein

the top layer and the additional sheets are composed of a light-absorbing material, and the base layer is composed of a light-transmitting material,

the method including:

welding the top layer and the additional sheets by laying the additional sheets on edge portions on the outer surface of the top layer and emitting laser light to the entire region of portions at which the top layer and the additional sheets overlap; and

welding the base layer and the top layer by laying the base layer on a surface on a side opposite to that of the surface of the top layer to which the additional sheets were welded, and emitting laser light from the base layer side to part of portions at which the top layer and the additional sheets overlap.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff manufactured using the manufacturing method, portions of the base layer and the lop layer that oppose the additional sheets are welded. With this configuration, it is possible to effectively use the width of the fluid bladder while preventing lateral bulging.

A manufacturing method according to one or more embodiments of the present invention is

a manufacturing method for manufacturing the blood pressure monitor cuff, wherein

the top layer and the additional sheets are composed of a light-absorbing material, and the base layer is composed of a light-transmitting material,

the method including:

welding the top layer and the additional sheets by laying the additional sheets on edge portions on the outer surface of the top layer and emitting laser light to part of portions at which the top layer and the additional sheets overlap; and

welding the base layer and the top layer by laying the base layer on a surface on a side opposite to that of the surface of the top layer to which the additional sheets were welded and emitting laser light from the base layer side to the portions at which the top layer and the additional sheets have not been welded, in the portions at which the top layer and the additional sheets overlap.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff manufactured using the manufacturing method according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, portions of the base layer and the top layer that oppose the additional sheets are not welded. With this configuration, it is possible to effectively use the width of the fluid bladder while preventing lateral bulging.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff of an embodiment, a reinforcing layer for suppressing outward swelling of the fluid bladder is provided between the outer circumferential layer and the fluid bladder.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff of the embodiment, outward swelling of the fluid bladder can be suppressed, and therefore the efficiency of compressing the measurement site can be improved. Accordingly, the blood pressure measurement accuracy can be further increased.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff of an embodiment, the hardness of the reinforcing layer is greater than the hardness of the outer circumferential layer, which is greater than the hardness of the fluid bladder.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff of an embodiment, the reinforcing layer can suppress outward swelling of the fluid bladder when the fluid bladder swells, and therefore the efficiency of compressing the measurement site can be improved. Accordingly, the blood pressure measurement accuracy can be further increased. Furthermore, since the outer circumference of the reinforcing layer is covered by the outer circumferential layer, which has a smaller hardness than the hardness of the reinforcing layer, the outer circumferential layer of the belt is soft to the touch.

A manufacturing method according to one or more embodiments of the present invention is

a manufacturing method for manufacturing the blood pressure monitor cuff, including:

preparing a reinforcing layer;

manufacturing an intermediate body composed of the reinforcing layer and the outer circumferential layer by laying resin that forms material of the outer circumferential layer through insert molding on the outer surface of the reinforcing layer; and

adhering or welding the fluid bladder prepared in advance along the inner surface of the reinforcing layer of the intermediate body.

A manufacturing method according to one or more embodiments of the present invention is

a manufacturing method for manufacturing a band-shaped blood pressure monitor cuff to be wrapped around a measurement site,

wherein the cuff is formed by stacking an outer circumferential layer arranged on a side opposite to that of the measurement site, and a fluid bladder that is arranged on the measurement site side and swells and contracts by letting a fluid in and out,

the outer circumferential layer and the fluid bladder are formed of an elastomer material,

two edge portions extending in a lengthwise direction of the outer circumferential layer protrude in a thickness direction toward the measurement site,

the fluid bladder includes a reinforcing layer that opposes the outer circumferential layer and prevents outward swelling of the fluid bladder, and a sheet that is arranged so as to overlap with the side of the reinforcing layer opposite to that of the outer circumferential layer, edge portions of the reinforcing layer and the sheet being welded to form a bladder shape, and

the fluid bladder is arranged between the two edge portions of the outer circumferential layer in a width direction, which is perpendicular to the lengthwise direction,

the manufacturing method including:

preparing a reinforcing layer;

manufacturing an intermediate body composed of the reinforcing layer and the outer circumferential layer by laying resin that forms material of the outer circumferential layer through insertion molding on the outer surface of the reinforcing layer; and

adhering or welding a circumferential edge portion of the sheet prepared in advance along the inner surface of the reinforcing layer of the intermediate body so as to form the fluid bladder composed of the reinforcing layer and the sheet.

According to these manufacturing methods, a blood pressure monitor cuff with a three-layer structure including the outer circumferential layer, the reinforcing layer, and the fluid bladder can be manufactured easily.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff of an embodiment, a cap member that collectively covers the leading end portion of the outer circumferential layer and the leading end portion of the fluid bladder is further included.

With the blood pressure monitor cuff of this embodiment, it is possible to conceal positional misalignment caused by a dimensional error or the like in components between the leading end portion of the outer circumferential layer and the leading end portion of the fluid bladder. Accordingly, the appearance improves.

A blood pressure monitor according to one or more embodiments of the present invention includes:

the blood pressure monitor cuff; and

a main body provided with a pressure detection unit and a fluid supply unit that communicate with the fluid bladder,

wherein the fluid supply unit compresses the measurement site by supplying a fluid to the fluid bladder, and

the pressure detection unit calculates blood pressure at the measurement site by detecting the pressure in the fluid bladder.

With the blood pressure monitor according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the separate sheets are further welded in the thickness direction on the edge portions obtained by welding the base layer and the top layer that form the fluid bladder, and therefore lateral bulging that occurs when the fluid bladder swells can be suppressed.

A blood pressure monitor cuff according to one or more embodiments of the present invention is

a band-shaped blood pressure monitor cuff to be wrapped around a measurement site, wherein

an outer circumferential layer arranged on a side opposite to that of the measurement site and a fluid bladder that is arranged on the measurement site side and swells and contracts by letting a fluid in and out are stacked so as to form the blood pressure monitor cuff,

the outer circumferential layer and the fluid bladder are formed of an elastomer material,

two edge portions extending in a lengthwise direction of the outer circumferential layer protrude in a thickness direction toward the measurement site,

the fluid bladder includes a base layer that opposes the outer circumferential layer, and a top layer that is arranged so as to overlap with the base layer, edge portions of the base layer and the top layer are welded and formed into a bladder shape, and separate additional sheets for preventing lateral bulging are further welded in the thickness direction at the welded edge portions of the top layer and the base layer, and

the fluid bladder is arranged between the two edge portions of the outer circumferential layer in a width direction, which is perpendicular to the lengthwise direction, and the edge portions of the fluid bladder at which the additional sheets are welded are in contact with the protrusions on the two edge portions of the outer circumferential layer.

Also, with the blood pressure measurement cuff of an embodiment, the hardness of the outer circumferential layer is greater than the hardness of the fluid bladder.

As is evident from the description above, with the blood pressure monitor cuff and the blood pressure monitor according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, since the separate sheets are further welded in the thickness direction at the edge portions obtained by welding the base layer and the top layer, which form the fluid bladder, it is possible to suppress lateral bulging that occurs when the fluid bladder swells. Also, with the manufacturing method according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a blood pressure monitor cuff having a fluid bladder that includes the base layer, the top layer, and the additional sheets, or a blood pressure monitor cuff with a three-layer structure including the outer circumferential layer, the reinforcing layer, and the fluid bladder can be manufactured easily.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that in the following embodiments, similar constituent elements are denoted by the same reference numerals and redundant description thereof is not included.

First Embodiment

FIG.1Ais a top view showing an exterior of a bodily information measurement apparatus1according to a first embodiment of the present invention,FIG.1Bis a lateral cross-sectional view of the bodily information measurement apparatus1taken along line B-B inFIG.1A, andFIG.1Cis a lateral cross-sectional view of the bodily information measurement apparatus1taken along line A-A inFIG.1C. Also,FIG.2is a bottom view of the bodily information measurement apparatus1shown inFIG.1,FIG.3is a perspective view showing a state at a time of attaching the bodily information measurement apparatus shown inFIG.1by wrapping it around the measurement site,FIG.4is a diagram showing a view of the bodily information measurement apparatus1shown inFIG.3in a direction orthogonal to the loop of the belt20, andFIG.5is an exploded perspective view for illustrating a structure of the bodily information measurement apparatus1shown inFIG.1A.

As can be understood fromFIG.3, the bodily information measurement apparatus1is attached by being wrapped around a rod-shaped measurement site, such as a wrist90(seeFIGS.7A to7C) of a user, for example, and includes a band-shaped belt20that is to be wrapped around the measurement site, a main body10that is arranged at a base end portion a in the lengthwise direction of the belt20and on which an element for measuring blood pressure is mounted, and a buckle30for joining the base end portion a and a leading end portion b on the opposite side in the lengthwise direction of the belt20such that the belt20becomes a loop shape. Here, the belt20serves as a blood pressure measurement cuff. Hereinafter, the structure of the belt20will be described.

As can be understood fromFIG.1B, the belt20includes a fluid bladder22for compressing the measurement site during blood pressure measurement, a reinforcing layer23that is provided along the outer surface of the fluid bladder22and is for suppressing outward swelling of the fluid bladder22, and an outer circumferential layer24that is provided along the outer surface of the reinforcing layer23and covers the reinforcing layer23. Accordingly, since outward swelling of the fluid bladder22can be suppressed, the efficiency of compressing the measurement site can be improved, and the blood pressure measurement accuracy can be further increased. On the other hand, the surface of the fluid bladder22(becomes the inner surface when worn) has multiple recesses and protrusions along the lengthwise direction and can easily swell toward the measurement site.

Also, the fluid bladder22, the reinforcing layer23, and the outer circumferential layer24that are included in the belt20are each formed of an elastomer material. For this reason, the belt20is flexible, and therefore can be wrapped around the wrist90, is not likely to get dirty, and can be wiped with a damp cloth.

Furthermore, the hardness of the reinforcing layer23is greater than the hardness of the outer circumferential layer24, which is greater than the hardness of the fluid bladder22. Accordingly, since the reinforcing layer23can suppress outward swelling of the fluid bladder22when the fluid bladder22swells, the efficiency of compressing the measurement site can be improved. Accordingly, the blood pressure measurement accuracy can be further increased. Furthermore, since the outer circumferential layer23, which has a hardness that is smaller than the hardness of the reinforcing layer23, covers the outer circumference of the reinforcing layer23, the outer circumferential layer24of the belt20is soft to the touch.

FIG.13Ais an exploded perspective view for illustrating the structure of the belt20of the bodily information measurement apparatus1shown inFIG.1A. Here, a bottom surface of the bodily information measurement apparatus1is shown.FIG.13Bis a plan view showing an adhesion surface of the fluid bladder22shown inFIG.13A.FIG.13Cis a side view schematically showing a state at a time when a reinforcing plate28is adhered to the fluid bladder22shown inFIG.13A.FIG.13Dis a lateral cross-sectional view of the bodily information measurement apparatus1taken along line J-J inFIG.1A. InFIG.13D, the width direction of the belt20is shown as the X direction, the lengthwise direction is shown as the Y direction, and the thickness direction is shown as the Z direction.

As shown inFIG.13A, the main body10and the fluid bladder22are bonded by fitting the reinforcing plate28adhered to the fluid bladder22side in the main body10and fastening with a screw67(seeFIG.14C). The reinforcing plate28is adhered to the base end portion a side of the fluid bladder22using adhesive. Accordingly, by removing the screw67, the fluid bladder22and the reinforcing plate28are removed from the main body10. However,FIG.13Ashows a state when only the fluid bladder22has been removed so that the position of the reinforcing plate28at the time when the fluid bladder22is bonded to the main body10using the screw67is clearer.

A ventilation port45bserving as a first main body-side tube element for supplying a fluid for inflation from a piezoelectric pump17(seeFIG.8) mounted in the main body10to the interior of the fluid bladder22, and a ventilation port46bserving as a second main body-side tube element for transferring the pressure in the fluid bladder22to the pressure sensor16(seeFIG.8) mounted on the main body10using the fluid are provided on a surface of the main body10that opposes the fluid bladder22. The fluid bladder22includes a nipple45aserving as a first bladder-side tube element that fits air-tightly in the ventilation port45bin a state of opposing the main body10, and a nipple46aserving as a second bladder-side tube element that fits air-tightly in the ventilation port46b. Here, the portion of the fluid bladder22that opposes the main body10is removably attached to the main body10via the reinforcing plate28adhered to that portion. With this configuration, the reinforcing plate28is bonded to the main body10via the screw67, and therefore the fluid bladder22is more strongly attached to the main body10. Furthermore, by removing the screw67, the fluid bladder22and the reinforcing plate28can be easily removed, and therefore the ventilation port of the pressure sensor16and the piezoelectric pump17can be exposed. Accordingly, it is possible to perform product testing simply using the ventilation ports45aand45bby merely removing the screw67.

Also, a through hole28ahaving a shape through which all of the ventilation ports45band46band the nipples45aand46apass is formed in the reinforcing plate28. With this configuration, it is easier to fit the nipple45aand the ventilation port45btogether and to fit the nipple46aand the ventilation port46btogether.

As shown inFIG.13B, a protruding ring75that protrudes in the thickness direction of the belt20is provided at a position along the inner side with respect to the edge portion of the through hole28aof the reinforcing plate28that is to be attached, on the surface of the fluid bladder22that opposes the main body10. With this configuration, the adhesive that is applied between the reinforcing plate28and the fluid bladder22does not protrude inward with respect to the protruding ring75.

The portion of the fluid bladder22to which the reinforcing plate28is not adhered is adhered to the reinforcing layer23of the belt20with adhesive. As shown inFIGS.13A and13D, on the inner circumferential surface of the belt20, the two edge portions68in the width direction (X direction) of the belt20protrude in the thickness direction (Z direction) and extend linearly in the lengthwise direction (Y direction). The gap between the two edge portions68is narrower than the width of the fluid bladder22, and the fluid bladder22is pressed in the width direction (X direction) of the belt20between the protrusions of the two edge portions68so as to be adhered to the belt20. Accordingly, the fluid bladder22is arranged between the two edge portions68of the outer circumferential layer23and the edge portions of the fluid bladder22(to which the later-described sheets93for preventing lateral bulging, which serve as additional sheets, are welded) are in contact with the protrusions of the two edge portions68of the outer circumferential layer23. With this configuration, gaps between the protrusions of the two edge portions68and the fluid bladder22are eliminated in the width direction of the belt20. For this reason, dust is less likely to accumulate and the appearance improves.

As shown inFIG.13A, grooves74awith recessed cross sections extend linearly in the lengthwise direction (Y direction) on the surface of the reinforcing layer23. The adhesive for adhering the fluid bladder22to the reinforcing layer23is applied to the grooves74a. As shown inFIGS.13B and13D, protruding lines74bthat fit in the grooves74aare provided on a base layer91of the fluid bladder22that opposes the reinforcing layer23. Due to this configuration, the adhesion step becomes easier, while protrusion of the adhesive can be suppressed.

As shown inFIG.13D, the side surfaces and the bottom surfaces of the protruding lines74bare adhered to the grooves74a. Due to this configuration, it is possible to increase the strength of adhesion in the width direction (X direction) and the thickness direction (Z direction) of the belt20. Note that in the present embodiment, the depth dimension74a7of the linear grooves74ais greater than the height dimension74bZ of the protruding lines74b, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the depth dimension74aZ of the linear grooves74aand the height dimension74bZ of the protruding lines74bmay be made equal. Due to this configuration, it is possible to further increase the strength of adhesion in the width direction (X direction) and the thickness direction (Z direction) of the belt20.

As shown inFIG.13D, the fluid bladder22includes a base layer91that opposes the inner circumferential surface of the belt20and a top layer92that is arranged so as to overlap with the base layer91, the edge portions of the base layer91and the top layer92are welded, and thus a bladder shape is formed. Here, the base layer91is less likely to stretch than the top layer92. Due to this configuration, the base layer91is not likely to be separated from the inner circumferential surface of the belt20when the fluid bladder22swells. Note that sheets93for preventing lateral bulging of the fluid bladder22are further welded in the thickness direction on the edge portions at which the top layer92and the base layer91are welded. With this configuration, lateral bulging is suppressed when the fluid bladder22swells.

FIGS.14A to14Fare schematic diagrams showing steps for assembling the belt20shown inFIG.1A. First, as shown inFIG.14A, the reinforcing plate28is adhered to the fluid bladder22. Next, as shown inFIG.14B, the nipples45aand46aare inserted into the ventilation ports45band46bof the main body10, claws97of the reinforcing plate28are fit into a fit-together portion (not shown) provided on the main body10side, and fastening is performed with the screw67(seeFIG.14C). Next, as shown inFIG.14D, the reinforcing layer23and the fluid bladder22are adhered. At this time, the adhesive81is allowed to flow into the grooves74alocated several millimeters inward from the two edge portions68of the belt20, and thereafter the fluid bladder22is adhered by being bonded. Next, as shown inFIG.14E, the leading ends of the fluid bladder22, the reinforcing layer23, and the outer circumferential layer24are cut at the location of the dotted line. Finally, as shown inFIG.14F, a cap member66is bonded to the cut end portion with the adhesive, and the leading ends are collectively covered.

Thereafter, as shown inFIG.14E, the leading ends of the fluid bladder22, the reinforcing layer23, and the outer circumferential layer24may be further cut at the location of the dotted line, and then, as shown inFIGS.14F and14G, the cap member66may be bonded with adhesive at the cut end portions, and the leading end portions may be collectively covered. The cap member66is a member that is formed of an elastomer material in which a depression that envelops the leading end portion of the belt20is provided. By placing the cap member66on the leading end portion of the belt20, it is possible to conceal positional misalignment that occurs due to dimensional error and the like of the components, between the leading end portion of the reinforcing layer23of the belt20, the leading end portion of the outer circumferential layer24of the belt20, and the leading end portion of the fluid bladder22of the belt20. Accordingly, the appearance of the product improves.

Note that by giving the leading end portion of the belt20a rounded shape so as to curve toward the inner circumferential surface and making it easier to slide by forming the cap member66with a material having a low friction coefficient, adding a mechanism such as a roller, or the like, it is possible to increase the wearability of the belt20.

FIG.15shows lateral cross-sectional views illustrating steps of a method for manufacturing the fluid bladder22. The fluid bladder22is manufactured using laser transmission welding (LTW). The fluid bladder22is formed into a bladder shape overall by overlapping two layers (the base layer91and the top layer92). The sheet93for preventing lateral bulging is furthermore overlaid on the edge portion of the fluid bladder22. Here, one edge portion in the width direction (X direction) has been described. The other edge portion is welded using a similar method as well.

First, as shown inFIG.15A, the top layer92composed of a light-absorbing material is prepared, and the sheet93for preventing lateral bulging, which is composed of a light-absorbing material, is laid the edge portion on the outer surface of the top layer92. Next, for example, laser light is emitted from the top layer92side over the entire region of the sheet93in the width direction (X direction). Upon doing so, the light-absorbing material melts and is welded at overlapping portions, and the sheet93is welded. InFIG.15A(and later-describedFIGS.15B,16A, and16B), the welded region is indicated by a triangular wave mark.

Next, as shown inFIG.15B, the base layer91composed of a light-transmitting material is laid on the inner surface of the top layer92. Then, the laser light is once again emitted from the base layer91side to only the outside region93oof the sheet93in the width direction (X direction). Upon doing so, the base layer91and the top layer92are welded at the emission region (outside region93o). Accordingly, the base layer91and the top layer92are welded and the fluid bladder22is formed. Here, the portions of the base layer91and the top layer92that oppose the sheets93for preventing lateral bulging are not welded. With this configuration, it is possible to effectively use the width of the fluid bladder while preventing lateral bulging.

Here, a modified example of a method for manufacturing the fluid bladder22will be described. With the method for manufacturing the fluid bladder22, laser light is emitted twice to the same region (the outside region93oof the sheet93). In this case, since laser emission is performed multiple times on the same region, there is a possibility that the material will deteriorate. In contrast to this, in the present modified example, the problem related to deterioration of the material is prevented from occurring by setting the number of emissions of laser light on the same region to one.

FIG.16shows lateral cross-sectional views illustrating a modified example of a step of a method for manufacturing the fluid bladder22according to a modified example of the first embodiment. Similarly to the example shown inFIG.15, the fluid bladder22is formed into a bladder shape overall by overlapping two layers (the base layer91and the top layer92). The sheet93for preventing lateral bulging is furthermore overlaid on the edge portion of the fluid bladder22. Here, one edge portion in the width direction (X direction) has been described. The other edge portion is welded using a similar method as well.

First, as shown inFIG.16A, the top layer92composed of a light-absorbing material is prepared, and the sheet93for preventing lateral bulging, which is composed of a light-absorbing material, is laid on the edge portion on the outer surface of the top layer92. Next, laser light is emitted from the sheet93side to only the inside region93iof the sheet93in the width direction (X direction). Upon doing so, the light absorbing material melts and the sheet93is welded at the inside region93i.

Next, as shown inFIG.16B, the base layer91composed of a light-transmitting material is laid on the inner surface of the top layer92. Then, the laser light is once again emitted from the base layer91side to only the outside region93oof the sheet93in the width direction (X direction). Upon doing so, the base layer91and the top layer92are welded at the emission region (outside region93o). Accordingly, the base layer91and the top layer92are welded and the fluid bladder22is formed. Here, laser light can be partially transmitted by making the top layer92thinner. Here, the portions of the base layer91and the top layer92that oppose the sheets93for preventing lateral bulging are not welded. With this configuration, it is possible to effectively use the width of the fluid bladder while preventing lateral bulging.

The above-described belt20is manufactured as follows.

FIGS.10A to10Care lateral cross-sectional views illustrating steps of a method for manufacturing the belt20shown inFIG.1. As illustrated inFIG.10A, first, the reinforcing layer23is prepared and resin that forms the material of the outer circumferential layer24is laid on the outer surface of the reinforcing layer23through insert molding. The fluid bladder22prepared in advance is adhered or welded as illustrated inFIG.1013along the inner surface of the reinforcing layer23of the intermediate body composed of the reinforcing layer23and the outer circumferential layer24, which were integrated in this manner. In this manner, as illustrated inFIG.10C, a belt20with a three-layer structure, which includes the outer circumferential layer24, the reinforcing layer23, and the fluid bladder22, is formed. Note that in order to facilitate understanding, in the drawings, the resin that forms the material of the outer circumferential layer24is denoted by the same reference numeral as the outer circumferential layer24.

FIGS.11A to11Care lateral cross-sectional views illustrating steps of a method for manufacturing the belt20inFIG.1, according to a modified example of an embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated inFIG.11A, first, the reinforcing layer23is prepared and resin that forms the material of the outer circumferential layer24is laid on the outer surface of the reinforcing layer23through insert molding. Next, as illustrated inFIG.11B, an intermediate body composed of the reinforcing layer23and the outer circumferential layer24is manufactured. Also, one sheet29is prepared in addition to this. Finally, the fluid bladder22composed of the reinforcing layer23and the sheet29is formed by adhering or welding the circumferential edge portions29eof the sheet29prepared in advance along the inner surface of the reinforcing layer23of the intermediate body manufactured as illustrated inFIG.11C. In this manner, a belt20with a three-layer structure including the outer circumferential layer24, the reinforcing layer23, and the fluid bladder22can be manufactured easily. Note that in order to facilitate understanding, in the drawings, the resin that forms the material of the outer circumferential layer24is denoted by the same reference numeral as the outer circumferential layer24.

Note that the above-described reinforcing layer23need not be present, and in such a case, the portion of the reinforcing layer is formed as the outer circumferential layer.

As can be understood fromFIGS.1A,1B, and3, an operation portion that includes a blood pressure measurement switch52B for inputting an instruction to measure bodily information is arranged at a site (in this example, the approximate center portion) that is different from a specific portion (in this example, the base end portion a) at which the main body10is arranged in the lengthwise direction of the belt20. Also, as shown inFIG.5, an FPC cable54that electrically connects the main body10and the operation portion52is interposed between the fluid bladder22and the reinforcing layer23. Thus, since the main body10and the operation portion52are electrically connected by the FPC cable54, the belt20can be made thin. Note that in the present embodiment, only the operation unit is arranged, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a communication unit and a display unit may be arranged.

As can be understood fromFIG.2, magnets33are provided on the inner surface side of the base end portion a of the belt20, protruding portions31made of metal that stick to the magnets33are provided on the second plate frame member30b, and thus a sticking mechanism is formed. With this sticking mechanism, the inner surface side of the base end portion a of the belt20or the one end portion d of the first plate frame member30aand the other end portion h of the second plate frame member30bcan stick to each other. Accordingly, when the main body10, the first plate frame member30a, and the second plate frame member30bof the buckle30are folded in on each other, the inner surface of the main body10, the first plate frame member30a, and the second plate frame member30bof the buckle30are guided so as to overlap.

Note that in addition to or instead of the above-described sticking mechanism, it is desirable to include a lock mechanism that allows the inner surface side of the base end portion a of the belt20or the one end portion d of the first plate frame member30aand the other end portion h of the second plate frame member30bto engage with each other. Also, the sticking mechanism and/or the lock mechanism preferably include an unlock mechanism for removing the sticking and/or the engagement. In this example, a release button19(seeFIGS.1A,2, and5) for releasing the sticking is provided as an unlocking mechanism on the main body10. As shown inFIG.5, a slide board19ais integrally formed on the release button19. When the release button19is pressed toward the interior of the main body10, the slide board19aenters like a wedge between the one end portion d of the first plate frame member30aand the other end portion h of the second plate frame member30bshown inFIG.6B, and the sticking between the first plate frame member30aand the second plate frame member30bis removed.

As shown inFIGS.6A and6B, a first fixing element, which includes engaging portions32having protruding shapes, is provided on the inner surface of the other end portion h of the second plate frame member30b, and as shown inFIGS.1A,1B, and5, a second fixing element, which includes engaged portions25having recessed shapes that can engage with the engaging portions32, is provided on the outer surface of the leading end portion b of the belt20. Accordingly, as shown inFIGS.3and4, the second plate frame member30band the leading end portion b of the belt20can be engaged such that the belt20is made into a loop shape. Accordingly, the bodily information measurement apparatus1can be fixed to the measurement site. Furthermore, since the non-through, recessed second fixing elements (engaged portions25), which are formed so as to be able to be engaged with the protruding first fixing elements (engaging portions32), are provided on the outer surface of the leading end portion b of the belt20, the fixing elements no longer interfere with the fluid bladder22. Accordingly, the wrist90serving as the measurement site can be reliably compressed by the fluid bladder22during blood pressure measurement.

Also, as can be understood fromFIG.4, in comparison to Patent Documents 2 to 4, the buckle30of the bodily information measurement apparatus1according to the present embodiment differs in that it aims to serve as a fastening portion for fastening the base end portion a and the leading end portion b on the opposite side in the lengthwise direction of the belt20such that the belt20forms a loop shape. In other words, in the state in which the base end portion a of the belt20and the leading end portion b of the belt20overlap, the base end portion a and the leading end portion b are fastened and are attached to the wrist90serving as the measurement site by the buckle30. With this configuration, the base end portion a of the belt20and the leading end portion b of the belt20overlap when the base end portion a of the belt20and the leading end portion b of the belt20are fastened. For this reason, the degree of swelling of the fluid bladder22on the backhand side of the wrist, or in other words, the swelling of the fluid bladder22in the thickness direction, increases, and therefore the pulse can be detected accurately. Accordingly, the blood pressure measurement accuracy improves. Furthermore, the appearance improves without the leading end portion b of the belt20protruding in the fastened state.

Note that in the present embodiment, a protruding shape was used as the first fixing element and a recessed shape was used as the second fixing element, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a recessed shape may be used as the first fixing element and a protruding shape may be used as the second fixing element. In this case as well, an effect similar to that of the present embodiment can be obtained.

As can be understood fromFIGS.1A,1B, and5, the engaged portions25are formed in alignment in the lengthwise direction of the belt20so as to enable adjustment of the attachment position of the other end portion h of the second plate frame member30bin the lengthwise direction of the belt20. Accordingly, the attachment position of the other end portion h (seeFIG.6B) of the second plate frame member30bcan be adjusted in the lengthwise direction of the belt20. Accordingly, the length of the loop of the belt20can be set variably so as to exactly match the circumferential length of the wrist90serving as the measurement site.

Also, the multiple (in this example, 2) engaged portions25are formed in alignment in the width direction of the belt20. Accordingly, even if the belt20twists slightly, the engagement between the engaging portions32and the engaged portions25is not likely to come off.

Also, at least the outer surface of the leading end portion b of the belt20is composed of a flexible material. Accordingly, it is easy to remove the engagement between the engaging portions32and the engaged portions25. Note that it is possible to include a removal mechanism (not shown) according to which the user removes the locking between the engaging portions32and the engaged portions25. In this case, in the state in which the belt20is attached to the wrist90, the user can remove the locking between the engaging portions32and the engaged portions25using the removal mechanism. Accordingly, removal of the belt20is even easier.

FIG.6Ais a schematic perspective view for illustrating a first state of operations of the buckle30shown inFIG.5, andFIG.6Bis a schematic perspective view for illustrating a second state of operations of the buckle30shown inFIG.5.

The buckle30includes a first plate frame member30athat is attached at the one end portion d so as to be able to rotate about the axis c that intersects with the lengthwise direction of the belt20on the inner surface side of the base end portion a of the belt20, and the first plate frame member30aextends in a curved manner in the form of a plate from the one end portion d to the other end portion e on the opposite side. Also, the second plate frame member30battached so as to be able to rotate about an axis f that is parallel to an axis c is included on the other end portion e of the second plate frame member30a, and the second plate frame member30bextends in a curved manner in the form of a plate from the one end portion g to the other end portion h on the opposite side.

Furthermore, the other end portion h of the second plate frame member30bis formed so as to be able to attach to the leading end portion b of the belt20, and the first plate frame member30aand the second plate frame member30binclude a first opening portion OP1and a second opening portion OP2that penetrate through the plate surfaces of the respective portions. Here, in a state in which the inner surface of the main body10, the first plate frame member30a, and the second plate frame member30bof the buckle30are folded over so as to overlap, the first opening portion OP1of the first plate frame member30aand the second opening portion OP2of the second plate frame member30bare continuous in the thickness direction of the main body10.

Accordingly, it is possible to use a configuration in which the fluid bladder22is arranged so as to compress the measurement site on the inner side of the main body10.

The first opening portion OP1opens toward the other end portion e side of the first plate frame member30a, the second opening portion OP2opens toward the one end portion g side of the second plate frame member30b, and the first opening portion OP1and the second opening portion OP2are in communication. In other words, the first plate frame member30aand the second plate frame member30bare formed into an approximate U shape, and are joined together at the sides at which the opening portions are open. Also, as can be understood fromFIG.2, the fluid bladder22for compressing the measurement site during blood pressure measurement is provided along the lengthwise direction of the belt20in the belt20, and the fluid bladder22is in communication with the interior of the main body10through the region corresponding to the first opening portion OP1and the second opening portion OP2in the folded state.

With this configuration, the region of the wrist90serving as the measurement site that is spatially continuous from the portion corresponding to the inside of the main body10to the leading end portion b of the belt20in the circumferential direction can be compressed with the fluid bladder22. Accordingly, since it is possible to further increase the area with which the air bladder22and the measurement site come into contact, the efficiency of compressing the artery can be improved. Accordingly, the blood pressure measurement accuracy can be further increased.

Also, the fluid bladder22extends in the lengthwise direction to the leading end portion b of the belt20. Also, in the state in which the inner surface of the main body10, the first plate frame member30a, and the second plate frame member30bof the buckle30are folded so as to overlap, the portion of the main body10with which the fluid bladder22is in communication overlaps with the portion of the belt20at which the fluid bladder22extends.

Due to this configuration, the above-described region of the belt20that overlaps in the lengthwise direction expands by an amount corresponding to the thickness, which is larger than the thickness of the other regions of the main body10. Accordingly, the distance by which the artery in the wrist90is pushed away by the regions other than the overlapping region decreases, and the extra pressure increase amount for pressing down the artery decreases. As a result, the measurement value of the blood pressure measured by inflating the fluid bladder can be brought closer to the true value, and the measurement accuracy can be increased. Note that the effect of being able to reduce the extra pressure increase amount for pressing down the artery is also achieved in the case where the first opening portion OP1of the first plate frame member30aand the second opening portion OP2of the second plate frame member30bare omitted in the buckle30.

FIGS.7A to7Care schematic diagrams for illustrating a procedure of attaching the bodily information measurement apparatus1shown inFIG.1to a wrist and performing measurement. When the bodily information measurement apparatus1is actually attached to the wrist90, as shown inFIG.7A, the user first aligns the belt20with the wrist90in the state in which the main body10, the first plate frame member30a, and the second plate frame member30bof the buckle30are open toward each other. Then, the leading end portion b of the belt20passes through the interior of the second opening portion OP2(seeFIGS.6A and6B) of the second plate frame member30b, and the engaging portions32of the second plate frame member30bare engaged with the engaged portions25on the leading end portion b side of the belt20. Accordingly, the belt20is made into a loop, and is set to a state in which the wrist90is passed through the loop of the belt20. Thus, the length of the loop of the belt20is set so as to exactly match the circumferential length of the wrist90.

Next, as shown inFIG.7B, the main body10is brought close to the wrist90side, and the inner surface of the main body10, the first plate frame member30a, and the second plate frame member30bof the buckle30are folded so as to overlap. Upon doing so, the protrusions31of the second plate frame member30bstick to the magnet33, whereby the attachment of the bodily information measurement apparatus1to the wrist90is complete. Next, as shown inFIG.7C, measurement of the blood pressure is started when the user presses the blood pressure measurement switch52B.

FIG.8is a block diagram schematically showing an internal configuration of the bodily information measurement apparatus1shown inFIG.1. In addition to the above-described display device50and the operation unit52, the main body10is provided with a CPU (Central Processing Unit)100, a memory51, a power source unit53, a pressure sensor16serving as a piezoresistant pressure detection unit, a piezoelectric pump17serving as a fluid supply unit, which is a piezoelectric pump that supplies air serving as a fluid to the fluid bladder22, a valve18for adjusting the pressure (back pressure) on the discharge side of the piezoelectric pump17, an oscillation circuit160that converts the output from the pressure sensor16into a frequency, a pump driving circuit170that drives the piezoelectric pump17, and a valve driving circuit180that drives the valve18. The pressure sensor16, the piezoelectric pump17, and the valve18are connected to the fluid bladder22contained in the belt20via an air tube39provided inside of the main body and a nipple38(seeFIG.5) that fits in and is in communication with the air tube39. Accordingly, the air serving as the fluid flows through the gap between the pressure sensor16, piezoelectric pump17, and valve18, and the fluid bladder22.

The display device50includes a display, an indicator, and the like, and displays predetermined information in accordance with the control signal from the CPU100.

With the operation unit52, the power switch52A receives an instruction to turn on or off the power source unit53. The blood pressure measurement switch52B receives an instruction to start blood pressure measurement and an instruction to display the data of the measurement results of the blood pressure values stored in the memory51on the display device50. The switches52A and52B input operation signals corresponding to instructions given by the user to the CPU100.

The memory51stores programs for controlling the bodily information measurement apparatus1, setting data for setting various functions of the bodily information measurement apparatus1, and data of measurement results of blood pressure values. Also, the memory51is used as a work memory or the like for when a program is executed.

The power source unit53supplies power to the units, namely, the CPU100, the pressure sensor16, the piezoelectric pump17, the valve18, the display device50, the memory51, the oscillation circuit160, the pump driving circuit170, and the valve driving circuit180.

The oscillation circuit160oscillates based on an electric signal value based on changes in electrical resistance caused by a piezoresistant effect from the pressure sensor16and outputs a frequency signal having a frequency corresponding to the electrical signal value of the pressure sensor16to the CPU100.

The CPU100functions as a back pressure control unit in accordance with a program for controlling the bodily information measurement apparatus1stored in the memory51so as to perform control for driving the piezoelectric pump17via the pump driving circuit170according to the operation signals from the operation unit52, and driving the valve18via the valve driving circuit180. The valve18opens and closes so as to control the back pressure by discharging or sealing the air in the air bladder22. Also, the CPU100calculates the blood pressure values based on the signal from the pressure sensor16and controls the display device50and the memory51.

The piezoelectric pump17supplies air as a fluid to the fluid bladder22in order to increase the pressure (back pressure) in the fluid bladder22contained in the belt20. The valve18opens and closes so as to control the back pressure by discharging or sealing the air in the air bladder22. The pump driving circuit170drives the piezoelectric pump17based on the control signal provided by the CPU100. The valve driving circuit180opens and closes the valve18based on the control signal provided by the CPU100.

The pressure sensor16and the oscillation circuit160operate as a pressure detection unit that detects back pressure. The pressure sensor16is, for example, a piezoresistant pressure sensor, and is connected via the air tube39to the piezoelectric pump17, the valve18, and the fluid bladder22contained in the belt20. In this example, the oscillation circuit160oscillates based on an electric signal value based on changes in electrical resistance caused by a piezoresistant effect from the pressure sensor16and outputs the frequency signal having the frequency corresponding to the electrical signal value of the pressure sensor16to the CPU100.

Operations of the bodily information measurement apparatus1configured as described above will be described below.

FIG.9is a flowchart showing blood pressure measurement processing executed by the bodily information measurement apparatus1shown inFIG.1. In the case of measuring the blood pressure in accordance with a common oscillometric method, the following operations are generally performed. In other words, the cuff is wrapped around the measurement site (wrist, etc.) of the user in advance, and during measurement, the pump and valve are controlled, the back pressure is increased to be greater than the systolic blood pressure, and thereafter the back pressure is gradually reduced. In the process of reducing the pressure, the back pressure is detected by the pressure sensor, and the variation in the artery volume that occurs in the artery at the measurement site is taken as a pulse wave signal. The systolic blood pressure and the diastolic blood pressure are calculated based on changes in the amplitude of the pulse wave signal accompanying changes in the back pressure at this time (mainly rising edges and falling edges).

With the bodily information measurement apparatus1, the blood pressure values of the user are measured by the CPU100using an oscillometric method according to the flow shown inFIG.9.

Specifically, when the measurement switch52B is pressed while the power source switch52A is on, the bodily information measurement apparatus1starts blood pressure measurement as shown inFIG.9. At the start of blood pressure measurement, the CPU100initializes the memory region for processing and outputs a control signal to the valve driving circuit180. Based on the control signal, the valve driving circuit180opens the valve18to discharge the air in the fluid bladder22of the belt20. Next, control for adjusting the pressure sensor16to 0 mmHg is performed.

InFIG.9, when the blood pressure measurement is started, first, the CPU100closes the valve18via the valve driving circuit180, and thereafter, drives the pump32via the pump driving circuit170to perform pressure increase processing for sending air to the fluid bladder22. Accordingly, the fluid bladder22is inflated and the back pressure gradually increases (step ST101).

When the cuff pressure is increased and reaches a predetermined cuff pressure (YES in step ST102), the CPU100stops the pump32via the pump driving circuit170and thereafter performs control for gradually opening the valve18via the valve control circuit180. Accordingly, the fluid bladder22contracts and the back pressure gradually decreases (step ST103).

Here, the predetermined pressure is a pressure that is sufficiently higher than the systolic blood pressure of the user (e.g., systolic blood pressure+30 mmHg), and is stored in the memory51in advance or is determined by the CPU100estimating the systolic blood pressure using a predetermined calculation method while the back pressure is increasing (e.g., see JP 2001-70263A).

Also, regarding the pressure decrease speed, a target pressure decrease speed is set while the pressure in the cuff is increased, and the CPU100controls the opening degree of the valve18so as to reach the target pressure decrease speed (see JP 2001-70263A).

In the process of reducing the pressure, the pressure sensor16detects a back pressure signal (indicated by reference sign Pc) that indicates the pressure of the belt20, via the belt20. Based on the back pressure signal Pc, the CPU100calculates the blood pressure values (systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure) by applying a later-described algorithm through the oscillometric method (step ST104). Note that the calculation of the blood pressure values is not limited to being performed during the pressure reduction process and may be performed during the pressure increase process.

When the blood pressure values are calculated and determined (YES in step ST105), the CPU100displays the calculated blood pressure values on the display device50(step ST106) and performs control for storing the blood pressure values in the memory51(step ST107).

Next, the CPU100opens the valve18via the valve driving circuit180and performs control for discharging the air in the fluid bladder22of the belt20(step ST108).

Thereafter, when the power source switch52A is pressed, the blood pressure measurement ends.

In the case of removing the bodily information measurement apparatus1from the wrist90, the user opens the first plate frame member30aand the second plate frame member30bof the buckle30and removes the wrist90from the belt20in a state in which the loop of the belt20has been made larger.

During the second and subsequent instances of attaching, the wrist90need only be passed through the loop of the belt20in a state in which the first plate frame member30aand the second plate frame member30bof the buckle30are open, and the buckle30need only be closed. Accordingly, the user can easily attach the bodily information measurement apparatus1to the wrist90.

Second Embodiment

FIG.12Ais a top view showing the exterior of a bodily information measurement apparatus1A according to a second embodiment of the present invention.FIG.12Bis a bottom view of the bodily information measurement apparatus1A shown inFIG.12A, andFIG.12Cis a perspective view showing a state at a time of attaching the bodily information measurement apparatus1A shown inFIG.12Aby wrapping it around a measurement site.

As shown inFIG.12A, in comparison to the bodily information measurement apparatus1according to the first embodiment, the bodily information measurement apparatus1A according to the present embodiment differs in that a belt20A is included instead of the belt20and a buckle30A is included instead of the buckle30.

Also, as can be understood fromFIGS.12A and12B, in comparison to the belt20according to the first embodiment, the belt20A according to the present embodiment differs in that wide portions20aare provided in the width direction, which is perpendicular to the lengthwise direction of the belt20A. The wide portions20aare formed on both sides of the second fixing elements (engaged portions25) in the width direction. In other words, the engaged portions25are formed in a wide region of the belt20A and are formed such that the leading end portion of the belt20A is wide in the width direction, which is perpendicular to the lengthwise direction of the belt20A, such that the engaged portions25are caught by the leading end portions of later-described hook portions34.

Also, as can be understood fromFIGS.12B and12C, in comparison to the buckle30according to the first embodiment, the buckle30A according to the present embodiment differs in that the second plate frame member30Ab is included instead of the second plate frame member30b. Here, the first fixing elements including the engaging portions32A, which have protruding shapes, are provided on the inner surface of the other end portion h of the second plate frame member30Ab. Along with this, as shown inFIGS.12A and12C, second fixing elements including the engaged portions25, which have recessed shapes that can be engaged with the engaging portions32A, are provided on the outer surface of the leading end portion b of the belt20A. Accordingly, as shown inFIG.12C, the second plate frame member30Ab and the leading end portion b of the belt20A can be engaged so as to make the belt20A into a loop shape. Accordingly, the bodily information measurement apparatus1A can be fixed to the measurement site. Furthermore, since the non-through, recessed second fixing elements (engaged portions25), which are formed so as to be able to be engaged with the protruding first fixing elements (engaging portions32A), are provided on the outer surface of the leading end portion b of the belt20A, the fixing elements no longer interfere with the fluid bladder22. Accordingly, the wrist90serving as the measurement site can be reliably compressed by the fluid bladder22during blood pressure measurement.

As shown inFIGS.12A,12B, and12C, hook-shaped hook portions34that are formed so as to protrude are formed on the other end portion h of the second plate frame member30Ab. The hook portions34are locked by catching on the wide portion20aof the belt20A. Accordingly, the second plate frame member30Ab can be reliably fixed to the belt20A.

As can be understood fromFIG.12B, the engaged portions33A, which have recessed shapes, are included on the inner surface side of the base end portion a of the belt20A, and the engaging portions31A that engage with the engaged portions33A are included on the second plate frame member30Ab, and thereby the lock mechanism is configured. With the lock mechanism, it is possible to lock the inner surface side of the base end portion a or the one end portion d of the first plate frame member30aof the belt20A together with the other end portion h of the second plate frame member30Ab. Accordingly, when the main body10, the first plate frame member30a, and the second plate frame member30Ab of the buckle30A are folded in on each other, the inner surface of the main body10, the first plate frame member30a, and the second plate frame member30Ab of the buckle30A are fixed so as to overlap.

As can be understood fromFIGS.12A and12C, multiple engaged portions25are formed in alignment in the lengthwise direction of the belt20A so as to enable the attachment position of the other end portion h of the second plate frame member30Ab to be adjusted in the lengthwise direction of the belt20A. Accordingly, the attachment position of the other end portion h (seeFIG.12C) of the second plate frame member20Ab can be adjusted in the lengthwise direction of the belt20A. Accordingly, the length of the loop of the belt20A can be set variably so as to exactly match the circumferential length of the wrist90serving as the measurement site.

In the above-described embodiment, a wrist was used as the measurement site, but the present embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the measurement site may be an arm or a leg. Also, the bodily information measurement apparatuses1to1I according to one or more embodiments of the present invention need not merely measure blood pressure values, and may also measure other bodily information, such as a pulse count.

The above-described embodiments are merely exemplary, and various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. The above-described multiple embodiments can be achieved independently, but the embodiments can also be combined. Also, the various characteristics in the different embodiments can be achieved independently, and the characteristics in the different embodiments can also be combined.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST