MEASURING DEVICE

Provided is a measuring device that can ensure a level of a measurement signal while noise derived from the body movement of a subject is curbed. A measuring device according to the embodiments includes a first fixing body, a sensor fixing body configured to fix, a sensor for detecting a biological signal, and the sensor, in which the first fixing body and the sensor fixing body have separate structures.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

Priority is claimed on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-014194, filed Feb. 1, 2023 and International Patent Application No. PCT/JP2022/018156, filed Apr. 19 2022, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present disclosure relates to a measuring device.

Description of Related Art

Measuring devices for measuring a biological signal, such as an electrocardiogram or a magnetocardiogram, caused by the activity of the human heart are known.

In such a measuring device, for example, when a subject and a sensor are in direct contact, or when the movement of a subject is indirectly, transmitted to a sensor, noise derived from the body movement such as the breathing or heartbeat of the subject may occur in the measurement signal.

In the method described in Patent Document 1, analyzing the magnetic field in the body area of a subject is performed using a magnetometer system. In the method, a filter is used to attenuate the noise derived from the body movement of a subject (refer to Patent Document 1).

[Patent Document 1] Published Japanese Translation No. 2020-521564 of the PCT International Publication

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

However, in the conventional method, removal of noise derived from body movement has been insufficient in some cases.

For example, frequency filtering using a high-pass filter or low-pass filter is known as a typical noise removal method, but when a frequency band of a signal to be measured (a signal of interest) and a frequency band of noise derived from the body movement are close to each other, the removal of noise by the frequency filtering will also affect (attenuate) the signal of interest.

As a specific example, a frequency band of a T wave (approximately 4 to 7 Hz) of an electrocardiogram (or a magnetocardiogram) has been removed by filtering, in some cases.

In addition, conventionally, when measurement is performed without bringing a subject and a sensor into'contact, a distance between the subject and the sensor has been too far to detect a measurement signal with sufficient strength, or it has been difficult to maintain a posture of the subject during the measurement.

The present disclosure is made in view of the circumstances described above, and provides a measuring device, which can ensure a level of a measurement signal while curbing noise derived from the body movement of a subject.

According to one aspect, a measuring device includes a first fixing body, a sensor fixing body configured to fix a sensor for detecting a biological signal, and the sensor, in which the first fixing body and the sensor fixing body have separate structures.

According to the measuring device according to the present disclosure, it is possible to ensure a level of a measurement signal while noise derived from the body movement of a subject is curbed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawing as appropriate.

In the present embodiment, a shape or a size of each member (component), or a relationship between two or more members are exemplified, but these may not necessarily be strictly configured as exemplified in the present embodiment, and for example, errors such as manufacturing errors may be included to the extent that there is no practical problem.

As a specific example, words that express the relationship of two or more members include parallel, equal (the same), and the like, but these may not necessarily be strictly configured as exemplified in the present embodiment, and for example, errors such as manufacturing errors may be included to the extent that there is no practical problem.

FIRST EMBODIMENT

In the present embodiment, the same configuration will be described with reference toFIGS.1to8. For convenience of description, some of the components are omitted and symbols of some of the components are omitted in some illustrations.

FIG.1is a diagram which shows a schematic configuration example of a measurement system1including a measuring device11according to a first embodiment.

For convenience of description,FIG.1shows an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system, which is a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system. In the present embodiment, for convenience of description, a positive direction of an X-axis is aright direction, a negative direction of the X-axis is a left direction, a positive direction of a Y-axis is a backward direction, and a negative direction of the Y-axis is a forward direction, a positive direction of a Z-axis is an upward direction, and a negative direction of the Z-axis is a downward direction.

The measurement system1includes the measuring device11, a recorder321, a computer322, and a cable331.

The cable331connects a sensor311provided in the measuring device11and the recorder321in a communicative manner.

The sensor311measures (detects) a predetermined physical quantity and transmits information on a result of the measurement to the recorder321via the cable331.

The recorder321has a memory, receives the information on a result of the measurement transmitted from the sensor311via the cable331, and stores (records) the received information in the memory. The computer322is connected to the recorder321in a communicative manner, reads the information on a result of the measurement, stored in the memory of the recorder321, and performs predetermined processing. The predetermined processing may be any processing.

Here, although one sensor311attached to the measuring device11is shown in the example ofFIG.1, a plurality of sensors may be attached to the measuring device11. In this case, for example, each sensor is connected to the recorder321via a cable in a communicative manner, and the recorder321stores the information on a result of the measurement for these sensors.

In addition, although the wired cable331is shown in the example ofFIG.1, a wireless line may be used instead of the wired cable331. In this case, wireless communication between the sensor311and the recorder321is performed.

In the present embodiment, the recorder321, the computer322, the cable331, and the sensor311are described as external apparatuses (devices) to the measuring device11. However, as another example, one or more of the recorder321, the computer322, the cable331, and the sensor311may be regarded to be included in the measuring device11.

Moreover, for example, some or all parts of the measuring device11may be regarded as a jig.

FIG.2is a diagram which shows configuration examples of each of a subject fixing body21and a sensor fixing body22that constitute the measuring device11according to the first embodiment.

For convenience of description,FIG.2shows an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system similar to that ofFIG.1.

Here,FIG.1shows a state in which the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are combined as a state when the measuring device11is used.

On the other hand, inFIG.2, the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are shown to be separated for convenience of description.

A configuration example of the subject fixing body21will be described. The subject fixing body21includes a right leg portion A1, a left leg portion A2, and a platform portion A3.

The right leg portion A1is configured by combining a plurality of rectangular parallelepiped members, and as a whole, is a leg-shaped member having a predetermined height (a vertical distance).

The left leg portion A2is configured by combining a plurality of rectangular parallelepiped members, and as a whole, is a leg-shaped member having a predetermined height (a vertical distance).

Here, the height of the right leg portion A1and the height of the left leg portion A2are equal to each other.

Schematically, the right leg portion A1and the left leg portion A2have a configuration in which two rectangular parallelepiped members each extending in a vertical direction are fixed by one or more members extending in a horizontal direction (in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction).

The right leg portion A1has two protruding portions151and152that protrude to a right side at positions of the lower end.

In addition, the right leg portion A1has two protruding portions153and154that protrude to a right side at positions in the middle in the vertical direction.

Protrusion lengths of these four protruding portions151to154to the right side are equal to each other.

The left leg portion A2has two protruding portions161and162that protrude to a left side at positions of the lower end.

In addition, the left leg portion A2has two protruding portions163and164that protrude to the left side at positions in the middle in the vertical direction.

Protrusion lengths of these four protruding portions161to164to the left side are equal to each other.

The positions of the protruding portions151to154from the right leg portion A1and the positions of the protruding portions161to164from the left leg portion A2may not necessarily be bilaterally symmetrical, and, for example, a configuration in which some positions are bilaterally symmetrical and other positions are not bilaterally symmetrical may also be used. In addition, the positions of the protruding portions151to154from the right leg portion A1and the positions of the protruding portions161to164from the left leg portion A2may be all bilaterally symmetrical.

The platform portion A3includes a component in which a plurality of rectangular parallelepiped members disposed on an upper surface of the right leg portion A1and an upper surface of the left leg portion A2are combined.

Schematically, the platform portion A3has a configuration in which two rectangular parallelepiped members extending in a lateral direction are fixed by one or more members extending in a depth direction (a direction connecting a front side and a back side).

In addition, the platform portion A3includes a plate111disposed at an upper center of the component, a right hand rest121disposed at an upper right side of the component, and a left hand rest122disposed at an upper left side of the component.

Here, the plate111includes a frame having a rectangular (for example, square) surface and a film-shaped member provided on the surface of the frame. The film shaped member is, for example, transparent, or translucent, and is made of a material that does not affect measurement by the sensor311.

The plate111is disposed so that a surface of the frame is parallel to an XZ plane and the frame is positioned on a front side of the platform portion A3. The frame extends upward from the platform portion A3.

The right hand rest121is a plate-shaped member and is disposed on a right side of the plate111. A surface of the right hand rest121is parallel to an XY plane and has a rectangular surface. The surface has, for example, long sides extending from the front to the back and short sides extending from the left to the right.

The left hand rest122is a plate-shaped member and is disposed on a left side of the plate111. A surface of the left hand rest122is parallel to the XY plane and has a rectangular surface. The surface has, for example, long sides extending from the front to the back, and short sides extending from the left to the right.

Here, the left hand rest122and the right hand rest121are disposed bilaterally symmetrically with respect to the plate111.

Here, the right hand rest121and the left hand rest122may each be configured to be, for example, detachable from the platform portion A3, or may be inseparably fixed to the platform portion A3.

The right hand rest121and left hand rest122may each be attached to the platform portion A3using, for example, a screw, a fixing band, a single-sided or double-sided adhesive tape. a hook-and-loop fasteners, an adhesive, or the like.

Moreover, in the present embodiment, the right hand rest121and the left hand rest122may have rectangular plate surfaces, but as another configuration example, they may have plate surfaces in a shape including curved portions.

In addition, for example, each surface of the right hand rest121and the left hand rest122may also be configured so that a positional relationship with respect to a top surface of the platform portion A3(for example, a mutual angular relationship in a surface parallel to the XY plane) can be adjusted.

In addition, for example, one or both of the right hand rest121and the left hand rest122may be connected to one of a front side or a back side of the platform portion A3by a hinge. In this case, the hand rests (one or both of the right hand rest121and the left hand rest122) connected by the hinge can be opened and closed with respect to the platform portion A3by opening and closing the hinge. As a result, for example, the hinge can be opened when an operation is performed in which the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are combined, and the hinge can be closed during measurement by the measuring device11.

In the present embodiment, it is shown that the platform portion A3includes two hand rests (the right hand rest121and the left hand rest122), but as another configuration example, a configuration in which any one of these two hand rests is provided and the other is not provided, or a configuration in which none of these two hand rests is provided may be used.

A configuration example of the sensor fixing body22will be described. The sensor fixing body22includes a right leg portion B1a left leg portion B2, and a platform portion B3.

The right leg portion B1is configured by combining a plurality of rectangular parallelepiped members, sand as a whole is a leg-shaped member having a predetermined height (a vertical distance).

The left leg portion B2is configured by combining a plurality of rectangular parallelepiped members, and as a whole is a leg-shaped member having a predetermined height (a vertical distance).

Here, the height of the right leg portion B1and the height of the left leg portion B2are equal to each other.

The right leg portion B1has two protruding portions251and252that protrude to the right side at positions of the lower end.

In addition, the'right leg portion B1has two protruding portions253and254that protrude to the right side at positions in the middle in the vertical direction.

Protrusion lengths of these four protruding portions251to254to the right are equal to each other.

The right leg portion B1has two protruding portions231and232that protrude to a back side at positions in the middle in the vertical direction.

These two protruding portions231and232are disposed at positions with different heights.

Protrusion lengths of these two protruding portions231and232to the back side are equal to each other.

In the present embodiment detailed description of these two protruding portions231and232is omitted, but they may be used for positioning and the like.

Schematically, the right leg portion B1and the left leg portion B2have a configuration in which two rectangular parallelepiped members each extending in the vertical direction are fixed by one or more members extending in the horizontal direction (a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction).

The left leg portion B2includes two protruding portions261and262that protrude to the left at positions of the lower end.

In addition, the left leg portion B2includes two protruding portions263and264that protrude to the left at positions in the middle in the vertical direction.

Protrusion lengths of these four protruding portions261-264to the left are equal to each other.

The positions of the protruding portions251to254from the right leg portion B1and the positions of the protruding portions261to264from the left leg portion B2may be, for example, all bilaterally symmetrical. In addition, the positions of the protruding portions251to254from the right leg portion B1and the positions of the protruding portions261to264from the left leg portion B2may not necessarily be all bilaterally symmetrical, and, for example, configurations in which some positions are bilaterally symmetrical and other positions are not bilaterally symmetrical may also be used.

The platform portion B3includes a component in which a plurality of rectangular parallelepiped members disposed on an upper surface of the right leg portion B1and an upper surface of the left leg portion B2are combined.

Schematically, the platform portion B3has a configuration in which two rectangular parallelepiped members extending in the lateral direction are fixed by one or more members extending in the depth direction (the direction connecting the front side and the back side).

In addition, the platform portion B3includes a sensor holding portion211disposed at an upper center of the component.

The sensor holding portion211has a rectangular parallelepiped housing, and is provided with a part for mounting a plurality of sensors (for example, a sensor similar to the sensor311shown inFIG.1) inside the housing.

In the present embodiment, a surface on front side of the sensor holding portion211is a surface parallel to the XZ plane, and is configured so that two or more sensors can be mounted in each of the vertical direction and the horizontal direction. other words, it is configured so, that a plurality of sensors can be disposed in a matrix shape on the surface of the front side of the sensor holding portion211. The sensor holding portion211that holds the matrix-shaped sensors may be called, for example, a sensor array portion.

Here, in the present embodiment, it is shown that a surface of a frame of the plate111is parallel to the XZ plane and the surface of the front side of the sensor holding portion211is also parallel to the XZ plane, but they may not necessarily be parallel to the XZ plane.

For example, the surface of the frame of the plate111and the surface of the front side of the sensor holding portion211may be a plane non-parallel to the XZ plane (that is, a plane not parallel to the XZ plane), or may be a curved surface.

The surface of the frame of the plate111and the surface of the front side of the sensor holding portion211may be, for example, surfaces of the same shape or may be surfaces of different shapes, so that the surface of the front side of the sensor holding portion211may be covered with the surface of the frame of the plate111.

In the state in which the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are combined, the surface of the front side of the sensor holding portion211is disposed at a position facing a surface of a back side of the plate111. In the present embodiment, these two surfaces have substantially the same shape. The shape is, for example, a rectangular (including square) shape.

In addition, the platform portion B3includes two cable holding portions (cable receivers)221and222that protrude from the component to the back side.

The cable holding portion221is disposed on a right side of the sensor holding portion211in the lateral direction.

The cable holding portion222is disposed at a position overlapping the sensor holding portion211in the lateral direction (for example, in a center in the lateral direction).

Note that the platform portion B3may further include a cable holding portion disposed at a left side of the sensor holding portion211in the lateral direction.

Here, the cable holding portions221and222can support, for example, a cable connecting, a sensor and the recorder321(for example, a cable similar to the cable331shown inFIG.1).

In addition, when a wireless line is used instead of the wired cable331, or when the wired cable331is used but the cable331does not need to be supported, and the like, a configuration in which the cable holding portions221and222are not provided may also be used.

<Combination Between Subject Fixing Body and Sensor Fixing Body>

In the present embodiment, the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are combined to form the measuring device11.

As a specific example,, while a member Q1and a member Q2of the sensor fixing body22shown inFIG.2are removed, and while the right hand rest121and the left hand rest122of the subject fixing body21shown inFIG.2are removed, the sensor fixing body22covers the subject fixing body21from the upper part to the lower part. Then, when the right hand rest121and the left hand rest122of the subject fixing body21are attached, the state of the measuring device11shown inFIG.1is obtained.

In the present embodiment, the right leg portion B1and the left leg portion B2of the sensor fixing body22are disposed outside in the lateral direction, and are disposed inside in the depth direction (in a direction of the front side and the back side) with respect to the right leg portion Al and the left leg portion A2of the subject fixing body21.

In addition, lower surfaces of the right hand rest121and the left hand rest122of the subject fixing body21are disposed at an upper part of an upper surface of the platform portion B3of the sensor fixing body22.

Here, in the present embodiment, a configuration in which the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are directly detachable (separable and combinable) is shown, but the subject, fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22may also be configured to be, integrated and to be, inseparable.

In other words, the measuring device11may be configured as shown inFIG.1, and the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22may not necessarily have to be independently separated.

In the present embodiment, in the measuring device11, the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22do not come into contact with each other at any portion.

FIG.3is a diagram which shows a schematic configuration when the measuring device11according to the first embodiment is viewed substantially from the left side.

For convenience of description,FIG.3shows an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system similar to that ofFIG.1.

FIG.4is a diagram which shows a schematic configuration when the measuring device11according to the first embodiment is viewed substantially from the bottom side.

For convenience of description,FIG.4shows an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system similar to that ofFIG.1.

Here, inFIGS.3and4, some constituents (for example, the right hand rest121, the left hand rest122, the cable holding portions221and222, and the like) are omitted to make, it easier to view the illustration.

<Example of Disposition of Sensor Holding Portion>

FIG.5is a diagram which shows an example of disposition of the sensor holding portion211of the subject fixing body21of the measuring device11according to the first embodiment.

FIG.5shows a state of the measuring device11according to the first embodiment as viewed substantially from the right side.

For convenience of description,FIG.5shows an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system similar to that ofFIG.1.

In the present embodiment, surfaces on a front side of the right leg portion A1and the left leg portion A2of the subject fixing body21are parallel in the vertical direction.

Then, in the example ofFIG.5, the surface of the front side of the sensor holding portion211is disposed to protrude to the front side by a predetermined distance P1from the surfaces on the front side of the right leg portion A1and the left leg portion A2.

Note that the sensor holding portion211and the plate111are disposed so that they do not come into contact with each other in the state in which the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are combined.

<Example of Status of Measurement by Measuring Device>

FIG.6is a diagram which shows an example of a status in which a subject (person)421is measured by the measuring device11according to the first embodiment.

For convenience of description,FIG.6shows an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system similar to that ofFIG.1.

FIG.6shows a chair411, the subject421, and an outline of the measuring device11. The subject421is a person sitting on the chair411.

The measurement is performed with a front surface of the subject421(a surface with the face) facing a surface on a front side of the measuring device11(a side with the plate111).

The example ofFIG.6shows a case in which the measuring device11measures information of a magnetic field (a magnetic signal) caused by movement of the heart of the subject421.

A magnetic sensor is used as the sensor311.

With the subject421sitting on the chair411, the chest of the subject421faces an inside of the frame of the plate111. For example, the measurement may be performed with the chest of the subject421being in contact with the surface of the front side of the plate111.

The subject421can put a part of the right arm and the right hand thereof on an upper surface of the right hand rest121, and similarly can put a part of the left arm and the left hand thereof on an upper surface of the left hand rest122.

Even if the subject421comes into, contact with the subject fixing body21, since the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22do not come into contact, the sensor fixing body22does not move. As a result, in the measuring device11, the measurement by the sensor311installed in the sensor fixing body22can be stably performed. In this manner, in the present embodiment, the subject fixing body21can assist the subject421in maintaining the posture.

In the present embodiment, the subject421is configured not to come into contact with the sensor fixing body22and the subject fixing body21is also configured not to come into contact with the sensor fixing body22when the measuring device11is performing measurement.

In this manner, in the present embodiment, the, subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are completely separated in terms of contact.

Note that the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22may come into contact with each other except when the measuring device11is performing measurement.

Here, the chair411is not particularly limited, and, for example, a chair in which a height of a part (a seat surface) where the subject421sits is adjustable may be used, or a chair in which the height of the seat surface is fixed may also be used.

By using the chair in which the height of the seat surface is adjustable as the chair411, it is possible to adjust a height relationship between the subject421and the sensor311(or the sensor holding portion211).

<Measuring Device Including Measurement Room>

FIG.7is a diagram which shows an example of the measuring device11including a measurement room2011according to the first embodiment.

For convenience of description,FIG.7shows an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system similar to that ofFIG.1.

In the present embodiment, the measurement room2011has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and one of the six surfaces is open.

The measurement room20.11includes a floor surface2021on the lower side, an upper ceiling surface2022on the upper side, a side wall surface2031on the right side, a side wall surface2032on the left side, and a back wall surface2033on the back side.

In the example ofFIG.7, a front side of the measurement room2011is open.

Here, in the example ofFIG.7, the floor surface2021and the upper ceiling surface2022are surfaces parallel to the XY plane, the two side wall surfaces2031and2032are surfaces parallel to the YZ plane, and the back wall surface2033is a surface parallel to the XZ plane, but is not limited to this,

Inside the measurement room2011, the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22that constitute the measuring device11are installed.

In the measurement room2011, the subject fixing body21is disposed on the front side and the sensor fixing body22is disposed on the back, side.

The subject421enters through an opening of the measurement room2011.

Then, the measurement is performed by the measuring device11with the subject421positioned on the front side of the subject fixing body21.

Here, although illustration of the chair411is omitted inFIG.7, the measurement is performed by the measuring device11with the subject421sitting on the chair411.

As another example, the measurement may be performed by the measuring device11with the subject421standing or the like without using the chair411.

A plate-shaped shield2111is provided on a part of the side wall surface2031on the right side of the measurement room2011. A surface of the shield2111is disposed parallel to the side wall surface2031,

A plate-shaped shield2112is provided on a part of the side wall surface2032on the left side of the measurement room2011. A surface of shield2112is disposed parallel to the side wall surface2032.

The two shields2112are disposed at positions facing each other in the lateral direction.

For example, the two shields2111and2112are disposed in a portion that covers at least a position where the sensor311is disposed (the sensor holding portion211in the example ofFIG.7) in the lateral direction.

In the present embodiment, a magnetic sensor is used as the sensor311, and a magnetic shield is used as each of the two shields2111and2112.

When a sensor other than a magnetic sensor is used as the sensor311, shields other than magnetic shields may be used as the shields2111and2112accordingly.

In addition, when the shields2111and2112are not necessary, the measurement room2011may not be provided with the shields2111and2112.

A mode in which the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22constituting the measuring device11are fixed to the measurement room2011will be described.

In the present embodiment, in the measuring device11, the four protruding portions151to154of the right leg portion A1of the subject fixing body21and the four protruding portions251to254of the right leg portion B1of the sensor fixing body22are disposed to be in contact with the side wall surface2031on the right side of the measurement room2011.

Moreover, in the present embodiment, in the measuring device11, the four protruding portions161to164of the left leg portion A2of the subject fixing body21and the four protruding portions261to264of the left leg portion B2of the sensor, fixing body22are disposed to be in contact with the side wall surface2032on the left side of the measurement room2011.

In addition, the subject fixing body21, the sensor fixing body22, and the measurement room2011are positioned using, for example, brackets. That is, the positions of the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22in the measurement room2011are fixed.

In the example ofFIG.7, regarding the subject fixing body21, a bracket711for fixing, the protruding portion151of the right leg portion A1and the side wall surface2031on the right side, and a bracket713for fixing the protruding portion153of the right leg portion A1and the side wall surface2031on the right side, and the like are shown.

Note that the example ofFIG.7shows a case in which, regarding the subject fixing, body21, a bracket (such, as a bracket911) is used to, fix the two members that constitute the right leg portion A1.

Here, regarding the subject fixing body21, a part of the right leg portion Al has been described, but the same applies to other parts of the right leg portion Al and the left leg portion A2.

In the example ofFIG.7, regarding the sensor fixing body22, a bracket831that fixes the protruding portion261of the left leg portion B2and the side wall surface2032on the left side, and a bracket833that fixes the protruding portion263of the left leg portion B2and the side wall surface2032on the left side, and the like are shown.

Note that the example ofFIG.7shows a case in which, regarding the sensor fixing body22, a bracket (such as a bracket921) is used to fix the two members that constitute the left leg portion B2.

Here, regarding the sensor fixing body22, a part of the left leg portion B2has been described, but the same applies to the other parts of the left leg portion B2and the right leg portion B1.

FIG.8is a diagram which shows an example of a mode in which the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are fixed to the measurement room2011in the first embodiment.

The example ofFIG.8shows an example of the mode in which a part of the left leg portion B2of the sensor fixing body22is fixed to the measurement room2011by enlarging it compared to the example ofFIG.7.

Here, in the present embodiment, a case in which a bracket is used as a fixture for positioning has been described, but as another example of fixing members to, each other, a mode in which only a screw is used without using a bracket to fix members to each other, a mode in which members are fixed to each other by adhesion or welding, or the like may also be used.

In addition, the examples ofFIGS.7and8show a case in which the subject fixing, body21and the sensor fixing body22are fixed to each other using the side wall surface2031on the right side and the side wall surface2032on the left side of the measurement room2011, but as another example, a configuration in which one or more of the floor surface2021, the upper ceiling surface2022, and the back wall surface2033of the measurement room2011are used to fix the measuring device11may also be used.

The measurement room2011, the subject fixing body21, and the sensor fixing body22may be configured to be, for example directly detachable (separable and combinable), or the measurement room2011. the subject fixing body21, and the sensor fixing body22may also be configured to be integrated and to be inseparable.

Here, in the example ofFIG.7, a case in which a dedicated box-shaped room having an opening is used as the measurement room2011is shown, but, for example, a room present in a building such as a normal building may also be used as the measurement room2011. A shield or the like may be installed in the room.

In addition, in the present embodiment, as parts for fixing the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22to the measurement room2011, the subject fixing body21is provided with the protruding portions151to154and161to164, and the sensor fixing body22is provided with the protruding portions251to254and261to264, and various positions may be used as positions at which the respective protruding portions are provided.

For example, in the subject fixing body21. when the right leg portion A1is provided with one or more protruding portions and the left leg portion A2is provided with one or more protruding portions, all of these protruding portions may be provided at positions that are bilaterally symmetrical, or some or all of these may be provided at positions that are not bilaterally symmetrical. For example, a configuration in which either the protruding portions disposed on the lower side of the right leg portion A1and the left leg portion A2or the protruding portions disposed on the upper side thereof are bilaterally symmetrical, and the others are bilaterally asymmetrical may be used.

Similarly, for example, in the sensor fixing body22, when the right leg portion B1is provided with one or more protruding portions and the left leg portion B2is provided with one or more protruding portions, all of these protruding portions may be provided at positions that are bilaterally symmetrical, or some or all of these may be provided at, positions that are not bilaterally symmetrical. For example, a configuration in which either the protruding portions disposed on the lower side of the right leg portion B1and the left leg portion B2or the protruding portions disposed on the upper side thereof are bilaterally symmetrical, and the others are bilaterally asymmetrical may be used.

Note that when both the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are provided with protruding portions, the protruding portions of the subject fixing body21and the protruding portions of the sensor fixing body22are disposed not to interfere with each other (that is, to avoid being in the same position and colliding) in the state in which the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are combined.

In addition, in the present embodiment, a case in which, as parts for fixing the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22to the measurement room2011, the subject fixing body21is provided with the protruding portions151to154and161to164, and the sensor fixing body22is provided with the protruding portions251to254and261to264is shown, but as another configuration example, some or all of these protruding portions may not be provided.

Here, in the present embodiment, a case in which the sensor holding portion211is provided on a top of the sensor fixing body22and the sensor311is held by the sensor holding portion211is shown, but as another configuration example, a configuration in which the sensor holding portion211is not provided may also be used.

In this configuration, for example, one or a plurality of sensors may be installed on the top of the platform portion B3of the sensor fixing body22, and the upper part of the platform portion B3of the sensor fixing body22and the sensor may be fixed to each other by any fixture. For example, a screw, a fixing band, a single-sided or double-sided adhesive tape, a hook-and-loop fastener, an adhesive, or the like may be used as the fixture.

As described above, in the measurement system1according, to the present embodiment, the measuring device11can ensure a level of a measurement signal while curbing noise derived from the body movement of the subject421.

The measuring device11according to the present embodiment includes the subject fixing body21that holds a posture of the subject421, and the sensor fixing body22that fixes the sensor311for detecting a biological signal of the subject421.

The subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22have separate structures.

Therefore, in the measuring device11according to the present embodiment, the subject421is not in contact with the sensor311(and the sensor holding portion211), and the measurement can be performed with the body movement of the subject421not transmitted to the sensor311(and the sensor holding portion211). As a result, the measuring device11can prevent the noise derived from the body movement of the subject421from being superimposed on a measurement result of a biological signal.

In addition, the measuring device11according to the present embodiment can perform measurement with the subject421and the sensor311brought closer to each other.

In addition. the measuring device11according to the present embodiment can easily maintain the posture of the subject421.

In the measuring device11according to the present embodiment, the sensor fixing body22is provided with a sensor holding portion211that holds the sensor311.

In addition, the sensor holding portion211has a mechanism for holding one or more sensors311.

Therefore, in the measuring device11according to the present embodiment, the sensor311can be easily installed.

In the measuring device11according to the present embodiment, the subject fixing body21is provided with the plate111positioned between the subject421and the sensor311.

Therefore, the measuring device11according to the present embodiment can prevent the subject421from being in contact with the sensor311(or the sensor holding portion211). In addition, the measuring device11according to the present embodiment can enable the subject421to be measured in a comfortable posture.

In the measuring device11according to the present embodiment, the sensor holding portion211protrudes from an end portion of the sensor fixing body22(in the example ofFIG.5, an end portion on a negative side of an Y axis) to the plate111side. In addition, the sensor holding portion211is not in contact with the plate111,

Therefore, in the measuring device11according to the present embodiment, it is possible to perform the measurement in a state in which the subject421and the sensor311are close to each other, thereby making it possible to acquire a large level of biological signal.

In the measuring device11according to the present embodiment, the subject fixing body21is provided with hand rests (the right hand rest121, the left hand rest122) on which the hands of the subject421are placed.

Therefore, the measuring device11according to the present embodiment can allow the subject421to place his or her hands on the hand rests during a measurement, and assist with the subject421in receiving the measurement in a stable posture.

In the measuring device11according to the present embodiment, the sensor fixing body22is provided with cable holding portions221and222that hold the cable331of the sensor311.

Therefore, in the measuring device11according to the present embodiment, the cable331can be placed on the cable holding portions221and222, and for example, the cable331of the sensor311can be prevented from being in contact with the feet of the subject421.

In the measuring device11according to the present embodiment, one or both of the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22(both of them in the present embodiment) are provided with fixtures for positioning (the protruding portions151to154, the protruding portions161to164, the protruding portions251to254, the protruding portions261to264in the present embodiment).

Therefore, in the measuring device11according to the present embodiment, it is possible to fix the subject fixing body21or the sensor fixing body22at any place.

The measuring device11according to the present embodiment further includes the measurement room2011. Then, one or both of the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22(both of them in the example ofFIG.7) are fixed to one or both of the wall surface and the floor surface of the measurement room2011(the side wall surfaces2031and2032which are wall surfaces in the example ofFIG.7) by fixtures for positioning (the protruding portions151to154, the protruding portions161to164, the protruding portions251to254, and the protruding portions261to264in the present embodiment).

Therefore, in the measuring device11according to the present embodiment, one or both of the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are fixed to the measurement room2011via the fixture for positioning, and thereby it is possible to prevent a positional relationship between one or both of the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22and the measurement room2011from shifting.

Moreover, in the measuring device11according to the present embodiment, both the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are fixed to the measurement room2011via the fixture for positioning, and thereby it is possible to prevent the positional relationship between the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22from shifting and to perform a stable measurement.

In the measuring device11according to the present embodiment, the sensor311is a magnetic sensor.

Therefore, the measuring device11according to the present embodiment can ensure the level of a measurement signal while curbing the noise derived from the body movement of the subject421when the biological signal is measured by the magnetic sensor.

Here, in general, the measurement results of the magnetic sensor are greatly influenced by vibration, but such influence can be curbed in the present embodiment.

In the present embodiment as an example of the biological signal of the subject421a case of an application to the measurement of a magnetic signal caused by an activity of the heart of the subject421is shown, but the biological signal is not particularly limited. It may be, for example, a signal related to the brain as well as the heart, and may be applied to an electrical signal as well as a magnetic signal.

Moreover, although a term “measurement” is used in the present embodiment, it may be called, for example, determination, detection, acquisition, or observation, instead of measurement.

SECOND EMBODIMENT

In the present embodiment, the same constituents will be described with reference toFIGS.9and10. For convenience of description, some of the components are omitted and the symbols of some of the components are omitted in some illustrations.

FIG.9is a diagram which shows a schematic configuration example of a measurement system1001having a measuring device1011according to the second embodiment.

For convenience of description,FIG.9shows an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system, which is a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system. In the present embodiment, for convenience of description, the positive direction of the X-axis is the right direction, the negative direction of the X-axis is the left direction, the positive direction of the Y-axis is the backward direction, and the negative direction of the Y-axis is the forward direction, the positive direction of the Z-axis is the upward direction, and the negative direction of the Z-axis is the downward direction.

Here, the measurement system1001according to the present embodiment is schematically different from the measurement system1according to the first embodiment in that it can adjust the positions of the sensor holding portion1211of the sensor fixing body1022constituting the measuring device1011, and is similar in other respects. For this reason, in the present embodiment, detailed description of the same points as in the first embodiment will be omitted.

The measurement system1001includes a measuring device1011, a recorder1321, a computer1322, and a cable1331.

Here, although one sensor1311attached to the measuring device1011is shown in the example ofFIG.9, a plurality of sensors may be attached to the measuring device1011.

In the present embodiment, the recorder1321, the computer1322, the cable1331, and the sensor1311are described as external apparatuses (devices) to the measuring device1011, but as another example, one or more of the recorder1321, the computer1322, the cable1331, and the sensors1311may be regarded to be included in the measuring device1011.

FIG.10is a diagram which shows configuration examples of each of the subject fixing body1021and the sensor fixing body1022that constitute the measuring device1011according to the second embodiment.

For convenience of description,FIG.10shows an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system similar to that ofFIG.9.

Here,FIG.9shows a state in which the subject fixing body1021and the sensor fixing body1022are combined as a state when the measuring device1011is used.

On the other hand,FIG.10shows the subject fixing body1021and the sensor fixing body1022separately for convenience of description.

A configuration example of the subject fixing body1021will be described.

The subject fixing body1021includes a right leg portion A11, a left leg portion A12, and a platform portion A13.

The right leg portion A11includes four protruding portions1151to1154that protrude to the right side.

The left leg portion A12includes four protruding portions1161to1164that protrude to the left side.

The platform portion A13includes a plate1111, a right hand rest1121, and a left hand rest1122.

A configuration example of the sensor fixing body1022will be described. The sensor fixing body1022includes a right leg portion B11, a left leg portion B12, and a platform portion B13.

The right leg portion B11includes four protruding portions1251to1254that protrude to the right side.

The right leg portion B11includes two protruding portions1231and1232that protrude to the back side.

In the present embodiment, detailed description of these two protruding portions1231and1232is omitted, but they may be used for positioning and the like.

The left leg portion B12has four protruding portions1261to1264that protrude to the left side.

The platform portion B13includes a component in which a plurality of rectangular parallelepiped members disposed on an upper surface of the right leg portion B11and an upper surface of the left leg portion B12are combined.

In addition, the platform portion B13includes a position adjustment unit1511disposed on a top of the component, height adjustment units1521and1522disposed at an upper part of the position adjustment unit1511, and a sensor holding portion1211attached to the height adjustment units1521and1522.

In addition, the platform portion B13includes two cable holding portions (cable receivers)1221and1222that protrude from the component to, the back side.

Here, a configuration of the sensor holding portion1211is, for example, the same as the configuration of the sensor holding portion211according to the first embodiment.

The position adjustment unit1511has a plate-like shape, and a plate-like surface is disposed parallel to an upper surface of the platform portion B13. The position adjustment unit1511has a mechanism capable of moving in the lateral direction (in a direction P11) on an upper side of the platform portion B13. The mechanism may be, for example, a rail-like mechanism extending in the lateral direction.

For example, a configuration may be used in which a movement of the position adjustment unit1511is manually performed by a person (person) who handles the measuring device1011, or is electrically operated.

As an example, a configuration may be used in which a person directly comes into contact with the position adjustment unit1511to change a position of the position adjustment unit1511.

As another example, a configuration may be used in which a handle or the like is provided on the platform portion B13of the sensor fixing body1022or the like, and a person operates the handle or the like to change the position of the position adjustment unit1511.

As still another example, a configuration may be used in which a switch is provided on the platform portion B13of the sensor fixing body1022or the like, and a person operates the switch to change the position of the position adjustment unit1511.

As still another example, a configuration may be used in which the computer1322and the position adjustment unit1511are connected in a communicative manner by wire or wirelessly and the computer1322controls a movement of the position adjustment unit1511.

A configuration may be used in which the position adjustment unit1511and the platform portion B13are screwed. For example, the platform portion B3may be provided with a plurality of places where the position adjustment unit1511can be attached, and the position of the position adjustment unit1511may be changed by switching places where the position adjustment unit1511is attached among the plurality of places.

In the present embodiment as the position adjustment unit1511moves, the sensor holding portion1211also moves. As a result, a position of the sensor holding portion1211in the lateral direction can be adjusted.

In the present embodiment, the position adjustment unit1511has a function of adjusting the position in the lateral direction, but it may have, for example, a function of adjusting the position in the depth direction (a direction from the front side to the back side) or may have both functions.

The height adjustment units1521and1522each have a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and are disposed so that long sides of the rectangular parallelepiped shape extend upward from a surface of the position adjustment unit1511.

The height adjustment unit1521on the right side and the height adjustment unit1522on the left side are disposed with a predetermined interval in the lateral direction. The sensor holding, portion1211is attached between the height adjustment unit1521on the right side and the height adjustment unit1522on the left side.

The height adjustment units1521and1522have a mechanism capable of moving the attached sensor holding portion1211in the vertical direction (a direction P12).

A configuration may be used in which the movement of the sensor holding portion1211by the height adjustment units1521and1522is performed manually by, for example, a person (person) handling the measuring device1011or is performed electrically.

As an example, a configuration may be used in which a person directly comes into contact with the height adjustment units1521and1522to change the position of the sensor holding portion1211.

As another example, a configuration may be used in which a switch is provided on the platform portion B13of the sensor fixing body1022or the like, and a person operates the, switch and the position of the sensor holding portion1211is changed by the height adjustment units1521and1522.

As still another example, a configuration may be used in which the computer1322and the height adjustment units1521and1522are connected in a communicative manner by wire or wirelessly, and the computer1322controls the movement of the sensor holding portion1211by the height adjustment units1521and1522.

In the present embodiment, the sensor holding portion1211moves according to functions of the height adjustment units1521and1522. As a result, the position of the sensor holding portion1211in the vertical direction (the height direction) can be adjusted.

<Combination of Subject Fixing Body and Sensor Fixing Body>

In the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the subject fixing body1021and the sensor fixing body1022are combined to form the measuring device1011.

In the example ofFIG.10, regarding the sensor fixing body1022, members Q11and Q12similar to the members Q1and Q2shown inFIG.2are shown.

Moreover, in the example ofFIG.9, a configuration example is shown in which a member Q111is fitted at the lower end on the left side after the subject fixing body1021and the sensor fixing body1022are combined.

Note that the member Q111may or may not be provided in the measuring device1011.

In the present embodiment, in the measuring device1011, the subject fixing body1021and the sensor fixing body1022do not come into contact with each other at any portion.

As described above, in the measurement system1001according to the present embodiment, the measuring device1011can ensure the level of a measurement signal while curbing the noise derived from the body movement of the subject421.

In the measuring device1011according to the present embodiment, the sensor fixing body22includes the height adjustment units1521and1522that adjust a height of the sensor holding portion211, and the position adjustment unit1511that adjusts a position in a direction (the lateral direction in the present embodiment) other than the height of the sensor holding portion211.

Therefore. in the measuring device1011according to the present embodiment, for example, the height of the sensor311and the position other than the height can be adjusted according to the physique of the subject421, a place at which a target biological signal is generated (for example, the heart, and the like), or the like.

THIRD EMBODIMENT

The present embodiment shows a configuration example of a measuring device in which a reference sensor can be further attached to the measuring device11of the measurement system1shown inFIG.1according to the first embodiment. In addition, the reference sensor may be regarded as, for example, an external apparatus (device) to the measuring device, or may be regarded as being included in the measuring device.

In the present embodiment, for convenience of description, the same components as in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same symbols and described.

FIG.11is a diagram which shows a schematic configuration example of a measurement system3001including a measuring, device3011according to a third embodiment.

For convenience of description,FIG.11shows an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system, which is a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system. In the present embodiment, for convenience of description, description will be made assuming that the positive direction of the X-axis is the right direction, the negative direction of the X-axis is the left direction, the positive direction of the Y-axis is the backward direction, the negative direction of the Y-axis is the forward direction, the positive direction of the Z-axis is the upward direction, and the negative direction of the Z-axis is the downward direction in the same manner as inFIG.1.

The measurement system3001includes the measuring device3011, the, recorder321, the computer322, and the cable331.

Here, configurations of the recorder321, the computer322, and the cable331are schematically the same as in the example ofFIG.1, and a detection signal (a reference signal) of the reference sensor is also processed in the present embodiment.

FIG.11shows a state in which the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body3022are combined as a state when the measuring device3011is used.

The configuration of the subject fixing body21is similar to that shown inFIG.1.

The sensor fixing body3022includes the right leg portion B1, the left leg portion B2, a platform portion B23, and reference sensor holding portions3211and3212that hold the reference sensor.

The reference sensor holding portion may also be called, for example, a reference sensor holding body.

Schematically, a configuration of the sensor fixing body3022is different from the configuration of the sensor fixing body22shown inFIGS.1and2in that it includes the platform portion B23further extending laterally than the platform portion B3shown inFIG.2and the reference sensor holding portions3211and3212disposed at an upper part of the platform portion B23, and is similar in other respects.

The platform portion B23of the sensor fixing body3022includes a support portion3121on the right side and a support portion3122on the left side.

The support portion3121on the right side has a shape that supports the reference sensor holding portion3211on the right side disposed on the top thereof. In the present embodiment, the support portion3121has a planar shape perpendicular to the vertical direction, but other shapes may also be used.

The reference sensor holding portion3211on the right side has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. In the present embodiment, the reference sensor holding portion3211is disposed such that each, surface of the rectangular parallelepiped shape faces the upper side, the lower side, the left side, the, right side, the front side, and the back side, respectively. Moreover, in the present embodiment, a surface on the upper side and a surface on the lower side are square surfaces, and the other surfaces are rectangular surfaces whose vertical direction is a longitudinal direction.

The reference sensor holding portion3211on the right side has a plurality of holes to which the reference sensor can be attached on a surface on the back side.

In the example ofFIG.11, four holes are arranged at predetermined intervals in the vertical direction, two holes are arranged at predetermined intervals in the horizontal direction on the surface, and thus there are eight holes in total, but only one hole3311is denoted by a symbol for convenience of illustration.

In addition, in the example ofFIG.11, only one reference sensor3411attached by being inserted into the hole3311is shown, but reference sensors may be attached to any number of holes.

Note that any mode may also be used as a shape of the reference sensor holding portion3211, a mechanism of an attachment portion (a hole in the, present embodiment) to which each reference sensor is attached, a position where the mechanism is provided, the number of the mechanisms, and the like.

For example, in the present embodiment, the reference sensor holding portion3211is a constituent that can attach a plurality of reference sensors thereto, but as another example, a constituent that can attach only one reference sensor thereto may also be used.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the reference sensor holding portion3211is a constituent that can attach or detach a reference sensor, but as another example, the reference sensor holding portion3211and the reference sensor may be configured to be integrated.

In the present embodiment, configurations of the support portion3122on the left side, the reference sensor holding portion3212on the left side, and the hole3312are bilaterally symmetrical to configurations of the support portion3121on the right side, the reference sensor holding portion3211on the right side, and the hole3311, respectively. Note that a configuration that is not bilaterally symmetrical between the right side and the left side may also be used.

As described above, in the measurement system3001according to the present embodiment, the measuring device3011can ensure the level of a measurement signal while curbing the noise derived from the body movement of the subject,

In the measuring device3011according to the present embodiment, for example, the reference sensor holding portions3211and3212arrange one or more reference sensors that acquire an environmental signal that does not include a signal of interest (a biological signal in the present embodiment), and thereby it is possible to apply environmental noise removal, and as a result, an effect of curbing the noise can be enhanced.

Here, in the measuring device3011according to the present embodiment, each reference sensor measures (detects) a reference signal to curb noise superimposed on a biological signal detected by a measurement sensor.

The reference signal is used, for example, to remove the noise component contained in the biological signal detected by the measurement sensor (the sensor311as in the first embodiment in the present embodiment). As an example, the reference sensor detects a signal caused by an environment other than a living body as a reference signal when the measurement sensor detects a biological signal. As an example, when a magnetic signal caused by a living body is used as a signal of interest, a magnetic signal caused by an environmental magnetic field may be used as the reference

In the present embodiment, there is no particular limitation on arithmetic processing using the biological signal detected by the measurement sensor and the reference signal detected by the reference sensor, and arbitrary arithmetic processing may be executed.

Such arithmetic processing is executed, for example, by an arithmetic device such as a computer (the computer322in the present embodiment).

In the measuring device3011according to the present embodiment, for example, to reduce environmental noise, it is possible to reduce environmental noise by signal processing such as adaptive noise cancelling (ANC) using a reference sensor.

Although illustration is omitted in the example ofFIG.11, for example, each reference sensor may transmit information on a result of the measurement to the recorder321via a wired cable or wirelessly. In this case, the recorder321can store the information and the computer322can process the information.

Here, in the present embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the sensor fixing body3022, the support portions3121and3122, and the reference sensor holding portions3211and3212are integrated is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this, and other configurations may also be used.

For example, in the present embodiment, a case in which a configuration related to the reference sensor is applied to a configuration of the first embodiment is shown, but the configuration related to the reference sensor may also be applied to a configuration of the second embodiment.

FOURTH EMBODIMENT

The present embodiment shows a configuration example of a measuring device in which a reference sensor can be further attached to the measuring device11of the measurement system1shown inFIG.1according to the first embodiment. Note that the reference sensor may be regarded as, for example, an external apparatus (device) to the measuring device, or may be regarded as being included in the measuring device.

In the present embodiment, for convenience of description, the same components as in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same symbols and described.

FIG.12is a diagram which shows a schematic configuration example of a measurement system4001including a measuring device4011according to a fourth embodiment.

For convenience of description,FIG.12shows an XYZ orthogonal coordinate system, which is a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system. In the present embodiment, for convenience of description, description will be made assuming that the positive direction of the X-axis is the right direction, the negative direction of the X-axis is the left direction, the positive direction of the Y-axis is the backward direction, the negative direction of the Y-axis is the forward direction, the positive direction of the Z-axis is the upward direction, and the negative direction of the Z-axis is the downward direction in the same manner as inFIG.1.

The measurement system4001includes the measuring device4011, the recorder321, the computer322, and the cable331.

Here, configurations of the recorder321, the computer322, and the cable331are schematically the same as, in the example ofFIG.1, and a detection signal (a reference signal) of the reference sensor is also processed in the present embodiment.

The measuring device4011includes the subject fixing body21, the sensor fixing body22, a reference sensor support portion4111and a reference sensor holding portion4211on the right side, and a reference sensor support portion4112and a reference sensor holding portion4212on the left side.

The reference sensor holding portion may be called, for example, the reference sensor holding body.

FIG.12shows a state in which the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are combined as a state when the measuring device4011is used.

The configurations of the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22are similar to those shown inFIG.1.

In addition, inFIG.12, as a state when the measuring device4011is used, a state in which the reference sensor support portion4111and the reference sensor holding portion4211on the right side, and the reference sensor support portion4112and the reference sensor holding portion4212on the left side are installed near the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22is shown.

In the example ofFIG.12, the reference sensor support portion4111and the reference sensor holding portion4211on the right side and the reference sensor support portion4112and the reference sensor holding portion4212on the left side are disposed without being in contact with the subject fixing body21and the sensor fixing body22.

The reference sensor support portion4111on the right side has a shape that supports the reference sensor holding portion4211on the right side, disposed on a top thereof.

In the present embodiment, the reference sensor support portion4111has a base portion disposed at the lower part and a bar-shaped portion extending upward from the base portion, and is a constituent that supports the reference sensor holding, portion4211disposed at the upper part of the bar-shaped portion, but other constituents may also be used.

The reference sensor holding portion4211on the right side has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. In the present embodiment, the reference sensor holding portion4211is disposed such that each surface of the rectangular parallelepiped shape faces the upper side, the lower side, the left side, the right side, the front side, and the back side, respectively. Moreover, in the present embodiment, a surface on the upper side and a surface on the lower side are square surfaces, and the other surfaces are rectangular surfaces whose vertical direction is a longitudinal direction.

The reference sensor holding portion4211on the right side has a plurality of holes to which the reference sensor can be attached on a surface on the back side.

In the example ofFIG.12, four holes are arranged at predetermined intervals in the vertical direction, two holes are arranged at predetermined intervals in the lateral direction on the surface, and thus there are eight holes in total, but only one hole4311is denoted by a symbol for convenience of illustration.

In addition, in the example ofFIG.12, only one reference sensor4411attached by being inserted into the, hole4311is shown, but reference sensors may be attached to any number of holes.

Note that any mode may also be used as a shape of the reference sensor holding portion4211, a mechanism of an attachment portion (a hole in the present embodiment) to which each reference sensor is attached, a position where the mechanism is provided, the number of the mechanisms, and the like.

For example, in the present embodiment, the reference sensor holding portion4211is a constituent that can attach a plurality of reference sensors thereto, but as another example, a constituent that can attach only one reference sensor thereto may also be used.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the reference, sensor holding portion4211is a constituent that can attach or detach a reference sensor, but as another example, the reference sensor holding portion4211and the reference sensor may be configured to be integrated.

Moreover, in the present embodiment, the reference sensor support portion4111and the reference sensor holding portion4211may be, for example, constituents that can be attachable or detachable to or from each other, or may be configured to be integrated.

In the present embodiment, configurations of the reference sensor support portion4112on the left side, the reference sensor holding portion4212on the left side, and the hole4312are bilaterally symmetrical to configurations of the reference sensor support portion4111on the right side, the reference sensor holding portion4211on the right, side, and the hole4311, respectively. Note that a configuration that is not bilaterally symmetrical between the right side and the left side may also be used.

As described above, in the measurement system4001according to the present embodiment, the measuring device4011can ensure the level of a measurement signal while curbing the noise derived from the body movement, of the subject.

In the measuring device4011according to the present embodiment, for example, the reference sensor holding portions4211and4212arrange one or more reference sensors that acquire an environmental signal that does not include a signal of interest (a biological signal in the present embodiment), and thereby it is possible to apply environmental noise removal, and as a result, the effect of curbing the noise can be enhanced.

Here, in the measuring device4011according to the present embodiment, each reference sensor measures (detects) a reference signal to curb noise superimposed on a biological signal detected by the measurement sensor.

The reference signal is used, for example, to remove the noise component contained in the biological signal detected by the measurement sensor (the sensor311as in the first embodiment in the present embodiment). As an example, the reference sensor detects a signal caused by an environment other than a living body as a reference signal when the measurement sensor detects a biological signal. As an example, when a magnetic signal caused by a living body is used as a signal of interest, a magnetic signal caused by an environmental magnetic field may be used as the reference signal.

In the present embodiment, there is no particular limitation on arithmetic processing, using the biological signal detected by the measurement sensor and the reference signal detected by the reference sensor, and arbitrary arithmetic processing may be executed.

Such arithmetic processing is executed, for example, by an arithmetic device such as a computer (the computer322in the present embodiment).

In the measuring device4011according to the present embodiment, for example, to reduce environmental noise, it is possible to reduce environmental noise by signal processing such as adaptive noise cancelling (ANC) using a reference sensor.

Although illustration is omitted in the example ofFIG.12, for example, each reference sensor may transmit information on a result of the measurement to the recorder321via a wired cable or wirelessly. In this case, the recorder321can store the information and the computer322can process the information.

Here, in the present embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the reference sensor support portions4111and4112and the reference sensor holding portions4211and4212are separate bodies, independent from the sensor fixing body22, is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this, and other configurations may also be used.

For example, in the present embodiment, a case in which a configuration related to the reference sensor is applied to a configuration of the first embodiment is shown, but the configuration related to the reference sensor may also be applied to a configuration of the second embodiment.

Note that a program for realizing a function of any component in any device described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be read and executed by a computer system. The term compute system as used herein includes an operating system or hardware such as peripheral devices. In addition, “computer-readable recording medium” refers to a portable medium such, as a flexible disc, a magneto-optical disc, a ROM, a compact disc (CD)-read only memory (ROM), and a storage device such as a hard disk embedded in the computer system. Furthermore, “computer-readable recording medium” is assumed to include a medium that holds a program for a certain period of time, like a volatile memory inside a computer system that serves as a server or a client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The volatile memory may be, for example, a random access memory (RAM). The recording medium may be, for example, a non-transitory recording medium.

In addition, the program described above may be transmitted, from a computer system storing this program in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves in a transmission medium. Here, the “transmission medium” for transmitting the program refers to a medium having a function of transmitting information, like a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line.

In addition, the program described above may be for realizing a part of the functions described above. Furthermore, the program described above may be a so-called difference file, which can realize the functions described above in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system. A difference file may be called a difference program.

In addition, the, function of any component in any device described above may be realized by a processor. For example, each processing in the embodiments may be realized by a processor that operates based on information such as a program, and a computer-readable recording medium that stores the information such as the program. Here, in the processor, for example, a function of each part may be realized by separate pieces of hardware, or the function of each part may be realized by integrated hardware. For example, the processor includes hardware, and the hardware may include at least one of circuits that process digital signals and circuits that process analog signals. For example, the processor may be configured using one or both of one or more circuit devices and one or more circuit elements mounted on a circuit board, An integrated circuit (IC) or the like may be used as the circuit device, and a resistor. a capacitor, or the like may be used as the circuit element.

Here, the processor may also be, for example, a CPU. However, the processor is not limited to the CPU, and various processors such as a graphics processing unit (GPU) and a digital signal processor (DSP) may also be used. In addition, the processor may be, for example, a hardware circuit based on an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Moreover, the processor may be configured from, for example, a plurality of CPUs. or may also be configured from a plurality of ASIC hardware circuits. Moreover, the processor may be configured from, for example, a combination of a plurality of CPUs and the plurality of ASIC hardware circuits, Moreover, the processor may include, for example, one or more of an amplifier circuit, a filter circuit, and the like for processing analog signals.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the drawings, a specific configuration is not limited to the present embodiments, and includes design and the like within a range not departing from the gist of the present invention.

A measuring device includes a first, fixing body, a sensor fixing body configured to fix a sensor for detecting a biological signal, and the sensor, in which the first fixing body and the sensor fixing body have separate structures.

The measuring device according to (Configuration example 1) further includes a sensor holding portion configured to hold the sensor in the sensor fixing body, in which the sensor holding portion has a mechanism that holds one or more sensors.

The measuring device according to (Configuration example 1) or (Configuration example 2) in which the first fixing body is provided with a plate disposed at a position corresponding to the sensor.

Here, the plate is positioned between the subject and the sensor during

The measuring device according to (Configuration example 2) in which the first fixing body is provided with a plate disposed at a position corresponding to the sensor, the sensor holding portion protrudes from an end portion of the sensor fixing body to a side of the plate, and the sensor holding portion is not in contact with the plate.

The measuring device according to (Configuration example 2) or (Configuration example 4) in which the sensor fixing body, is provided with a height adjustment unit that adjusts a height of the sensor holding portion and a position adjustment unit that adjusts a position in a direction of the sensor holding portion other than the height.

The measuring device according to any one of (Configuration example 1) to (Configuration Example 5) further includes a stand above the first fixing body.

Here, for example, the stand is a hand rest on which a hand of the subject is placed.

The measuring device according to any one of (Configuration example 1) to (Configuration example 6) in which the sensor fixing body is provided with a cable holding portion that holds a cable of the sensor.

The measuring device according to any one of (Configuration example 1) to (Configuration example 7) in which one or both of the first fixing body and the sensor fixing body are provided with a fixture for positioning.

The measuring device according to (Configuration example 8) further includes a measurement room, in which one or both of the first fixing body and the sensor fixing body is fixed to one or both of a wall surface and a floor surface of the measurement room by the fixture for positioning.

The measuring device according to any one of (Configuration example 1) to (Configuration example 9) in which the sensor is a magnetic sensor.

The measuring device according to any one of (Configuration example 1) to (Configuration example 10) in which the first fixing body is a subject fixing body that holds a posture of a subject, and the sensor is a sensor that detects the biological signal of the subject.

The measuring device according to any one of (Configuration example 1) to (Configuration example 11) further includes a reference sensor configured to detect a reference signal to curb noise that is superimposed on the biological signal detected by the sensor, and a reference sensor holding portion configured to hold the reference sensor.

EXPLANATION OF REFERENCES