WO2024071616A1 - Self-measurement apparatus for monitoring vaginal health of women - Google Patents

Self-measurement apparatus for monitoring vaginal health of women Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2024071616A1
WO2024071616A1 PCT/KR2023/010527 KR2023010527W WO2024071616A1 WO 2024071616 A1 WO2024071616 A1 WO 2024071616A1 KR 2023010527 W KR2023010527 W KR 2023010527W WO 2024071616 A1 WO2024071616 A1 WO 2024071616A1
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WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
vaginal
unit
air
measurement
probe
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PCT/KR2023/010527
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French (fr)
Korean (ko)
Inventor
김태희
김학보
신현수
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㈜엔티엘헬스케어
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Publication of WO2024071616A1 publication Critical patent/WO2024071616A1/en

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/43—Detecting, measuring or recording for evaluating the reproductive systems
    • A61B5/4306—Detecting, measuring or recording for evaluating the reproductive systems for evaluating the female reproductive systems, e.g. gynaecological evaluations
    • A61B5/4318—Evaluation of the lower reproductive system
    • A61B5/4337—Evaluation of the lower reproductive system of the vagina
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
    • A61B1/303—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor for the vagina, i.e. vaginoscopes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/0048—Detecting, measuring or recording by applying mechanical forces or stimuli
    • A61B5/0053—Detecting, measuring or recording by applying mechanical forces or stimuli by applying pressure, e.g. compression, indentation, palpation, grasping, gauging
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/01—Measuring temperature of body parts ; Diagnostic temperature sensing, e.g. for malignant or inflamed tissue
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/03—Detecting, measuring or recording fluid pressure within the body other than blood pressure, e.g. cerebral pressure; Measuring pressure in body tissues or organs
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/03—Detecting, measuring or recording fluid pressure within the body other than blood pressure, e.g. cerebral pressure; Measuring pressure in body tissues or organs
    • A61B5/033—Uterine pressure
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/103—Detecting, measuring or recording devices for testing the shape, pattern, colour, size or movement of the body or parts thereof, for diagnostic purposes
    • A61B5/107—Measuring physical dimensions, e.g. size of the entire body or parts thereof
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/103—Detecting, measuring or recording devices for testing the shape, pattern, colour, size or movement of the body or parts thereof, for diagnostic purposes
    • A61B5/107—Measuring physical dimensions, e.g. size of the entire body or parts thereof
    • A61B5/1076—Measuring physical dimensions, e.g. size of the entire body or parts thereof for measuring dimensions inside body cavities, e.g. using catheters
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/68—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient
    • A61B5/6846—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient specially adapted to be brought in contact with an internal body part, i.e. invasive
    • A61B5/6867—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient specially adapted to be brought in contact with an internal body part, i.e. invasive specially adapted to be attached or implanted in a specific body part
    • A61B5/6875—Uterus
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B2562/00—Details of sensors; Constructional details of sensor housings or probes; Accessories for sensors
    • A61B2562/02—Details of sensors specially adapted for in-vivo measurements
    • A61B2562/0247—Pressure sensors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a self-measurement device, and more specifically, to a self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health.
  • Bacterial vaginitis is a disease characterized by changes in the distribution of normal bacteria in the vagina, resulting in decreased acidity and excessive growth of certain bacteria. It is the most common cause of infection in the lower genital tract in women of childbearing age. In particular, in pregnant women, it can cause complications such as miscarriage, pelvic infection, premature birth, premature rupture of membranes, and chorioamnionitis, and it can also cause increased infections after surgery and acquired immune deficiency infection. Therefore, diagnose vaginitis and treat it quickly. Treatment is very important.
  • ICT Information & Communications Technology
  • Registered Patent No. 10-2056847 (Title of the invention: Remote cervical cancer screening system based on automatic cervical reading and clinical decision support system, Registration date: December 11, 2019) etc. have been disclosed.
  • the present invention was proposed to solve the above problems of the previously proposed methods, and includes a probe inserted into the vagina, measuring temperature and pH inside the vagina, obtaining cervical imaging images, and measuring vaginal volume and
  • a measuring unit that measures vaginal pressure
  • women can measure the vaginal environment on their own and easily and conveniently manage their vaginal health without visiting an obstetrician or gynecologist, and provide preemptive treatment before vaginal health problems occur or symptoms worsen.
  • the purpose is to provide a self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health that can increase the accuracy of treatment by securing data on the vaginal environment on a daily basis.
  • a self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health according to the characteristics of the present invention to achieve the above object,
  • a temperature measuring unit located on the outer surface of the probe and measuring the temperature of the inner surface of the vagina in contact with the probe
  • a pH measuring unit located on the outer surface of the probe and measuring the pH of the inner surface of the vagina in contact with the probe;
  • a camera unit located at the end of the probe and photographing the cervix
  • vaginal pressure measuring unit that applies pressure to the inside of the vagina through the probe and calculates vaginal volume and vaginal pressure from the applied pressure
  • Its structural feature includes a control unit that controls the temperature measurement unit, pH measurement unit, camera unit, and vaginal pressure measurement unit.
  • the camera unit Preferably, the camera unit, the camera unit, and
  • a camera module that acquires images of the cervix
  • It is disposed in front of the camera module and may include an auxiliary lens module having a short-range focal length.
  • the vaginal pressure measuring unit Preferably, the vaginal pressure measuring unit,
  • It may include a pressure sensor unit that measures the pressure applied to the air tube unit.
  • the probe is:
  • the air tube part The air tube part,
  • It is composed of a donut shape made of medical silicone and can be mounted to surround the probe.
  • the vaginal pressure measuring unit More preferably, the vaginal pressure measuring unit,
  • vaginal pressure sensor control unit that controls the air pump unit to measure vaginal volume and vaginal pressure by injecting or discharging air into the air tube unit.
  • the vaginal pressure sensor control unit Even more preferably, the vaginal pressure sensor control unit,
  • a first measurement module that measures vaginal volume by injecting air into the air tube portion so that a predetermined atmospheric pressure is applied while the air tube portion is in close contact with the vaginal wall;
  • a second measurement module that injects air into the air tube part as much as the vaginal volume and measures vaginal pressure through the input sensor part while force is applied to the vagina;
  • It may include an air discharge module that discharges air from the air tube portion after measurement by the first measurement module or the second measurement module.
  • the vaginal pressure sensor control unit Even more preferably, the vaginal pressure sensor control unit,
  • the second measurement module may process the second measurement step of measuring the vaginal pressure to measure the vaginal volume and vaginal pressure.
  • the handle may further include a first handle connected in parallel to the probe and a second handle connected perpendicular to the probe between the probe and the first handle.
  • a probe inserted into the vagina measures the temperature and pH inside the vagina, obtains a cervical imaging image, and measures vaginal volume and vaginal pressure.
  • a measuring unit women can measure the vaginal environment on their own and manage their vaginal health easily and conveniently without having to visit an obstetrician or gynecologist, and can provide preemptive treatment before vaginal health problems occur or symptoms worsen. , the accuracy of treatment can be improved by securing data on the vaginal environment on a daily basis.
  • FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 2 is a diagram schematically showing a self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 3 is a diagram showing changes when air is injected into the air tube portion in the self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 4 is a diagram showing the detailed configuration of the vaginal pressure sensor control unit in the self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating a process in which the vaginal pressure sensor control unit measures vaginal volume and vaginal pressure in the self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 6 is a diagram showing a self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health communicating with a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • This is a diagram showing a schematic appearance of the device 100.
  • the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a probe 110, a temperature measurement unit 120, and a pH measurement unit 130. ), a camera unit 140, a vaginal pressure measurement unit 150, and a control unit 160, and may further include a handle unit 170.
  • the probe 110 is a part inserted into the vagina, and various sensors for measuring the internal vaginal environment may be placed. More specifically, the probe 110 may be configured in a dumbbell shape with a central diameter smaller than the diameters of both ends. That is, as shown in FIG. 2, the dumbbell-shaped probe 110 may be configured to mount the air tube portion 151 of the vaginal pressure measurement unit 150, which will be described in detail later, in a donut shape.
  • the temperature measuring unit 120 is located on the outer surface of the probe 110 and can measure the temperature of the inner surface of the vagina in contact with the probe 110. That is, as shown in FIG. 2, the temperature inside the vagina can be measured by placing a contact temperature sensor on one side of the probe 110. At this time, since the temperature measuring sensor must contact the inner surface of the vagina, the temperature measuring part 120 may be placed on the distal side of the dumbbell-shaped probe 110 on the side where it is inserted into the vagina. Since body temperature changes according to a woman's menstrual cycle, the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 120 can be basic data for estimating the ovulation period, fertile period, etc., and can be used to analyze changes in body temperature before and after pregnancy.
  • the pH measuring unit 130 is located on the outer surface of the probe 110 and can measure the pH of the inner surface of the vagina in contact with the probe 110. That is, as shown in FIG. 2, the pH of the vaginal wall can be measured by placing a contact pH sensor on one side of the probe 110. At this time, since the sensor is inserted into the vagina and measures the pH value inside the vagina through contact, a contact type ISFET (Ion Sensitive Field Effect Transistor) type semiconductor sensor that is harmless to the human body can be used. At this time, the pH measuring unit 130 may be placed on the front end of the dumbbell-shaped probe 110 on the side that is inserted into the vagina so that the ISFET sensor can easily contact the vaginal wall specimen.
  • ISFET Ion Sensitive Field Effect Transistor
  • a woman's vagina must always maintain a slightly acidic state, but it can become alkalized due to various environmental factors, and in an alkaline state, it can easily be invaded by bacteria. Therefore, using the self-measurement device 100 including the pH measuring unit 130, it is possible to measure pH on one's own and maintain pH balance through self-examination.
  • the camera unit 140 is located at the end of the probe 110 and can image the cervix. As shown in FIG. 2, the camera unit 140 is located at the end where the probe 110 is inserted into the vagina and can image the cervix. At this time, when air is injected into the air tube unit 151 of the vaginal pressure measuring unit 150, which will be explained in detail later, the vaginal wall opens and the cervix is exposed, and the camera unit 140 is exposed by the air tube unit 151. The cervix can be photographed. In other words, the camera unit 140 can obtain images of the cervix rather than the inside of the vagina by taking pictures through a space secured using the air tube unit 151.
  • the camera unit 140 is implemented as an ultra-wide-angle camera, and can clearly image the entire cervix by focusing on the cervix at a close distance. More specifically, the camera unit 140 includes a camera module 141 that acquires an image of the cervix; And it may be configured to include an auxiliary lens module 142 that is disposed in front of the camera module 141 and has a short-distance focal length. That is, the auxiliary lens module 142, developed as an endoscope lens to have a short-distance focal length, is placed at the extreme end of the probe 110, and the cervix is seen entering the camera module 141 through the auxiliary lens module 142. size and focal length can be secured.
  • the acquired cervical image can be delivered to the user's terminal and used to diagnose cervical cancer through the artificial intelligence system of the user's terminal or server.
  • the user can check the results of the cervical image through the user terminal.
  • the camera unit 140 directly touches the skin during the process of inserting the probe 110 into the vagina, foreign substances may stick to the lens and interfere with imaging. Therefore, the camera lens can be protected from contamination by foreign substances by covering the probe 110 with a condom or a disposable cover in the form of a condom.
  • the vaginal pressure measuring unit 150 can apply pressure to the inside of the vagina through the probe 110 and calculate vaginal volume and vaginal pressure from the applied pressure. More specifically, the vaginal pressure measuring unit 150 may be configured to include an air tube unit 151, an air pump unit 152, and a pressure sensor unit 153, and may further include a vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154. It can be configured.
  • the air tube portion 151 is mounted on the probe 110, and its volume may change due to air. More specifically, the air tube portion 151 may be made of medical silicone in a donut shape and may be mounted to surround the probe 110. That is, as shown in FIG. 2, the air tube portion 151 may be configured in a donut shape to surround the small diameter portion of the dumbbell-shaped probe 110, and is made of medical silicone, a material that is safe and flexible for the human body. It can be configured. In addition, while the donut-shaped air tube part 151 is mounted, the entire probe is covered with a medical silicone material to protect both the air tube part 151 and the dumbbell-shaped probe 110, thereby protecting the probe 110. It can minimize the sensation of a foreign body when inserted into the vagina and increase ease of management.
  • the air pump unit 152 can inject air into the air tube unit 151.
  • the air pump unit 152 may be comprised of an electronic pump and an air inlet connected from the electronic pump to the air tube unit 151. As shown in FIG. 2, the electronic pump can be placed inside the handle portion 170, which will be described in detail later, and an air inlet can be connected between the electronic pump and the air tube portion 151.
  • the pressure sensor unit 153 can measure the pressure applied to the air tube unit 151.
  • the pressure sensor unit 153 may be configured as a non-contact barometric pressure sensor for measuring vaginal pressure. As shown in FIG. 2, the barometric pressure sensor may be placed inside the probe 110 on which the air tube unit 151 is mounted. You can.
  • Figure 3 is a diagram showing a change when air is injected into the air tube portion 151 in the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the air pump unit 152 is supplied with no air in the air tube unit 151.
  • the volume of the air tube portion 151 may change as shown at the bottom of FIG. 3.
  • pressure is applied to the inner wall of the vagina.
  • the vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154 controls the air pump unit 152 to inject or discharge air into the air tube unit 151 to measure vaginal volume and vaginal pressure.
  • Figure 4 is a diagram showing the detailed configuration of the vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154 in the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 4, in the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention, the vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154 includes a first measurement module 154-1, a second It may be configured to include a measurement module 154-2 and an air discharge module 154-3.
  • the first measurement module 154-1 can measure the vaginal volume by injecting air into the air tube 151 so that a predetermined atmospheric pressure is applied while the air tube 151 is in close contact with the vaginal wall.
  • the predetermined atmospheric pressure may be 1 atm, 760 mmHg. That is, the first measurement module 154-1 controls the air pump unit 152 to inject air into the air tube unit 151 to create a state in which the tube is in close contact with the vaginal wall, and then further injects air in the state of close contact.
  • a pressure of 1 atm is applied, air injection is stopped.
  • the first measurement module 154-1 may calculate the vaginal volume from the amount of air injected until the point at which air injection is stopped. At this time, the user who is the measurement target does not apply force to the vagina.
  • the second measurement module 154-2 can inject air into the air tube unit 151 equal to the volume of the vagina and measure the vaginal pressure through the input sensor unit while force is applied to the vagina. That is, the second measurement module 154-2 controls the air pump unit 152 to inject air equal to the air volume injected by the first measurement module 154-1, that is, the amount of air, and the user who is the measurement target When force is applied to the vagina, the vaginal pressure can be calculated by measuring the pressure applied to the pressure sensor unit 153.
  • the air discharge module 154-3 may discharge air from the air tube portion 151 after measurement by the first measurement module 154-1 or the second measurement module 154-2. That is, the air discharge module 154-3 can control the air pump unit 152 to discharge the air injected into the air tube unit 151.
  • FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a process in which the vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154 measures vaginal volume and vaginal pressure in the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154 of the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention measures the vaginal volume in the first measurement module 154-1.
  • the first measurement module 154-1 controls the air pump unit 152 to inject air into the air tube unit 151 so that the air tube unit 151 is in close contact with the vaginal wall. Then, more air can be injected and the air injection can be stopped when 1 atmosphere is measured in the pressure sensor unit 153. At this time, the vaginal volume can be measured by measuring the amount of air injected.
  • the air discharge module 154-3 may discharge air from the air tube portion 151 after measuring the vaginal volume in the first measurement step (S110).
  • the vaginal volume may be measured by measuring the amount of air discharged at this time.
  • the vaginal pressure can be measured in the second measurement module 154-2. That is, an amount of air corresponding to the vaginal volume is injected into the air tube unit 151, and the vaginal pressure can be measured by having the user, the measurement target, apply force to the vagina.
  • the control unit 160 may control the temperature measurement unit 120, pH measurement unit 130, camera unit 140, and vaginal pressure measurement unit 150.
  • the temperature and pH are first measured by the temperature measuring unit 120 and pH measuring unit 130, which sense by contact method, and the vaginal pressure measuring unit 150 injects air to measure the vaginal volume in the process of measuring the vaginal wall.
  • the camera unit 140 can be used to control the cervix to be photographed.
  • the handle portion 170 includes a first handle portion 171 connected in parallel to the probe 110 and a second handle portion connected perpendicularly to the probe 110 between the probe 110 and the first handle portion 171 ( 172). As shown in FIG. 2, components such as an air pump unit 152, a vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154, and a control unit 160 may be built into the handle unit 170.
  • the second handle portion 172 is vertically connected to the probe 110 and the first handle portion 171, so that the self-measurement device 100 can be configured as an overall “ ⁇ ” shape.
  • the overall shape in the shape of “ ⁇ ” the user can comfortably hold the first handle 171 or the second handle 172 and stably insert the probe 110 into the vagina depending on the posture during self-measurement. can do.
  • the self-measuring device 100 used by individuals at home, etc. due to its characteristics, is used alone without any separate connection equipment. Therefore, by configuring the handle portion 170 in the shape of a “ ⁇ ” shape, sufficient space can be secured to install a control unit 160 and a power supply unit (not shown) for controlling various sensors inside.
  • the handle portion 170 may be provided with a measurement button for starting measurement. Therefore, the user can insert the probe 110 inside the vagina and then start measurement using the measurement button.
  • the self-measurement device 100 first measures temperature and pH using a contact sensor, and then measures the vaginal volume by injecting air from the vaginal pressure measurement unit 150 into the air tube unit 151. Taking advantage of the internal space secured, the cervix is photographed, air is removed from the air tube part 151 and re-injected, the vaginal pressure is measured when the user applies force to the vagina, and then air is extracted from the air tube part 151. You can end the measurement by subtracting .
  • FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health communicating with the user terminal 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention measures the vaginal environment such as measured temperature, pH, cervical image, vaginal volume, and vaginal pressure. Data can be transmitted to the user terminal 200 through a wired or wireless network.
  • the network is a wired network such as a Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), or Value Added Network (VAN), a mobile radio communication network, a satellite communication network, All technologies such as Bluetooth, Wibro (Wireless Broadband Internet), HSDPA (High Speed Downlink Packet Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution), 3/4/5/6G (3/4/5/6th Generation Mobile Telecommunication), etc. It can be implemented as any type of wireless network.
  • LAN Local Area Network
  • WAN Wide Area Network
  • VAN Value Added Network
  • Wibro Wireless Broadband Internet
  • HSDPA High Speed Downlink Packet Access
  • LTE Long Term Evolution
  • 3/4/5/6G 3/4/5/6G (3/4/5/6th Generation Mobile Telecommunication
  • the user terminal 200 may run an application that receives, analyzes, and outputs vaginal environmental data, and stores and tracks the measured vaginal environmental data. For example, it tracks changes in ovulation, fertile period, pre- and post-pregnancy, etc. according to vaginal temperature, tracks pH changes to prevent pH balance, or provides change information according to vaginal contraction and relaxation status according to vaginal volume and vaginal pressure. Can be measured and tracked. Therefore, the user subject to measurement can use the self-measurement device 100 and the user terminal 200 to manage their vaginal health by measuring and monitoring the vaginal environment.
  • the user terminal 200 may be implemented with various electronic devices.
  • the electronic devices include smartphones, tablet personal computers, mobile phones, video phones, e-book readers, desktop PCs, laptop PCs, netbook computers, and workstations. ), a server, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a media box, a game console, an electronic dictionary, or a wearable device.
  • the wearable device may be an accessory type (e.g., a watch, a ring, Bracelet, anklet, necklace, glasses, contact lenses, or head-mounted-device (HMD), fabric or clothing-integrated (e.g. electronic garment), body-worn (e.g. skin pad or tattoo), or an implantable circuit.
  • the electronic device is not limited to the above-described devices and may be a combination of two or more of the various devices described above. there is.
  • the probe 110 inserted into the vagina measures the temperature and pH inside the vagina, and photographs the cervix.
  • the probe 110 measures the temperature and pH inside the vagina, and photographs the cervix.
  • women can measure the vaginal environment on their own and manage their vaginal health easily and conveniently without visiting an obstetrician or gynecologist, and if problems or symptoms occur in vaginal health Preemptive treatment can be provided before the condition worsens, and treatment accuracy can be improved by securing routine vaginal environmental data.

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Abstract

A self-measurement apparatus for monitoring the vaginal health of women, which is proposed in the present invention, comprises: a probe inserted into the vagina; and a measurement unit that measures the temperature and pH inside the vagina, obtains captured images of the cervix, and measures vaginal volume and vaginal pressure. Therefore, women can measure their vaginal environment and manage their vaginal health easily and conveniently without having to visit an obstetrician or gynecologist, and can receive preemptive treatment before vaginal health problems occur or symptoms worsen, and the accuracy of treatment can be increased by obtaining data regarding the vaginal environment at ordinary times.

Description

여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치Self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health
본 발명은 자가측정 장치에 관한 것으로서, 보다 구체적으로는 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치에 관한 것이다.The present invention relates to a self-measurement device, and more specifically, to a self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health.
여성이 산부인과에 내원하는 주요 원인은 부인과 질환으로, 질 내 가려움, 분비물 증가, 따가운 증상 등으로 연간 150만 명 이상이 검진받고 있다. 심평원 통계에 따르면 2017년 연간 약 130만 명의 여성이 요로 생식기 감염으로 분자진단 검사를 받을 정도로 여성에 있어서 매우 흔한 질환이다.The main reason women visit obstetrics and gynecology is gynecological diseases, and more than 1.5 million people are examined annually for symptoms such as vaginal itching, increased discharge, and stinging symptoms. According to statistics from the HIRA, in 2017, approximately 1.3 million women underwent molecular diagnostic tests for urinary tract infections, making it a very common disease among women.
세균성 질염은 질 내 정상 세균의 분포에 변화가 생겨 산도가 감소하고 특정 세균이 과다 증식하는 것을 특징으로 하는 질환으로, 가임기 여성의 하부 생식기의 가장 흔한 감염 원인이다. 특히 임신 중인 여성에서 유산, 골반 내 감염, 조산, 조기 양막 파수, 융모양막염 등의 합병증을 유발할 수 있고 수술 후 감염 증가, 후천성 면역 결핍증 감염 등의 원인이 되기 때문에, 질염을 진단하여 빠르게 대처 및 치료하는 것이 매우 중요하다.Bacterial vaginitis is a disease characterized by changes in the distribution of normal bacteria in the vagina, resulting in decreased acidity and excessive growth of certain bacteria. It is the most common cause of infection in the lower genital tract in women of childbearing age. In particular, in pregnant women, it can cause complications such as miscarriage, pelvic infection, premature birth, premature rupture of membranes, and chorioamnionitis, and it can also cause increased infections after surgery and acquired immune deficiency infection. Therefore, diagnose vaginitis and treat it quickly. Treatment is very important.
또한, 우리나라는 만 20세 이상 여성부터 무료로 자궁경부암 공단 검진이 가능하나, 사실상 검진 가능 나이대의 검진 수급률은 약 20% 정도로 산부인과 방문을 망설이는 경우가 많다. 따라서 실제 부인과 질환의 불편 증상을 겪는 환자 수는 더 많은 것으로 추정된다.In addition, in Korea, free cervical cancer screening is available to women over the age of 20, but in fact, the screening coverage rate for those in the age group eligible for screening is about 20%, which often leads to hesitation in visiting an obstetrician or gynecologist. Therefore, it is estimated that the actual number of patients experiencing uncomfortable symptoms of gynecological diseases is higher.
한편, 최근 정보통신기술 (Information & Communications Technology, ICT)의 급격한 발달과 함께 건강정보에 대한 접근성이 향상되고, 국민 건강에 대한 인식 수준이 높아지면서 개인 맞춤형 건강관리에 대한 요구가 증가하고 있다. 개인이 건강정보를 직접 관리하면서 정보 비대칭성이 해소되고, 다양한 의료 및 건강관리 서비스를 선택할 수 있게 되면서 일반 환자들이 의료 소비자로 전환되고 있으며, 환자용이 아닌 일반소비자를 대상으로 하는 개인용/가정용 건강관리 서비스 및 제품에 대한 요구도 증가하고 있다.Meanwhile, with the recent rapid development of Information & Communications Technology (ICT), accessibility to health information has improved, and as the level of awareness of public health has increased, the demand for personalized health care is increasing. As individuals manage their own health information, information asymmetry is resolved and various medical and health care services can be selected, general patients are converting into medical consumers, and personal/home health care is targeted at general consumers rather than for patients. Demand for services and products is also increasing.
그러나 개인용 건강 관련 측정 제품은 걸음 수와 같은 운동량이나 심박수 등을 측정하는 스마트워치, 스마트 밴드 형태가 주된 것으로, 여성의 질 건강을 위한 제품의 개발은 거의 전무한 상황이다. 신체 각 기관은 건강에 문제가 생기면 신호를 보내고, 이 신호를 잘 감지하면 병이 많이 악화하기 전에 발견할 수 있다. 여성의 주요 생식기인 질도 마찬가지로 평소 없던 출혈, 분비물 증가, 냄새 등 다양한 증상이 생길 수 있는데, 질염, 질 건조증 등은 질 자체의 문제일 수도 있고, 질 주변 신체 기관의 문제가 질로 나타난 것일 수도 있으므로, 질에 발생한 변화를 통해 여성의 건강 문제를 가늠할 수 있다. 하지만 이러한 증상들을 대수롭지 않게 넘기거나 산부인과 방문을 망설이는 여성이 많아 증세가 악화하는 경우가 적지 않다. 따라서 질 내 환경을 스스로 측정하고 관리할 수 있는 제품의 개발이 필요한 실정이다.However, personal health-related measurement products are mainly in the form of smartwatches and smart bands that measure the amount of exercise such as the number of steps or heart rate, and the development of products for women's vaginal health is almost non-existent. Each organ in the body sends signals when there is a health problem, and if you detect these signals well, you can detect the disease before it gets much worse. Likewise, the vagina, a woman's main reproductive organ, can experience various symptoms such as unusual bleeding, increased discharge, and odor. Vaginitis, vaginal dryness, etc. may be problems with the vagina itself, or problems with physical organs around the vagina may manifest as the vagina. , women's health problems can be assessed through changes in the vagina. However, many women ignore these symptoms or hesitate to visit an obstetrician or gynecologist, so the symptoms often worsen. Therefore, there is a need to develop products that can independently measure and manage the vaginal environment.
한편, 본 발명과 관련된 선행기술로, 등록특허 제10-2056847호(발명의 명칭: 자궁경부 자동판독 및 임상의사결정지원시스템 기반의 원격 자궁경부암 검진 시스템, 등록일자: 2019년 12월 11일) 등이 개시된 바 있다.Meanwhile, as a prior art related to the present invention, Registered Patent No. 10-2056847 (Title of the invention: Remote cervical cancer screening system based on automatic cervical reading and clinical decision support system, Registration date: December 11, 2019) etc. have been disclosed.
본 발명은 기존에 제안된 방법들의 상기와 같은 문제점들을 해결하기 위해 제안된 것으로서, 질 내부에 삽입되는 프로브와, 질 내부의 온도와 pH를 측정하고, 자궁경부 촬영 영상을 획득하며, 질 용적 및 질 압력을 측정하는 측정부를 포함함으로써, 여성이 산부인과 등에 방문하지 않고도 질 내 환경을 스스로 측정하고 쉽고 간편하게 질 건강을 관리할 수 있고, 질 건강에 문제가 발생하거나 증세가 악화하기 전에 선제적 진료를 할 수 있으며, 평소의 질 내 환경 데이터를 확보해 진료 정확성을 높일 수 있는, 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치를 제공하는 것을 그 목적으로 한다.The present invention was proposed to solve the above problems of the previously proposed methods, and includes a probe inserted into the vagina, measuring temperature and pH inside the vagina, obtaining cervical imaging images, and measuring vaginal volume and By including a measuring unit that measures vaginal pressure, women can measure the vaginal environment on their own and easily and conveniently manage their vaginal health without visiting an obstetrician or gynecologist, and provide preemptive treatment before vaginal health problems occur or symptoms worsen. The purpose is to provide a self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health that can increase the accuracy of treatment by securing data on the vaginal environment on a daily basis.
상기한 목적을 달성하기 위한 본 발명의 특징에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치는,A self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health according to the characteristics of the present invention to achieve the above object,
자가측정 장치로서,As a self-measuring device,
질 내부에 삽입되는 프로브;A probe inserted inside the vagina;
상기 프로브의 외면에 위치하여, 상기 프로브에 접촉된 질 내면의 온도를 측정하는 온도 측정부;a temperature measuring unit located on the outer surface of the probe and measuring the temperature of the inner surface of the vagina in contact with the probe;
상기 프로브의 외면에 위치하여, 상기 프로브에 접촉된 질 내면의 pH를 측정하는 pH 측정부;A pH measuring unit located on the outer surface of the probe and measuring the pH of the inner surface of the vagina in contact with the probe;
상기 프로브의 말단에 위치하며 자궁경부를 촬영하는 카메라부;a camera unit located at the end of the probe and photographing the cervix;
상기 프로브를 통해 질 내부에 압력을 가하고, 가해진 압력으로부터 질 용적 및 질 압력을 산출하는 질압 측정부; 및a vaginal pressure measuring unit that applies pressure to the inside of the vagina through the probe and calculates vaginal volume and vaginal pressure from the applied pressure; and
상기 온도 측정부, pH 측정부, 카메라부 및 질압 측정부를 제어하는 제어부를 포함하는 것을 그 구성상의 특징으로 한다.Its structural feature includes a control unit that controls the temperature measurement unit, pH measurement unit, camera unit, and vaginal pressure measurement unit.
바람직하게는, 상기 카메라부는,Preferably, the camera unit,
자궁경부 촬영 영상을 획득하는 카메라 모듈; 및A camera module that acquires images of the cervix; and
상기 카메라 모듈의 전방에 배치되며 근거리 초점 거리를 갖는 보조 렌즈 모듈을 포함할 수 있다.It is disposed in front of the camera module and may include an auxiliary lens module having a short-range focal length.
바람직하게는, 상기 질압 측정부는,Preferably, the vaginal pressure measuring unit,
상기 프로브에 장착되며, 공기에 의해 부피가 변화하는 에어 튜브부;an air tube portion mounted on the probe and whose volume changes due to air;
상기 에어 튜브부에 공기를 주입하는 에어 펌프부; 및an air pump unit that injects air into the air tube unit; and
상기 에어 튜브부에 가해지는 압력을 측정하는 압력 센서부를 포함할 수 있다.It may include a pressure sensor unit that measures the pressure applied to the air tube unit.
더욱 바람직하게는, 상기 프로브는,More preferably, the probe is:
중심부 직경이 양 말단의 직경보다 작은 아령 형태로 구성되며,It is constructed in the shape of a dumbbell where the central diameter is smaller than the diameter of both ends.
상기 에어 튜브부는,The air tube part,
의료용 실리콘 재질의 도넛 형태로 구성되어, 상기 프로브를 감싸도록 장착될 수 있다.It is composed of a donut shape made of medical silicone and can be mounted to surround the probe.
더욱 바람직하게는, 상기 질압 측정부는,More preferably, the vaginal pressure measuring unit,
상기 에어 펌프부를 제어해 상기 에어 튜브부에 공기 주입 또는 배출하여 질 용적 및 질 압력을 측정하는 질압 센서 제어부를 더 포함할 수 있다.It may further include a vaginal pressure sensor control unit that controls the air pump unit to measure vaginal volume and vaginal pressure by injecting or discharging air into the air tube unit.
더더욱 바람직하게는, 상기 질압 센서 제어부는,Even more preferably, the vaginal pressure sensor control unit,
질벽에 상기 에어 튜브부가 밀착된 상태에서 미리 정해진 기압의 압력이 가해지도록 상기 에어 튜브부에 공기를 주입하여 질 용적을 측정하는 제1 측정 모듈;A first measurement module that measures vaginal volume by injecting air into the air tube portion so that a predetermined atmospheric pressure is applied while the air tube portion is in close contact with the vaginal wall;
상기 질 용적만큼 상기 에어 튜브부에 공기를 주입하고, 질내에 힘이 가해지는 상태에서 상기 입력 센서부를 통해 질 압력을 측정하는 제2 측정 모듈; 및a second measurement module that injects air into the air tube part as much as the vaginal volume and measures vaginal pressure through the input sensor part while force is applied to the vagina; and
상기 제1 측정 모듈 또는 제2 측정 모듈의 측정 후에 상기 에어 튜브부에서 공기를 배출하는 공기 배출 모듈을 포함할 수 있다.It may include an air discharge module that discharges air from the air tube portion after measurement by the first measurement module or the second measurement module.
더욱더 바람직하게는, 상기 질압 센서 제어부는,Even more preferably, the vaginal pressure sensor control unit,
(1) 상기 제1 측정 모듈에서 질 용적을 측정하는 제1 측정 단계(S110);(1) a first measurement step (S110) of measuring vaginal volume in the first measurement module;
(2) 상기 공기 배출 모듈이 상기 제1 측정 단계(S110)에서의 질 용적 측정 후에 상기 에어 튜브부에서 공기를 배출하는 공기 배출 단계; 및(2) an air discharge step in which the air discharge module discharges air from the air tube portion after measuring the vaginal volume in the first measurement step (S110); and
(3) 상기 제2 측정 모듈에서 상기 질 압력을 측정하는 제2 측정 단계를 처리해 상기 질 용적 및 질 압력을 측정할 수 있다.(3) The second measurement module may process the second measurement step of measuring the vaginal pressure to measure the vaginal volume and vaginal pressure.
바람직하게는,Preferably,
상기 프로브에 평행하게 연결된 제1 손잡이부 및 상기 프로브와 상기 제1 손잡이부 사이에 상기 프로브와 수직으로 연결된 제2 손잡이부를 포함하여 구성된 손잡이부를 더 포함할 수 있다.The handle may further include a first handle connected in parallel to the probe and a second handle connected perpendicular to the probe between the probe and the first handle.
본 발명에서 제안하고 있는 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치에 따르면, 질 내부에 삽입되는 프로브와, 질 내부의 온도와 pH를 측정하고, 자궁경부 촬영 영상을 획득하며, 질 용적 및 질 압력을 측정하는 측정부를 포함함으로써, 여성이 산부인과 등에 방문하지 않고도 질 내 환경을 스스로 측정하고 쉽고 간편하게 질 건강을 관리할 수 있고, 질 건강에 문제가 발생하거나 증세가 악화하기 전에 선제적 진료를 할 수 있으며, 평소의 질 내 환경 데이터를 확보해 진료 정확성을 높일 수 있다.According to the self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health proposed in the present invention, a probe inserted into the vagina measures the temperature and pH inside the vagina, obtains a cervical imaging image, and measures vaginal volume and vaginal pressure. By including a measuring unit, women can measure the vaginal environment on their own and manage their vaginal health easily and conveniently without having to visit an obstetrician or gynecologist, and can provide preemptive treatment before vaginal health problems occur or symptoms worsen. , the accuracy of treatment can be improved by securing data on the vaginal environment on a daily basis.
도 1은 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치의 구성을 도시한 도면.1 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention.
도 2는 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치의 개략적인 모습을 도시한 도면.Figure 2 is a diagram schematically showing a self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention.
도 3은 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치에서, 에어 튜브부에 공기 주입 시 변화 모습을 도시한 도면.Figure 3 is a diagram showing changes when air is injected into the air tube portion in the self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention.
도 4는 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치에서, 질압 센서 제어부의 세부적인 구성을 도시한 도면.Figure 4 is a diagram showing the detailed configuration of the vaginal pressure sensor control unit in the self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention.
도 5는 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치에서, 질압 센서 제어부가 질 용적 및 질 압력을 측정하는 과정을 도시한 도면.Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating a process in which the vaginal pressure sensor control unit measures vaginal volume and vaginal pressure in the self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention.
도 6은 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치가 사용자 단말기와 통신하는 모습을 도시한 도면.Figure 6 is a diagram showing a self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health communicating with a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.
<부호의 설명><Explanation of symbols>
100: 자가측정 장치100: Self-measuring device
110: 프로브110: probe
120: 온도 측정부120: Temperature measuring unit
130: pH 측정부130: pH measuring unit
140: 카메라부140: Camera unit
141: 카메라 모듈141: Camera module
142: 보조 렌즈 모듈142: Auxiliary lens module
150: 질압 측정부150: Vaginal pressure measuring unit
151: 에어 튜브부151: Air tube part
152: 에어 펌프부152: Air pump unit
153: 압력 센서부153: Pressure sensor unit
154: 질압 센서 제어부154: Vaginal pressure sensor control unit
154-1: 제1 측정 모듈154-1: first measurement module
154-2: 제2 측정 모듈154-2: Second measurement module
154-3: 공기 배출 모듈154-3: Air exhaust module
160: 제어부160: control unit
170: 손잡이부170: Handle part
171: 제1 손잡이부171: First handle portion
172: 제2 손잡이부172: Second handle portion
200: 사용자 단말기200: user terminal
S110: 제1 측정 단계S110: first measurement step
S120, S140: 공기 배출 단계S120, S140: Air discharge stage
S130: 제2 측정 단계S130: second measurement step
이하, 첨부된 도면을 참조하여 본 발명이 속하는 기술분야에서 통상의 지식을 가진 자가 본 발명을 용이하게 실시할 수 있도록 바람직한 실시예를 상세히 설명한다. 다만, 본 발명의 바람직한 실시예를 상세하게 설명함에 있어, 관련된 공지 기능 또는 구성에 대한 구체적인 설명이 본 발명의 요지를 불필요하게 흐릴 수 있다고 판단되는 경우에는 그 상세한 설명을 생략한다. 또한, 유사한 기능 및 작용을 하는 부분에 대해서는 도면 전체에 걸쳐 동일한 부호를 사용한다.Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, preferred embodiments will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the present invention. However, when describing preferred embodiments of the present invention in detail, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known function or configuration may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description will be omitted. In addition, the same symbols are used throughout the drawings for parts that perform similar functions and actions.
덧붙여, 명세서 전체에서, 어떤 부분이 다른 부분과 ‘연결’ 되어 있다고 할 때, 이는 ‘직접적으로 연결’ 되어 있는 경우뿐만 아니라, 그 중간에 다른 소자를 사이에 두고 ‘간접적으로 연결’ 되어 있는 경우도 포함한다. 또한, 어떤 구성요소를 ‘포함’ 한다는 것은, 특별히 반대되는 기재가 없는 한 다른 구성요소를 제외하는 것이 아니라 다른 구성요소를 더 포함할 수 있다는 것을 의미한다.Additionally, throughout the specification, when a part is said to be 'connected' to another part, this is not only the case when it is 'directly connected', but also when it is 'indirectly connected' with another element in between. Includes. Additionally, ‘including’ a certain component does not mean excluding other components, but rather including other components, unless specifically stated to the contrary.
도 1은 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100)의 구성을 도시한 도면이고, 도 2는 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100)의 개략적인 모습을 도시한 도면이다. 도 1 및 도 2에 도시된 바와 같이, 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100)는, 프로브(110), 온도 측정부(120), pH 측정부(130), 카메라부(140), 질압 측정부(150) 및 제어부(160)를 포함하여 구성될 수 있으며, 손잡이부(170)를 더 포함하여 구성될 수 있다.Figure 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention. This is a diagram showing a schematic appearance of the device 100. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a probe 110, a temperature measurement unit 120, and a pH measurement unit 130. ), a camera unit 140, a vaginal pressure measurement unit 150, and a control unit 160, and may further include a handle unit 170.
이하에서는, 도 1 및 도 2를 참조하여 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100)의 각 구성에 대해 상세히 설명하도록 한다.Hereinafter, each configuration of the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.
프로브(110)는, 질 내부에 삽입되는 부분으로, 질 내부 환경 측정을 위한 각종 센서가 배치될 수 있다. 보다 구체적으로, 프로브(110)는, 중심부 직경이 양 말단의 직경보다 작은 아령 형태로 구성될 수 있다. 즉, 도 2에 도시된 바와 같이, 아령 형태의 프로브(110)는, 추후 상세히 설명할 질압 측정부(150)의 에어 튜브부(151)를 도넛 형태로 구성해 장착하기 위한 것일 수 있다.The probe 110 is a part inserted into the vagina, and various sensors for measuring the internal vaginal environment may be placed. More specifically, the probe 110 may be configured in a dumbbell shape with a central diameter smaller than the diameters of both ends. That is, as shown in FIG. 2, the dumbbell-shaped probe 110 may be configured to mount the air tube portion 151 of the vaginal pressure measurement unit 150, which will be described in detail later, in a donut shape.
온도 측정부(120)는, 프로브(110)의 외면에 위치하여, 프로브(110)에 접촉된 질 내면의 온도를 측정할 수 있다. 즉, 도 2에 도시된 바와 같이, 프로브(110)의 일측에 접촉식 온도 센서를 배치하여 질 내면의 온도를 측정할 수 있다. 이때, 온도 측정 센서가 질 내면에 접촉해야 하므로, 아령 형태의 프로브(110)에서 질 내부에 삽입되는 쪽의 말단 측면에 온도 측정부(120)가 배치될 수 있다. 여성의 생리주기에 따라서 체온이 변화하므로, 온도 측정부(120)에서 측정되는 온도는, 배란기, 가임기 등을 추정하는 기초 데이터가 될 수 있으며, 임신 전후 체온 변화 등을 분석하는 데 사용될 수 있다.The temperature measuring unit 120 is located on the outer surface of the probe 110 and can measure the temperature of the inner surface of the vagina in contact with the probe 110. That is, as shown in FIG. 2, the temperature inside the vagina can be measured by placing a contact temperature sensor on one side of the probe 110. At this time, since the temperature measuring sensor must contact the inner surface of the vagina, the temperature measuring part 120 may be placed on the distal side of the dumbbell-shaped probe 110 on the side where it is inserted into the vagina. Since body temperature changes according to a woman's menstrual cycle, the temperature measured by the temperature measuring unit 120 can be basic data for estimating the ovulation period, fertile period, etc., and can be used to analyze changes in body temperature before and after pregnancy.
pH 측정부(130)는, 프로브(110)의 외면에 위치하여, 프로브(110)에 접촉된 질 내면의 pH를 측정할 수 있다. 즉, 도 2에 도시된 바와 같이, 프로브(110)의 일측에 접촉식 pH 센서를 배치하여 질벽의 pH를 측정할 수 있다. 이때, 센서가 질 내부에 삽입되어 접촉식으로 질 내부의 pH 값을 측정하므로, 인체에 무해한 접촉식 ISFET(Ion Sensitive Field Effect Transistor) 방식의 반도체 센서를 이용할 수 있다. 이때, ISFET 센서가 질벽 검체에 쉽게 접촉할 수 있도록, 아령 형태의 프로브(110)에서 질 내부에 삽입되는 쪽의 말단 전면에 pH 측정부(130)가 배치될 수 있다.The pH measuring unit 130 is located on the outer surface of the probe 110 and can measure the pH of the inner surface of the vagina in contact with the probe 110. That is, as shown in FIG. 2, the pH of the vaginal wall can be measured by placing a contact pH sensor on one side of the probe 110. At this time, since the sensor is inserted into the vagina and measures the pH value inside the vagina through contact, a contact type ISFET (Ion Sensitive Field Effect Transistor) type semiconductor sensor that is harmless to the human body can be used. At this time, the pH measuring unit 130 may be placed on the front end of the dumbbell-shaped probe 110 on the side that is inserted into the vagina so that the ISFET sensor can easily contact the vaginal wall specimen.
여성의 질은 늘 약산성 상태를 유지해야 하지만, 여러 가지 환경적인 요인으로 알칼리화될 수 있으며, 알칼리 상태에서는 쉽게 세균 등의 침입을 받을 수 있다. 따라서 pH 측정부(130)가 포함된 자가측정 장치(100)를 사용해, 스스로 pH를 측정하고 자기 문진을 통해 pH 밸런스 유지 관리를 할 수 있다.A woman's vagina must always maintain a slightly acidic state, but it can become alkalized due to various environmental factors, and in an alkaline state, it can easily be invaded by bacteria. Therefore, using the self-measurement device 100 including the pH measuring unit 130, it is possible to measure pH on one's own and maintain pH balance through self-examination.
카메라부(140)는, 프로브(110)의 말단에 위치하며 자궁경부를 촬영할 수 있다. 도 2에 도시된 바와 같이, 카메라부(140)는 프로브(110)가 질에 삽입되는 쪽 말단에 위치하여 자궁경부를 촬영할 수 있다. 이때, 추후 상세히 설명할 질압 측정부(150)의 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기가 주입되면, 질 벽이 벌어져 자궁경부가 노출되며, 카메라부(140)는 에어 튜브부(151)에 의해 노출된 자궁경부를 촬영할 수 있다. 즉, 카메라부(140)는 에어 튜브부(151)를 이용해 확보된 공간을 통해 촬영함으로써, 질 내부가 아닌 자궁경부 영상을 획득할 수 있다.The camera unit 140 is located at the end of the probe 110 and can image the cervix. As shown in FIG. 2, the camera unit 140 is located at the end where the probe 110 is inserted into the vagina and can image the cervix. At this time, when air is injected into the air tube unit 151 of the vaginal pressure measuring unit 150, which will be explained in detail later, the vaginal wall opens and the cervix is exposed, and the camera unit 140 is exposed by the air tube unit 151. The cervix can be photographed. In other words, the camera unit 140 can obtain images of the cervix rather than the inside of the vagina by taking pictures through a space secured using the air tube unit 151.
또한, 카메라부(140)는, 초광각 카메라로 구현되어, 근거리의 자궁경부에 초점을 맞추어 자궁경부 전체를 선명하게 촬영할 수 있다. 보다 구체적으로, 카메라부(140)는, 자궁경부 촬영 영상을 획득하는 카메라 모듈(141); 및 카메라 모듈(141)의 전방에 배치되며 근거리 초점 거리를 갖는 보조 렌즈 모듈(142)을 포함하여 구성될 수 있다. 즉, 근거리 초점 거리를 갖도록 내시경용 렌즈로 개발된 보조 렌즈 모듈(142)을 프로브(110)의 최말단에 배치해, 보조 렌즈 모듈(142)을 통해 카메라 모듈(141)로 입사하는 자궁경부 모습의 크기와 초점 거리를 확보할 수 있다.In addition, the camera unit 140 is implemented as an ultra-wide-angle camera, and can clearly image the entire cervix by focusing on the cervix at a close distance. More specifically, the camera unit 140 includes a camera module 141 that acquires an image of the cervix; And it may be configured to include an auxiliary lens module 142 that is disposed in front of the camera module 141 and has a short-distance focal length. That is, the auxiliary lens module 142, developed as an endoscope lens to have a short-distance focal length, is placed at the extreme end of the probe 110, and the cervix is seen entering the camera module 141 through the auxiliary lens module 142. size and focal length can be secured.
획득한 자궁경부 영상은, 사용자의 단말기에 전달되어 사용자 단말기 또는 서버의 인공지능 시스템을 통한 자궁경부암 판독에 사용될 수 있다. 자궁경부 영상의 판독 결과는 사용자 단말기를 통해 사용자가 확인할 수 있다.The acquired cervical image can be delivered to the user's terminal and used to diagnose cervical cancer through the artificial intelligence system of the user's terminal or server. The user can check the results of the cervical image through the user terminal.
또한, 프로브(110)를 질 내부에 삽입하는 과정에서 카메라부(140)가 피부에 직접 닿으면 렌즈에 이물질이 묻어서 촬영을 방해할 수 있다. 따라서 프로브(110)에 콘돔 또는 콘돔 형태의 일회용 커버(disposable cover)를 씌워서, 카메라 렌즈를 이물질에 의한 오염으로부터 보호할 수 있다.Additionally, if the camera unit 140 directly touches the skin during the process of inserting the probe 110 into the vagina, foreign substances may stick to the lens and interfere with imaging. Therefore, the camera lens can be protected from contamination by foreign substances by covering the probe 110 with a condom or a disposable cover in the form of a condom.
질압 측정부(150)는, 프로브(110)를 통해 질 내부에 압력을 가하고, 가해진 압력으로부터 질 용적 및 질 압력을 산출할 수 있다. 보다 구체적으로, 질압 측정부(150)는, 에어 튜브부(151), 에어 펌프부(152) 및 압력 센서부(153)를 포함하여 구성될 수 있으며, 질압 센서 제어부(154)를 더 포함하여 구성될 수 있다.The vaginal pressure measuring unit 150 can apply pressure to the inside of the vagina through the probe 110 and calculate vaginal volume and vaginal pressure from the applied pressure. More specifically, the vaginal pressure measuring unit 150 may be configured to include an air tube unit 151, an air pump unit 152, and a pressure sensor unit 153, and may further include a vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154. It can be configured.
에어 튜브부(151)는, 프로브(110)에 장착되며, 공기에 의해 부피가 변화할 수 있다. 보다 구체적으로, 에어 튜브부(151)는, 의료용 실리콘 재질의 도넛 형태로 구성되어, 프로브(110)를 감싸도록 장착될 수 있다. 즉, 도 2에 도시된 바와 같이, 에어 튜브부(151)는 아령 형태의 프로브(110) 중 직경이 작은 부분을 감싸도록 도넛 형태로 구성될 수 있으며, 인체에 안전하고 유연한 재질인 의료용 실리콘으로 구성할 수 있다. 또한, 도넛 형태의 에어 튜브부(151)가 장착된 상태에서 에어 튜브부(151)와 아령 형태의 프로브(110) 양쪽을 전체적으로 감싸 보호하도록, 의료용 실리콘 소재로 프로브 전체를 덮어 프로프(110)를 질 내부에 삽입할 때의 이물감을 최소화하고, 관리 용이성을 높일 수 있다.The air tube portion 151 is mounted on the probe 110, and its volume may change due to air. More specifically, the air tube portion 151 may be made of medical silicone in a donut shape and may be mounted to surround the probe 110. That is, as shown in FIG. 2, the air tube portion 151 may be configured in a donut shape to surround the small diameter portion of the dumbbell-shaped probe 110, and is made of medical silicone, a material that is safe and flexible for the human body. It can be configured. In addition, while the donut-shaped air tube part 151 is mounted, the entire probe is covered with a medical silicone material to protect both the air tube part 151 and the dumbbell-shaped probe 110, thereby protecting the probe 110. It can minimize the sensation of a foreign body when inserted into the vagina and increase ease of management.
에어 펌프부(152)는, 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기를 주입할 수 있다. 에어 펌프부(152)는 전자식 펌프와 전자식 펌프에서 에어 튜브부(151)로 연결된 공기 주입구로 구성될 수 있다. 도 2에 도시된 바와 같이, 전자식 펌프는 추후 상세히 설명할 손잡이부(170) 내부에 배치될 수 있고, 공기 주입구가 전자식 펌프와 에어 튜브부(151) 사이를 연결할 수 있다.The air pump unit 152 can inject air into the air tube unit 151. The air pump unit 152 may be comprised of an electronic pump and an air inlet connected from the electronic pump to the air tube unit 151. As shown in FIG. 2, the electronic pump can be placed inside the handle portion 170, which will be described in detail later, and an air inlet can be connected between the electronic pump and the air tube portion 151.
압력 센서부(153)는, 에어 튜브부(151)에 가해지는 압력을 측정할 수 있다. 압력 센서부(153)는 질 압력의 측정을 위한 비접촉식 기압 센서로 구성될 수 있으며, 도 2에 도시된 바와 같이, 에어 튜브부(151)가 장착된 프로브(110) 내부에 기압 센서가 배치될 수 있다.The pressure sensor unit 153 can measure the pressure applied to the air tube unit 151. The pressure sensor unit 153 may be configured as a non-contact barometric pressure sensor for measuring vaginal pressure. As shown in FIG. 2, the barometric pressure sensor may be placed inside the probe 110 on which the air tube unit 151 is mounted. You can.
도 3은 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100)에서, 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기 주입 시 변화 모습을 도시한 도면이다. 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100)에서는, 도 3의 위쪽에 도시된 바와 같이 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기가 없는 상태에서 에어 펌프부(152)에 의해 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기가 주입되면, 도 3의 아래쪽에 도시된 바와 같이 에어 튜브부(151)의 부피가 변화할 수 있다. 질 내에 프로브(110)가 삽입된 상태에서 도 3에 도시된 바와 같이 에어 튜브부(151)의 부피가 변화하면, 질 내벽에 압력이 가해진다.Figure 3 is a diagram showing a change when air is injected into the air tube portion 151 in the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention, as shown at the top of FIG. 3, the air pump unit 152 is supplied with no air in the air tube unit 151. When air is injected into the air tube portion 151, the volume of the air tube portion 151 may change as shown at the bottom of FIG. 3. When the volume of the air tube portion 151 changes as shown in FIG. 3 while the probe 110 is inserted into the vagina, pressure is applied to the inner wall of the vagina.
질압 센서 제어부(154)는, 에어 펌프부(152)를 제어해 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기를 주입 또는 배출하여 질 용적 및 질 압력을 측정할 수 있다. 도 4는 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100)에서, 질압 센서 제어부(154)의 세부적인 구성을 도시한 도면이다. 도 4에 도시된 바와 같이, 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100)에서, 질압 센서 제어부(154)는, 제1 측정 모듈(154-1), 제2 측정 모듈(154-2) 및 공기 배출 모듈(154-3)을 포함하여 구성될 수 있다.The vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154 controls the air pump unit 152 to inject or discharge air into the air tube unit 151 to measure vaginal volume and vaginal pressure. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the detailed configuration of the vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154 in the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 4, in the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention, the vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154 includes a first measurement module 154-1, a second It may be configured to include a measurement module 154-2 and an air discharge module 154-3.
제1 측정 모듈(154-1)은, 질벽에 에어 튜브부(151)가 밀착된 상태에서 미리 정해진 기압의 압력이 가해지도록 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기를 주입하여 질 용적을 측정할 수 있다. 여기서, 미리 정해진 기압은 1기압, 760mmHg 일 수 있다. 즉, 제1 측정 모듈(154-1)은 에어 펌프부(152)를 제어해 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기를 주입하여 질벽에 튜브가 밀착된 상태를 만든 다음, 밀착 상태에서 더 공기를 주입하여 1기압의 압력이 가해지면 공기 주입을 중지한다. 제1 측정 모듈(154-1)은 공기 주입 중지 시점까지 주입된 공기의 양으로부터 질 용적을 산출할 수 있다. 이때, 측정 대상인 사용자는 질에 힘을 가하지 않는다.The first measurement module 154-1 can measure the vaginal volume by injecting air into the air tube 151 so that a predetermined atmospheric pressure is applied while the air tube 151 is in close contact with the vaginal wall. . Here, the predetermined atmospheric pressure may be 1 atm, 760 mmHg. That is, the first measurement module 154-1 controls the air pump unit 152 to inject air into the air tube unit 151 to create a state in which the tube is in close contact with the vaginal wall, and then further injects air in the state of close contact. When a pressure of 1 atm is applied, air injection is stopped. The first measurement module 154-1 may calculate the vaginal volume from the amount of air injected until the point at which air injection is stopped. At this time, the user who is the measurement target does not apply force to the vagina.
제2 측정 모듈(154-2)은, 질 용적만큼 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기를 주입하고, 질 내에 힘이 가해지는 상태에서 입력 센서부를 통해 질 압력을 측정할 수 있다. 즉, 제2 측정 모듈(154-2)은 에어 펌프부(152)를 제어해 제1 측정 모듈(154-1)이 주입했던 공기 용적 즉, 공기의 양만큼 공기를 주입하고, 측정 대상인 사용자가 질에 힘을 가할 때 압력 센서부(153)에 가해지는 압력을 측정해 질 압력을 산출할 수 있다.The second measurement module 154-2 can inject air into the air tube unit 151 equal to the volume of the vagina and measure the vaginal pressure through the input sensor unit while force is applied to the vagina. That is, the second measurement module 154-2 controls the air pump unit 152 to inject air equal to the air volume injected by the first measurement module 154-1, that is, the amount of air, and the user who is the measurement target When force is applied to the vagina, the vaginal pressure can be calculated by measuring the pressure applied to the pressure sensor unit 153.
공기 배출 모듈(154-3)은, 제1 측정 모듈(154-1) 또는 제2 측정 모듈(154-2)의 측정 후에 에어 튜브부(151)에서 공기를 배출할 수 있다. 즉, 공기 배출 모듈(154-3)은 에어 펌프부(152)를 제어해 에어 튜브부(151)에 주입되었던 공기를 배출할 수 있다.The air discharge module 154-3 may discharge air from the air tube portion 151 after measurement by the first measurement module 154-1 or the second measurement module 154-2. That is, the air discharge module 154-3 can control the air pump unit 152 to discharge the air injected into the air tube unit 151.
도 5는 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100)에서, 질압 센서 제어부(154)가 질 용적 및 질 압력을 측정하는 과정을 도시한 도면이다. 도 5에 도시된 바와 같이, 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100)의 질압 센서 제어부(154)는, 제1 측정 모듈(154-1)에서 질 용적을 측정하는 제1 측정 단계(S110); 공기 매출 모듈이 제1 측정 단계(S110)에서의 질 용적 측정 후에 에어 튜브부(151)에서 공기를 배출하는 공기 배출 단계(S120); 및 제2 측정 모듈(154-2)에서 질 압력을 측정하는 제2 측정 단계(S130)를 포함하여 질 용적 및 질 압력을 측정할 수 있으며, 측정을 종료하고 프로브(110)를 질 외부로 쉽게 뺄 수 있도록 공기 배출 단계(S140)를 더 포함하여 구현될 수 있다.Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating a process in which the vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154 measures vaginal volume and vaginal pressure in the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 5, the vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154 of the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention measures the vaginal volume in the first measurement module 154-1. A first measurement step (S110); An air discharge step (S120) in which the air sales module discharges air from the air tube portion 151 after measuring the vaginal volume in the first measurement step (S110); And the vaginal volume and vaginal pressure can be measured, including a second measurement step (S130) of measuring the vaginal pressure in the second measurement module (154-2), and the measurement is terminated and the probe (110) is easily placed outside the vagina. It may be implemented by further including an air discharge step (S140) so that it can be removed.
제1 측정 단계(S110)에서는, 제1 측정 모듈(154-1)이 에어 펌프부(152)를 제어해 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기를 주입해 질벽에 에어 튜브부(151)가 밀착되도록 한 다음, 공기를 더 주입해 압력 센서부(153)에서 1기압이 측정되면 공기 주입을 중지할 수 있다. 이때 주입된 공기의 양을 측정해 질 용적을 측정할 수 있다.In the first measurement step (S110), the first measurement module 154-1 controls the air pump unit 152 to inject air into the air tube unit 151 so that the air tube unit 151 is in close contact with the vaginal wall. Then, more air can be injected and the air injection can be stopped when 1 atmosphere is measured in the pressure sensor unit 153. At this time, the vaginal volume can be measured by measuring the amount of air injected.
공기 배출 단계(S120)에서는, 공기 배출 모듈(154-3)이 제1 측정 단계(S110)에서의 질 용적 측정 후에 에어 튜브부(151)에서 공기를 배출할 수 있다. 실시예에 따라서는, 이때 배출되는 공기의 양을 측정해 질 용적을 측정할 수도 있다.In the air discharge step (S120), the air discharge module 154-3 may discharge air from the air tube portion 151 after measuring the vaginal volume in the first measurement step (S110). Depending on the embodiment, the vaginal volume may be measured by measuring the amount of air discharged at this time.
제2 측정 단계(S130)에서는, 제2 측정 모듈(154-2)에서 질 압력을 측정할 수 있다. 즉, 질 용적에 대응하는 양의 공기를 에어 튜브부(151)에 주입하고, 측정 대상인 사용자가 질에 힘을 가하도록 해 질 압력을 측정할 수 있다.In the second measurement step (S130), the vaginal pressure can be measured in the second measurement module 154-2. That is, an amount of air corresponding to the vaginal volume is injected into the air tube unit 151, and the vaginal pressure can be measured by having the user, the measurement target, apply force to the vagina.
제어부(160)는, 온도 측정부(120), pH 측정부(130), 카메라부(140) 및 질압 측정부(150)를 제어할 수 있다. 이때, 접촉 방식으로 센싱을 하는 온도 측정부(120) 및 pH 측정부(130)에서 온도 및 pH를 먼저 측정하고, 질압 측정부(150)에서 공기를 주입해 질 용적을 측정하는 과정에서 질 벽이 벌어져 자궁경부가 노출될 때, 카메라부(140)를 사용해 자궁경부를 촬영하도록 제어할 수 있다.The control unit 160 may control the temperature measurement unit 120, pH measurement unit 130, camera unit 140, and vaginal pressure measurement unit 150. At this time, the temperature and pH are first measured by the temperature measuring unit 120 and pH measuring unit 130, which sense by contact method, and the vaginal pressure measuring unit 150 injects air to measure the vaginal volume in the process of measuring the vaginal wall. When this opens and the cervix is exposed, the camera unit 140 can be used to control the cervix to be photographed.
손잡이부(170)는, 프로브(110)에 평행하게 연결된 제1 손잡이부(171) 및 프로브(110)와 제1 손잡이부(171) 사이에 프로브(110)와 수직으로 연결된 제2 손잡이부(172)를 포함하여 구성될 수 있다. 도 2에 도시된 바와 같이, 손잡이부(170)의 내부에는 에어 펌프부(152), 질압 센서 제어부(154), 제어부(160) 등의 구성이 내장될 수 있다.The handle portion 170 includes a first handle portion 171 connected in parallel to the probe 110 and a second handle portion connected perpendicularly to the probe 110 between the probe 110 and the first handle portion 171 ( 172). As shown in FIG. 2, components such as an air pump unit 152, a vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154, and a control unit 160 may be built into the handle unit 170.
또한, 제2 손잡이부(172)가 프로브(110) 및 제1 손잡이부(171)와 수직으로 연결되어 자가측정 장치(100)가 전체적으로 “ㅗ”자의 형태로 구성될 수 있다. 이와 같이, 전체적인 형태를 “ㅗ”자로 구성함으로써, 자가측정 시 자세에 따라 사용자가 제1 손잡이부(171) 또는 제2 손잡이부(172)를 편안하게 잡고 안정적으로 프로브(110)를 질에 삽입할 수 있다. 또한, 병원 등에서 사용하는 대형의 측정장치와는 달리 가정 등에서 개인이 사용하는 자가측정 장치(100)는 그 특성상, 별도의 연결 장비 없이 단독으로 사용된다. 따라서 “ㅗ”자 형태로 손잡이부(170)를 구성해 내부에 여러 센서를 제어하기 위한 제어부(160)와 전원공급부(미도시) 등을 내장할 수 있는 충분한 공간을 확보할 수 있다.In addition, the second handle portion 172 is vertically connected to the probe 110 and the first handle portion 171, so that the self-measurement device 100 can be configured as an overall “ㅗ” shape. In this way, by configuring the overall shape in the shape of “ㅗ”, the user can comfortably hold the first handle 171 or the second handle 172 and stably insert the probe 110 into the vagina depending on the posture during self-measurement. can do. In addition, unlike large-scale measuring devices used in hospitals, etc., the self-measuring device 100 used by individuals at home, etc., due to its characteristics, is used alone without any separate connection equipment. Therefore, by configuring the handle portion 170 in the shape of a “ㅗ” shape, sufficient space can be secured to install a control unit 160 and a power supply unit (not shown) for controlling various sensors inside.
또한, 손잡이부(170)에는, 측정을 개시하기 위한 측정 버튼을 구비할 수 있다. 따라서 사용자는 질 내부에 프로브(110)를 삽입한 다음, 측정 버튼을 이용해 측정을 개시할 수 있다. 측정이 개시되면 자가측정 장치(100)는 접촉식 센서를 사용하는 온도 및 pH를 먼저 측정하고, 질압 측정부(150)에서 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기를 주입해 질 용적을 측정할 때 질 내부의 공간이 확보되는 것을 이용해 자궁경부를 촬영하고, 에어 튜브부(151)에서 공기를 빼고 다시 주입한 다음 사용자가 질에 힘을 가할 때 질 압력을 측정한 다음, 에어 튜브부(151)에서 공기를 빼고 측정을 종료할 수 있다.Additionally, the handle portion 170 may be provided with a measurement button for starting measurement. Therefore, the user can insert the probe 110 inside the vagina and then start measurement using the measurement button. When measurement is initiated, the self-measurement device 100 first measures temperature and pH using a contact sensor, and then measures the vaginal volume by injecting air from the vaginal pressure measurement unit 150 into the air tube unit 151. Taking advantage of the internal space secured, the cervix is photographed, air is removed from the air tube part 151 and re-injected, the vaginal pressure is measured when the user applies force to the vagina, and then air is extracted from the air tube part 151. You can end the measurement by subtracting .
도 6은 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100)가 사용자 단말기(200)와 통신하는 모습을 도시한 도면이다. 도 6에 도시된 바와 같이, 본 발명의 일실시예에 따른 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100)는, 측정한 온도, pH, 자궁경부 영상, 질 용적, 질 압력 등의 질 내 환경 데이터를 유무선 네트워크를 통해 사용자 단말기(200)에 송신할 수 있다. 여기서, 네트워크는 근거리 통신망(Local Area Network; LAN), 광역 통신망(Wide Area Network; WAN) 또는 부가가치 통신망(Value Added Network; VAN) 등과 같은 유선 네트워크나 이동 통신망(mobile radio communication network), 위성 통신망, 블루투스(Bluetooth), Wibro(Wireless Broadband Internet), HSDPA(High Speed Downlink Packet Access), LTE(Long Term Evolution), 3/4/5/6G(3/4/5/6th Generation Mobile Telecommunication) 등과 같은 모든 종류의 무선 네트워크로 구현될 수 있다.FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health communicating with the user terminal 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 6, the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health according to an embodiment of the present invention measures the vaginal environment such as measured temperature, pH, cervical image, vaginal volume, and vaginal pressure. Data can be transmitted to the user terminal 200 through a wired or wireless network. Here, the network is a wired network such as a Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), or Value Added Network (VAN), a mobile radio communication network, a satellite communication network, All technologies such as Bluetooth, Wibro (Wireless Broadband Internet), HSDPA (High Speed Downlink Packet Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution), 3/4/5/6G (3/4/5/6th Generation Mobile Telecommunication), etc. It can be implemented as any type of wireless network.
사용자 단말기(200)는 질 내 환경 데이터를 수신하고 분석하여 출력하는 애플리케이션을 구동하여, 측정한 질 내 환경 데이터를 저장 및 추적할 수 있다. 예를 들어, 질 내 온도에 따른 배란기, 가임기, 임신 전후 변화 등을 추적하거나, pH 변화를 추적해 pH 밸런스가 깨지지 않도록 하거나, 질 용적 및 질 압력에 따른 질의 수축 및 이완 상태에 따른 변화 정보를 측정 및 추적할 수 있다. 따라서 측정 대상이 되는 사용자는 자가측정 장치(100)와 사용자 단말기(200)를 이용해, 질 내 환경을 스스로 측정하고 모니터링하여 질 건강을 관리할 수 있다.The user terminal 200 may run an application that receives, analyzes, and outputs vaginal environmental data, and stores and tracks the measured vaginal environmental data. For example, it tracks changes in ovulation, fertile period, pre- and post-pregnancy, etc. according to vaginal temperature, tracks pH changes to prevent pH balance, or provides change information according to vaginal contraction and relaxation status according to vaginal volume and vaginal pressure. Can be measured and tracked. Therefore, the user subject to measurement can use the self-measurement device 100 and the user terminal 200 to manage their vaginal health by measuring and monitoring the vaginal environment.
이때, 사용자 단말기(200)는 각종 전자장치로 구현될 수 있다. 여기서, 전자장치는 스마트폰, 태블릿(tablet) PC(personal computer), 이동 전화기, 영상 전화기, 전자책 리더기, 데스크탑(desktop) PC, 랩탑(laptop) PC, 넷북(netbook) 컴퓨터, 워크스테이션(workstation), 서버(server), PDA(personal digital assistant), 미디어 박스, 게임 콘솔, 전자사전 또는 웨어러블 장치(wearable device) 중 적어도 하나를 포함할 수 있으며, 웨어러블 장치는 액세서리형(예: 시계, 반지, 팔찌, 발찌, 목걸이, 안경, 콘택트렌즈, 또는 머리착용형 장치(HMD, head-mounted-device), 직물 또는 의류 일체형(예: 전자 의복), 신체 부착형(예: 스킨 패드(skin pad) 또는 문신), 또는 생체 이식형 회로(implantable circuit) 중 적어도 하나를 포함할 수 있다. 다양한 실시예들에서, 전자장치는 전술한 기기들에 한정되지는 않으며, 전술한 다양한 장치 중 둘 이상의 조합일 수 있다.At this time, the user terminal 200 may be implemented with various electronic devices. Here, the electronic devices include smartphones, tablet personal computers, mobile phones, video phones, e-book readers, desktop PCs, laptop PCs, netbook computers, and workstations. ), a server, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a media box, a game console, an electronic dictionary, or a wearable device. The wearable device may be an accessory type (e.g., a watch, a ring, Bracelet, anklet, necklace, glasses, contact lenses, or head-mounted-device (HMD), fabric or clothing-integrated (e.g. electronic garment), body-worn (e.g. skin pad or tattoo), or an implantable circuit. In various embodiments, the electronic device is not limited to the above-described devices and may be a combination of two or more of the various devices described above. there is.
전술한 바와 같이, 본 발명에서 제안하고 있는 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100)에 따르면, 질 내부에 삽입되는 프로브(110)와, 질 내부의 온도와 pH를 측정하고, 자궁경부 촬영 영상을 획득하며, 질 용적 및 질 압력을 측정하는 측정부를 포함함으로써, 여성이 산부인과 등에 방문하지 않고도 질 내 환경을 스스로 측정하고 쉽고 간편하게 질 건강을 관리할 수 있고, 질 건강에 문제가 발생하거나 증세가 악화하기 전에 선제적 진료를 할 수 있으며, 평소의 질 내 환경 데이터를 확보해 진료 정확성을 높일 수 있다.As described above, according to the self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health proposed in the present invention, the probe 110 inserted into the vagina, measures the temperature and pH inside the vagina, and photographs the cervix. By acquiring images and including a measurement unit that measures vaginal volume and vaginal pressure, women can measure the vaginal environment on their own and manage their vaginal health easily and conveniently without visiting an obstetrician or gynecologist, and if problems or symptoms occur in vaginal health Preemptive treatment can be provided before the condition worsens, and treatment accuracy can be improved by securing routine vaginal environmental data.
이상 설명한 본 발명은 본 발명이 속한 기술분야에서 통상의 지식을 가진 자에 의하여 다양한 변형이나 응용이 가능하며, 본 발명에 따른 기술적 사상의 범위는 아래의 특허청구범위에 의하여 정해져야 할 것이다.The present invention described above can be modified or applied in various ways by those skilled in the art, and the scope of the technical idea according to the present invention should be determined by the claims below.

Claims (8)

  1. 자가측정 장치(100)로서,As a self-measurement device 100,
    질 내부에 삽입되는 프로브(110);A probe 110 inserted into the vagina;
    상기 프로브(110)의 외면에 위치하여, 상기 프로브(110)에 접촉된 질 내면의 온도를 측정하는 온도 측정부(120);A temperature measuring unit 120 located on the outer surface of the probe 110 and measuring the temperature of the inner surface of the vagina in contact with the probe 110;
    상기 프로브(110)의 외면에 위치하여, 상기 프로브(110)에 접촉된 질 내면의 pH를 측정하는 pH 측정부(130);A pH measuring unit 130 located on the outer surface of the probe 110 and measuring the pH of the inner surface of the vagina in contact with the probe 110;
    상기 프로브(110)의 말단에 위치하며 자궁경부를 촬영하는 카메라부(140);A camera unit 140 located at the end of the probe 110 and photographing the cervix;
    상기 프로브(110)를 통해 질 내부에 압력을 가하고, 가해진 압력으로부터 질 용적 및 질 압력을 산출하는 질압 측정부(150); 및A vaginal pressure measuring unit 150 that applies pressure to the inside of the vagina through the probe 110 and calculates vaginal volume and vaginal pressure from the applied pressure; and
    상기 온도 측정부(120), pH 측정부(130), 카메라부(140) 및 질압 측정부(150)를 제어하는 제어부(160)를 포함하는 것을 특징으로 하는, 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100).Self-measurement for monitoring female vaginal health, comprising a control unit 160 that controls the temperature measurement unit 120, pH measurement unit 130, camera unit 140, and vaginal pressure measurement unit 150. Device (100).
  2. 제1항에 있어서, 상기 카메라부(140)는,The method of claim 1, wherein the camera unit 140,
    자궁경부 촬영 영상을 획득하는 카메라 모듈(141); 및A camera module 141 that acquires images of the cervix; and
    상기 카메라 모듈(141)의 전방에 배치되며 근거리 초점 거리를 갖는 보조 렌즈 모듈(142)을 포함하는 것을 특징으로 하는, 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100).A self-measurement device (100) for monitoring female vaginal health, characterized in that it includes an auxiliary lens module (142) disposed in front of the camera module (141) and having a short-range focal length.
  3. 제1항에 있어서, 상기 질압 측정부(150)는,The method of claim 1, wherein the vaginal pressure measuring unit 150,
    상기 프로브(110)에 장착되며, 공기에 의해 부피가 변화하는 에어 튜브부(151);An air tube portion 151 mounted on the probe 110 and whose volume changes with air;
    상기 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기를 주입하는 에어 펌프부(152); 및an air pump unit 152 that injects air into the air tube unit 151; and
    상기 에어 튜브부(151)에 가해지는 압력을 측정하는 압력 센서부(153)를 포함하는 것을 특징으로 하는, 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100).A self-measurement device 100 for monitoring female vaginal health, characterized in that it includes a pressure sensor unit 153 that measures the pressure applied to the air tube unit 151.
  4. 제3항에 있어서, 상기 프로브(110)는,The method of claim 3, wherein the probe 110 is:
    중심부 직경이 양 말단의 직경보다 작은 아령 형태로 구성되며,It is constructed in the shape of a dumbbell where the central diameter is smaller than the diameter of both ends.
    상기 에어 튜브부(151)는,The air tube portion 151 is,
    의료용 실리콘 재질의 도넛 형태로 구성되어, 상기 프로브(110)를 감싸도록 장착되는 것을 특징으로 하는, 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100).A self-measurement device (100) for monitoring female vaginal health, which is composed of a donut shape made of medical silicone and mounted to surround the probe (110).
  5. 제3항에 있어서, 상기 질압 측정부(150)는,The method of claim 3, wherein the vaginal pressure measuring unit 150,
    상기 에어 펌프부(152)를 제어해 상기 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기를 주입 또는 배출하여 질 용적 및 질 압력을 측정하는 질압 센서 제어부(154)를 더 포함하는 것을 특징으로 하는, 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100).Female vaginal health, characterized in that it further comprises a vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154 that measures vaginal volume and vaginal pressure by controlling the air pump unit 152 to inject or discharge air into the air tube unit 151. Self-measurement device for monitoring (100).
  6. 제5항에 있어서, 상기 질압 센서 제어부(154)는,The method of claim 5, wherein the vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154,
    질벽에 상기 에어 튜브부(151)가 밀착된 상태에서 미리 정해진 기압의 압력이 가해지도록 상기 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기를 주입하여 질 용적을 측정하는 제1 측정 모듈(154-1);A first measurement module 154-1 that measures vaginal volume by injecting air into the air tube 151 so that a predetermined atmospheric pressure is applied while the air tube 151 is in close contact with the vaginal wall;
    상기 질 용적만큼 상기 에어 튜브부(151)에 공기를 주입하고, 질내에 힘이 가해지는 상태에서 상기 입력 센서부를 통해 질 압력을 측정하는 제2 측정 모듈(154-2); 및a second measurement module (154-2) that injects air into the air tube portion (151) equal to the vaginal volume and measures vaginal pressure through the input sensor portion while force is applied to the vagina; and
    상기 제1 측정 모듈(154-1) 또는 제2 측정 모듈(154-2)의 측정 후에 상기 에어 튜브부(151)에서 공기를 배출하는 공기 배출 모듈(154-3)을 포함하는 것을 특징으로 하는, 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100).Characterized in that it includes an air discharge module (154-3) that discharges air from the air tube portion (151) after measurement by the first measurement module (154-1) or the second measurement module (154-2). , a self-measurement device for monitoring female vaginal health (100).
  7. 제6항에 있어서, 상기 질압 센서 제어부(154)는,The method of claim 6, wherein the vaginal pressure sensor control unit 154,
    (1) 상기 제1 측정 모듈(154-1)에서 질 용적을 측정하는 제1 측정 단계(S110);(1) a first measurement step (S110) of measuring vaginal volume in the first measurement module 154-1;
    (2) 상기 공기 배출 모듈(154-3)이 상기 제1 측정 단계(S110)에서의 질 용적 측정 후에 상기 에어 튜브부(151)에서 공기를 배출하는 공기 배출 단계(S120); 및(2) an air discharge step (S120) in which the air discharge module (154-3) discharges air from the air tube portion (151) after measuring the vaginal volume in the first measurement step (S110); and
    (3) 상기 제2 측정 모듈(154-2)에서 상기 질 압력을 측정하는 제2 측정 단계(S130)를 처리해 상기 질 용적 및 질 압력을 측정하는 것을 특징으로 하는, 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100).(3) Self-assessment for female vaginal health monitoring, characterized in that the vaginal volume and vaginal pressure are measured by processing the second measurement step (S130) of measuring the vaginal pressure in the second measurement module (154-2). Measuring device (100).
  8. 제1항에 있어서,According to paragraph 1,
    상기 프로브(110)에 평행하게 연결된 제1 손잡이부(171) 및 상기 프로브(110)와 상기 제1 손잡이부(171) 사이에 상기 프로브(110)와 수직으로 연결된 제2 손잡이부(172)를 포함하여 구성된 손잡이부(170)를 더 포함하는 것을 특징으로 하는, 여성 질 건강 모니터링을 위한 자가측정 장치(100).A first handle 171 connected in parallel to the probe 110 and a second handle 172 connected perpendicular to the probe 110 between the probe 110 and the first handle 171. A self-measurement device (100) for monitoring female vaginal health, characterized in that it further includes a handle portion (170) configured to include.
PCT/KR2023/010527 2022-09-27 2023-07-20 Self-measurement apparatus for monitoring vaginal health of women WO2024071616A1 (en)

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US20110190579A1 (en) * 2009-09-28 2011-08-04 Witold Andrew Ziarno Intravaginal monitoring device
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KR20200145227A (en) * 2019-06-21 2020-12-30 주식회사 엠비랩 Diagnosis apparatus for volume in vagina and pressure in vagina
KR20220085983A (en) * 2020-12-16 2022-06-23 조성두 Diagnosis apparatus for volume in vagina and pressure in vagina
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US20200069161A1 (en) * 2010-07-12 2020-03-05 Therasyn Sensors, Inc. Wireless vaginal capsule and methods for monitoring fertility and pregnancy
KR20200145227A (en) * 2019-06-21 2020-12-30 주식회사 엠비랩 Diagnosis apparatus for volume in vagina and pressure in vagina
KR20220085983A (en) * 2020-12-16 2022-06-23 조성두 Diagnosis apparatus for volume in vagina and pressure in vagina
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