Cooling equipment

Abstract

This invention relates to a cooling device that offers high convenience and prevents stuffiness or dampness around the wearer's eyes. The device comprises a main body covering at least the eyes of the wearer's face, and a cooling element disposed on the main body. The cooling element is stored sealed within a waterproof packaging. While sealed, the cooling element has a water-retaining layer and is positioned on the main body such that at least a portion of it comes into direct or indirect contact with the wearer's eyes during wear. At least one of the main body and the cooling element includes a spacer sheet positioned between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer during wear. One or more spacer sheets positioned between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer are breathable.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a cooling device. Prior Technology

[0002] It is known that eye masks are used to relieve eye fatigue or puffiness. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a cooling eye mask constructed in which a non-woven fabric-type cooling agent is applied to the surface of a nylon film and then bonded to it. The non-woven fabric absorbs condensation generated during cooling or water vapor contained in the atmosphere surrounding the cooling agent, thereby preventing moisture from seeping onto the surface of the cooling agent.

[0003] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 discloses a body assembly device in which the surface side sheet and the contact side sheet form a bag-shaped assembly device body containing a water-absorbing polymer. When in use, the assembly device body is immersed in cold water and then wrung out to remove excess water. [Previous Technical Documents] [Patent Literature]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Registration No. 3156195 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-28176 Summary of the Invention

[0005] [The problem the invention aims to solve]

[0006] However, in the cold compress eye mask of Patent Document 1, moisture may be absorbed by the non-woven fabric, or condensation may occur during cooling, or water vapor contained in the atmosphere around the coolant may be transferred to the wearer's eye area, potentially causing the eye area to become wet or stuffy, thus causing discomfort to the wearer. Furthermore, since the coolant in Patent Document 1 needs to be cooled in a refrigerator before use, there is also the problem of not being able to use it immediately, or having to spend time refrigerating it.

[0007] Regarding the body fitting device in Patent Document 2, it requires immersing the device body in water and then wringing out the excess water, which is time-consuming. Furthermore, when the device body is immersed in water, the surface and contact surfaces become wet, which may cause the wearer's eye area to become damp or stuffy due to the remaining water, resulting in discomfort.

[0008] This invention relates to a cooling device that is highly convenient and can prevent the wearer's eye area from feeling stuffy or wet. [Technical means to solve the problem]

[0009] This invention relates to a cooling device comprising a body portion covering at least the eyes of a wearer's face and a cooling body disposed on the body portion, wherein at least the cooling body is stored in a waterproof packaging body, the cooling body having a water-retaining layer therein and being disposed on the body portion such that at least a portion therein directly or indirectly contacts the wearer's eyes when worn, at least one of the body portion and the cooling body having a spacer sheet disposed between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer when worn, and one or more of the spacer sheets disposed between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer comprising a breathable sheet. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] The cooling device according to the present invention is highly convenient and can prevent the wearer's eye area from feeling stuffy or wet. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0011] Figure 1 is a diagram showing a cooling device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cooling device according to this embodiment. Figure 3 is a diagram showing the cooling body of this embodiment. Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view along line II-II' in Figure 3. Figure 5(a) shows the state of the retaining part when it is stretched, and Figure 5(b) shows the state of the retaining part when it is assembled. Figure 6 shows the state of the cooling device sealed inside the packaging. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of an apparatus for measuring the amount of water vapor generated. Implementation

[0012] The preferred embodiments for carrying out the present invention will now be described using drawings. Furthermore, the following embodiments are not intended to limit the invention of each claim, and the combinations of features described in the embodiments are not necessarily all necessary for the solution of the invention. Also, the drawings are schematic diagrams with appropriate emphasis or omission and scale adjustment for the purpose of illustrating the present invention, and may differ from the actual shapes, positional relationships, or scales.

[0013] [Overall Composition of Cooling Equipment] As shown in Figure 1, the cooling device 1 of this embodiment includes a main body 2 covering at least the eyes of the wearer's face, and a cooling body 20 disposed on the main body 2. The cooling body 20 is stored sealed within a waterproof packaging 200. The cooling device 1 of this embodiment further includes one or more holding portions 30 for holding the main body 2 in front of the wearer's face. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the entire cooling device 1 is sealed within the packaging 200.

[0014] Furthermore, in this specification, the upper edge of the main body 2 when viewed from a planar direction (i.e., the state shown in Figure 1) is referred to as the "upper edge 7", and the lower edge in the same state is referred to as the "lower edge 8". Here, the "upper edge 7" is the edge located on the forehead side when covering the wearer's eyes, and the "lower edge 8" is the edge located on the nose side when covering the wearer's eyes.

[0015] Furthermore, in this specification, "lateral" refers to the direction consistent with the arrangement direction of the first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B when viewed from a planar direction (i.e., the state shown in Figure 1). "The two lateral ends of the body portion 2" refers to the ends of the first panel portion 10A on the holding portion 30 side and the ends of the second panel portion 10B on the holding portion 30 side.

[0016] As shown in Figure 1, the main body 2 has a first panel 10A covering one eye (e.g., the right eye) of the wearer and a second panel 10B covering the other eye (e.g., the left eye) of the wearer. The first panel 10A and the second panel 10B are each formed into a generally square shape, and the periphery of the two horizontal ends of the main body 2 is formed into an outwardly protruding arc shape.

[0017] As shown in Figure 1, the main body 2 has a longitudinal centerline 100, which extends in a direction orthogonal to the transverse center of the main body 2 when the main body 2 is unfolded with the wearer's non-eye area side (outer surface) facing upwards. In the main body 2 of this embodiment, the first panel 10A is formed on one side of the transverse direction with the longitudinal centerline 100 as the boundary, and the second panel 10B is formed on the other side of the transverse direction. Furthermore, Figure 1 is a top view of the main body 2 when it is unfolded with the wearer's non-eye area side (outer surface) facing upwards, and Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cooling device 1 of this embodiment.

[0018] As shown in Figure 1, the first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B are integrally connected at the longitudinal center line 100, and have a shape that is symmetrical about the longitudinal center line 100 between the two panel portions 10A and 10B. In other words, the body portion 2 includes a sheet-like member in which the first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B, which are of the same size and shape, are symmetrically arranged. Furthermore, for example, the first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B, which are formed separately, can be mechanically joined together, instead of the first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B being integrally formed from the beginning.

[0019] The first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B are not joined near the upper edge 7 and lower edge 8 of the longitudinal centerline 100, but are connected only at the longitudinal centerline 100. Therefore, the body portion 2 is configured such that when the first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B are unfolded with the longitudinal centerline 100 as the center, the first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B are arranged side-by-side in the planar direction. That is, as shown in FIG2, the body portion 2 is configured such that the first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B can be unfolded with the longitudinal centerline 100 as the center, so that the angle between the first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B reaches 180 degrees. Furthermore, the term "connection" here includes the following two configurations: a configuration in which the first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B are integrally formed and thus connected from the beginning; and a configuration in which the separately formed first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B are mechanically connected.

[0020] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the body part 2 is sheet-like, specifically formed from a single sheet. The single sheet forming the body part 2 can be a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure formed by laminating multiple sheets. Since the sheet-like component forming the body part 2 can impart various functions to the body part 2 by assigning different functions to the multiple sheets, it is preferable to form a multi-layer structure. When using multiple sheets, the sheets can be embossed or laminated, or even when joined together, the sheets can be spaced apart. Furthermore, when the sheets are spaced apart, the joining of the sheets can be done by joining the edges of the sheets along the shape of the body part 2, or by joining only a portion of the edges. Moreover, regarding the joining method, the following methods can be used for joining.

[0021] At least one of the main body 2 and the cooling body 20 described below includes a spacer sheet 12 disposed between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer 24 during wear. In this embodiment, both the main body 2 and the cooling body 20 include the spacer sheet 12, and the inner surface sheet 14 and the first sheet 26 of the cooling body 20 function as the spacer sheet 12. One or more spacer sheets 12 disposed between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer 24 include breathable sheets.

[0022] Hereinafter, the description of this embodiment will explain the case where the body portion 2 is formed from a single sheet of multi-layered material. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG2, the body portion 2 includes an inner surface sheet 14 and an outer surface sheet 16 disposed opposite to the inner surface sheet 14 with the interlayer cooling body 20. In this embodiment, the inner surface sheet 14 forms the inner surface when the cooling device 1 is worn, and the outer surface sheet 16 forms the outer surface when the cooling device 1 is worn. Therefore, the inner surface sheet 14 functions as an interlayer sheet 12 disposed between the wearer's eyes and the moisturizing layer 24 during wear. The inner surface sheet 14 and the outer surface sheet 16 are formed to be the same size and shape, becoming a single sheet of multi-layered material formed by stacking the inner surface sheet 14 and the outer surface sheet 16.

[0023] In the main body 2 of this embodiment, a cooling body 20 is disposed between the inner surface sheet 14 and the outer surface sheet 16. That is, when both the inner surface sheet 14 and the outer surface sheet 16 include a single layer or multiple layers of nonwoven fabric as described below, the cooling body 20 is held between two or more pieces of nonwoven fabric. However, it is not limited to this. A bag-shaped storage part can be provided on the inner surface of the main body 2, and the cooling body 20 can be fixedly detached from the storage part. Alternatively, a fixing mechanism such as an adhesive can be used to fix the cooling body 20 to the inner surface of the main body 2. Furthermore, a configuration can be adopted in which the outer surface sheet 16 and the inner surface sheet 14 are partially not connected, and an opening and storage space for inserting and removing the cooling body 20 are formed between the outer surface sheet 16 and the inner surface sheet 14. Furthermore, other components can be placed between the wearer's face and the cooling body 20 in a range where heat conduction is not impossible.

[0024] Here, the method of joining the inner surface sheet 14 and the outer surface sheet 16 will be described. In this embodiment, an adhesive (not shown) is coated on the outer surface sheet 16, and the coolant 20 and the inner surface sheet 14 are bonded together via this adhesive. A hot-melt adhesive is preferred as the adhesive, but it is not limited to this; various known fastening mechanisms can be used. For example, adhesives other than hot-melt adhesives, sewing, hot-melt, etc., can be used, as long as they can be used for fastening, there are no limitations. Furthermore, a configuration where the adhesive is coated on the outer surface sheet 16 can be used instead, or a configuration where the adhesive is coated on the inner surface sheet 14 can be used instead.

[0025] The material of the inner surface sheet 14 can be any material previously used in the field of cooling devices covering the eye area, as long as it is breathable, and there are no particular restrictions on its type. Such sheet materials can be, for example, non-woven fabric, woven fabric, paper, resin foam sheets, metal sheets, or combinations thereof. From the viewpoint of ease of processing or economy, non-woven fabric is preferred. The fiber material of the non-woven fabric is preferably one containing one or more fibers selected from: polyesters such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate); polyolefins such as PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), and ethylene-propylene copolymer; rayon; cotton, etc. Furthermore, the non-woven fabric can be manufactured using fibers from one or more of the above materials by methods such as hot air bonding, spunbonding, needle punching, meltblowing, carding, hot melt bonding, hydroentangling, solvent bonding, etc., and can be single-layer or multi-layered. Furthermore, nonwoven fabrics can be chemically treated for specific purposes.

[0026] The material of the outer surface sheet 16 is not particularly limited; for example, it can be non-woven fabric, woven fabric, paper, or other fiber sheets, resin foam sheets, metal sheets, or combinations thereof. From the perspective of ease of processing or economy, non-woven fabric is preferred. The fiber material for the non-woven fabric is preferably one containing one or more fibers selected from the following: polyesters such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate); polyolefins such as PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), and ethylene-propylene copolymer; rayon; cotton, etc. Furthermore, the non-woven fabric can be manufactured using fibers from one or more of the above materials through methods such as hot air bonding, spunbonding, needle punching, meltblowing, carding, hot melt bonding, hydroentangling, and solvent bonding; it can be a single layer or a multi-layer structure. Moreover, the non-woven fabric can be chemically treated depending on the purpose.

[0027] Furthermore, the inner surface sheet 14 and the outer surface sheet 16 can be a single-layer structure consisting only of a single sheet material, or a multi-layer structure consisting of two or more sheets overlapping each other. Moreover, when the body portion 2 adopts a multi-layer structure, the material of the body portion 2 disposed on the side of the wearer not around the eyes (outer surface) can be different from the material of the body portion 2 disposed on the side of the wearer around the eyes (inner surface). Specifically, the outer surface sheet 16 disposed on the outer side during wear can be selected from a material suitable for providing shape retention to the cooling device, and can also be selected from a material suitable for improving the feel of the outer surface. On the other hand, the inner surface sheet 14 disposed on the inner side during wear can be selected from a material intended to improve the feel against the skin. Furthermore, the inner surface sheet 14 and the outer surface sheet 16 can be colored in any color, and any pattern can be applied by printing or the like. This design enhances the feel and enjoyment, making it a cooling device that users will love.

[0028] In this embodiment, the inner surface sheet 14 functions as the interlayer sheet 12. The inner surface sheet 14, functioning as the interlayer sheet 12, includes a breathable sheet. Specifically, from the viewpoint of promoting vaporization heat dissipation based on water evaporation, the breathability of the area of ​​the inner surface sheet 14 between at least the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer 24 is preferably 300 seconds / 100 mL or less, more preferably 200 seconds / 100 mL or less, further preferably 100 seconds / 100 mL or less, further preferably 5 seconds / 100 mL or less, and most preferably 0 seconds / 100 mL. If this breathability is satisfied, the inner surface sheet 14 may also be partially non-breathable.

[0029] Here, air permeability is measured according to JIS P8117 (2009 revised edition), defined as the time it takes for 100 mL of air to pass through an area of ​​6.42 cm² under a fixed pressure. Therefore, a higher air permeability value means that it takes time for air to pass through, i.e., lower air permeability. Conversely, a lower air permeability value means higher air permeability. Thus, the value of air permeability is inversely proportional to the level of air permeability. Air permeability can be measured using a Wang Yan-type air permeability meter. In this instruction manual, air permeability less than 30,000 seconds / 100 mL is defined as "air permeability", air permeability above 30,000 seconds / 100 mL but less than 80,000 seconds / 100 mL is defined as "poorly permeable", and air permeability above 80,000 seconds / 100 mL is defined as "non-air permeable".

[0030] Furthermore, the inner surface sheet 14, which functions as the interlayer sheet 12, is preferably a breathable and waterproof sheet that combines breathability with moisture permeability and waterproofness. Specifically, from the viewpoint of suppressing stuffiness or dampness during wear, the moisture permeability of the area between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer 24 in the inner surface sheet 14 is preferably 12,000 g / m²·24 hr or less, more preferably 11,000 g / m²·24 hr or less, and even more preferably 10,000 g / m²·24 hr or less. Also, from the viewpoint of improving the cooling effect through vaporization heat dissipation accompanying moisture evaporation, the moisture permeability is preferably 2,000 g / m²·24 hr or more, more preferably 2,500 g / m²·24 hr or more, and even more preferably 3,000 g / m²·24 hr or more. If this moisture permeability is satisfied, then the inner surface sheet 14 may be partially non-permeable. Furthermore, the case where the inner surface sheet 14 is a permeable sheet is described, but it is not limited to this. The moisture permeability can be adjusted within a range that does not affect the user experience, and it may also be a non-permeable sheet or a sheet that is difficult to permeate.

[0031] Here, moisture permeability refers to the property of water vapor passing through. Moisture permeability is measured using the A-1 method of JIS L1099:2012, defining the amount of water permeating per 1 m² in 24 hours as a numerical value (g). Therefore, a higher moisture permeability value indicates higher moisture permeability, and vice versa. In this specification, moisture permeability of 100 g / m²·24 h or higher is defined as "moisture permeability," moisture permeability between 30 g / m²·24 hr and 100 g / m²·24 hr is defined as "difficult to permeate," and moisture permeability less than 30 g / m²·24 hr is defined as "non-permeable."

[0032] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of preventing eye wetting, the water resistance of the inner surface sheet 14, at least in the area between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer 24, is preferably 300 mm or more, more preferably 400 mm or more, and even more preferably 500 mm or more. Most preferably, it is 1000 mm. If this water resistance is met, the inner surface sheet 14 may be partially non-waterproof. However, while the inner surface sheet 14 is described as a waterproof sheet, it is not limited to this; it may also be a non-waterproof sheet (permeable sheet).

[0033] Here, water resistance refers to the property of preventing water penetration. Water resistance can be evaluated by water resistance, which can be determined by JIS L 1092 A method. Water resistance is defined as the height (mm) of water column per 1 cm² that can be withstood. Therefore, a higher water resistance value indicates higher water resistance, and vice versa. In this specification, water resistance of 300 mm or more is defined as "water-resistant", and water resistance of less than 300 mm is defined as "non-water-resistant" or "permeable".

[0034] From the perspective of balancing the increase in thickness and sheet strength, and improving the fit around the eyes, the basis weight of the inner surface sheet 14 is preferably 5 g / m² or more, more preferably 10 g / m² or more, and even more preferably 15 g / m² or more, and even more preferably 20 g / m² or more. Furthermore, from the perspective of improving the heat transfer efficiency from the wearer's face to the cooling body 20, and facilitating the evaporation of water vapor generated by the cooling body 20, and facilitating a feeling of coolness, the basis weight of the inner surface sheet 14 is preferably 80 g / m² or less, more preferably 60 g / m² or less, even more preferably 40 g / m² or less, and even more preferably 30 g / m² or less.

[0035] In this embodiment, the breathability of the outer surface sheet 16 is not particularly limited, as long as it does not impair the performance of the product, and any material can be used depending on the design of the product. Specifically, it can be any of the following: breathable sheet, non-breathable sheet, and non-breathable sheet. Furthermore, the outer surface sheet 16 can be stretchable or non-stretchable. Examples of stretchable sheets include sheets with elastic fibers as constituent fibers, sheets including elastic filaments, and sheets that exhibit stretchability through rib knitting or other structures. When the sheet of the cooling body 20 opposite to the outer surface sheet 16 (in this embodiment, the second sheet 28 described below) is a breathable sheet, the outer surface sheet 16 is also preferably a breathable sheet.

[0036] Furthermore, the basis weight of the outer surface sheet 16 is determined based on the viewpoints of improving the fit around the eyes, and of stably ensuring the shape of the main body 2 and stably maintaining the cooling body 20, thereby preventing the cooling body 20 from penetrating and causing damage to the appearance. From the above perspectives, it is preferably 10 g / m² or more, more preferably 15 g / m² or more, more preferably 20 g / m² or more, and more preferably 25 g / m² or more. Also, from the viewpoint of easily transmitting the cooling sensation of the cooling device to the skin and ensuring comfortable wear, the basis weight of the outer surface sheet 16 is preferably 200 g / m² or less, more preferably 160 g / m² or less, more preferably 120 g / m² or less, and more preferably 80 g / m² or less.

[0037] As shown in Figure 1, when the main body 2 is unfolded with the wearer's non-eye area side (outer surface) facing upwards, it has an upper slit 9a and a lower slit 9b. The upper slit 9a is formed near the upper edge 7 of the longitudinal center line 100, and the lower slit 9b is formed on the side of the lower edge 8 of the longitudinal center line 100.

[0038] The upper slit 9a is located near the upper edge 7 of the longitudinal center line 100, forming a cut or slit line between the first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B. Similarly, the lower slit 9b is located near the lower edge 8 of the longitudinal center line 100, forming a cut or slit line between the first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B. The upper slit 9a is configured to be located between the eyebrows or near the wearer when the cooling device 1 is installed. The lower slit 9b is configured to be located on or near the bridge of the nose when the cooling device 1 is installed. The body portion 2 has these upper slits 9a and lower slits 9b, thereby improving the fit of the first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B to the wearer's face (especially the nose, around the eyes, and the forehead).

[0039] In this embodiment, the length of the lower slit 9b is longer than the length of the upper slit 9a. The shapes of the upper edge 7, lower edge 8, upper slit 9a, and lower slit 9b of the main body 2 are appropriately adjusted to easily fit the wearer's face (especially the nose, around the eyes, and the forehead), and can be any shape such as straight lines, arcs, parts with convex or curved sections.

[0040] The main body 2, having the above-described configuration, is folded into a flat shape by folding the first panel 10A and the second panel 10B along the longitudinal center line 100 before use. Furthermore, in this state, the retaining part 30 is folded inside the main body 2 for storage as described below (see Figure 6), achieving miniaturization. On the other hand, when in use, the main body 2 is opened from the edge opposite to the longitudinal center line 100, and worn so that the inner surface of the main body 2 when folded becomes the wearer's side.

[0041] [The structure of the maintenance section] The retaining part 30 is attached to both lateral ends of the main body 2, holding the main body 2 in place on the wearer's face. Hereinafter, an example of the retaining part 30 will be described.

[0042] In this embodiment, the retaining part 30 is an ear loop that can be installed on the wearer's ear, and a pair of them are provided at the left and right ends of the main body 2 in the longitudinal direction (lateral direction). As shown in FIG1, the retaining part 30 has: an ear loop body 31, an ear loop hole 32 through which the wearer's ear can pass, and a sealing part 39 that joins the main body 2 and the ear loop body 31 (see FIG2).

[0043] The ear loop body 31 has an upper edge, a lower edge, an open edge on the open side of the retaining portion 30 that is not engaged with the body portion 2, and an engagement edge that engages with the body portion 2. In this embodiment, the ear loop body 31 is planar and has a rounded, approximately quadrilateral shape. Specifically, the upper and lower edges are curved at the portions that connect with the engagement edge and the open edge.

[0044] In this embodiment, since the retaining portions 30 are in pairs, the length (mm) of one retaining portion 30 parallel to the transverse direction of the main body portion 2 is smaller than the width (mm) of the main body portion 2, which is bisected by the longitudinal center line 100. Therefore, when the cooling appliance 1 is folded along the longitudinal center line 100, the retaining portion 30 overlaps with the main body portion 2, thus preventing unnatural folding inside the main body portion 2 that would increase thickness, or the retaining portions 30 from tangling together, and making the cooling appliance 1 more compact. Furthermore, when the retaining portion 30 is folded to the inside of the main body portion 2, the retaining portion 30 is less prone to contamination, thereby improving hygiene.

[0045] The retaining portion 30 can be made of the same material as the main body portion 2, or it can be made of a different material. However, from the viewpoint of improving the fit of the main body portion 2, it is preferable to use a stretchable material that can easily stretch laterally along the main body portion 2. In this embodiment, the retaining portion 30 preferably contains non-woven fabric, and more preferably, it is a stretchable non-woven fabric. From the viewpoint of bonding with the main body portion 2, it is preferable to use a thermoplastic resin as the constituent fiber. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of ease of processing, it is preferable to use polypropylene. Moreover, the retaining portion 30 may further contain a thermoplastic resin other than polypropylene. For example, it is preferable to use one or more selected from the group consisting of urethane, polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate, and more preferably, synthetic fibers containing urethane are used. By adopting this configuration, the softness and fit of the retaining portion 30 can be efficiently exhibited, and sufficient strength can be exhibited when using the cooling device 1.

[0046] Furthermore, the retaining part 30 is only required to hold the main body 2 in front of the wearer's eyes, and is not limited to the aforementioned planar ear loops. It can use any structure commonly used to fix cooling devices, such as rubber cord-like ear loops, or one or more straps spanning the horizontal ends of the first panel 10A and the second panel 10B. Also, the retaining part 30 is not limited to other components that connect to the horizontal ends of the main body 2, and can also be integrally formed with the main body 2.

[0047] [Composition of the Cooling Components] As shown in Figure 4, the cooling body 20 has a water-retaining layer 24 and is disposed on the body 2 in such a way that at least a portion of it comes into direct or indirect contact with the wearer's eyes when worn.

[0048] Specifically, the form of the cooling body 20 can be exemplified by the forms shown in (i) and (ii) below. (i) As one form of the cooling body 20, it can be exemplified as a sheet having a water-retaining layer 24. In this case, the water-retaining layer 24 is obtained by coating one side of the sheet with a slurry obtained by mixing powdered or fibrous water-retaining material with water. The sheet can be any of the first sheet 26, the second sheet 28, and the substrate layer 22 described below. (ii) Furthermore, as another form of the cooling body 20, the water-retaining material itself can be exemplified as a water-retaining layer 24 that retains its shape. In this case, it is obtained by cutting the water-retaining material into the required size and making it contain water. Furthermore, in this specification, water-retaining materials refer to materials with water-retaining capabilities (water absorption or water removal). As long as the material can retain water, there are no particular restrictions on its type. Preferably, it is a material with excellent vapor diffusion properties.

[0049] In either of the embodiments described in (i) and (ii) above, the cooling body 20 may also have a structure in which a water-retaining material is sealed inside a bag formed by joining the peripheries of the first sheet 26 and the second sheet 28 together. In the cooling body 20, by forming a bag from the first sheet 26 and the second sheet 28 in the manner described above, the accidental detachment of the constituent materials can be prevented, thereby further improving manufacturing efficiency, and the amount of steam can be adjusted appropriately.

[0050] As one form of the cooling body 20, it is a rectangular flat body, having a substrate layer 22 and a water-retaining layer 24 deposited on the substrate layer 22. Furthermore, the cooling body 20 also has a first sheet 26 and a second sheet 28 arranged such that the water-retaining layer 24 is separated from the first sheet 26 and faces each other.

[0051] (Water-retaining layer) In the case of configuration (i) above, the water-retaining layer 24 has a water-retaining material dispersed on the substrate layer 22 and water retained by the water-retaining material. As a water-retaining material, examples include one or more selected from carbon components, fibrous materials and water-absorbing powders.

[0052] Furthermore, in the case of the above-described (ii) form (where the water-retaining layer 24 also functions as a water-retaining material), the water-retaining layer 24 and the water-retaining material can be constructed from various fiber materials, such as hydrophilic fibers or a blend of hydrophilic fibers and synthetic fibers. Examples of fiber materials include one or more selected from polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, rayon, cotton, and pulp.

[0053] The carbon component has water-retention capacity; for example, one or more types selected from activated carbon, acetylene black, and graphite can be used. Furthermore, as a fibrous material, hydrophilic fibers, especially cellulose fibers, are used. As cellulose fibers, chemical fibers (synthetic fibers) or natural fibers can be used. Moreover, as a water-absorbing powder other than those mentioned above, one or more types selected from vermiculite, sawdust, silicone, calcium silicate, zeolite, pulp powder, and water-absorbing polymers can be used.

[0054] Examples of hydrophilic polymers with cross-linked structures that can absorb and retain liquids weighing more than 20 times their own weight can be cited as examples of hydrophilic polymers. The shape of the hydrophilic polymer can be spherical, blocky, bunch-like, or fibrous. The mass-average particle size of the hydrophilic polymer is preferably 1 μm or more, more preferably 10 μm or more, and even more preferably 100 μm or more. Furthermore, the average particle size of the hydrophilic polymer is preferably 1000 μm or less, more preferably 700 μm or less, and even more preferably 500 μm or less. The particle size of the hydrophilic polymer is determined using a laser diffraction method.

[0055] Specific examples of water-absorbing polymers include one or more selected from the group consisting of starch, cross-linked carboxymethyl cellulose, polymers or copolymers of acrylic acid or alkali metal salts of acrylate, polyacrylic acid and its salts, and polyacrylate grafted polymers. Among these, polymers or copolymers of acrylic acid or alkali metal salts of acrylate, polyacrylic acid and its salts, and polyacrylate grafted polymers are preferred because they can easily maintain the amount of water they carry within a specific range.

[0056] Examples of water-retaining layers when using absorbent polymers include: (a) a single layer formed by the absorbent polymer sandwiched between two breathable sheets; (b) a single layer formed by the absorbent polymer being directly deposited on the substrate layer 22; or (c) a laminated structure having a first absorbent polymer layer and a second absorbent polymer layer, wherein the first absorbent polymer layer consists of adjacent absorbent polymers arranged in a layered manner, the second absorbent polymer layer is adjacent to the first absorbent polymer layer, and the absorbent resin powder is sandwiched between two breathable sheets.

[0057] The water retained by the water-retaining material can be derived from electrolyte aqueous solutions (such as aqueous solutions of alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, etc.). In addition, preservatives, bacteriostatic agents, bactericides or antioxidants such as ethanol, methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, phenoxyethanol, 1,3-butanediol, propylene glycol, and dipropylene glycol can also be added.

[0058] From the viewpoint of enhancing the cooling effect of the cooling device 1 during the initial wearing period and improving the sustainability of the steam released from the cooling body 20, thereby maintaining the cooling effect of the cooling body 20 for a longer period of time, the initial water content retained in the water-retaining layer 24 is preferably 1% or more by mass of the maximum water absorption capacity of the water-retaining layer 24, more preferably 2% or more by mass, further preferably 3% or more by mass, and further preferably 4% or more by mass. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of suppressing the weight of the cooling body 20 and preventing the cooling device 1 from slipping off the face, the initial water content is preferably less than 20% by mass of the maximum water absorption capacity of the water-retaining layer 24, more preferably less than 15% by mass, further preferably less than 10% by mass, and further preferably less than 7% by mass.

[0059] (Method for determining maximum water absorption) The maximum water absorption capacity of the water-retaining layer 24 can be determined, for example, by the following method: First, weigh a 250-mesh (61 μm) nylon woven fabric bag (100 mm × 150 mm) and the sample, and weigh the tare weight of the bag and the weight of the sample. Next, place the sample inside the bag, then place it upright in a 300 mL beaker, and add 300 mL of deionized water without direct contact with the bag, soaking for 30 minutes to allow it to fully swell. Afterward, hang it for 10 minutes to remove water, and weigh it to two decimal places using a chemical balance. Then, using the "total weight of the bag," "tare weight of the bag," and "weight of the sample" obtained above, calculate the maximum water absorption capacity using the following formula. Maximum water absorption = Total weight of mesh bag - Tare weight of mesh bag - Weight of sample

[0060] Regarding the above viewpoint, the initial water content retained in the water-retaining layer 24 (i.e., the water content immediately after opening the packaging material such as the oxygen barrier bag) is preferably 0.04 ml / 1 cm² or more, more preferably 0.08 ml / 1 cm² or more, and even more preferably 0.10 ml / 1 cm² or more, and preferably 0.40 ml / 1 cm² or less, more preferably 0.30 ml / 1 cm² or less, and even more preferably 0.25 ml / 1 cm² or less.

[0061] (Definition of initial water content) Furthermore, the initial water content in the water-retaining layer 24 of the cooling body 20 is defined according to the following procedure. That is, first, the packaging material is opened, the cooling device 1 is taken out from the packaging material, and the cooling body 20 is taken out. Then, the cooling body 20 is placed in the moisture meter (Kett moisture meter FD-240, manufactured by Kett Scientific Laboratories). Then, the moisture measurement of the cooling body 20 is started 30 seconds after the packaging material is opened. In the above method, the difference between the weight after drying and the weight before drying, measured by a moisture meter after heating and drying at 70°C for 10 hours, is defined as the initial water content.

[0062] (Substrate layer) The substrate layer 22 is disposed on the surface opposite to the first sheet 26 covered by the water-retaining layer 24. When the substrate layer 22 is configured to be positioned on the eye side during wear, it can promote the generation of vapor towards the non-eye area (outer side of the main body 2), thereby enhancing the cooling effect inside the main body 2 through the accompanying heat of vaporization. Furthermore, it suppresses the evaporation of moisture from the water-retaining layer 24 to the face side, thereby suppressing the stuffiness and dampness around the eyes caused by the vapor released from the cooling body 20. On the other hand, when the substrate layer 22 is configured to be located on the non-periorbital side during wear, vapor generation towards the periorbital side can be promoted, thereby enhancing the cooling effect on the periorbital area through the accompanying heat of vaporization. Furthermore, by suppressing the evaporation of moisture from the water-retaining layer 24 to the non-periorbital side, the persistence of vapor released from the cooling body 20 can be improved, thus maintaining the cooling effect brought by the cooling body 20 for a longer period of time.

[0063] When the aforementioned substrate layer 22 is disposed on the peri-eye side or the non-peri-eye side, the amount of vapor generated toward the non-peri-eye side (outer side of the main body 2) or the peri-eye side can be appropriately changed by the air permeability of the substrate layer 22. For example, when it is desired to promote vapor generation by the heat of vaporization accompanying the substrate layer 22, thereby enhancing the cooling effect inside the main body 2, a sheet with an air permeability of 50 seconds / 100 mL or less, preferably 10 seconds / 100 mL or less, and more preferably 1 second / 100 mL or less can be used as the substrate layer 22. Furthermore, when it is desired to enhance the duration of cooling time inside the face or the main body 2, a non-air-permeable sheet (air permeability of 80,000 seconds / 100 mL or more) or a poorly air-permeable sheet (air permeability of 30,000 seconds / 100 mL or more) can be used. The air permeability of the substrate layer 22 is preferably 50,000 seconds / 100 mL or more, and more preferably 80,000 seconds / 100 mL or more. Furthermore, when the substrate layer 22 is configured to be located on the non-eye side, the productivity of installing the cooling body 20 on the body part 2 is improved by depositing the water-retaining layer 24 on the substrate layer 22.

[0064] As the substrate layer 22, a synthetic resin film can be used, for example, such as a polyethylene film or a polyethylene terephthalate film. The synthetic resin film can be a single layer or a multilayer laminate. Non-woven fabric, paper, or film, or two or more of these laminates, can be used.

[0065] (Sheet 26 and Sheet 28) Either the first sheet 26 or the second sheet 28 functions as the spacer sheet 12 when worn. The other sheet among the first sheet 26 and the second sheet 28, besides the spacer sheet 12, includes a non-breathable sheet or a sheet with poor breathability. In this embodiment, the first sheet 26 functions as the spacer sheet 12, and the second sheet 28 is a non-breathable sheet or a sheet with poor breathability. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first sheet 26 is positioned around the wearer's eyes, and the second sheet 28 is positioned on the wearer's non-eye side.

[0066] In this embodiment, the first sheet 26 functions as the interlayer sheet 12. The first sheet 26, functioning as the interlayer sheet 12, includes a breathable sheet. Specifically, from the viewpoint of slowly releasing generated vapor without excessive humidification, the breathability of the first sheet 26, at least in the area between the wearer's eyes and the moisture-retaining layer 24, is preferably less than 350 seconds / 100 mL, and more preferably less than 100 seconds / 100 mL. By possessing this breathability, the first sheet 26 can also enhance the cooling effect on the face by utilizing the heat of vaporization or heat dissipation accompanying moisture evaporation. Furthermore, if the first sheet 26 satisfies this breathability, it can also be partially non-breathable.

[0067] Furthermore, the first sheet 26, which functions as the interlayer sheet 12, is preferably a breathable and waterproof sheet that, in addition to breathability, also possesses moisture permeability and waterproofness. Specifically, from the viewpoint of enhancing the cooling effect through vaporization heat dissipation accompanying water vapor evaporation, the moisture permeability of the area between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer 24 of the first sheet 26 is preferably 2000 g / m²·24 hr or more, more preferably 2500 g / m²·24 hr or more, and even more preferably 3000 g / m²·24 hr or more. Also, from the viewpoint of suppressing stuffiness or dampness during wear, it is preferably 12000 g / m²·24 hr or less, more preferably 11000 g / m²·24 hr or less, even more preferably 10000 g / m²·24 hr or less, and even more preferably 8000 g / m²·24 hr or less. If such moisture permeability is satisfied, then the first sheet 26 can also be a part of a non-permeable structure. Furthermore, the case where the first sheet 26 is a permeable sheet is explained, but it is not limited to this; it can also be a non-permeable sheet or a sheet that is difficult to permeate.

[0068] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of suppressing heat or moisture during wear, the water resistance of the first sheet 26, at least in the area between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer 24, is preferably 300 mm or more, more preferably 400 mm or more, more preferably 500 mm or more. Ideally, it should be 1000 mm. If this water resistance is met, the first sheet 26 may also be a component that is not waterproof. Although the case where the first sheet 26 is a waterproof sheet has been described, it is not limited to this; it may also be a non-waterproof sheet (permeable sheet).

[0069] As such a breathable and waterproof sheet material, a porous sheet material made of synthetic resin is preferred. Specifically, an extended membrane containing polyethylene or polypropylene can be used as an example. When using the above-mentioned porous sheet material, a non-woven fabric can be laminated on the outer surface of the porous sheet material to improve the feel of the breathable and waterproof sheet material. Examples of non-woven fabrics include needle-punched non-woven fabrics, hot-air non-woven fabrics, and spunbond non-woven fabrics. The sheet material can also be water-impermeable but oxygen or water vapor can pass through, and if leak-proof performance is taken into consideration, a sheet material other than a porous sheet material can also be used. For example, woven fabrics, non-woven fabrics, paper, synthetic paper, etc., made from one or more of the following: artificial fibers such as polyamide, vinylon, polyester, rayon, acetic acid, acrylic resin, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride, or natural fibers such as pulp, cotton, linen, silk, and animal hair, can be used as breathable and waterproof sheets.

[0070] In this embodiment, the second sheet 28 is a non-breathable sheet or a non-breathable sheet. The breathability of the second sheet 28 is preferably 50,000 seconds / 100 mL or more, and more preferably 80,000 seconds / 100 mL or more. By using such a non-breathable or non-breathable sheet in the second sheet 28, the evaporation rate of moisture from the water-retaining layer 24 can be controlled, thereby improving the continuity of vapor released from the cooling body 20 and maintaining the cooling effect of the cooling body 20 for a longer period. Furthermore, although the case where the outer surface sheet 16 is a non-breathable or non-breathable sheet has been described, it is not limited to this; any material can be used depending on the design of the product, and it can also be a breathable sheet.

[0071] As for this type of non-breathable or poorly breathable sheet material, synthetic resin films can be used alone or in multiple layers. Furthermore, depending on the application, non-woven fabrics can be laminated onto the outer surface of the non-breathable or poorly breathable sheet material to improve its hand feel. Non-woven fabrics can be selected from needle-punched non-woven fabrics, hot-air non-woven fabrics, and spunbond non-woven fabrics, with laminates including polyethylene films and pulp sheets being preferred. Moreover, if the non-breathable or poorly breathable sheet material is generally a sheet material with low breathability, then some parts may also be breathable.

[0072] (Fragrance ingredients) For the cooling body 20, for example, fragrance components described in "Synthetic Fragrance Chemistry and Commercial Knowledge" (Kaiko Kogyo Nihon Sekkei Co., Ltd.) can be formulated or added to any part without impairing the effects of the present invention. Specifically, examples include: terpenoid hydrocarbons such as lauryl oleene, farnesene, pinene, limonene, camphene, phellandrene, terpinene, terpineyl oleene, p-cymene, cedrene, caryophyllene, etc.; aldehydes such as cinnamaldehyde, 2-methyl-3-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-propanal, 4-(4-hydroxy-4-methylpentyl)-3-cyclohexene-1-carboxaldehyde, vanillin, etc.; aromatic alcohols such as benzyl alcohol, phenethyl alcohol, 2-methyl-4-phenylpentanol, dimethylbenzyl alcohol, 3-methyl-5-phenylpentanol, etc.; phenols such as anethole, eugenol, etc.; lactones such as γ-nonanolide, γ-undecyl lactone, etc.

[0073] (Cooling ingredient) From the perspective of providing a greater cooling sensation, the cooling component 20 can be formulated or added to any part of the body without impairing the invention's effect. The cooling component should preferably contain a promoter of TRPM8 (Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 8, Subclass M, Member 8), which acts as a cold receptor in the temperature-sensitive TRP (Transient Receptor Potential) channels present in the body. Examples include: L-menthol, DL-menthol, and other menthols; menthol alkyl glycol, eucalyptol, menthyl glyceryl ether, menthone glyceryl acetal, butylcyclohexanone, isomenthyl alcohol, trimethylisopropylbutyramine, menthoxypropylene glycol, camphor, etc. Plant or essential oils containing TRPM8 promoters, such as peppermint oil, spearmint oil, and eucalyptus oil, can also be used. One type can be used alone, or two or more can be used in combination. In terms of comfort, effectiveness, and safety during use, it is preferable to select one or more of the following: menthol, menthyl lactate, menthyl succinate, menthyl glutarate, trimethylisopropylbutyridine, menthol, and camphor, with menthol being more preferred.

[0074] (Amount of water vapor generated by the cooling element) The amount of water vapor generated by the cooling body 20 with the above-described structure toward the wearer's eye periorbital area is preferably 2.5 mg / (cm²·h) or more, more preferably 5.0 mg / (cm²·h) or more, and even more preferably 7.5 mg / (cm²·h) or more. By setting this amount of water vapor generation, the skin can be cooled efficiently by utilizing the vaporization of water.

[0075] Furthermore, the amount of water vapor generated by the cooling body 20 is preferably 20.0 mg / (cm²·h) or less, more preferably 15.0 mg / (cm²·h) or less, and even more preferably 10.0 mg / (cm²·h) or less. By setting this amount of water vapor generation, humidity can be suppressed, and stuffiness can be reduced.

[0076] The amount of water vapor generated around the wearer's eyes was measured using the measuring device 40 shown in Figure 7, as follows. Furthermore, in the following description, the cooling body 20, which is sealed in waterproof packaging material, is taken as the object. The time required from the start of opening the waterproof packaging material to the time required to set the measuring device 40 shown in Figure 7, i.e., 5 seconds after the start of opening, is defined as the "start time point of water vapor generation". The measuring device 40 shown in Figure 7 includes an aluminum measuring chamber (volume 4.2 L) 41, an inflow passage 42 for dehumidified air (humidity less than 2%, flow rate 2.1 L / min) to flow into the lower part of the measuring chamber 41, an outflow passage 43 for air to flow out from the upper part of the measuring chamber 41, an inlet thermo-hygrometer 44 and an inlet flow meter 45 installed in the inflow passage 42, an outlet thermo-hygrometer 46 and an outlet flow meter 47 installed in the outflow passage 43, and a thermometer (thermometer) 48 installed inside the measuring chamber 41. The thermometer 48 uses a temperature resolution of approximately 0.01°C. Furthermore, the steam generation amount in this specification refers to the total amount measured from the "start time point of water vapor generation" of the cooling body 20 until one hour later.

[0077] Furthermore, the amount of water vapor generated by the cooling body 20 can be achieved by adjusting the specific water retention properties, such as the type of water-retaining material used in the water-retaining layer 24 and the initial water content, the specific water separation rate, such as the viscosity and boiling point of the water retained by the water-retaining layer 24, and the specific air permeability, such as the orientation and air permeability of the first sheet 26, within the composition and numerical range of the above-mentioned elements.

[0078] (Configuration of the cooling system) As described above, the cooling body 20 with the above configuration is disposed on the body 2 such that at least a portion of it comes into direct or indirect contact with the wearer's eyes when the body 2 covers the wearer's eyes (when worn). In this embodiment, since the cooling body 20 is disposed between the inner surface sheet 14 and the outer surface sheet 16 of the body 2, the cooling body 20 indirectly contacts the wearer's face through the inner surface sheet 14 when worn.

[0079] As shown in Figure 1, the cooling elements 20 of this embodiment are symmetrically arranged on both the first panel portion 10A and the second panel portion 10B, with the longitudinal center line 100 as the dividing line. In the example shown, one cooling element 20 is provided on each of the left and right panels, for a total of two cooling elements 20.

[0080] Furthermore, the planar shape of the cooling body 20 is not particularly limited and can be circular, polygonal, etc. From the viewpoints of manufacturing efficiency, ease of use, and cooling effect, a rectangular or roughly square quadrilateral shape is preferred, and a roughly square shape is even more preferred from the viewpoint of ease of use. Also, one or more cooling bodies 20 may be provided in the cooling appliance 1, preferably one or more in each panel, and even more preferably in the left and right panels, but are not limited to these. Furthermore, when multiple cooling bodies 20 are provided, the cooling characteristics of the multiple cooling bodies 20 may be the same or different, but are preferably the same.

[0081] (1-hour average relative humidity and 1-hour average temperature) According to the cooling device 1, which has the above-mentioned structure and water vapor generation performance of the cooling body 20, humidity can be suppressed for a long time and the wearer's face can be cooled for a long time.

[0082] Specifically, in a cooling device 1 where a breathable sheet is used on the inner surface sheet 14 and is positioned towards the periorbital area, and a non-breathable or poorly breathable sheet is used on the outer surface sheet 16 and is positioned away from the periorbital area, the average relative humidity over one hour (i.e., the average relative humidity over one hour in areas not in direct or indirect contact with the cooling body 20) can be suppressed to below 90%. Furthermore, the average temperature over one hour at the point where the cooling body 20 directly or indirectly contacts the wearer's eyes can be suppressed to below 29.5°C.

[0083] More specifically, the hourly average temperature of the cooling appliance 1 is preferably below 29.5°C, and more preferably below 29°C. Furthermore, the hourly average relative humidity of the cooling appliance 1 is preferably below 95%, and more preferably below 90%.

[0084] (Methods for measuring temperature and relative humidity) Here, temperature and relative humidity can be measured using the following method. Specifically, a temperature and humidity sensor is placed around the eyes of a female head model (width 151.24 mm, depth 206.82 mm, height 233.01 mm), shaped based on average female head data (latest data at the time of application) manufactured by Digital Human Technology Co., Ltd., and secured with medical tape to prevent movement. Furthermore, in an environment of 30°C and 40%RH, a cooling device 1 is attached to the female head model, and the temperature and humidity changes are measured every 10 seconds. Alternatively, a temperature and humidity sensor SHT71 (manufactured by Sensirion Co., Ltd.) can be used as the temperature and humidity sensor.

[0085] [How to Use Cooling Equipment] Next, the method of using the cooling device 1 of this embodiment will be described. As shown in Figure 6, in this embodiment, since the cooling body 20 and the main body 2 are integrated, the cooling device 1 is stored entirely within a waterproof packaging 200. In this stored state, the main body 2 is folded around the longitudinal centerline 100 with the holding part 30 folded inward. Furthermore, in this stored state (sealed within the packaging), the water-retaining layer 24 already contains water.

[0086] First, the wearer opens the packaging 200 during assembly and removes the cooling device 1 from the packaging 200. Then, after removing the cooling device 1 from the packaging 200, the wearer opens the folded main body 2 from both horizontal ends and removes a pair of retaining parts 30 from the inside of the main body 2. Then, as shown in FIG5(a), with the main body 2 in contact with the eyes, the retaining parts 30 are stretched with the fingers, allowing the ears to pass through the ear loops 32. In this way, the pair of retaining parts 30 are hooked onto the wearer's left and right ears, thereby, as shown in FIG5(b), keeping the main body 2 on the wearer's face to maintain the state of the main body 2 covering the wearer's eyes. Furthermore, since the water-retaining layer 24 of the cooling device 1 in this embodiment already contains water when sealed in the packaging, it does not need to be soaked in water or otherwise moistened after being removed from the packaging 200. Therefore, it can be used immediately after opening, making it convenient to use. Furthermore, when only one cooling device 1 is sealed inside the packaging 200, there are also advantages in terms of hygiene.

[0087] Furthermore, with the eye area covered by the main body 2, by bringing at least a portion of the cooling body 20 into contact with the wearer's eye area, heat can be conducted from the wearer's eye area to the cooling body 20, thereby cooling the area around the wearer's eyes. Additionally, the heat from the wearer's eye area heats the cooling body 20, causing the water it holds to evaporate. The heat of vaporization is then used to dissipate heat from the cooling body 20, further cooling the area around the wearer's eyes. Furthermore, heat is conducted from the cooling body 20 to the external atmosphere, thereby dissipating heat from the cooling body 20. Through this cooling mechanism, the cooling device 1 according to this embodiment can provide a cooling sensation to the wearer for an extended period. Moreover, since the cooling device 1 of this embodiment provides a cooling sensation to the wearer through this cooling mechanism, it is not necessary to pre-cool it in a refrigerator or similar container. Furthermore, since the spacer sheet 12 (inner surface sheet 14 and first sheet 26) disposed between the eye and the water-retaining layer 24 has moisture-permeable and waterproof properties, it can suppress the stuffiness around the eyes and prevent water from seeping out of the water-retaining layer 24. Therefore, it can further suppress the stuffiness or dampness around the wearer's eyes, thus making it comfortable to use.

[0088] [Advantages of the cooling device in this embodiment] As described above, the cooling device 1 of this embodiment includes a main body 2 covering at least the eyes of the wearer's face and a cooling body 20 disposed on the main body 2. The cooling body 20 is stored in a waterproof packaging 200. The cooling body 20, when sealed in the packaging 200, has a water-retaining layer 24 and is disposed on the main body 2 in such a way that at least a portion of it comes into direct or indirect contact with the wearer's eyes when worn. At least one of the main body 2 and the cooling body 20 has a spacer sheet 12 disposed between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer 24 when worn. One or more spacer sheets 12 disposed between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer 24 include breathable sheets.

[0089] Furthermore, according to the cooling device 1 with this configuration, since the cooling body 20 pre-contains water, there is no need to spend time immersing the cooling device 1 in water before use; it can be used immediately when the main body 2 is dry. Also, since the cooling mechanism through the breathable sheet provides a cooling sensation to the wearer, there is no need to cool it in a refrigerator or similar container before use. Therefore, the cooling device 1 according to this embodiment is more convenient and can prevent stuffiness or dampness around the wearer's eyes caused by water vapor.

[0090] Furthermore, the breathable sheet material of the cooling device 1 in this embodiment has a moisture permeability of less than 12,000 g / m²·24 hr, and a water resistance of more than 300 mm. With this configuration, the cooling effect on the face can be enhanced by utilizing vaporization heat or heat dissipation, and the eye area of ​​the wearer can be prevented from feeling stuffy due to water permeability.

[0091] Furthermore, the cooling device 1 of this embodiment includes: a main body 2, an inner surface sheet 14, and an outer surface sheet 16 arranged with the insulating cooling body 20 facing the inner surface sheet 14. The inner surface sheet 14 functions as an insulating sheet 12 when worn. With this configuration, vapor generation can be promoted, and the accompanying heat of vaporization or heat dissipation can enhance the cooling effect on the face, and prevent stuffiness around the wearer's eyes caused by water vapor.

[0092] Furthermore, when the outer surface sheet 16 includes a non-breathable sheet or a sheet that is difficult to breathe, the cooling effect around the eyes can be improved.

[0093] Furthermore, when the initial water content in the water-retaining layer 24 of the cooling body 20 is less than 0.40 ml / 1 cm², the cooling effect of the cooling device 1 during the initial wearing period can be improved, and the persistence of the vapor released from the cooling body 20 can be enhanced to maintain the cooling effect of the cooling body 20 for a longer period of time. In addition, the weight of the cooling body 20 can be reduced to prevent the cooling device 1 from slipping off the face. In particular, when the water-retaining layer 24 contains a water-absorbing polymer, the persistence of the vapor released from the cooling body 20 becomes especially significant.

[0094] Furthermore, under environmental conditions of 30°C and 40%RH, when the average temperature of the part of the cooling body that is in direct or indirect contact with the wearer's eyes is below 29.5°C over one hour, it can cool the area around the wearer's eyes for an extended period of time.

[0095] [Example of variation] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above by way of example, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments. Various changes or improvements can be made to the above embodiments.

[0096] In the above embodiments, the cooling device 1 is described as being completely enclosed in the packaging body 200, but it is not limited to this. When the cooling body 20 is not integrated with the main body 2 (when it can be installed later), the main body 2 and the cooling body 20 can be packaged separately, or only the cooling body 20 can be packaged.

[0097] As can be seen from the description in the patent application, the variations described above are included within the scope of this invention.

[0098] Regarding the above-described embodiments, the present invention further discloses the following cooling apparatus.

[0099] <1> A cooling device comprising a body portion covering at least the eyes of a wearer's face, and a cooling element disposed on the body portion, wherein at least the cooling element is stored within a waterproof packaging. The aforementioned cooling element, when sealed within the aforementioned packaging, possesses a water-retaining layer, and is disposed on the aforementioned main body in such a manner that at least a portion thereof comes into direct or indirect contact with the wearer's eyes during wear. At least one of the aforementioned main body and the aforementioned cooling body includes a spacer sheet that is disposed between the wearer's eyes and the aforementioned water-retaining layer during wear. One or more of the aforementioned interlayer sheets are placed between the wearer's eyes and the aforementioned water-retaining layer. All of the aforementioned interlayer sheets include breathable sheets.

[0100] <2> As mentioned above <1> The described cooling device further comprises a first sheet and a second sheet arranged opposite to the first sheet, separating the water-retaining layer. Either the first sheet or the second sheet mentioned above functions as the aforementioned spacer sheet when worn.

[0101] <3> As mentioned above <2> The cooling device described herein, wherein the first sheet other than the aforementioned partition sheet and the other of the aforementioned second sheet include non-permeable sheets or poorly permeable sheets.

[0102] <4> As mentioned above <1> to <3> The cooling device described in any one of the following embodiments, wherein the main body comprises an inner surface sheet and an outer surface sheet disposed such that the cooling body is separated from the inner surface sheet and faces each other. The aforementioned inner surface sheet functions as the aforementioned spacer sheet when worn.

[0103] <5> As mentioned above <4> The cooling apparatus described herein includes, among other things, a non-permeable sheet or a sheet that is difficult to permeate air.

[0104] <6> As mentioned above <4> or <5> In the described cooling device, the air permeability of the area between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer of the inner surface sheet is preferably less than 300 seconds / 100 mL, more preferably less than 200 seconds / 100 mL, further preferably less than 100 seconds / 100 mL, further preferably less than 5 seconds / 100 mL, and most preferably 0 seconds / 100 mL.

[0105] <7> As mentioned above <4> to <6> In any of the cooling appliances described herein, the moisture permeability of the area between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer of the inner surface sheet is preferably less than 12,000 g / m²·24 hr, more preferably less than 11,000 g / m²·24 hr, and even more preferably less than 10,000 g / m²·24 hr. <8> As mentioned above <4> to <7> In any of the cooling appliances described herein, the moisture permeability of the inner surface sheet, at least in the area between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer, is preferably 2000 g / m²·24 hr or more, more preferably 2500 g / m²·24 hr or more, and even more preferably 3000 g / m²·24 hr or more.

[0106] <9> As mentioned above <4> to <8> In any of the cooling devices described herein, the water resistance of the area between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer in the inner surface sheet is preferably 300 mm or more, more preferably 400 mm or more, further preferably 500 mm or more, and most preferably 1000 mm.

[0107] <10> As mentioned above <4> to <9> In any of the cooling appliances described herein, the basis weight of the aforementioned inner surface sheet is preferably 5 g / m² or more, more preferably 10 g / m² or more, further preferably 15 g / m² or more, and further preferably 20 g / m² or more. <11> As mentioned above <4> to <10> In any of the cooling appliances described herein, the basis weight of the aforementioned inner surface sheet is preferably 80 g / m² or less, more preferably 60 g / m² or less, further preferably 40 g / m² or less, and further preferably 30 g / m² or less.

[0108] <12> As mentioned above <4> to <11> In any of the cooling appliances described herein, the basis weight of the aforementioned outer surface sheet is preferably 10 g / m² or more, more preferably 15 g / m² or more, further preferably 20 g / m² or more, and further preferably 25 g / m² or more. <13> As mentioned above <4> to <12> In any of the cooling appliances described herein, the basis weight of the outer surface sheet is preferably 200 g / m² or less, more preferably 160 g / m² or less, further preferably 120 g / m² or less, and further preferably 80 g / m² or less.

[0109] <14> As mentioned above <1> to <13> The cooling device described in any one of the following, wherein the main body has a first panel covering one eye of the wearer and a second panel covering the other eye of the wearer. <15> As mentioned above <14> The cooling device described herein has a longitudinal center line that extends at the transverse center of the main body when the main body is unfolded with the wearer's non-eye area side (outer surface) facing upwards. One side of the transverse direction, with the longitudinal center line as the boundary, constitutes the first panel portion, and the other side of the transverse direction constitutes the second panel portion.

[0110] <16> As mentioned above <15> The cooling device described herein has an upper slit and a lower slit. When the body is unfolded with the wearer's non-eye area side (outer surface) facing upwards, the upper slit is formed near the upper edge of the longitudinal center line, and the lower slit is formed on the lower edge side of the longitudinal center line.

[0111] <17> As mentioned above <16> The cooling device described herein has an upper slit located near the upper edge of the longitudinal center line, forming a cut or slit line between the first panel and the second panel, and is configured to be located between or near the wearer's eyebrows when the cooling device is assembled. <18> As mentioned above <16> or <17> The cooling device described herein has a lower slit located near the lower edge of the longitudinal center line, forming a cut or slit line between the first panel and the second panel, and is configured to be located on or near the wearer's nose when the cooling device is assembled.

[0112] <19> As mentioned above <15> to <18> In any of the cooling appliances described herein, when the main body is configured such that the first panel and the second panel are extended about the longitudinal centerline, the first panel and the second panel are formed into a planar shape arranged side by side along the planar direction. <20> As mentioned above <15> to <19> The cooling appliance described in any one of the following, wherein the first panel portion and the second panel portion are not joined near the upper edge and lower edge of the longitudinal center line, respectively, but are connected only at the longitudinal center line.

[0113] <21> As mentioned above <1> to <20> In any of the cooling appliances described herein, the initial water content in the aforementioned water-retaining layer (i.e., the water content immediately after opening the packaging material such as the oxygen barrier bag) is preferably 1% by mass or more of the maximum water absorption capacity of the water-retaining layer, more preferably 2% by mass or more, further preferably 3% by mass or more, and further preferably 4% by mass or more. <22> As mentioned above <1> to <21> In any of the cooling appliances described herein, the initial water content in the aforementioned water-retaining layer (i.e., the water content immediately after opening the packaging material such as the oxygen barrier bag) is preferably less than 20% by mass of the maximum water absorption capacity of the water-retaining layer, more preferably less than 15% by mass, further preferably less than 10% by mass, and further preferably less than 7% by mass.

[0114] <23> As mentioned above <1> to <22> In any of the cooling appliances described herein, the initial water content retained in the aforementioned water-retaining layer is preferably 0.04 ml / 1 cm² or more, more preferably 0.08 ml / 1 cm² or more, and even more preferably 0.10 ml / 1 cm² or more. <24> As mentioned above <1> to <23> In any of the cooling appliances described herein, the initial water content retained in the aforementioned water-retaining layer is preferably less than 0.40 ml / 1 cm², more preferably less than 0.30 ml / 1 cm², and even more preferably less than 0.25 ml / 1 cm².

[0115] <25> As mentioned above <2> or <3> The cooling device described herein further includes a substrate layer disposed on the surface opposite to the first sheet covered by the water-retaining layer. <26> As mentioned above <25> In the cooling appliance described, the air permeability of the aforementioned substrate layer is less than 50 seconds / 100 mL, preferably less than 10 seconds / 100 mL, and even more preferably less than 1 second / 100 mL. <27> As mentioned above <25> In the cooling appliance described, the air permeability of the aforementioned substrate layer is preferably 50,000 seconds / 100 mL or more, and more preferably 80,000 seconds / 100 mL or more.

[0116] <28> As mentioned above <2> , <3> and <25> to <27> In any of the cooling devices described herein, the air permeability of the area between the eyes of the wearer and the water-retaining layer of either the first sheet or the second sheet, which functions as the aforementioned insulating sheet, is preferably less than 350 seconds / 100 mL, and more preferably less than 100 seconds / 100 mL.

[0117] <29> As mentioned above <2> , <3> and <25> to <28> In any of the cooling devices described herein, the permeability of the area between the eyes of at least the wearer and the water-retaining layer of either the first sheet or the second sheet, which functions as the aforementioned insulating sheet, is preferably 2000 g / m²·24 hr or more, more preferably 2500 g / m²·24 hr or more, and even more preferably 3000 g / m²·24 hr or more. <30> As mentioned above <2> , <3> and <25> ~ <29> In any of the cooling devices described herein, the permeability of the area between the eyes of at least the wearer and the water-retaining layer of either the first sheet or the second sheet, which functions as the aforementioned insulating sheet, is preferably less than 12,000 g / m²·24 hr, more preferably less than 11,000 g / m²·24 hr, further preferably less than 10,000 g / m²·24 hr, and even more preferably less than 8,000 g / m²·24 hr.

[0118] <31> As mentioned above <2> , <3> and <25> to <30> In any of the cooling devices described herein, the water resistance of the area between the eyes of at least the wearer and the water-retaining layer of either the first sheet or the second sheet, which functions as the aforementioned insulating sheet, is preferably 300 mm or more, more preferably 400 mm or more, and even more preferably 500 mm or more.

[0119] <32> As mentioned above <1> to <31> The cooling device described in any one of the above-mentioned methods has a water vapor generation rate of at least 2.5 mg / (cm²·h) towards the wearer's eye periorbital area, more preferably at least 5.0 mg / (cm²·h), and even more preferably at least 7.5 mg / (cm²·h). <33> As mentioned above <1> to <32> In any of the cooling devices described herein, the amount of water vapor generated by the cooling body toward the wearer's eye periorbital area is preferably 20.0 mg / (cm²·h) or less, more preferably 15.0 mg / (cm²·h) or less, and even more preferably 10.0 mg / (cm²·h) or less.

[0120] <34> As mentioned above <1> to <33> The cooling appliance described in any one of the following, wherein the water-retaining layer comprises a water-absorbing polymer.

[0121] <35> As mentioned above <1> to <34> In any of the cooling devices described herein, under the test environment conditions of 30°C and 40%RH, the average temperature of the part of the cooling body that comes into direct or indirect contact with the wearer's eyes over one hour is preferably below 29.5°C, and more preferably below 29°C. <36> As mentioned above <1> to <35> In any of the cooling devices described herein, under the test environment conditions of 30°C and 40%RH, the average relative humidity over 1 hour in the area of ​​the cooling body that is not in direct or indirect contact with the wearer's eyes is preferably not more than 95%, and more preferably not more than 90%.

[0122] 1: Cooling equipment 2: Body part 7: Upper edge 8: Lower edge 9a: Upper slit 9b: Lower side slit 10A: First panel section 10B: Second panel section 12: Spacer Sheet 14: Inner surface sheet 16: Outer surface sheet 20: cooling body 22: Substrate layer 24: Water-retaining layer 26: First Sheet 28: Second sheet 30: Maintaining section 31:Ear hanging body 32: Ear loop 39: Sealing part 40: Measuring device 41: Measurement Room 42: Inflow pathway 43: Outflow pathway 44: Inlet temperature and humidity meter 45: Inlet Flow Meter 46: Export temperature and humidity meter 47: Outlet Flow Meter 48: Thermometer 100: Vertical centerline 200: Packaging

Claims

1. A cooling device comprising a body portion covering at least the eyes of a wearer's face, and a cooling body disposed on the body portion, wherein at least the cooling body is stored sealed within a waterproof packaging body, the cooling body having a water-retaining layer therein, and being disposed on the body portion such that at least a portion therein directly or indirectly contacts the wearer's eyes when worn, at least one of the body portion and the cooling body having a spacer sheet disposed between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer when worn, one or more of the spacer sheets disposed between the wearer's eyes and the water-retaining layer comprising a breathable sheet, the cooling body further comprising a first sheet and a second sheet disposed opposite to the first sheet, separating the water-retaining layer, either the first sheet or the second sheet functioning as the spacer sheet when worn. The first sheet other than the aforementioned spacer sheet and the other of the aforementioned second sheet, including non-breathable sheets or poorly breathable sheets, have a moisture permeability of more than 3000 g / m2·24 hr and less than 8000 g / m2·24 hr, are waterproof, and are placed around the wearer's eyes.

2. The cooling device of claim 1, wherein the main body has an inner surface sheet and an outer surface sheet disposed such that the cooling body is disposed opposite to the inner surface sheet, wherein the inner surface sheet functions as the spacer sheet when worn.

3. The cooling appliance as claimed in claim 2, wherein the outer surface sheet includes a non-permeable sheet or a sheet that is difficult to permeate.

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