Cover component for foot warming device

Abstract

To provide a cover component that enhances the contact of the foot warmer with the foot, allowing the user to fully experience the warmth generated by the heat transmitted from the foot warmer. [Solution] A cover member 50 for a foot warmer having a heat storage section that absorbs energy supplied from the outside and stores heat. The cover member 50 comprises a main body 53. The cover member 50 has a pair of first lateral extensions 51 extending laterally outward from one end area of ​​the main body 53. The cover member 50 has a pair of second lateral extensions 52 extending laterally outward at a position closer to the vertical center area than the first lateral extensions 51. One of the second lateral extensions 52 has a fastening portion 52a. The other second lateral extension has a fastening portion 52b that can be fastened to the fastening portion 52a.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cover member for a foot warmer.

Background Art

[0002] Articles that are applied to the body surface to warm the target application site are known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a footwear including a sole body provided with a storage portion and a heating element stored in the storage portion and formed in a size substantially corresponding to a part of the sole of the foot. In addition, the present applicant has previously proposed a steam warmer for foot bath, which includes a bag-shaped foot storage portion having a space for storing the foot, and a steam generation portion containing an oxidizable metal, water, an electrolyte, and a reaction accelerator is provided in the foot storage portion, and a narrow strip-shaped fixing tool is attached near the opening of the foot storage portion (see Patent Document 2).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, the feet, which are peripheral parts, are parts where blood flow is likely to decrease and where it is easy to feel cold. Warming the feet to improve the blood flow in the feet is effective in lowering the deep body temperature and promoting sleep. However, the article described in Patent Document 1 has difficulty in stably maintaining the state of being applied to the foot surface, and thus it is difficult to obtain a sufficient warming effect. In addition, the steam warmer for foot bath described in Patent Document 2 has room for improvement in adhesion to the foot surface. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a cover member for a foot warmer that can solve the drawbacks of the above-described conventional technologies. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present invention relates to a cover member for a foot warmer, which is attached to the outside of the foot warmer and capable of maintaining the state in which the foot warmer is attached to the foot, when the foot warmer is attached to the foot, and the foot warmer has a first sheet, a second sheet, and a heat storage section disposed between the two sheets that absorbs energy supplied from the outside and stores heat. In one embodiment, it is preferable that the cover member has a main body portion that is elongated in one direction, having a vertical direction and a horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, when viewed from above. In one embodiment, it is preferable that the cover member has a pair of first lateral extensions extending outward in the lateral direction from each side edge extending along the lateral direction at one end region in the vertical direction of the main body. In one embodiment, it is preferable that the cover member has a pair of second lateral extensions that extend outward in the lateral direction from each side edge extending along the vertical direction of the main body, at a position closer to the central area in the vertical direction than the first lateral extension. In one embodiment, it is preferable that one of the second lateral extensions is provided with a fastening portion, and the other of the second lateral extensions is provided with a fastening portion that can be fastened to the fastening portion.

[0006] The present invention also relates to a cover member for a foot warmer, which is attached to the outside of the foot warmer and capable of maintaining the state in which the foot warmer is attached to the foot, when the foot warmer is attached to the foot, and the foot warmer has a first sheet, a second sheet, and a heat storage section disposed between the two sheets that absorbs energy supplied from the outside and stores heat. In one embodiment, it is preferable that the cover member has, in a plan view, a main body portion that is elongated in one direction, having a vertical direction and a horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, and a pair of side portions that extend laterally outward from each side edge of the main body portion. In one embodiment, it is preferable that the pair of side portions have a shape in which, when a foot is placed on the main body and the pair of side portions are folded inward in the lateral direction, the pair of side portions cover the top of the foot and both side portions overlap each other.

[0007] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a cover member for a foot warmer, which is attached to the outside of the foot warmer and capable of maintaining the state in which the foot warmer is attached to the foot, when the foot warmer is attached to the foot, and the foot warmer has a first sheet, a second sheet, and a heat storage section disposed between the two sheets that absorbs energy supplied from the outside and stores heat. In one embodiment, it is preferable that the cover member has a bag-like body with an opening, and that a foot can be accommodated inside the bag-like body through the opening. In one embodiment, it is preferable that a fastening portion for maintaining the state in which the feet are contained within the bag is provided at the opening. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, the adhesion of the foot warmer to the foot can be improved, and the warmth caused by the heat transmitted from the foot warmer can be fully felt. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram showing one embodiment of a foot warmer used in combination with the cover member of the present invention, and is a schematic plan view showing the foot-facing side of the foot warmer in its maximum extended state. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a plan view showing one embodiment of the cover member of the present invention. [Figure 4] Figures 4(a) to 4(d) are schematic diagrams illustrating the steps for attaching the cover member shown in Figure 3. [Figure 5] Figures 5(a) through (c) are schematic diagrams that sequentially show the procedure for attaching the cover member, continuing from Figure 4(d). [Figure 6]Figures 6(a) and (b) are perspective views showing another embodiment of the cover member of the present invention. [Figure 7] Figures 7(a) and 7(b) are perspective views showing yet another embodiment of the cover member of the present invention. [Figure 8] Figures 8(a) to 8(c) are perspective views showing yet another embodiment of the cover member of the present invention. [Figure 9] Figures 9(a) to 9(c) are perspective views showing yet another embodiment of the cover member of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, based on preferred embodiments thereof. First, an embodiment of a foot warmer used in conjunction with the cover member of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Note that the drawings are basically schematic, and the proportions of the dimensions may differ from those of actual devices.

[0011] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the foot warmer 1 of this embodiment is a device that is worn on the foot and warms the foot. In this specification, "foot" refers to the part from the ankle down, and anatomically includes the tarsal, metatarsal, and toes. The foot warmer 1 of this embodiment has a vertical direction X corresponding to the vertical direction of the sole of the foot and a horizontal direction Y perpendicular to the vertical direction X. As shown in Figure 1, in a plan view in its unfolded state, the foot warmer 1 has a shape that is elongated in one direction and has an external shape that is symmetrical with respect to a virtual straight line CL that bisects the entire length of the horizontal direction Y and extends in the vertical direction X. More specifically, the foot warmer 1 of this embodiment has a rectangle that is elongated in the vertical direction X.

[0012] As used herein, the "deployed state" refers to a state in which the foot warmer 1 is laid flat. When the foot warmer 1 includes an elastic member described later, the state in which the elastic member is stretched to its maximum extent and expanded flat until it reaches the same dimensions as the design dimensions, that is, the dimensions when the influence of the elastic member is completely eliminated, is also referred to as the "deployed and stretched state". Figure 1 shows the foot warmer 1 in the deployed and stretched state.

[0013] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the foot warmer 1 has a heat storage body 10 and a pair of three-dimensional cuffs 16, 16 arranged on both sides of the heat storage body 10. The heat storage body 10 has a first sheet 12, a second sheet 13, and a heat storage portion 14 disposed between the two sheets 12, 13. This heat storage body 10 forms the main body of the foot warmer 1. In the heat storage body 10, the first sheet 12 forms the foot-facing surface of the heat storage body 10, and the second sheet 13 forms the non-foot-facing surface of the heat storage body 10. The foot warmer 1 includes a first sheet 12, a second sheet 13, a heat storage portion 14, and three-dimensional cuffs 16, 16 disposed on the foot-facing surface side of the first sheet 12, and these are integrally formed by known joining means such as an adhesive.

[0014] As used herein, the "foot-facing surface" is the surface of the foot warmer 1 or its component members (for example, the heat storage portion 14) that faces the surface of the wearer's foot in the mounted state of the foot warmer 1, that is, the side that is relatively closer to the surface of the wearer's foot, and the "non-foot-facing surface" is the surface of the foot warmer 1 or its component members that faces the opposite side of the foot surface when the foot warmer 1 is mounted, that is, the side that is relatively farther from the surface of the wearer's foot. The "mounted state" referred to here means a normal proper mounting position, that is, a state in which the correct mounting position of the foot warmer 1 is maintained.

[0015] The foot warmer 1 has a pair of three-dimensional cuffs 16, 16 on both sides of the heat storage body 10 along the vertical direction X, which stand upright on the skin side of the wearer when the foot warmer 1 is worn (see Figure 2). Each three-dimensional cuff 16 includes a cuff-forming sheet 16b that is folded back so as to have a folded portion at the inner end in the horizontal direction Y, and an elastic member 16a (hereinafter also referred to as "cuff elastic member 16a") fixed in an extended state in the vertical direction X between the folded cuff-forming sheets 16b, 16b. The outer portion of the three-dimensional cuffs 16, 16 in the horizontal direction Y is joined to other components adjacent to the cuff 16 (such as the first sheet 12) by known joining means such as adhesive, while the inner portion of the cuff in the horizontal direction Y is not joined to other components. As a result, the outer end in the horizontal direction Y of the three-dimensional cuff 16 stands upright as the base end, and the inner end in the horizontal direction Y is the free end. The three-dimensional cuff 6 may have a folded portion in the upright portion that stands on the side facing the foot. In this case, the portion between the folded portion and the free end may extend outward in the lateral direction Y, or inward in the lateral direction Y. In the former case, the three-dimensional cuff 6 is folded outward at the folded portion in a cross-sectional view along the lateral direction Y of the foot warming device 1, while in the latter case, the three-dimensional cuff 6 is folded inward at the folded portion in the same cross-sectional view.

[0016] In its unfolded state, the three-dimensional cuff 16 has multiple cuff elastic members 16a extending in the vertical direction X, which are spaced apart in the horizontal direction Y. The multiple cuff elastic members 16a are arranged parallel to each other. The pair of three-dimensional cuffs 16, 16 extend along the longitudinal direction X and have non-erect joint portions 16d, 16d located at both ends of the foot warmer 1 in the longitudinal direction X, and erect portions 16s located between the non-erect joint portions in the longitudinal direction X. The erect portions 16s are the parts in which the three-dimensional cuff 16 stands up due to the elastic stretchability of the cuff elastic member 16a, and by standing up on the skin side, the water supplied to the foot warmer 1 is prevented from flowing out in the lateral direction Y outward. The non-erect joint portions 16d do not have the ability to stand up because the cuff forming sheet 16b is joined to the first sheet 12 by known joining means such as an adhesive.

[0017] As shown in Figure 1, the foot warmer 1 has side flap sections SF, SF which are made of sheets extending laterally outward in the Y direction from the heat storage section 14. That is, the side flap section SF is a sheet portion of the foot warmer 1 that extends laterally outward in the Y direction from the heat storage section 14. The side flap section SF is made of a cuff-forming sheet 16b, a first sheet 12, and a second sheet 13, located laterally outward in the Y direction from the heat storage section 14. The side flap section SF has a foot-facing surface formed by the cuff-forming sheet 16b, and a non-foot-facing surface formed by the second sheet.

[0018] The foot warmer 1 includes a side cuff elastic member 15a fixed in an extended state in the longitudinal direction X at the side flap portion SF. That is, the side cuff elastic member 15a is formed on both side edges of the foot warmer 1 along the longitudinal direction X. The side flap portion SF has a side cuff elastic member 15a that extends in the vertical direction X between the first sheet 12 and the second sheet 13. The side cuff elastic member 15a is fixed between the first sheet 12 and the second sheet 13 with an adhesive or the like. When the side cuff elastic member 15a contracts in the vertical direction X, gathers extending in the vertical direction X are formed in the side flap portion SF. The foot warmer 1 is equipped with elastic members that stretch in the vertical direction X, such as the side cuff elastic member 15a and the cuff elastic member 16a, which allows the device to maintain its fitted state more effectively and improves its close fit to the foot.

[0019] The heat storage unit 14 has the function of absorbing energy supplied from the outside and storing heat. The heat storage unit 14 can store heat by absorbing a heat transfer medium supplied from the outside, or by absorbing electromagnetic waves supplied from the outside, such as microwaves. The heat storage unit 14 of this embodiment has absorption capabilities for heat transfer media such as water, and by absorbing the heat transfer media, it is possible to store (store heat) the thermal energy contained in the heat transfer media. The heat storage unit 14 of this embodiment can store heat by supplying hot water, or by heating the water absorbed by the heat storage unit 14 with electromagnetic waves after water has been supplied.

[0020] The heat storage section 14 includes a heat storage core 40 containing a heat storage material and a core wrap sheet 43 covering the heat storage core 40. The heat storage core 40 contains a heat storage material. As the heat storage material, for example, polymer materials and inorganic materials such as diatomaceous earth and ceramics can be used as appropriate. Typically, the heat storage core 40 contains a polymer material 42, which is the heat storage material, and a fiber material 41. The polymer material 42 is capable of generating a hydrogel by absorbing water. With this polymer material 42, the heat storage core 40 can store heat by absorbing hot water supplied from the outside, or the water absorbed by the core 40 can generate heat by absorbing electromagnetic waves supplied from the outside, thereby storing heat. As the polymer material 42, it is preferable to use a water-absorbing polymer that swells upon contact with water and can absorb and retain water, from the viewpoint of exhibiting an excellent heating effect. Examples of water-absorbing polymers that can be used include crosslinked polymers or copolymers of acrylic acid or alkali metal acrylates, crosslinked polyacrylic acid and its salts and polyacrylate graft polymers, crosslinked starch or carboxymethylated cellulose, crosslinked hydrolysis products of starch-acrylate graft copolymers, crosslinked vinyl alcohol-acrylate copolymers, crosslinked maleic anhydride-grafted polyvinyl alcohol, crosslinked isobutylene-maleic anhydride copolymers, saponified vinyl acetate-acrylic acid ester copolymers, etc. The water-absorbing polymer may also be a pulverized water-absorbing polymer that has undergone surface crosslinking treatment. The shape of the superabsorbent polymer is not particularly limited and may be spherical, lumpy, cylindrical, or amorphous, or it may be fibrous.

[0021] In the heat storage core 40, the polymer material 42 is held by the fiber material 41. With this configuration, even if a load from the foot is applied to the heat storage section 14 when worn, the movement of the polymer material 42 within the heat storage core 40 can be restricted, and a good wearing comfort can be maintained. The aforementioned "holding" means a configuration in which multiple polymer materials 42 are embedded in a mass of fiber material 41, as shown in Figure 2. In this configuration, some of the polymer material 42 may be exposed on the surface of the heat storage core 40.

[0022] As the fiber material 41, hydrophilic fibers and hydrophobic fibers, or both, can be used. Examples of hydrophilic fibers include natural fibers such as wood pulp (coniferous pulp, hardwood pulp, etc.) and non-wood pulp (cotton pulp, hemp pulp, etc.); modified pulp (cationic pulp, mercerized pulp, etc.) (all cellulose-based fibers); and hydrophilic synthetic fibers. These can be used individually or in combination of two or more types. As hydrophobic fibers, fibers made of synthetic resins such as thermoplastic resins can be used. Examples of constituent resins for hydrophobic fibers include polyolefins such as polyethylene and polypropylene; polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate; polyamides such as nylon 6 and nylon 66; polyacrylic acid, polyalkyl methacrylate, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, etc., and one of these can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0023] The core wrap sheet 43 maintains the shape of the heat storage core 40 by covering it. In this embodiment, since the core wrap sheet 43 is a liquid-permeable sheet, water supplied from the outside can reach the heat storage core 40 through the core wrap sheet 43. The liquid-permeable sheet used for the core wrap sheet 43 can be the same as the first sheet 12 described later.

[0024] In the heat storage body 10, for example, a liquid-permeable sheet can be used as the first sheet 12. Also, for example, a liquid-impermeable sheet can be used as the second sheet 13. With this configuration, water supplied from the first sheet 12 side to the heat storage body 10 can permeate the first sheet 12 and reach the heat storage section 14. Furthermore, the liquid-impermeable second sheet 13 can prevent the water supplied to the heat storage body 10 from leaking to the outside. As liquid-permeable sheets, single-layer or multi-layer nonwoven fabrics, perforated films, and the like can be used. Liquid permeability is a concept that includes liquid impermeability, encompassing properties such as complete density to liquids and water repellency. Examples of liquid-permeable sheets include moisture-permeable resin films, laminates of the resin film and nonwoven fabric, and water-repellent treated nonwoven fabrics.

[0025] Next, the cover member used to fix the foot warmer 1 described above will be explained. The cover member is attached to the outside of the foot warmer 1 and is capable of maintaining the state in which the foot warmer 1 is attached to the foot. Figure 3 is a plan view showing one embodiment of the cover member. The cover member 50 shown in the figure has a shape that is elongated in one direction, having a vertical direction X1 and a horizontal direction Y1 perpendicular to the vertical direction X1 in a plan view. The cover member 50 also has an external shape that is symmetrical with respect to a virtual straight line (not shown) that bisects the entire length of the horizontal direction Y1 and extends in the vertical direction X1.

[0026] The cover member 50 comprises a main body portion 53. The main body portion 53 has a roughly rectangular shape in plan view, elongated in one direction, with a vertical direction X1 and a horizontal direction Y1. Preferably, the main body portion 53 is made of a flexible material that feels good to the touch. It is also preferable that the main body portion 53 is made of a material with high heat retention properties. Examples of such materials include various fabrics. In particular, it is preferable to use quilted fabric.

[0027] As shown in Figure 4(b) later, the main body portion 53 is the part where the feet are placed, so it is preferable that it has dimensions suitable for this purpose. From this viewpoint, the main body portion 53 is preferably 300 mm or more in length along the vertical direction X1, more preferably 350 mm or more, even more preferably 400 mm or more, and also preferably 750 mm or less, even more preferably 650 mm or less, and even more preferably 550 mm or less. On the other hand, the length of the main body portion 53 along the lateral direction Y1 is preferably 80 mm or more, more preferably 140 mm or more, even more preferably 200 mm or more, and also preferably 300 mm or less, more preferably 270 mm or less, and even more preferably 240 mm or less.

[0028] The cover member 50 has a pair of first lateral extensions 51, 51 at one end region in the vertical direction X1 of the main body portion 53. Each first lateral extension 51 extends outward in the lateral direction Y1 from each side edge 53a, 53a extending along the vertical direction X1 of the main body portion 53. The first lateral extensions 51 are substantially rectangular in plan view and are elongated in the lateral direction Y1. The direction in which the first lateral extensions 51 extend is generally perpendicular to the direction in which the main body portion 53 extends.

[0029] Each first lateral extension 51 has two edges extending in the lateral direction Y1, and the position of the outer edge 51b located outward in the vertical direction X1 coincides with the position of the edge 53b of the main body 53. That is, the outer edge 51b of each first lateral extension 51 and the edge 53b of the main body 53 are on the same straight line. Alternatively, the outer edge 51b of each first lateral extension 51 may be located closer to the center of the vertical direction X1 than the edge 53b of the main body 53.

[0030] The first lateral extension 51 may extend from the side edge 53a of the main body 53 as part of the main body 53. Alternatively, the first lateral extension 51, which is a separate component from the main body 53, may be attached to the main body 53 by a predetermined joining means, such as sewing. In either case, it is preferable that the first lateral extension 51 be made of a flexible material that has a good feel against the skin. It is also preferable that the first lateral extension 51 be made of a material with high heat retention. Examples of such materials include various fabrics. It is particularly preferable to use quilting fabric.

[0031] The cover member 50 has a pair of second lateral extensions 52, 52 positioned closer to the center of the vertical direction X1 than the first lateral extension 51. Each second lateral extension 52 extends outward in the lateral direction Y1 from each side edge 53a, 53a of the main body 53 that extends along the vertical direction X1. The second lateral extensions 52 are substantially rectangular in plan view and are elongated in the lateral direction Y1. The direction in which the second lateral extensions 52 extend is generally perpendicular to the direction in which the main body 53 extends. Also, the direction in which the second lateral extensions 52 extend is generally parallel to the direction in which the first lateral extension 51 extends.

[0032] The second lateral extension 52 may extend from the side edge 53a of the main body 53 as part of the main body 53. Alternatively, the second lateral extension 52, which is a separate component from the main body 53, may be attached to the main body 53 by a predetermined joining means, such as sewing. In either case, it is preferable that the second lateral extension 52 be made of a flexible material that has a good feel against the skin. It is also preferable that the second lateral extension 52 be made of a material with high heat retention. Examples of such materials include various fabrics. It is particularly preferable to use quilting fabric.

[0033] As shown in Figure 3, one of the pair of second lateral extensions 52 is provided with a fastening portion 52a for fastening the second lateral extension 52 to the other second lateral extension 52. On the other hand, the other of the pair of second lateral extensions 52 is provided with a fastening portion 52b to which the other second lateral extension 52 is fastened. The fastening portion 52b is capable of being fastened to the fastening portion 52a.

[0034] The fastening portion 52a is provided on the inner surface side of the cover member 50, that is, on the side where the foot is placed. The fastened portion 52b is provided on the outer surface side of the cover member 50, that is, on the side opposite to where the foot is placed. Both the fastening portion 52a and the fastened portion 52b are located within the periphery of the second lateral extension portion 52. The fastening portion 52a and the fastened portion 52b have the same area as the second lateral extension portion 52, or have a smaller area than the second lateral extension portion 52. For example, a hook member of a hook fastener can be used as the fastening portion 52a. For example, a loop member of a hook fastener can be used as the fastened portion 52b. In this case, the fastening portion 52a is formed by placing a hook member, which is a separate member from the second lateral extension portion 52, on the inner surface of the second lateral extension portion 52. On the other hand, the fastening portion 52b is formed by placing a loop member, which is a separate component from the second lateral extension portion 52, on the outer surface of the second lateral extension portion 52.

[0035] The first lateral extension 51 and the second lateral extension 52 differ in the degree of extension from the side edge 53a of the main body 53. In detail, as shown in Figure 3, the first lateral extension 51 extends more than the second lateral extension 52. In other words, when comparing the lengths along the lateral direction Y1, the first lateral extension 51 is longer than the second lateral extension 52. When the length along the lateral direction Y1 in the first lateral extension 51 is denoted as W1, and the length along the lateral direction Y1 in the second lateral extension 52 is denoted as W2, the value of W1 / W2 is preferably 0.07 or more, more preferably 0.27 or more, and even more preferably 1 or more, from the viewpoint of improving the adhesion of the foot warmer to the foot. Furthermore, the W1 / W2 value is preferably 15 or less, more preferably 7.5 or less, and even more preferably 3.8 or less, from the viewpoint of reducing the amount of unnecessary fabric used and lowering the manufacturing cost of foot warmers.

[0036] Provided that the value of W1 / W2 is within the above range, the value of W1 itself is preferably 20 mm or more, more preferably 30 mm or more, even more preferably 40 mm or more, and also preferably 300 mm or less, more preferably 200 mm or less, and even more preferably 150 mm or less. On the other hand, provided that the value of W1 / W2 is within the above range, the value of W2 itself is preferably 20 mm or more, more preferably 30 mm or more, even more preferably 40 mm or more, and also preferably 300 mm or less, even more preferably 200 mm or less, and even more preferably 150 mm or less.

[0037] The first lateral extension 51 and the second lateral extension 52 also differ in length along the vertical direction X1. In detail, as shown in Figure 3, the length of the first lateral extension 51 along the vertical direction X1 is greater than that of the second lateral extension 52. When the length along the vertical direction X1 in the first lateral extension 51 is L1 and the length along the vertical direction X1 in the second lateral extension 52 is L2, the value of L1 / L2 is preferably 0.2 or more, more preferably 0.7 or more, and even more preferably 1.2 or more, from the viewpoint of improving the adhesion of the foot warmer to the foot. Furthermore, the value of L1 / L2 is preferably 11 or less, more preferably 8 or less, and even more preferably 6 or less, from the viewpoint of reducing the amount of unnecessary fabric used and lowering the manufacturing cost of the foot warmer.

[0038] Provided that the value of L1 / L2 is within the above range, the value of L1 itself is preferably 60 mm or more, more preferably 70 mm or more, even more preferably 80 mm or more, and also preferably 210 mm or less, more preferably 170 mm or less, and even more preferably 120 mm or less. On the other hand, provided that the value of L1 / L2 is within the above range, the value of L2 itself is preferably 20 mm or more, more preferably 30 mm or more, even more preferably 40 mm or more, and also preferably 270 mm or less, more preferably 220 mm or less, and even more preferably 170 mm or less.

[0039] As shown in Figure 3, when the cover member 50 is viewed along the vertical direction X1, the first lateral extension 51 and the second lateral extension 52 are spaced apart, and a gap D exists between them. The presence of this gap D makes it easier to attach the cover member 50 to the foot and ensures that the foot warmer 1 is securely fixed by the cover member 50 and that the warmer 1 adheres tightly to the foot. From the viewpoint of making this advantage even more pronounced, the gap D is preferably 300 mm or less, more preferably 250 mm or less, and even more preferably 200 mm or less. The gap D may be zero, but from the viewpoint of making the above-mentioned advantage even more pronounced, the gap D is preferably 30 mm or more, more preferably 40 mm or more, and even more preferably 50 mm or more.

[0040] As shown in Figure 3, the main body 53 has a portion made of napped material (hereinafter also referred to as the "napped portion") 54 between a pair of first lateral extensions 51, 51. The napped portion 54 is located at one end of the main body 53 in the vertical direction X and is provided on the inner surface side of the cover member 50, that is, on the side where the foot is placed. As shown in Figure 4(b), which will be described later, the napped portion 54 has the function of enhancing the heat retention effect by coming into contact with the ankle or Achilles tendon or its vicinity when the foot is covered by the cover member 50. From this viewpoint, the napped portion 54 can be made of a napped fabric such as flannel, boa, or fleece. In this case, the napped portion 54 is formed by placing a napped fabric separate from the main body 53 on the inner surface of the main body 53.

[0041] The napped portion 54 is roughly rectangular in shape when viewed from above. The length of the napped portion 54 along the vertical direction X1 is roughly the same as the length of the lateral extension portion 51 along the vertical direction X1. On the other hand, the length of the napped portion 54 along the lateral direction Y1 is roughly the same as the length of the main body portion 53 along the lateral direction Y1.

[0042] Next, the method of using the cover member 50 will be explained with reference to Figures 4 and 5. First, as shown in Figure 4(a), with the cover member 50 spread flat, the foot warmer 1 is placed on the inner surface of the main body portion 53 of the cover member 50. In this case, the foot warmer 1 is unfolded with the first sheet 12 facing upwards. Also, as shown in the same figure, it is preferable to place the foot warmer 1 so that the position of one edge of the foot warmer 1 roughly coincides with the position of the edge 54b of the napped portion 54 that is closer to the center of the vertical direction X1.

[0043] After placing the foot warmer 1 on the cover member 50, the end area of ​​the cover member 50 in the longitudinal direction X, that is, the area where the napped portion 54 and the pair of first lateral extensions 51 are located, is raised and raised upwards. In this state, the foot F is placed on the foot warmer 1 as shown in Figure 4(b). The foot F is positioned with the longitudinal direction of the sole of the foot aligned with the longitudinal direction of the foot warmer 1, with the heel positioned at one end of the foot warmer 1 in the longitudinal direction X and the toes positioned towards the longitudinal center of the foot warmer 1. Alternatively, the end area of ​​the cover member 50 in the longitudinal direction X may be raised and raised upwards after the foot F has been placed on the foot warmer 1.

[0044] Before placing the foot warmer 1 on the cover member 50, the heat storage section is brought into a heat storage state. For example, the heat storage section can be brought into a heat storage state by supplying hot water to it. The heat storage section absorbs the hot water supplied from the first sheet 12 of the foot warmer 1 and enters a heat storage state. In the heat storage state, the hot water held by the heat storage section is at least higher than room temperature (25°C). Instead of supplying hot water, the heat storage unit may be supplied with cold water (water at room temperature or below) from the first sheet 12 of the foot warmer 1, and then irradiated with electromagnetic waves onto the foot warmer 1. The water absorbed by the heat storage unit is heated by the irradiation of electromagnetic waves and enters a heat storage state. In this case, electromagnetic waves can be irradiated onto the foot warmer 1 using a microwave oven or the like.

[0045] Next, as shown in Figure 4(c), the other end of the foot warmer 1 and cover member 50 in the longitudinal direction, that is, the portion 55 where the foot is not positioned in the longitudinal direction, is folded back and placed over the dorsum of the foot (top of the foot). By folding the foot warmer 1 and cover member 50 in half in the longitudinal direction in this way, the first sheet 12 of the foot warmer 1 faces the sole and dorsum of the foot, covering the top and bottom sides of the foot, and the surface of the foot is covered by the foot warmer 1. In addition, the entire folded foot warmer 1 is covered by the cover member 50.

[0046] Next, as shown in Figure 4(d), one of the first lateral extensions 51 of the cover member 50 is positioned on the dorsal side of the foot so as to wrap around the ankle, and as shown in Figure 5(a), the other first lateral extension 51 of the cover member 50 is positioned on the dorsal side of the foot so as to wrap around the ankle, so that the two first lateral extensions 51 intersect. In this state, as shown in Figure 5(b), of the pair of second lateral extensions 52, 52, the second lateral extension 52 having the fastening portion 52b is folded back on the dorsal side of the foot so that the fastening portion 52b is exposed outward. Subsequently, the second lateral extension 52 having the fastening portion 52a is folded back on the dorsal side of the foot toward the outward-facing fastening portion 52b, and as shown in Figure 5(c), the fastening portion 52a is fastened onto the fastening portion 52b. This completes the securing of the foot warmer 1 by the cover member 50. According to the cover member 50 of the above embodiment, the contact between the foot warmer 1 and the foot can be improved, and the warmth caused by the heat transmitted from the foot warmer 1 can be fully felt.

[0047] Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 6 to 9. Regarding these embodiments, the descriptions of the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 5 above will apply as appropriate to any points not specifically described. Also, in Figures 6 to 9, the foot warming device 1 described above is omitted for simplicity.

[0048] The cover member 60 of the embodiment shown in Figures 6(a) and (b) comprises a main body portion 63. The main body portion 63 has an elongated shape in one direction, resembling an ellipse, oblong, or foot contour in plan view, and has a vertical direction X1 and a horizontal direction Y1. Preferably, the main body portion 63 is made of a flexible material that feels good to the touch. It is also preferable that the main body portion 63 is made of a material with high heat retention properties.

[0049] The cover member 60 has a pair of side portions 62 that extend outward in the lateral direction Y1 from each side edge of the main body portion 63. Each side portion 62 extends outward in the lateral direction Y1 from each side edge 63a, 63a of the main body portion 63 that extends along the vertical direction X1.

[0050] The pair of side portions 62, 62 are shaped such that when the foot is placed on the main body portion 63 and the pair of side portions 62, 62 are folded inward in the lateral direction Y1, the pair of side portions 62, 62 cover the top of the foot and the two side portions 62, 62 overlap each other. In addition, the pair of side portions 62, 62 are shaped such that when the foot is inserted into the cover member 60 and the two side portions 62, 62 overlap each other, an opening 65 is formed at a position corresponding to the ankle. When the two side portions 62, 62 overlap each other, it is preferable that the entire foot, including the toes, is covered not only by the top of the foot but also by the two side portions 62, 62, as shown in Figure 6(b).

[0051] One of the pair of side sections 62, 62 is provided with a fastening portion 62a for fastening that side section 62 to the other side section 62. On the other hand, the other of the pair of side sections 62, 62 is provided with a receiving portion 62b to which the other side section 62 is fastened. The fastening portion 62a is provided on the inner surface of one side section 62, i.e., the surface facing the back of the foot. The receiving portion 62b is provided on the outer surface of the other side section 62, i.e., the surface opposite to the surface facing the back of the foot. For example, a hook member of a hook fastener can be used as the fastening portion 62a. For example, a loop member of a hook fastener can be used as the receiving portion 62b. In this case, the fastening portion 62a is formed by placing a hook member, which is a separate component from the side section 62, on the inner surface of the side section 62. On the other hand, the receiving portion 62b is formed by placing a loop member, which is a separate component from the side section 62, on the outer surface of the side section 62.

[0052] When using the cover member 60 of this embodiment, a foot warmer (not shown) is placed on the main body 63 of the cover member 60 in the state shown in Figure 6(a), and with that in place, the foot is inserted into the cover member 60 and placed on the foot warmer. Next, the side portion 62 on the side where the fastening portion 62b is provided is folded inward in the lateral direction Y1 to cover the top of the foot and expose the fastening portion 62b outward. Subsequently, the side portion 62 on the side where the fastening portion 62a is provided is folded inward in the lateral direction Y1 to cover the top of the foot and overlaps with the side portion 62 that was folded in earlier. Then, the fastening portion 62a is fastened onto the fastening portion 62b. This completes the attachment and holding state of the foot warmer by the cover member 60.

[0053] Figures 7(a) and 7(b) show modified examples of the embodiments shown in Figures 6(a) and 7(b). The cover member 60' in the embodiments shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b) differs in the shape of the main body portion 63 from that of the embodiments shown in Figures 6(a) and 7(b). Specifically, the main body portion 63 has an extension portion 63b that extends outward in the longitudinal direction X1 from the front edge of a pair of side portions 62, 62. The extension portion 63b may be part of the main body portion 63. Alternatively, the extension portion 63b, which is a separate member from the main body portion 63, may be attached to the main body portion 63 by a predetermined joining means, such as stitching.

[0054] When using the cover member 60' of this embodiment, a foot warmer (not shown) is placed on the main body portion 63 of the cover member 60' in the state shown in Figure 7(a), and the feet are then placed on the foot warmer. Next, the portion of the main body portion 63 that extends forward beyond the toes, that is, the portion including the extended portion 63b, is folded back toward the dorsum of the foot to cover the dorsum of the foot. Next, one of the pair of side portions 62, 62, the side portion 62 on the side with the fastening portion (not shown) is folded inward in the lateral direction Y1, covering the previously folded extension portion 63b and exposing the fastening portion (not shown) outward. Subsequently, the side portion 62 on the side with the fastening portion (not shown) is folded inward in the lateral direction Y1 to cover the extension portion 63b and overlap it with the previously folded side portion 62. Then, the fastening portion 62a is fastened onto the fastening portion 62b. This completes the holding state of the foot warmer 1 by the cover member 60.

[0055] Figures 8(a) to 8(c) show modified examples of the embodiments shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b). The cover member 60'' in the embodiments shown in Figures 8(a) to 8(c) differs from the embodiments shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b) in the shape of the main body portion 63. Specifically, the main body portion 63 has an extension portion 63b that extends outward in the vertical direction X1 from the front edge of a pair of side portions 62, 62, similar to the embodiments shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b). However, the extension length of the extension portion 63b differs from the embodiments shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b). The extension portion 63b in the cover member 60'' of this embodiment is shorter in length than the extension portion 63b in the cover member 60'' of this embodiment shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b). However, the extension portion 63b in this embodiment is also long enough to cover the dorsum of the foot when the portion including the extension portion 63b is folded back toward the dorsum of the foot.

[0056] The extension portion 63b has curved side edges, and its width gradually decreases towards the tip. This shape allows for sufficient coverage of the toes, reduces the amount of unnecessary fabric used, and lowers the manufacturing cost of the foot warmer.

[0057] One of the pair of side portions 62 extending outward in the lateral direction Y1 from each side edge of the main body portion 63 is provided with a fastening portion 62a on its outer surface for fastening the side portion 62 to the other side portion 62. For example, a hook member of a hook-and-loop fastener can be used as the fastening portion 62a. On the other hand, a belt 66, which has a strip-like shape extending in one direction, is attached to the outer surface of the other side portion 62. The belt 66 is attached so that its longitudinal direction faces the transverse direction Y1 of the cover member 60. On the inner surface of the belt 66, that is, the surface facing the back of the foot, there is a fastening portion 62b to which the fastening portion 62a is fastened. For example, a loop member of a hook-and-loop fastener can be used as the fastening portion 62b. Note that the arrangement of the fastening portion 62a and the fastening portion 62b may be reversed.

[0058] A sole member 67 is positioned on the main body 63 of the cover member 60. The sole member 67 is made of a different material from the main body 63 and is fixed to the main body 63 in a manner that is either removable or non-removable. The sole member 67 can be made of, for example, a bulky material that can be deformed by pressure. This improves the fit of the cover member 60 and enhances the heat retention of the foot warmer.

[0059] When using the cover member 60” of this embodiment, a foot warmer (not shown) is placed on the sole member 67 of the main body 63 of the cover member 60 in the state shown in Figure 8(a). In this state, the foot is inserted into the cover member 60” and placed on the foot warmer. Next, the extension portion 63b extending forward from the main body 63 is brought back to the back of the foot and the back of the foot is covered by the extension portion 63b. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8(b), the side portion 62 on the side where the belt 66 is provided is folded inward in the lateral direction Y1 to cover the back of the foot. At this time, the belt 66 is not folded back. Subsequently, the side portion 62 on the side where the fastening portion 62a is provided is folded inward in the lateral direction Y1 to cover the back of the foot and overlap with the side portion 62 that was folded back earlier. Finally, as shown in Figure 8(c), the fastening portion 62a is fastened to the fastening portion 62b provided on the belt 66. This completes the securing of the foot warmer by the cover member 60".

[0060] The cover member 70 in the embodiment shown in Figures 9(a) to (c) has a bag body 76 with an opening 75. The bag body 76 has only one opening 75. The cover member 70 allows a foot to be accommodated inside the bag body 76 through the opening 75. A sleeve portion 77 is provided along the opening end and around the entire circumference of the opening 75. The sleeve portion 77 defines a cylindrical space (not shown) around the entire circumference of the opening 75. The sleeve portion 77 has a pair of opening ends 77a and 77b. A string 78 for closing the opening 75 is passed through the cylindrical space formed inside the sleeve portion 77. The string 78 is located inside the cylindrical space formed inside the sleeve portion 77 and is exposed to the outside from the opening ends 77a and 77b of the sleeve portion 77. A fastener 79 is attached to the exposed string 78. By adjusting the position of the fastener 79, the degree to which the opening 75 in the bag body 76 is closed can be adjusted. The sleeve portion 77, the string 78, and the fastener 79 function as securing parts to maintain the position of the feet inside the bag 76.

[0061] When using the cover member 70 of this embodiment, a foot warmer (not shown) in a heat-retaining state is placed inside the bag 76 of the cover member 70 in the state shown in Figure 9(a). In this state, the string 78 attached to the sleeve portion 77 of the opening 75 is loose, and the opening 75 is widened to a sufficient extent to insert the foot into the bag 76. In this state, as shown in Figure 9(b), the foot (not shown) is inserted into the bag 76 and placed on the foot warmer. This ensures that the entire foot is generally covered by the bag 76. Next, as shown in Figure 9(c), the string 78 attached to the opening 75 of the bag 76 is pulled, and the string 78 is secured with the fastener 79, bringing the opening 75 into close contact with the ankle (not shown). This completes the attachment and retention of the foot warmer 1 by the cover member 70.

[0062] Although the present invention has been described above based on its preferred embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. For example, in the above embodiment, the foot warmer 1 comprises a liquid-permeable first sheet 12 and a liquid-impermeable second sheet 13. Alternatively, both the first sheet 12 and the second sheet 13 may be liquid-impermeable sheets. In this case, the heat storage section 14 is sealed by both sheets 12 and 13. In the foot warmer 1 of this embodiment, heat can be stored in the heat storage section 14 by irradiating it with electromagnetic waves, which includes water, a polymer material, and a fiber material. [Explanation of symbols]

[0063] 1 Foot warming device 10 Heat storage unit 12 First sheet 13. Second seat 14 Heat storage part 40 Heat Storage Cores 41 Textile materials 42 Polymer materials 43 Core Wrap Sheet 50, 60, 60', 70 Cover components 51 First lateral extension 52 Second lateral extension 52a Fastening part 52b Attached part 53 Main body

Claims

1. A foot warmer having a first sheet, a second sheet, and a heat storage section positioned between the two sheets that absorbs energy supplied from the outside and stores heat, is fitted to the foot, and a cover member for the foot warmer is fitted to the outside of the foot warmer and capable of maintaining the fitted state of the foot warmer on the foot, The cover member comprises a main body portion that, in a plan view, has a shape that is elongated in one direction, with a vertical direction and a horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. The cover member has a pair of first lateral extensions extending outward in the lateral direction from each side edge extending along the lateral direction at one end region in the lateral direction of the main body, The cover member has a pair of second lateral extensions that extend outward in the lateral direction from each side edge extending along the vertical direction of the main body, at a position closer to the central area in the vertical direction than the first lateral extension, A cover member for a foot warmer, wherein one of the second lateral extensions is provided with a fastening portion, and the other of the second lateral extensions is provided with a fastening portion that can be fastened to the fastening portion.

2. A cover member for a foot warmer according to claim 1, wherein the foot warmer is placed on the main body, and the main body is folded along the lateral direction together with the foot warmer to cover the top and bottom sides of the foot.

3. The main body portion has a portion made of a napped material between a pair of the first lateral extensions, wherein this is the cover member of the foot warmer according to claim 1 or 2.

4. A foot warmer having a first sheet, a second sheet, and a heat storage section positioned between the two sheets that absorbs energy supplied from the outside and stores heat, is fitted to the foot, and a cover member for the foot warmer is fitted to the outside of the foot warmer and capable of maintaining the fitted state of the foot warmer on the foot, The cover member, in a plan view, has a main body that is elongated in one direction, having a vertical direction and a horizontal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, and a pair of side portions that extend outward in the horizontal direction from each side edge of the main body. The pair of side portions are a cover member for a foot warmer, wherein when a foot is placed on the main body and the pair of side portions are folded inward in the lateral direction, the pair of side portions cover the top of the foot and the two side portions overlap each other.

5. The main body portion has extensions that extend outward in the vertical direction from the edges of the pair of side portions, The cover member for a foot warmer according to claim 4, wherein the extension portion has a shape that covers the top of the foot when the foot is placed on the main body portion and the extension portion is folded inward in the vertical direction.

6. A foot warmer having a first sheet, a second sheet, and a heat storage section positioned between the two sheets that absorbs energy supplied from the outside and stores heat, is fitted to the foot, and a cover member for the foot warmer is fitted to the outside of the foot warmer and capable of maintaining the fitted state of the foot warmer on the foot, The cover member has a bag-like body with an opening, and a foot can be placed inside the bag through the opening. A cover member for a foot warmer, wherein a fastening portion for maintaining the state in which the foot is contained within the bag is provided at the opening.

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