Stretchable device

Abstract

One embodiment of the present invention provides a stretchable device comprising: a stretchable base material having a first main surface and a second main surface; stretchable wiring disposed on the first main surface; a first cover layer covering the first main surface and the stretchable wiring; and a second cover layer covering the second main surface, wherein a non-continuous region is provided at least to the stretchable base material, and the first cover layer and the second cover layer are connected to each other in the non-continuous region.

Description

stretchable devices

[0001] The present invention relates to a stretchable device.

[0002] Stretchable devices in which stretchable wiring is mounted on a stretchable substrate have been known for some time. These stretchable devices can be worn on the human body.

[0003] The stretchable device includes a stretchable substrate, a stretchable wiring disposed on one main surface of the stretchable substrate, a stretchable cover covering the one main surface of the stretchable substrate and the stretchable wiring, and a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer provided between the stretchable substrate and the stretchable cover. Patent Document 1 discloses an embodiment in which a part of the stretchable substrate has an opening, and at least a part of the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer is exposed through the opening.

[0004] JP 2019-75500 A

[0005] However, when at least a portion of the adhesive layer is exposed through an opening in the stretchable substrate, the adhesive layer is present on one side of the opening in the substrate, while the adhesive layer is not present on the other side. Therefore, a portion of the stretchable substrate (specifically, the inner side surface) that forms the opening in the stretchable substrate may be exposed. Therefore, while the opening in the stretchable substrate may improve breathability, there is a risk that moisture may penetrate into the wiring through the exposed portion of the stretchable substrate.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a stretchable device that can improve breathability and prevent moisture from penetrating into wiring.

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, one embodiment of the present invention provides a stretchable device comprising: a stretchable substrate having a first main surface and a second main surface; a stretchable wiring provided on the first main surface; a first cover layer covering the first main surface and the stretchable wiring; and a second cover layer covering the second main surface, wherein at least the stretchable substrate is provided with a discontinuous region, and the first cover layer and the second cover layer are connected to each other in the discontinuous region.

[0008] According to a stretchable device according to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to improve breathability and prevent moisture from penetrating into the substrate.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a plan view schematically showing a stretchable device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view (corresponding to the cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in FIG. 1 ) schematically showing a stretchable device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a stretchable device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a first modified example of a stretchable device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a second modified example of a stretchable device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a stretchable device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing another example of a stretchable device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a first modified example of a stretchable device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of FIG. 10. FIG. 11 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of FIG. 10. FIG. 12 is a plan view schematically showing a stretchable device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 13 is a schematic plan view of a method for producing a stretchable device according to a first embodiment of the present invention (substrate preparation step). Fig. 14 is a schematic plan view of a method for producing a stretchable device according to a first embodiment of the present invention (wiring formation step). Fig. 15 is a schematic plan view of a method for producing a stretchable device according to a first embodiment of the present invention (through-hole formation step in a substrate). Fig. 16 is a schematic plan view of a method for producing a stretchable device according to a first embodiment of the present invention (cover layer arrangement step).

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In each embodiment, differences from previous embodiments will be mainly described. In particular, similar effects resulting from similar configurations will not be mentioned in each embodiment. Among the components in the following embodiments, components not recited in independent claims will be described as optional components. Furthermore, the size and size ratios of components shown in the drawings are not necessarily strict. Furthermore, in each drawing, substantially identical components are assigned the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions may be omitted or simplified.

[0011] First Embodiment Hereinafter, the configuration of a stretchable device 100 according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG.

[0012] Fig. 1 is a plan view schematically showing a stretchable device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view (corresponding to the cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in Fig. 1) schematically showing a stretchable device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the cross-sectional views in this specification, the thickness direction of a stretchable substrate, which will be described later, is indicated by a double-headed arrow X.

[0013] The stretchable device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention comprises a stretchable substrate 10, a stretchable wiring 20, a first cover layer 30, and a second cover layer 40. Specifically, the stretchable substrate 10 has a first main surface 11 and a second main surface 12. The stretchable wiring 20 is provided on the first main surface 11 of the stretchable substrate 10. The first cover layer 30 covers the first main surface 11 of the stretchable substrate 10 and the stretchable wiring 20. The second cover layer 40 covers the second main surface 12 of the stretchable substrate 10.

[0014] In this specification, "above" includes a state where the stretchable wiring 20 is located above and away from a certain element, i.e., above a certain element via another object, a state where the stretchable wiring 20 is located above a certain element with a gap therebetween, and a state where the stretchable wiring 20 is located directly above and in contact with a certain element. Therefore, in this specification, "the stretchable wiring 20 provided on the first main surface 11 of the stretchable substrate 10" includes the stretchable wiring 20 in a state where the stretchable wiring 20 is in contact with the first main surface 11 of the stretchable substrate 10, and the stretchable wiring 20 in a state where the stretchable wiring 20 is separated from the first main surface 11 via another member (for example, a resin layer described below) without directly contacting the first main surface 11 of the stretchable substrate 10.

[0015] The main components of the stretchable device 100 according to the first embodiment will be described below. After describing each component, the characteristic parts of the first embodiment will be described.

[0016] (Stretchable substrate 10) The stretchable substrate 10 is a sheet-like or film-like stretchable substrate, and is made of, for example, a stretchable resin material. Examples of resin materials for the stretchable substrate 10 include thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The thickness of the stretchable substrate 10 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 100 μm or less, and more preferably 50 μm or less, from the viewpoint of not inhibiting the stretching of the surface of the living body when attached to the living body. Furthermore, the thickness of the stretchable substrate 1 is preferably 20 μm or more from the viewpoint of ensuring a predetermined strength.

[0017] (Stretchable Wiring 20) The stretchable wiring 20 contains conductive particles and a resin. For example, the stretchable wiring 20 may be a mixture of conductive particles such as metal powder of Ag, Cu, Ni, or the like, and an elastomer resin such as a silicone resin. The average particle size of the conductive particles is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.01 μm or more and 10 μm or less. Furthermore, the conductive particles are preferably spherical in shape.

[0018] The thickness of the stretchable wiring 20 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 100 μm or less, and more preferably 50 μm or less. Furthermore, the thickness of the stretchable wiring 20 is preferably 0.01 μm or more. The line width of the stretchable wiring 20 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.1 μm or more, and more preferably 10 mm or less. Furthermore, the shape and number of the stretchable wiring 2 are not particularly limited.

[0019] (First Cover Layer 30 / Second Cover Layer 40) The first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 may be formed from an elastic resin material. For example, the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 may be formed from an ionomer resin, a polyester resin, a styrene resin, an olefin resin, an epoxy resin, a urethane resin, an acrylic resin, or a silicone resin, preferably a urethane resin. Examples of urethane resins include thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Examples of styrene resins include styrene-butadiene-styrene copolymer resin (SBS). While the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 may be formed from different materials, they are preferably formed from the same material. By forming the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 from the same material, there is no difference in the expansion and contraction of the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 due to tension, heat, etc., and a decrease in reliability associated with uneven strain can be suppressed. Furthermore, because the layers are bonded using the same type of material, they blend well with each other, improving adhesion.

[0020] It should be noted that the first cover layer 30 does not necessarily have to contact the stretchable wiring 2 and the first main surface 11 of the stretchable substrate 10. The second cover layer 40 does not necessarily have to contact the second main surface 12 of the stretchable substrate 10.

[0021] (Characteristic Parts of the First Embodiment) Based on the details of the main components of the stretchable device 100 described above, the characteristic parts of the first embodiment will be described below. The first embodiment is premised on the fact that the substrate 10 is provided with a discontinuous region 60. That is, the substrate 10 forms the discontinuous region 60. In this case, the first embodiment is characterized in that the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 are connected to each other in this discontinuous region 60.

[0022] According to this feature, the connection portion 50 of the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 that are connected to each other covers the outline portion 61 of the discontinuous region 60. Specifically, the connection portion 50 of the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 that form a laminated structure covers the inner side surface 14 of the substrate 10 that forms the discontinuous region 60.

[0023] In the first embodiment, the stretchable wiring 20 is continuous on the first main surface 11. A connection portion 50 between the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 is positioned between a first portion 21 of the stretchable wiring 20 and a second portion 22 that faces the first portion 21 at a distance (see FIGS. 1 and 2 ).

[0024] 1 and 2 , the present embodiment is premised on a configuration in which a single connecting portion 50 formed by the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 is continuous in a circumferential manner, but is not limited to this, and two or more connecting portions 50 may be positioned adjacent to each other. In other words, two or more discontinuous regions 60 provided on the substrate 10 may be positioned adjacent to each other.

[0025] 1 and 2 , using the position of an outline portion 61 of the discontinuous region 60 as a reference, the connection portion 50 between the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 can be located inside this outline portion 61. Specifically, using the position of this outline portion 61 as a reference, the end face 51 of the connection portion 50 is located inside this outline portion 61. In other words, using the position of the connection portion 50 as a reference, the outline portion 61 of the discontinuous region 60 is located outside the end face 51 of the connection portion 50.

[0026] From another perspective, when viewed in the thickness direction X of the stretchable substrate 10, the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 overlap in part of the discontinuous region 60. Specifically, when viewed in the thickness direction X of the stretchable substrate 10, the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 overlap along the outline portion 61 of the discontinuous region 60, specifically along the outline forming surface of the outline portion 61.

[0027] For the reasons described above, the presence of the connection portion 50 in the discontinuous region 60 can suppress exposure of the contour portion 61 of the discontinuous region 60 of the stretchable substrate 10, specifically, the inner side surface 14 of the substrate 10 that forms the discontinuous region 60. This can suppress moisture from penetrating into the stretchable wiring 20 from the outside.

[0028] By suppressing the penetration of moisture into the wiring, the occurrence of ion migration in the stretchable wiring 20 can be suppressed, and short circuits in the wiring can be suppressed. As a result, the connection reliability of the stretchable wiring 20 can be improved.

[0029] Furthermore, since the substrate 10 is not present in the discontinuous region 60, the breathability in the discontinuous region 60 can be improved compared to the other continuous regions of the substrate 10. This makes it possible to improve the breathability of the stretchable device 100 as a whole.

[0030] From the above, according to the stretchable device 100 of the first embodiment, it is possible to achieve both improved breathability overall and prevention of moisture from entering the stretchable wiring 20 from the outside.

[0031] In the first embodiment, as described above, the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 overlap in part of the discontinuous region 60 when viewed in the thickness direction X of the stretchable substrate 10. In other words, the connection portion 50 between the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 is located in part of the discontinuous region 60.

[0032] In this case, the connection portion 50 is not located in the remaining part of the discontinuous region 60, but rather a through-hole 55 is located therein, penetrating the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40. Because the through-hole 55 is a physical void portion, the breathability of the stretchable device 100 can be further improved.

[0033] 2, the connection surface 52 (or contact surface) where the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 are connected to each other in the thickness direction X of the stretchable substrate 10 preferably overlaps the inside of the discontinuous region 60, i.e., is located within the discontinuous region 60. With this structure, the inner side surface 14 of the stretchable substrate 10 that forms the discontinuous region 60 can prevent the connection surface 52 from moving from the discontinuous region 60 to another region. This makes it possible to improve the reliability of the connection.

[0034] More preferably, the connection surface 52 may be disposed between the two main surfaces of the stretchable substrate 10 in a cross-sectional view. It is anticipated that the stretchable device 100 will stretch left and right during use. If the connection surface 52 is not located between the two main surfaces of the stretchable substrate 10 in the thickness direction X of the stretchable substrate 10, the connection surface may move left and right, potentially reducing the reliability of the connection surface 52. Furthermore, if the connection surface 52 is flush with the upper main surface of the stretchable substrate 10, movement of the lower second cover layer 40 can be suppressed, but movement of the upper first cover layer 30 is difficult to suppress, potentially making it difficult to improve connection reliability. With the above-described more preferred structure, the inner side surface 14 of the stretchable substrate further suppresses movement of the connection surface 52 from the discontinuous region 60 to another region. This further improves connection reliability.

[0035] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of further improving the breathability of the stretchable device 100, it is preferable that each of the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 has a higher moisture permeability (equivalent to water vapor transmission rate) than the stretchable substrate 10 alone, or the stretchable wiring substrate comprising the stretchable substrate 10 and the stretchable wiring 20.

[0036] The moisture permeability of each of the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 is 100 g / (m) based on JIS Z0208 (Test method for moisture permeability of moisture-proof packaging materials (cup method)). ２ ・24h) or more, 150g / (m ２ ・24h) or more, 200g / (m ２ ・24h) or more, 250g / (m ２ ・24h) or more, 300g / (m ２ ・24h) or more, 350g / (m ２ ・24h) or more, or 400g / (m ２ For example, the moisture permeability of each of the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 may be 250 g / (m ２ ・24h).

[0037] The modulus of elasticity of each of the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 is preferably smaller than the modulus of elasticity of the stretchable substrate 1. Because the stretchable device 100 may stretch during use, using a cover layer with a high modulus of elasticity may cause discomfort to the human body during stretching. By making the modulus of elasticity of these cover layers smaller than the modulus of elasticity of the stretchable substrate 10, it is possible to reduce the discomfort felt by the user when using the stretchable device 100.

[0038] For example, the modulus of elasticity of each of the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 is preferably 1.0 x 10^6 Pa or more from the viewpoint of preventing inhibition of expansion and contraction during expansion and contraction, and is preferably 1.0 x 10^8 Pa or less from the viewpoint of suppressing deformation. The method for measuring the modulus of elasticity is not particularly limited, and examples include dynamic viscoelasticity measurement. When each cover layer 30, 40 is composed of multiple materials, the modulus of elasticity can be calculated by measuring the materials in the same manner and comparing the average values.

[0039] The thickness of each of the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 is preferably 30 μm or more from the viewpoint of preventing moisture penetration, i.e., waterproofing, and is preferably 200 μm or less from the viewpoint of preventing inhibition of expansion and contraction during expansion and contraction.

[0040] From the viewpoint of suitably preventing peeling of the two cover layers 30, 40, the thickness of the connection portion 50 made up of the two cover layers 30, 40 may be greater than the thickness of the stretchable substrate 10. Alternatively, from the viewpoint of improving the breathability of the stretchable device 100, the thickness of the connection portion 50 made up of the two cover layers 30, 40 may be less than the thickness of the stretchable substrate 10.

[0041] The discontinuous region 60 of the substrate 10 (or the laminate of the substrate 10 and the resin layer in the second and subsequent embodiments), to which the above-mentioned connection portion 50 can be provided, has a total planar size of 10% or more of the planar size of the stretchable substrate 10 from the viewpoint of ensuring breathability, and 90% or less from the viewpoint of ensuring a predetermined strength of the stretchable device, as viewed in the thickness direction X of the stretchable substrate 10. The total planar size of the discontinuous region 60 is preferably 20% or more and 80% or less of the planar size of the stretchable substrate 10, and more preferably 30% or more and 70% or less.

[0042] Furthermore, the ratio of the width dimension W of the connection portion 50 in a cross-sectional view to the thickness dimension of the inner side surface 14 of the substrate 10 may be 1:1 from the viewpoint of suitable coverage of the inner side surface 14 of the substrate 10. Furthermore, the width dimension W of the connection portion 50 in a cross-sectional view may be 0.1 mm or more, preferably 0.5 mm or more, and more preferably 1 mm or more, from the viewpoint of suitable coverage of the inner side surface 14 of the substrate 10.

[0043] In other embodiments described below, an adhesive layer may be disposed in the interface region between the first cover layer 30 and a counterpart member (such as the stretchable wiring 20 or the second cover layer 40) connected to the first cover layer 30. Furthermore, an adhesive layer may be disposed in the interface region between the second cover layer 40 and a counterpart member (such as the stretchable substrate 10 or the first cover layer 30) connected to the second cover layer 40.

[0044] However, this adhesive layer is not necessarily required, and in this embodiment, a configuration can be adopted in which the surface of each cover layer 30, 40 on the interface region side with the counterpart member (the stretchable wiring 20, the second cover layer 40, etc.) itself has adhesiveness. In this case, as shown in Figure 2, a configuration can be adopted in which the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 are in contact with each other in a discontinuous region 60 of the stretchable substrate 10 in the thickness direction X of the stretchable substrate 10.

[0045] Hereinafter, a method for producing the stretchable device 100 according to the first embodiment (corresponding to the basic embodiment) will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0046] First, a substrate 10 is prepared (see FIG. 13 ). After the substrate 10 is prepared, a continuous stretchable wiring 20 is formed on the first main surface 11 of the substrate 10 (see FIG. 14 ). After the stretchable wiring 20 is formed, a through-hole 60X (which may also be referred to as an opening) is formed in a predetermined portion of the substrate 20 located between a first portion 21 of the continuous stretchable wiring 20 and a second portion 22 facing the first portion 21 at a distance (see FIG. 15 ).

[0047] The through-holes 60X can be formed by punching, laser processing, etc. The opening diameter of the through-holes 60X is 0.1 mm or more from the viewpoint of processing implementation, and can be 10 mm or less from the viewpoint of layout constraints of the obtained stretchable device 100 and avoiding an increase in device size. The planar shape of the through-holes 60X can be, for example, a perfect circle, an ellipse, a polygon, etc.

[0048] After the through holes 60X are formed, a first cover layer 30 is arranged so as to cover the first main surface 11 of the substrate 10 with the through holes 60X and the stretchable wiring 20, and a second cover layer is arranged so as to cover the second main surface of the substrate 10 with the through holes 60X. Thereafter, in the first embodiment, a through hole 55 is further formed in the connection portion between the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40, which are arranged so as to close the through holes 60X of the substrate.

[0049] In this manner, the stretchable device 100 according to the first embodiment (corresponding to the basic embodiment) can be fabricated.

[0050] When fabricating a stretchable device according to a third embodiment described below, the through-holes 55 are not further formed in the connection portion between the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 .

[0051] Second Embodiment Hereinafter, the configuration of a stretchable device 101 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the stretchable device 101 further includes a resin layer 70.

[0052] FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a stretchable device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] 3 , the resin layer 70 can be located between the first main surface 11 of the stretchable substrate 10 and the stretchable wiring 20. In this case, by the resin layer 70 being located between the first main surface 11 of the stretchable substrate 10 and the stretchable wiring 20, the surface of the stretchable wiring 2 closest to the stretchable substrate 1 side can come into contact with the resin layer 70.

[0054] Furthermore, since the resin layer 70 as well as the stretchable substrate 10 can also form the contour portion 61 of the discontinuous region 60, the inner side surface 71 of the resin layer 70 is covered by the connection portion 50 of the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 that form the laminated structure. Furthermore, the resin layer 70 covers the first main surface 11 of the stretchable substrate 10 so as to be in continuous contact with it.

[0055] From the above, compared to the first embodiment which does not have the resin layer 70, it is possible to more suitably suppress the penetration of moisture into the elastic wiring 20.

[0056] [Variation 1 of Second Embodiment] Hereinafter, the configuration of Variation 1 of the stretchable device 102 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Variation 1 of the second embodiment differs from the form shown in Fig. 3 in that the stretchable device 102 further includes an adhesive layer 80.

[0057] FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a first modified example of the stretchable device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] 4 , an adhesive layer 80 may be disposed in an interface region between the first cover layer 30 and a counterpart member (such as the stretchable wiring 20 or the second cover layer 40) connected to the first cover layer 30 in the thickness direction X of the stretchable substrate 10. Furthermore, an adhesive layer 80 may be disposed in an interface region between the second cover layer 40 and a counterpart member (such as the stretchable substrate 10 or the first cover layer 30) connected to the second cover layer 40 in the thickness direction X of the stretchable substrate 10.

[0059] This arrangement can prevent the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 from peeling off, and can prevent misalignment of the two cover layers 30, 40. As a result, it is possible to more suitably improve the breathability of the stretchable device 102 described in the first embodiment and prevent moisture from penetrating into the wiring.

[0060] The adhesive layer 80 may be made of a pressure-sensitive adhesive or the like. There are no particular limitations on the pressure-sensitive adhesive, as long as it is a generally usable adhesive that can be laminated on the stretchable substrate 10. For example, rubber-based, acrylic-based, or silicone-based pressure-sensitive adhesives can be used. When a pressure-sensitive adhesive is used, the cover layers 30, 40 can be bonded to the mating member at a relatively low temperature, thereby preventing deterioration or distortion of the stretchable substrate 10 due to excessive heat or UV energy.

[0061] [Modification 2 of Second Embodiment] Hereinafter, the configuration of Modification 2 of the stretchable device 103 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Modification 2 of the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the stretchable device 103 further includes a resin layer 70a.

[0062] FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a second modification of the stretchable device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] 5, the resin layer 70a can be positioned so as to cover the first main surface 11 of the stretchable substrate 10 and the stretchable wiring 20 provided on the first main surface 11. In this case, the resin layer 70a can be arranged so as to cover the entire outer surface of the stretchable wiring 20.

[0064] Furthermore, since the resin layer 70a as well as the stretchable substrate 10 can also form the contour portion 61 of the discontinuous region 60, the inner side surface 71a of the resin layer 70a is also covered by the connection portion 50 of the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 that form a laminated structure. Furthermore, the resin layer 70a contacts the first main surface 11 of the stretchable substrate 10 except for the location where the wiring 20 is arranged. For the above reasons, compared to the first embodiment that does not have the resin layer 70a, it is possible to more suitably suppress the penetration of moisture into the stretchable wiring 20.

[0065] In the second embodiment, the resin layers 70, 70a can be formed by printing a resin material or a mixture of a resin material and an inorganic material.

[0066] Examples of resin materials include urethane-based, styrene-based, olefin-based, silicone-based, fluorine-based, nitrile rubber, latex rubber, vinyl chloride-based, ester-based, amide-based, and other elastomer-based resins, as well as epoxy-based, phenol-based, acrylic-based, polyester-based, imide-based, rosin, cellulose, polyethylene terephthalate-based, polyethylene naphthalate-based, and polycarbonate-based resins. The resin layer 70 does not have to be made of a single material. The resin layer 70 may also be composed of multiple layers.

[0067] The thickness of the resin layer 70 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 100 μm or less, more preferably 50 μm or less, from the viewpoint of not inhibiting the expansion and contraction of the surface of the living body when attached to the living body. Furthermore, the thickness of the resin layer 70 is preferably 10 μm or more from the viewpoint of ensuring a predetermined strength.

[0068] That is, the total thickness of the substrate 10 and the resin layer 70 is preferably 200 μm or less, and more preferably 100 μm or less. In addition, the total thickness of the substrate 10 and the resin layer 70 is preferably 30 μm or more from the viewpoint of ensuring a predetermined strength.

[0069] Third Embodiment Hereinafter, configurations of stretchable devices 104 and 105 according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG.

[0070] Fig. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a stretchable device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing another example of the stretchable device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] The third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that, when viewed from the thickness direction X of the stretchable substrate 10, the connection portion 50 between the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 is located throughout the entire discontinuous region 60.

[0072] According to the configuration of the third embodiment, the entire discontinuous region 60 can be filled with the connection portion 50 between the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40. As a result, compared to the first and second embodiments, there are no physical voids in the discontinuous region 60, and therefore exposure of the contour portion 61 of the discontinuous region 60 of the stretchable substrate 10, specifically, the inner side surface 14 of the substrate 10 and the inner side surfaces 71, 71 a of the resin layer 70 that form the discontinuous region 60, can be more suitably suppressed. Therefore, penetration of moisture into the wiring from outside the stretchable devices 104, 105 can be more suitably suppressed, and the occurrence of ion migration in the stretchable wiring 20 can be more suitably suppressed.

[0073] As described above, the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 have a predetermined water vapor permeability. Therefore, even if the connection portion 50 between the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 fills the entire discontinuous region 60 (corresponding to the opening in the stretchable substrate 10), the breathability can be improved compared to when the discontinuous region 60 is not present, i.e., when the stretchable substrate 10 does not have an opening. Compared to when the cover layer has an opening, the adhesive strength between the upper and lower cover layers is improved, and the reliability of the stretchable device is improved.

[0074] As described above, it is preferable that the connection surface 52 (or contact surface) where the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer 40 come into contact with each other in the thickness direction X of the stretchable substrate 10 overlaps the inside of the discontinuous region 60. Furthermore, when the inner side surface 14 of the stretchable substrate 10 and the inner side surface 71 of the resin layer 70 are flush with each other as shown in FIG. 6 , the connection surface 52 and the upper main surface of the stretchable substrate 10 may be located at the same position in the thickness direction X of the stretchable substrate 10. The inner side surface 71 of the resin layer 70 prevents the connection surface 52 from moving significantly from the discontinuous region 60 to another region. Furthermore, if the upper main surface of the resin layer 70 and the connection surface 52 are flush with each other, the effect of improving connection reliability may be reduced. Therefore, it is preferable that the connection surface 52 overlaps with the resin layer 70 as well as the inside of the discontinuous region 60 in the thickness direction X of the stretchable substrate 10.

[0075] [Modification 1 of Third Embodiment] Hereinafter, the configuration of Modification 1 of the stretchable device 106 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9 .

[0076] Fig. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a first modified example of the stretchable device according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 9 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of Fig. 8.

[0077] 8 and 9 , a step structure is provided by the inner side surface 14 (corresponding to the end surface) of the stretchable substrate 10 and the inner side surface 71 (corresponding to the end surface) of the resin layer 70. Specifically, in a cross-sectional view, the inner side surface of the stretchable substrate 10 can be located more inward than the inner side surface of the resin layer 70, with the position of the inner side surface of the resin layer 70 being used as a reference. In other words, the region of the stretchable substrate 10 that does not overlap with the resin layer 70 when viewed in the thickness direction is in contact with the first cover layer 30 and / or the second cover layer 40, which are components of the connection portion 50.

[0078] In this case, as already mentioned, the stretchable substrate 10, the resin layer 70, and the cover layers 30, 40 are made of different materials, and therefore, when the stretchable device 106 is in use, the stretch rates of the laminated portion of the stretchable substrate 10, the resin layer 70, and the cover layers 30, 40, the laminated portion of the stretchable substrate 10 and the cover layers 30, 40, and the portion where only the cover layers 30, 40 are present can increase in this order.

[0079] This allows for the placement of a portion with an intermediate stretch rate by intentionally arranging the laminated portion of the stretchable substrate 10 and the cover layers 30, 40. As a result, compared to a case where there is no laminated portion of the stretchable substrate 10 and the cover layer 30, i.e., a case where the inner side surface 14 of the stretchable substrate 10 and the inner side surface 71 of the resin layer 70 are substantially flush with each other, it is possible to alleviate the concentration of stress that may occur during use of the stretchable device 106. As a result, the strength of the stretchable device 106 can be improved.

[0080] [Modification 2 of Third Embodiment] Hereinafter, the configuration of Modification 2 of the stretchable device 107 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11 .

[0081] Fig. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a second modified example of the stretchable device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 11 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of Fig. 10.

[0082] 10 and 11 , in the discontinuous region of the stretchable substrate 10 and the resin layer 70, the inner side surface of the stretchable substrate 10 can be positioned outward of the inner side surface of the resin layer 70, based on the position of the inner side surface of the resin layer 70. In other words, the region of the resin layer 70 that does not overlap with the stretchable substrate 10 when viewed in the thickness direction is in contact with the first cover layer 30 and / or the second cover layer 40, which are components of the connection portion 50.

[0083] In this case, as already mentioned, since the stretchable substrate 10, the resin layer 70, and the cover layers 30, 40 are made of different materials, when the stretchable device 106 is in use, the stretch rates of the laminated portion of the stretchable substrate 10, the resin layer 70, and the cover layers 30, 40, the laminated portion of the resin layer 70 and the cover layers 30, 40, and the portion where only the cover layers 30, 40 are present can increase in this order.

[0084] This allows for the placement of a portion with an intermediate stretch rate by intentionally positioning the laminated portion of the resin layer 70 and the cover layers 30, 40. As a result, compared to a case where there is no laminated portion of the resin layer 70 and the cover layers 30, 40, i.e., a case where the inner side surface 14 of the stretchable substrate 10 and the inner side surface of the resin layer 70 are substantially flush with each other, it is possible to alleviate the concentration of stress that may occur during use of the stretchable device 106. As described above, the strength of the stretchable device 107 can be improved.

[0085] Furthermore, when the inner side surface of the stretchable substrate 10 can be positioned outside the inner side surface of the resin layer 70 based on the position of the inner side surface of the resin layer 70, the resin layer 70 can be positioned above the stretchable substrate 10 and inside the inner side surface of the stretchable substrate 10. Therefore, during the production of the stretchable device, the portion of the resin layer 70 corresponding to the inner side surface 71b can sag downward.

[0086] This allows the inner side surface 71b of the resin layer 70 that is finally formed to cover at least a part of the inner side surface 14 of the stretchable substrate 10. As a result, it is possible to more suitably prevent moisture from penetrating into the stretchable wiring 20 from the outside of the stretchable device 107, and it is possible to more suitably prevent ion migration from occurring in the stretchable wiring 20.

[0087] Furthermore, in the case of the above-described structure, it is clear that the inner side surface 71b of the resin layer can prevent the connection surface 52 from moving significantly from the discontinuous region 60 to another region. Note that even in a structure in which the inner side surface of the resin layer does not hang down, the inner side surface can provide the same effect of preventing the movement of the connection surface 52.

[0088] Fourth Embodiment Hereinafter, configurations of stretchable devices 104 and 105 according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0089] FIG. 12 is a plan view schematically showing a stretchable device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] The fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that a plurality of stretchable wires are used. Specifically, in the fourth embodiment, a plurality of stretchable wires 20A to 20D are spaced apart and face each other, and a connection portion 50 between the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer can be positioned in a predetermined region (corresponding to the first main surface 11 of the substrate 10 or the resin layer formed on the first main surface 11) between one adjacent stretchable wire and the other adjacent stretchable wire.

[0091] Preferably, from the viewpoint of achieving both "improved breathability" in the stretchable device 108 and "preventing moisture from entering each of the plurality of stretchable wirings 20A to 20D from the outside," the stretchable wiring and the connection portions 50 of the first cover layer 30 and the second cover layer can be arranged alternately.

[0092] Note that each embodiment and modification is an example, and the present invention is not limited to each embodiment and modification. Also, each drawing is an example of components, and does not limit the shape. Furthermore, partial substitution or combination of the configurations shown in different embodiments and modifications is possible.

[0093] Furthermore, in each embodiment, a gap may be provided between the cover layer (first cover layer 30 / second cover layer 40) and the stretchable substrate 10 and / or the wiring 20. For example, a gap may be provided between the first cover layer 30 and the stretchable substrate 10, between the first cover layer 30 and the wiring 20, and between the second cover layer 40 and the stretchable substrate 10. The gap functions as a buffer when the stretchable device stretches. By providing such a gap, it is possible to achieve improved breathability while maintaining reliability during stretching.

[0094] The aspects of the stretchable device of the present disclosure are as follows. <1> A stretchable device comprising: a stretchable substrate having a first main surface and a second main surface; a stretchable wiring provided on the first main surface; a first cover layer covering the first main surface and the stretchable wiring; and a second cover layer covering the second main surface, wherein at least the stretchable substrate is provided with a discontinuous region, and the first cover layer and the second cover layer are connected to each other in the discontinuous region. <2> The stretchable device according to <1>, wherein a connection portion of the first cover layer and the second cover layer that are connected to each other covers an outline portion of the discontinuous region. <3> The stretchable device according to <1> or <2>, wherein the first cover layer and the second cover layer form a laminated structure in the discontinuous region. <4> The stretchable device according to any of <1> to <3>, wherein a connection portion of the first cover layer and the second cover layer that are connected to each other is located inside the outline portion of the discontinuous region. <5> The stretchable device according to any one of <1> to <4>, wherein the first cover layer and the second cover layer overlap in at least a part of the discontinuous region when viewed in the thickness direction of the stretchable substrate. <6> The stretchable device according to any one of <1> to <5>, wherein the first cover layer and the second cover layer overlap along an outline of the discontinuous region. <7> The stretchable device according to any one of <1> to <5>, wherein a connection portion of the first cover layer and the second cover layer is located in the entire discontinuous region when viewed in the thickness direction of the stretchable substrate. <8> The stretchable device according to any one of <1> to <6>, wherein a through-hole penetrating the first cover layer and the second cover layer is positioned in the discontinuous region. <9> The stretchable device according to any one of <1> to <8>, further comprising a resin layer between a first main surface of the stretchable substrate and the stretchable wiring, or covering the first main surface and the stretchable wiring, wherein the discontinuous region is provided by the stretchable substrate and the resin layer. <10> The stretchable device according to any one of <1> to <9>, wherein a step structure is provided by the inner side surface of the stretchable substrate and the inner side surface of the resin layer. <11> The stretchable device according to <10>, wherein the inner side surface of the stretchable substrate is located more inward than the inner side surface of the resin layer.<12> The stretchable device according to <10>, wherein the inner side surface of the stretchable substrate is located outside the inner side surface of the resin layer. <13> The stretchable device according to any one of <1> to <12>, wherein the first cover layer and the second cover layer are connected to each other via an adhesive layer in the discontinuous region in the thickness direction of the stretchable substrate. <14> The stretchable device according to any one of <1> to <12>, wherein the first cover layer and the second cover layer are in contact with each other in the discontinuous region in the thickness direction of the stretchable substrate. <15> The stretchable device according to any one of <1> to <14>, wherein there are a plurality of the stretchable wires, the plurality of stretchable wires are spaced apart and opposed to each other, and a connection portion of the first cover layer and the second cover layer is positioned between one adjacent stretchable wire and the other adjacent stretchable wire. <16> The stretchable device according to <15>, wherein the stretchable wires and the connection portions of the first cover layer and the second cover layer are arranged alternately. <17> The stretchable device according to any one of <1> to <16>, wherein the total planar size of the discontinuous region is 10% to 90% of the planar size of the stretchable substrate when viewed in the thickness direction of the stretchable substrate. <18> The stretchable device according to any one of <1> to <17>, wherein the elastic modulus of the first cover layer and the second cover layer is smaller than the elastic modulus of the stretchable substrate. <19> The stretchable device according to any one of <1> to <18>, wherein a connection surface between the first cover layer and the second cover layer overlaps with the inside of the discontinuous region in the thickness direction of the stretchable substrate. <20> The stretchable device according to any one of <1> to <19>, wherein the connection surface is disposed between both main surfaces of the stretchable substrate in a cross-sectional view.

[0095] 100, 101 to 108: Stretchable device 10: Stretchable substrate 11: First main surface 12: Second main surface 14: Inner side surface 20: Stretchable wiring 30: First cover layer 40: Second cover layer 50: Connection portion between first cover layer and second cover layer 51: End surface of connection portion 52: Connection surface (or contact surface) 55: Through hole 60: Discontinuous region 61: Outline portion of discontinuous region 70, 70a: Resin layer 71, 71a: Inner side surface 80: Adhesive layer W: Width dimension of connection portion 50 X: Thickness direction of stretchable substrate

Claims

1. The present invention comprises an elastic substrate having a first main surface and a second main surface, an elastic wiring provided on the first main surface, a first cover layer covering the first main surface and the elastic wiring, and a second cover layer covering the second main surface, At least the stretchable substrate is provided with discontinuous regions, and the first cover layer and the second cover layer are interconnected at the discontinuous regions; The stretchable device further includes a resin layer located between the first main surface of the stretchable substrate and the stretchable wiring, and a step structure is provided by the inner side surface of the stretchable substrate and the inner side surface of the resin layer.

2. 2. The stretchable device of claim 1, wherein a connected portion of the first cover layer and the second cover layer that are connected to each other covers an outline portion of the discontinuous region.

3. The stretchable device of claim 1 , wherein the first cover layer and the second cover layer form a laminated structure in the discontinuous region.

4. The stretchable device according to claim 1 , wherein a connection portion of the first cover layer and the second cover layer that are connected to each other is located inside a contour portion of the discontinuous region.

5. The stretchable device according to claim 1 , wherein the first cover layer and the second cover layer overlap in at least a portion of the discontinuous region when viewed in a thickness direction of the stretchable substrate.

6. 6. The stretchable device of claim 5, wherein the first cover layer and the second cover layer overlap along a contour of the discontinuous region.

7. The stretchable device according to claim 1 , wherein a connection portion between the first cover layer and the second cover layer is located throughout the discontinuous region when viewed in a thickness direction of the stretchable substrate.

8. 10. The stretchable device of claim 1, wherein through holes extending through the first cover layer and the second cover layer are located in the discontinuous regions.

9. The stretchable device of claim 1, further comprising a resin layer covering the first main surface and the stretchable wiring, wherein the discontinuous region is provided by the stretchable substrate and the resin layer.

10. The stretchable device according to claim 1 , wherein the inner side surface of the stretchable substrate is located more inward than the inner side surface of the resin layer.

11. The stretchable device according to claim 1 , wherein the inner side surface of the stretchable substrate is located outside the inner side surface of the resin layer.

12. The stretchable device according to claim 1 , wherein the first cover layer and the second cover layer are connected to each other via an adhesive layer in the discontinuous region in a thickness direction of the stretchable substrate.

13. The stretchable device of claim 1 , wherein the first cover layer and the second cover layer contact each other in the discontinuous regions in a thickness direction of the stretchable substrate.

14. The stretchable device according to claim 1, wherein the stretchable wiring is provided in a plurality of locations, the plurality of stretchable wirings are spaced apart from each other, and a connection portion between the first cover layer and the second cover layer is positioned between one adjacent stretchable wiring and the other adjacent stretchable wiring.

15. The stretchable device according to claim 14, wherein the stretchable wiring and the connection portions of the first cover layer and the second cover layer are alternately arranged.

16. The stretchable device according to claim 1, wherein the total planar size of the discontinuous region is 10% to 90% of the planar size of the stretchable substrate when viewed in the thickness direction of the stretchable substrate.

17. 10. The stretchable device of claim 1, wherein the first cover layer and the second cover layer have a modulus of elasticity less than a modulus of elasticity of the stretchable substrate.

18. The stretchable device according to claim 1 , wherein a connection surface between the first cover layer and the second cover layer overlaps an inside of the discontinuous region in a thickness direction of the stretchable substrate.

19. 20. The stretchable device of claim 18, wherein the connecting surface is disposed between both major surfaces of the stretchable substrate in a cross-sectional view.

20. A device comprising: an elastic substrate having a first principal surface and a second principal surface; an elastic wiring provided on the first principal surface; a first cover layer covering the first principal surface and the elastic wiring; and a second cover layer covering the second principal surface; At least the stretchable substrate is provided with discontinuous regions, and the first cover layer and the second cover layer are interconnected at the discontinuous regions; A stretchable device, wherein a through hole extending through the first cover layer and the second cover layer is positioned at the discontinuous region.