Chemical body warmer and coldness remedy tool

Abstract

[Problem] The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a chemical body warmer that is used upon being accommodated in a holder worn on the upper arm or the thigh, the chemical body warmer not causing discomfort when the holder is worn, and exhibiting exceptional stability of a warming effect. [Solution] A chemical body warmer according to the present disclosure is used upon being accommodated in a holder worn on the upper arm or the thigh. The chemical body warmer is configured such that a heat-generating composition that contains an oxidizable metal is accommodated in an accommodating body having a moisture-permeable sheet on at least one surface thereof. The chemical body warmer has a rigidity value of 4.0-12.0 N at the start of heat generation. The moisture-permeable sheet has a moisture permeability of 400-650 g / m2⋅day.

Description

Chemical warmers and cold relief devices

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a chemical warmer that is used by being housed in a holder that is worn on the upper arm or thigh. The present disclosure also relates to a device for improving cold hands or feet that includes the chemical warmer and a holder that is worn on the upper arm or thigh.

[0002] A chemical warmer holder has a pocket and is attached to a part of a user's body with a chemical warmer (so-called disposable warmer) stored in the pocket. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a chemical warmer holder that is attached to the upper arm.

[0003] Furthermore, various types of chemical warmers have been developed to easily obtain a warming effect, depending on the application site, such as a type that can be held in the hand, a type that can be placed in a pocket, a type that can be attached to clothing or the skin, a type that can be placed on the soles of the feet, etc. Chemical warmers generally use a heat-generating mechanism in which oxidizable metal powder such as iron powder generates oxidation heat when it comes into contact with oxygen, and contain an exothermic composition containing the oxidizable metal powder in a breathable container.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-136500

[0005] In the case of a holder for a chemical warmer that is worn on the upper arm or thigh, the thickness and shape of the upper arm or thigh change significantly as the elbow or knee is bent and straightened. Therefore, if a conventional chemical warmer (such as a type that is held in the hand, a type that is put in a pocket, a type that is attached to clothing or the skin, or a type that is placed on the sole of the foot) is stored in the pocket of the holder, problems arise such as discomfort caused by the chemical warmer when the holder is worn (when the chemical warmer generates heat) or an unstable heating effect.

[0006] The object of the present disclosure is to provide a chemical warmer that is housed in a holder that is attached to the upper arm or thigh, that does not cause discomfort when the holder is attached, and that has excellent stability of thermal effect.

[0007] The inventors of the present invention have conducted extensive research to solve the above-mentioned problems and have found that by adjusting the stiffness of the chemical warmer at the start of heat generation and the moisture permeability of the moisture-permeable sheet that constitutes the chemical warmer within specific ranges, a chemical warmer can be obtained that does not cause discomfort when wearing the holder (when the chemical warmer is generating heat) and that has excellent stability of heating effect. The present disclosure was completed based on this finding and through further research.

[0008] That is, the present disclosure provides the inventions of the following aspects: Item 1. A chemical warmer that is used by being housed in a holder that is worn on the upper arm or thigh, wherein the chemical warmer has an exothermic composition containing an oxidizable metal housed in a housing having a moisture-permeable sheet on at least one surface, the chemical warmer has a stiffness value of 4.0 to 12.0 N at the start of heat generation, and the moisture-permeable sheet has a moisture permeability of 400 to 650 g / m 2 Item 2. The moisture-permeable sheet has a bending rigidity of 1.0 to 2.0 gf cm 2 Item 3. The chemical warmer according to Item 1, wherein the container has a moisture-impermeable sheet on the other side thereof, and the moisture-impermeable sheet has a bending stiffness of 0.1 to 1.0 gf cm. 2 Item 4. A device for improving cold hands or feet, comprising the chemical warmer according to any one of Items 1 to 3 and a holder to be worn on the upper arm or thigh.

[0009] When the chemical warmer of the present disclosure is stored in the pocket of a holder attached to the upper arm or thigh, it can adequately follow the changes in the thickness and shape of the upper arm or thigh even if they change significantly as the elbow or knee is bent and straightened, and fits the upper arm or thigh, so no discomfort is caused from the start to the end of heat generation.Furthermore, even if the breathability of the pocket changes as the basis weight and thickness of the parts that make up the holder pocket change as the elbow or knee is bent and straightened, it can provide excellent stability of the thermal effect.

[0010] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a method for measuring the stiffness value of a chemical warmer. Fig. 3 is a front view of a chemical warmer holder of an embodiment. Fig. 4 is a rear view of the chemical warmer holder of Fig. 2. Fig. 5 is a side view of the chemical warmer holder of Fig. 2. Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the chemical warmer holder of Fig. 2 worn on the upper arm. Fig. 7 is an image of the chemical warmers manufactured in Examples and Comparative Examples.

[0011] In this specification, the notation X to Y regarding a numerical range means that the range is from X to Y.

[0012] 1. Chemical Warmer The chemical warmer of the present disclosure is used by being housed in a holder that is worn on the upper arm or thigh, and the chemical warmer has an exothermic composition containing an oxidizable metal housed in a container having a moisture-permeable sheet on at least one surface, and the chemical warmer has a stiffness value of 4.0 to 12.0 N at the start of heat generation, and the moisture-permeable sheet has a moisture permeability of 400 to 650 g / m 2 The chemical warmer of the present disclosure will be described in detail below.

[0013] [Configuration of Chemical Warmer] The chemical warmer of the present disclosure comprises an exothermic composition containing an oxidizable metal housed in a container having a moisture-permeable sheet on at least one surface thereof.

[0014] The exothermic composition is a composition that generates heat when an oxidizable metal comes into contact with oxygen.

[0015] The type of oxidizable metal is not particularly limited as long as it can generate heat through oxidation, and examples include iron (reduced iron, cast iron, atomized iron, electrolytic iron), aluminum, zinc, manganese, magnesium, calcium, and other metals. These oxidizable metals may be used alone or in combination of two or more. The shape of the oxidizable metal is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of heat generation efficiency, powder, granules, or fibers are preferred, with powder being more preferred. The content of the oxidizable metal in the heat-generating composition is appropriately determined depending on the heat-generating properties to be imparted, and is, for example, approximately 20 to 80 wt %. From the viewpoint of easily adjusting the stiffness value of the chemical warmer at the start of heat generation to a range of 4.0 to 12.0 N, the content is preferably 25 to 70 wt %, more preferably 45 to 60 wt %.

[0016] The heat-generating composition may contain a pro-oxidant, if necessary. The pro-oxidant serves to retain oxygen and supply oxygen to the oxidizable metal. The type of pro-oxidant is not particularly limited as long as it is capable of retaining oxygen and supplying oxygen to the oxidizable metal. Examples of the pro-oxidant include carbon materials such as activated carbon, carbon black, acetylene black, bamboo charcoal, wood charcoal, coffee grounds charcoal, graphite, coal, coconut shell charcoal, bicarbonate, peat, and lignite. These pro-oxidants may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these pro-oxidants, activated carbon, carbon black, bamboo charcoal, wood charcoal, and coffee grounds charcoal are preferred, with activated carbon being more preferred. The shape of the pro-oxidant is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of heat generation efficiency, powder, granular, or fibrous form is preferred, and powder is more preferred. The content of the pro-oxidant in the exothermic composition is set appropriately depending on the heat-generating properties to be imparted, etc., but is, for example, about 1 to 30% by weight. From the viewpoint of making it easier to adjust the stiffness value of the chemical warmer at the start of heat generation to within the range of 4.0 to 12.0 N, the content is preferably 3 to 25% by weight, and more preferably 4 to 25% by weight.

[0017] The exothermic composition may contain water, if necessary. Water, together with oxygen, serves to oxidize oxidizable metals. Any of distilled water, ion-exchanged water, pure water, ultrapure water, tap water, industrial water, etc. may be used as the water. The water content in the exothermic composition is appropriately set depending on the heat-generating properties to be imparted, but is, for example, about 5 to 50% by weight. From the viewpoint of easily adjusting the stiffness value of the chemical warmer at the start of heat generation to within the range of 4.0 to 12.0 N, the water content is preferably 10 to 40% by weight, and more preferably 15 to 35% by weight.

[0018] The exothermic composition may optionally contain a water-soluble salt. The inclusion of a water-soluble salt can promote the oxidation of an oxidizable metal. The type of water-soluble salt is not particularly limited, but examples include sulfates, bicarbonates, chlorides, and hydroxides of alkali metals (sodium, potassium, etc.), alkaline earth metals (calcium, magnesium, etc.), or heavy metals (iron, copper, aluminum, zinc, nickel, silver, barium, etc.). Among these water-soluble salts, chlorides such as sodium chloride, potassium chloride, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, and iron chloride (iron 1 and ferric chloride), and more preferably sodium chloride, are preferred from the viewpoints of electrical conductivity and chemical stability. These water-soluble salts may be used alone or in combination of two or more. The content of the water-soluble salt in the exothermic composition is appropriately determined depending on the heat-generating properties to be imparted, but is, for example, approximately 0.1 to 10 wt %. From the viewpoint of easily adjusting the stiffness value of the chemical warmer at the start of heat generation to a range of 4.0 to 12.0 N, the content is preferably 0.5 to 7 wt %, and more preferably 1 to 5 wt %.

[0019] The exothermic composition may contain a water retention agent, if necessary. The water retention agent serves to retain water and supply it to the oxidation reaction field. The type of water retention agent is not particularly limited, and examples include inorganic porous substances such as vermiculite, perlite, calcium silicate, magnesium silicate, kaolin, talc, smectite, mica, bentonite, calcium carbonate, silica gel, alumina, zeolite, silicon dioxide, and diatomaceous earth; organic substances such as pulp, wood flour (sawdust), cotton, starches, and celluloses; and water-absorbent resins such as polyacrylic acid resins, polysulfonic acid resins, maleic anhydride resins, polyacrylamide resins, polyvinyl alcohol resins, polyethylene oxide resins, polyaspartic acid resins, polyglutamic acid resins, and polyalginic acid resins. These water retention agents may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these water-retaining agents, vermiculite, polyacrylic acid resin, wood flour, and pulp are preferred, and vermiculite and polyacrylic acid resin are even more preferred. The content of the water-retaining agent in the exothermic composition is appropriately set depending on the heat-generating properties to be imparted, but is, for example, about 1 to 20% by weight, and from the viewpoint of easily adjusting the stiffness value of the chemical warmer at the start of heat generation to within the range of 4.0 to 12.0 N, it is preferably 3 to 15% by weight, more preferably 4 to 10% by weight.

[0020] The exothermic composition may further contain other additives such as sequestering agents, flavorings, thickeners, excipients, surfactants, and hydrogen generation inhibitors, as required.

[0021] The exothermic composition can be prepared by mixing the above-mentioned components in predetermined amounts. The exothermic composition may be prepared in the presence of oxygen, but is preferably prepared under reduced pressure or in an inert gas atmosphere.

[0022] The filling rate of the exothermic composition in the container is, for example, 0.25 to 0.47 g / cm 2 From the viewpoint of easily adjusting the stiffness value of the chemical warmer at the start of heat generation to within the range of 4.0 to 12.0 N, it is preferably 0.26 to 0.46 g / cm 2, more preferably 0.27 to 0.45 g / cm 2 , more preferably 0.28 to 0.44 g / cm 2 is.

[0023] In the chemical warmer of the present disclosure, the container that contains the exothermic composition has a moisture-permeable sheet on at least one side to supply oxygen and water vapor to the exothermic composition during use. The moisture-permeable sheet has a moisture permeability of 400 to 650 g / m 2 Moisture permeability is 400 to 650 g / m 2 By using a breathable sheet, when the chemical warmer is placed in the pocket of a holder worn on the upper arm or thigh, the unit weight and thickness of the parts that make up the pocket of the holder change as the elbow or knee is bent and straightened, changing the breathability of the pocket. However, because the pocket of the holder is made of a breathable material, it does not affect the breathability of the breathable sheet.

[0024] The moisture permeability of the moisture-permeable sheet is 400 to 650 g / m 2 ・day, but from the viewpoint of maintaining a more suitable heat generation temperature stably for a longer period of time, it is preferably 405 to 640 g / m 2 day, more preferably 410 to 630 g / m 2 In the present disclosure, the moisture permeability is a value measured in accordance with JIS K 7129-5:2016 (Plastics - Films and sheets - Determination of water vapor permeability - Part 5: Pressure sensor method).

[0025] The material of the moisture-permeable sheet is not particularly limited as long as it has the moisture permeability, but it is preferably formed of at least a breathable resin layer (a resin layer having pores), and from the viewpoint of improving the feeling of use, it is more preferably a laminated sheet of a breathable resin layer and a fiber substrate. The laminated sheet of a breathable resin layer and a fiber substrate may be formed by laminating the breathable resin layer and the fiber substrate in this order from the inside to the outside of the container.

[0026] The constituent resin of the breathable resin layer is not particularly limited, but examples include polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyethylene terephthalate, polyacrylonitrile, ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer, polyamide, polyurethane, polystyrene, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, polycarbonate, etc. Among these resins, polyethylene, polypropylene, and ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer are preferred from the viewpoint of making it easier to adjust the stiffness value of the chemical warmer at the start of heat generation to within the range of 4.0 to 12.0 N. The constituent resins may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0027] The breathable resin layer may be a resin film having pores for ensuring breathability. The shape, size, and number of the pores provided in the resin film may be appropriately determined depending on the moisture permeability that the container is to have.

[0028] Specific examples of the fiber substrate used in the moisture-permeable sheet include nonwoven fabrics and woven fabrics. From the viewpoint of usability, etc., nonwoven fabrics are preferred. The material of the fiber substrate is not particularly limited, but examples include synthetic fibers such as polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, nylon, polypropylene, polyethylene, vinylon, rayon, acrylic, acetate, and polyvinyl chloride; natural fibers such as cotton, hemp, silk, and paper; and mixed fibers thereof. Among these materials, from the viewpoint of improving usability and making it easier to adjust the stiffness value of the chemical warmer at the start of heat generation to a range of 4.0 to 12.0 N, polyethylene terephthalate, nylon, and polypropylene are preferred, and polyethylene terephthalate and nylon are more preferred. The above materials may be used alone or in combination of two or more types.

[0029] The breathable resin layer and the fiber substrate can be laminated by a known lamination method such as dry lamination, extrusion lamination, or thermal lamination.

[0030] The thickness of the moisture-permeable sheet may be set appropriately depending on the layer structure of the moisture-permeable sheet, etc., but is, for example, about 15 to 150 μm, and from the viewpoint of easily adjusting the stiffness value of the chemical warmer at the start of heat generation to within the range of 4.0 to 12.0 N, it is preferably 30 to 100 μm, and more preferably 50 to 80 μm.

[0031] The basis weight of the moisture-permeable sheet may be appropriately set depending on the layer structure of the moisture-permeable sheet, for example, 1 to 100 g / m 2 From the viewpoint of easily adjusting the stiffness value of the chemical warmer at the start of heat generation to within the range of 4.0 to 12.0 N, it is preferably 5 to 70 g / m 2 , more preferably 10 to 50 g / m 2 is.

[0032] The flexural rigidity of the moisture-permeable sheet is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of easily adjusting the rigidity of the chemical warmer at the start of heat generation to the range of 4.0 to 12.0 N, it is preferably 1.0 to 2.0 gf cm 2 / cm, more preferably 1.2 to 1.9 gf cm 2 / cm, more preferably 1.4 to 1.8 gf cm 2 In the present disclosure, the bending stiffness value is measured using a pure bending tester, a 10 cm square sample, and a curvature of −2.5 to +2.5 cm. -1 In the range of 0.50 (cm -1 The bending rigidity of the moisture-permeable sheet can be adjusted to fall within the above-mentioned range by appropriately adjusting the materials of the breathable resin layer and the fiber substrate, the number of layers thereof, the thickness thereof, etc.

[0033] The container may have the moisture-permeable sheet on at least one surface. Suitable examples of the container include a container in which the peripheral portions of two of the moisture-permeable sheets are bonded together, and a container in which the peripheral portions of the moisture-permeable sheet and a non-moisture-permeable sheet (also referred to as a low-moisture-permeable sheet) are bonded together. The method for bonding these is not particularly limited, but for example, if a heat-fusible resin is used in the moisture-permeable sheet or the non-moisture-permeable sheet, the peripheral portions may be heat-sealed using the heat-fusible resin, or the peripheral portions may be bonded together using an adhesive.

[0034] The moisture permeability of the non-moisture permeable sheet is, for example, 10 g / m 2 day or less, preferably 5 g / m 2 day or less, more preferably 2 g / m 2 ・day or less, more preferably 1 g / m 2 day or less, particularly preferably 0 g / m 2 ・It's day.

[0035] The material of the non-moisture-permeable sheet is not particularly limited, but preferably a resin sheet without pores. The constituent resin of the resin sheet constituting the non-moisture-permeable sheet is not particularly limited, but examples include polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyethylene terephthalate, polyacrylonitrile, ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer, polyamide, polyurethane, polystyrene, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, polycarbonate, etc. Among these resins, polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, and polyethylene terephthalate are preferred. The constituent resins may be used alone or in combination of two or more. The non-moisture-permeable sheet may also be a resin sheet on which a metal has been vapor-deposited, preferably an aluminum-vapor-deposited resin sheet, more preferably an aluminum-vapor-deposited polyethylene terephthalate sheet.

[0036] The thickness of the resin sheet that constitutes the non-moisture permeable sheet may be set appropriately depending on the layer structure of the non-moisture permeable sheet, but is, for example, about 40 to 150 μm.From the viewpoint of making it easier to adjust the stiffness value of the chemical warmer at the start of heat generation to within the range of 4.0 to 12.0 N, the thickness is preferably 50 to 100 μm, and more preferably 60 to 90 μm.

[0037] The moisture-impermeable sheet may be formed by laminating a fiber substrate on a resin sheet having no pores, if necessary. The material and basis weight of the fiber substrate used in the moisture-impermeable sheet are the same as those exemplified for the moisture-permeable sheet.

[0038] The flexural rigidity of the moisture-impermeable sheet is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.1 to 1.0 gf cm from the viewpoint of easily adjusting the rigidity of the chemical warmer at the start of heat generation to within the range of 4.0 to 12.0 N. 2 / cm, more preferably 0.15 to 0.7 gf cm 2 / cm, more preferably 0.2 to 0.5 gf cm 2 The bending rigidity value of the moisture-impermeable sheet can be adjusted to fall within the above-mentioned range by appropriately adjusting the materials of the resin sheet and fiber substrate, the number of layers thereof, the thickness thereof, and the like.

[0039] The shape of the container may be appropriately set so that it can be accommodated in the pocket of the holder. For example, in the case of a holder worn on the upper arm or thigh as shown in Fig. 2, the container may have a shape in plan view that corresponds to the shape of the pocket 22 of the holder in plan view, specifically, a shape that extends in one direction from a linear edge and has a circular other edge.

[0040] In the container, the area of ​​the portion that contains the exothermic composition (the area of ​​the portion that contains the exothermic composition when viewed from above) is, for example, 20 to 100 cm 2 Approximately, preferably 25 to 70 cm 2 , more preferably 30 to 50 cm 2 is.

[0041] [Rigidity Value of Chemical Warmer] The chemical warmer of the present disclosure has a rigidity value of 4.0 to 12.0 N at the start of heat generation. By storing a chemical warmer with a rigidity value of 4.0 to 12.0 N in a holder that is attached to the upper arm or thigh, the chemical warmer can adequately follow changes in the thickness and shape of the upper arm or thigh, even if the thickness or shape changes significantly as the elbow or knee is bent and straightened. Because the chemical warmer fits the upper arm or thigh, there is no discomfort from the start to the end of heat generation, and the appropriate heat generation temperature (approximately 42 to 55°C) can be stably maintained for a long period of time (8 hours or more).

[0042] The stiffness value of the chemical warmer may be 4.0 to 12.0 N, but from the perspective of further improving the above-mentioned effect, it is preferably 4.1 to 11.9 N, and more preferably 4.2 to 11.8 N. In the present disclosure, the stiffness value is a value measured by the following method. A rheometer is used as a measuring device. As shown in FIG. 1 , a chemical warmer 1 is stretched between a pair of supports 2 each having a width of 2.5 cm and a height of 2.5 cm. The supports 2 are spaced 4 cm apart, and the length of the supports 2 is longer than the length of the chemical warmer 1. A pusher 3 having a diameter of 10 mm is lowered from above the chemical warmer 1 stretched between the supports 2 at a speed of 60 mm / min, and pressed into the chemical warmer 1. The pusher 3 is pressed into the center of the chemical warmer 1. The pusher 3 is pressed 20 mm from the upper surface of the chemical warmer 1, and the maximum value of the load generated during this movement is taken as the stiffness value. The stiffness value of the chemical warmer can be adjusted to 4.0 to 12.0 N by appropriately adjusting the content of each component of the exothermic composition, the filling rate of the exothermic composition in the container, the material, thickness, basis weight, and bending stiffness value of the moisture-permeable sheet and the moisture-impermeable sheet, etc.

[0043] The chemical warmer of the present disclosure is packaged in a packaging material having oxygen barrier properties, and is provided in a state in which the exothermic composition does not come into contact with air. When the chemical warmer of the present disclosure is placed in a holder worn on the upper arm or thigh, the packaging is opened, and the exothermic composition comes into contact with air, initiating heat generation. When placed in the holder pocket, the exothermic temperature is preferably 42 to 55°C, more preferably 45 to 52°C, and the heat generation duration is preferably 8 hours or more, more preferably 9 hours or more.

[0044] 2. Holder to be worn on the upper arm or thigh The holder that houses the chemical warmer of the present disclosure is not particularly limited as long as it can be worn on the upper arm or thigh and has a pocket that can house the chemical warmer of the present disclosure.

[0045] An example of a holder that can accommodate the chemical warmer of the present disclosure is a chemical warmer holder that includes a holding part having a pocket that can accommodate the chemical warmer of the present disclosure, and a belt that is joined to the holding part so that an insertion space into which the upper arm or thigh can be inserted is formed between the holding part and the belt, wherein the holding part is made of a substantially non-stretchable material, and the belt is made of a stretchable material that can follow changes in the thickness of the upper arm that occur when the elbow is bent and straightened, or changes in the thickness of the thigh that occur when the knee is bent and straightened.

[0046] An embodiment of the chemical warmer holder will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 2 is a front view of the chemical warmer holder 10 according to one embodiment. Fig. 3 is a rear view of the chemical warmer holder 10. Fig. 4 is a side view of the chemical warmer holder 10. Hereinafter, the longitudinal direction of the chemical warmer holder 10 when viewed from the front is referred to as the left-right direction, and the direction perpendicular to the left-right direction when viewed from the front is referred to as the up-down direction.

[0047] 2, 3, and 4, the chemical warmer holder 10 is attached to the user's upper arm 200 (see FIG. 5) or thigh (not shown) with the chemical warmer of the present disclosure housed inside. The main elements constituting the chemical warmer holder 10 are the holding portion 20, the belt 30, and the adjustment portion 40.

[0048] <Holding Unit> The holding unit 20 has a base 21 and a pocket 22 attached to the base 21. The material constituting the holding unit 20 is configured to be substantially non-stretchable even when the thickness of the upper arm 200 or thigh of the user changes while the holding unit 20 is attached to the upper arm 200 or thigh. The material constituting the holding unit 20 is, for example, polyester, nylon, or cotton. Note that in this embodiment, being substantially non-stretchable means, for example, that when the fabric is stretched 1 cm in a predetermined direction, it breaks, or the length in the predetermined direction of the stretched portion of the fabric that returns to its pre-stretched state is less than 95% (0.95 cm).

[0049] The shape of the base 21 can be selected arbitrarily. In this embodiment, the base 21 has a rectangular shape in which the four corners are chamfered when viewed from the front. A pocket 22 for storing the chemical warmer 100 is attached to the surface 21A of the base 21. The pocket 22 is formed by attaching a fabric separate from the fabric constituting the base 21 to the surface 21A of the base 21. To prevent the chemical warmer 100 from falling off, the pocket 22 is sewn to the base 21 except for the portion where the opening 22B is formed. A storage space 22X for storing the chemical warmer 100 is formed between the inner surface 22A of the pocket 22 (see FIG. 4 ) and the surface 21A of the base 21. The storage space 22X communicates with the outside space via the opening 22B. The chemical warmer 100 is inserted into and removed from the storage space 22X via the opening 22B.

[0050] The ratio RA of the maximum length LB between the opening 22B of the pocket 22 and one end 21X of the base 21 in the left-right direction to the maximum length LA of the pocket 22 in the left-right direction can be selected arbitrarily. When the length LA is longer than the length LB, the pocket 22 can be formed larger, allowing chemical hand warmers 100 of various sizes to be accommodated in the pocket 22. When the length LA is longer than the length LB, the pocket 22 extends over a wider area in the left-right direction. Therefore, when the chemical hand warmer holder 10 is worn on the upper arm 200 or thigh, the interior of the pocket 22 and the chemical hand warmer 100 accommodated in the pocket 22 curve along the upper arm 200 or thigh. Because the chemical hand warmer 100 fits the upper arm 200 or thigh, the chemical hand warmer 100 is more likely to remain accommodated in the pocket 22. Furthermore, the chemical warmer of the present disclosure has a stiffness value of 4.0 to 12.0 N at the start of heat generation, and therefore can adequately follow changes in the thickness or shape of the upper arm 200 or thigh when the elbow or knee is bent or straightened, and fits the upper arm 200 or thigh, causing no discomfort from the start to the end of heat generation.

[0051] <Belt> The belt 30 shown in FIG. 3 is, for example, rectangular and is joined to the base 21 so that an insertion space 10A into which the upper arm 200 or thigh is inserted is formed between the surface 30A (see FIG. 4) and the back surface 21B of the base 21. One left-right end 31 of the belt 30 is joined to one left-right end 21X of the base 21. The other left-right end 32 of the belt 30 is joined to the other left-right end 21Y of the base 21. The thickness of the upper arm 200 or thigh changes significantly as the elbow or knee is bent and straightened. Specifically, for example, the upper arm 200 is thicker when the elbow is bent than when the elbow is straightened. For this reason, the belt 30 is made of a stretchable fabric containing a stretchable material so that, when worn on the user's upper arm 200, the belt 30 can follow changes in thickness of the upper arm 200 as the user bends and straightens their elbow. The belt 30 stretches more when the user's elbow is bent than when the user's elbow is straight. The smaller the angle between the forearm and the upper arm 200, the more the belt 30 stretches. The smaller the angle between the forearm and the upper arm 200, the more the belt 30 contracts when the user's elbow is straightened than when the user's elbow is bent. The larger the angle between the forearm and the upper arm 200, the more the belt 30 contracts. In this embodiment, "stretchable" means, for example, that when a fabric is stretched 1 cm in a predetermined direction, the length of the stretched portion in the predetermined direction that returns to its pre-stretched state is 95% (0.95 cm) or more. Even when the stretchable fabric includes a substantially non-stretchable material, the stretchable fabric is configured to be stretchable as a whole. In a first example, the stretchable fabric is made of a single stretchable material. Examples of the stretchable material include polyurethane, natural rubber, or chloroprene rubber. In a second example, the stretchable fabric is made of multiple stretchable materials, or is made of a stretchable material and a substantially non-stretchable material. The substantially non-stretchable material is, for example, nylon. In the third example, the belt 30 is constructed by bonding a stretchable fabric and a non-stretchable fabric that is substantially non-stretchable. The stretchable fabric is the stretchable fabric shown in the first or second example. The material that constitutes the non-stretchable fabric is, for example, polyester. In the third example, the belt 30 is also constructed to have stretchability as a whole.According to the second and third examples, the strength of the belt 30 is increased. Furthermore, according to the second and third examples, it is possible to arbitrarily adjust the stretchability of the belt 30. Note that the belt 30 only needs to be stretchable in at least the direction along the left-right direction, and may also be stretchable in a direction intersecting the left-right direction when viewed from the front.

[0052] The relationship between the maximum length LC of the belt 30 in the vertical direction and the maximum length LD of the base 21 in the vertical direction can be selected arbitrarily. Because the belt 30 is made of a stretchable material, it is preferable that the length LC is shorter than the length LD. When the length LC is shorter than the length LD, the belt 30 easily stretches, which increases the options for the material that makes up the belt 30. In one example, the length LC is 5 cm, and the length LD is 9 cm.

[0053] Hook-and-loop fastener loops 33 are attached to the back surface 30B of the belt 30. The hatched portion of the belt 30 in Fig. 3 indicates the area where the loops 33 are present. In this embodiment, the loops 33 are arranged over substantially the entire belt 30 in the left-right direction.

[0054] <Adjustment Unit> The adjustment unit 40 protrudes from the end 31 of the belt 30 and the end 21X of the base 21, and joins with the belt 30 to adjust the length of the belt 30 wrapped around the upper arm 200 or thigh. The adjustment unit 40 is, for example, rectangular with a chamfered corner on the opposite side from the belt 30. A hook-and-loop fastener hook 41 that joins with the loop 33 is attached to the back surface 40A of the adjustment unit 40. In FIG. 3 , the hatched portion of the adjustment unit 40 indicates the area where the hook 41 is located. The hook 41 is arranged over substantially the entire back surface 40A of the adjustment unit 40.

[0055] The ratio RB of the maximum length LF of the adjustment part 40 in the left-right direction to the maximum length LE of the belt 30 in the left-right direction can be selected arbitrarily. Preferably, the ratio RB is 17% or more so that the user can easily grasp the adjustment part 40 with the upper arm 200 or thigh inserted into the insertion space 10A.

[0056] [Method of Using Chemical Warmer Holder] An example of a method of using the chemical warmer holder 10 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 4 , the chemical warmer 100 is stored in the storage space 22X through the opening 22B. For example, when wearing the chemical warmer holder 10 on the upper arm 200, the user inserts the hand, forearm, elbow, and upper arm 200 into the insertion space 10A in this order. When the user reaches the desired position on the upper arm 200, the user pulls the hook 41 of the adjustment unit 40 and connects it to the loop 33 of the belt 30 so that the chemical warmer holder 10 does not slip off the upper arm 200. The portion of the belt 30 closer to the end 31 than the portion connected to the adjustment unit 40 is bent and positioned between the upper arm 200 and the back surface 21B of the base 21. Note that if adjustment of the length of the belt 30 using the adjustment unit 40 is not required, the hook 41 and the loop 33 are not connected. When the chemical warmer holder 10 is worn on the upper arm, a thermal effect is imparted to the upper arm 200 via the rear surface 21B of the base 21.

[0058] 3. Device for Relieving Cold Hands or Feet The device for relieving cold hands or feet disclosed herein includes the chemical warmer disclosed herein and a holder to be attached to the upper arm or thigh. The device for relieving cold hands or feet disclosed herein can promote blood circulation in the hands or feet by warming the upper arm or thigh at a moderate temperature for a long period of time, thereby alleviating symptoms such as sensitivity to cold caused by poor circulation.

[0059] The present disclosure will be specifically described below with reference to examples, but the present disclosure is not limited to these examples.

[0060] 1. Preparation of Chemical Warmers Moisture-permeable sheets A to D shown in Table 1 were prepared. The shape of each moisture-permeable sheet is as shown in Figure 6. The moisture permeability of each moisture-permeable sheet was measured in accordance with JIS K 7129-5:2016 (Plastics - Films and sheets - Determination of water vapor transmission rate - Part 5: Pressure sensor method). The moisture-permeable sheets A to D prepared were all laminated sheets (thickness 60 μm, basis weight 30 g / m) in which a spunbond nonwoven fabric made of polyethylene terephthalate and a polyethylene film with micropores were bonded by dry lamination. 2 The moisture permeability is controlled by the size and number of pores in the polyethylene film. The bending stiffness of each moisture-permeable sheet was measured using a pure bending tester (KES-FB2S, manufactured by Kato Tech Co., Ltd.) with a 10 cm square sample held between chucks spaced 1 cm apart and subjected to a curvature of -2.5 to +2.5 cm. -1 In the range of 0.50 (cm -1 The measurement was carried out by performing a pure bending test at a deformation rate of 1 / 400 s.

[0061]

[0062] In addition, the moisture permeability is 0 g / m 2 · day, and bending rigidity value is 0.37 gf · cm 2 A moisture-impermeable sheet (aluminum-deposited polyethylene terephthalate sheet, 76 μm thick) having a moisture permeability of 1000 psi / cm was prepared. The moisture permeability of the moisture-impermeable sheet was measured in accordance with JIS K 7129-5:2016 (Plastics - Films and Sheets - Determination of Water Vapor Transmission Rate - Part 5: Pressure Sensor Method). The bending stiffness of the moisture-impermeable sheet was measured using a pure bending tester (Kato Tech Co., Ltd., KES-FB2S). The sample was 10 cm square and held in chucks spaced 1 cm apart, with a curvature of -2.5 to +2.5 cm. -1 In the range of 0.50 (cm -1 The moisture-impermeable sheet had a shape as shown in FIG.

[0063] Further, an exothermic composition having the composition shown in Table 2 was prepared. The prepared exothermic composition was held between the moisture-permeable sheet and the moisture-impermeable sheet in the filling amounts shown in Tables 3 and 4. The moisture-permeable sheet was arranged with the nonwoven fabric side facing outward. In this state, the peripheral edges of both sheets were heat-sealed to produce a chemical warmer in which the exothermic composition was housed. The width W1 of the produced chemical warmer was 70 mm and the length L1 was 90 mm. The width W2 of the part housing the exothermic composition was 55 mm and the length L2 was 75 mm. The area of ​​the part housing the exothermic composition was 37 cm 2 is.

[0064]

[0065] The manufactured chemical warmers were quickly placed in gas-impermeable sealed bags and sealed. The combinations of moisture-permeable sheets and the filling amounts of exothermic compositions in the manufactured chemical warmers are shown in Tables 3 and 4.

[0066] 2. Measurement of Stiffness of Chemical Warmers The stiffness of the manufactured chemical warmers was measured using the following method. A rheometer (CR-500DX, manufactured by Sun Scientific Co., Ltd.) was used as the measuring device. The chemical warmer was removed from the sealed bag. Then, as shown in Figure 1, the chemical warmer 1 was placed between a pair of supports 2 measuring 2.5 cm wide and 2.5 cm high. The distance between the supports 2 was 4 cm, and the length of the supports 2 was longer than the length of the chemical warmer 1. A pusher 3 with a diameter of 10 mm was lowered at a speed of 60 mm / min from above the chemical warmer 1 placed between the supports 2, and pressed into the chemical warmer 1. The pusher 3 was pressed into the center of the chemical warmer 1. The pusher 3 was pressed 20 mm from the upper surface of the chemical warmer 1, and the maximum load generated during this movement was recorded as the stiffness value (N). The results are shown in Tables 3 and 4.

[0067] 3. Evaluation of Usability The chemical warmers were removed from the sealed pouch and placed in the pocket of a holder (holding part: polyester, belt: nylon) worn on the upper arm as shown in Figure 1. The holder was then worn on the upper arm of six subjects, and a sensory evaluation was conducted using a questionnaire with a VAS (Visual Analogue Scale). In the questionnaire, the left end of a 10 cm line was designated as "Feels uncomfortable when using the chemical warmer" and the right end was designated as "Feels no uncomfortable when using the chemical warmer." The subjects were asked to indicate which position on the line corresponded to the sensation they felt when using each chemical warmer. The distance from the left end (0 cm) of the designated position was taken as the VAS measurement value. The six VAS measurement values ​​obtained were averaged, and the usability was evaluated according to the following criteria. The results are shown in Tables 3 and 4. <Evaluation Criteria> A: 8 points or more B: 4 points or more but less than 8 points C: Less than 4 points

[0068] 4. Evaluation of Heat Generation Temperature In the "evaluation of usability" above, the heat generation temperature of the chemical warmer was measured using a temperature detector (manufactured by T&D Co., Ltd.) while the holder was attached to the upper arm, and the heat generation temperature was evaluated according to the following criteria. The results are shown in Tables 3 and 4. <Evaluation criteria> A: The heat generation temperature is maintained in the range of 42 to 55°C (the heat generation temperature is sufficient and stable). B: The heat generation temperature is maintained in the range of 39 to 42°C (the heat generation temperature is insufficient but stable). C: The heat generation temperature is below 38°C or above 56°C (the heat generation temperature is either too low or too high and is unstable).

[0069] 5. Evaluation of Temperature Duration In the "Evaluation of Usability" above, the duration of heat generation from the chemical warmer while the holder was attached to the upper arm was measured, and the temperature durability was evaluated according to the following criteria. The results are shown in Tables 3 and 4. <Evaluation Criteria> A: 8 hours or more (sufficient duration) B: 6 hours or more but less than 8 hours (slightly insufficient duration) C: Less than 6 hours (insufficient duration)

[0070]

[0071]

[0072] As shown in Tables 3 and 4, the moisture permeability is 400 to 650 g / m 2Chemical warmers (Examples 1 to 4) using a moisture-permeable sheet with a stiffness value of 4.0 to 12.0 N were satisfactory in terms of feel, heat generation temperature, and temperature retention. On the other hand, chemical warmers (Comparative Examples 1 to 16) using a moisture-permeable sheet with a moisture permeability outside the above-mentioned range and / or a stiffness value outside the above-mentioned range did not simultaneously satisfy feel, heat generation temperature, and temperature retention. Here, with regard to the moisture permeability of the moisture-permeable sheet and the filling rate of the exothermic composition, the chemical warmer of Comparative Example 5 corresponds to a chemical warmer that is attached to clothing, and the chemical warmer of Comparative Example 6 corresponds to a chemical warmer that is placed on the soles of the feet.

[0073] 1: Chemical warmer 2: Support 3: Push-in body 10: Chemical warmer holder 10A: Insertion space 20: Holding part 22: Pocket 30: Belt 33: Loop 40: Adjustment part 41: Hook 100: Chemical warmer 200: Upper arm

Claims

1. A chemical warmer that is used by being housed in a holder that is worn on the upper arm or thigh, the chemical warmer has a heat generating composition containing an oxidizable metal housed in a container having a moisture permeable sheet on at least one side, the chemical warmer has a stiffness value of 4.0 to 12.0 N when heat generation begins, and the moisture permeability of the moisture permeability sheet is 400 to 650 g / m 2 ・Chemical heating pad for today.

2. The moisture permeable sheet has a bending stiffness of 1.0 to 2.0 gf cm 2 3. The chemical warmer according to claim 1, wherein the thickness of said warmer is 1 / cm.

3. The container has a moisture-impermeable sheet on the other surface, and the moisture-impermeable sheet has a bending stiffness of 0.1 to 1.0 gf cm 2 3. The chemical warmer according to claim 1, wherein the thickness of said warmer is 1 / cm.

4. A device for improving cold hands or feet, comprising the chemical warmer according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and a holder to be worn on the upper arm or thigh.

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