Eye mask

Abstract

This eye mask is provided with a holder shaped to cover at least the eyes and ears of a wearer when worn, and a heating element provided on the holder. The holder is shaped to cover at least a region from the eyes to the ears of the wearer when worn. When worn, the holder has a coverage area of 8000 mm2 or more on the upper side of the head relative to a line connecting the lower ends of the bases of one and the other ears of the wearer. The heating element is provided at a position where the heating element can directly or indirectly face at least one of the eyes, temples, and ears of the wearer.

Description

eye mask

[0001] The present invention relates to an eye mask.

[0002] Conventionally, eye masks capable of warming the eyes of a wearer have been known (for example, Patent Document 1, etc.). Conventional eye masks can provide comfort to the wearer by warming the eyes of the wearer.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-123336

[0004] As such, while conventional eye masks can provide comfort to the wearer by warming their eyes, there is room for improvement in terms of improving the quality of sleep of the wearer.

[0005] The present invention relates to an eye mask that can improve the quality of sleep of the wearer.

[0006] The eye mask according to the present invention comprises a holder having a shape that covers at least the eyes and ears of a wearer when worn, and a heating element provided in the holder.

[0007] The eye mask of the present invention can improve the quality of sleep of the wearer.

[0008] FIG. 4 is a plan view of an eye mask according to the present embodiment; FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an eye mask according to the present embodiment; FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a human head model; FIG. 7 is a front view of a human head model; FIG. 8 is a plan view of a heating element according to the present embodiment; FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line AA' in FIG. 4; FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a measuring device for measuring the amount of water vapor generated; FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a wearer wearing the eye mask according to the present embodiment; FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of a wearer wearing the eye mask according to the present embodiment.

[0009] Preferred embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the inventions according to the claims, and not all of the combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution of the invention. Furthermore, in the present embodiments, the scale and dimensions of each component may be exaggerated, and some components may be omitted.

[0010] [Overall configuration of eye mask] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the eye mask 1 of this embodiment includes a holder 10 that is shaped to cover at least the eyes and ears of the wearer when worn, and a heating element 20 that is provided on the holder 10.

[0011] In this specification, the top side of the wearer's head is defined as "upper" and the chin side of the wearer is defined as "lower" when the wearer is wearing the eye mask 1. In addition, in this specification, the direction perpendicular to the up-down direction in a plan view of the eye mask 1 is defined as the "left-right direction."

[0012] In this specification, the parts present in the area inside the eye socket, such as the eyeball, eyelids, and eyelashes, are collectively defined as "eyes." In addition, in this specification, the auricle is defined as "ear."

[0013] 1 and 2, the holder 10 has a shape that covers at least the area from the eyes to the ears of the wearer when worn. Covering the area from the eyes to the ears means covering the area between the eyes and a line (such as line VL3 described below) that passes through the outer corner of the eye and the upper and lower ends of the base of the ear, as well as the area including the temples and the ears. In other words, the holder 10 has a shape that covers at least the eyes, temples, and ears of the wearer when worn.

[0014] In this specification, the "temple" is defined as a region that falls under either (1) or (2) below. (1) A region where the skull is concave and located between the end of the eyebrow and the top of the base of the ear. (2) As shown in FIG. 3A , within a region of a circle with a radius of 10 mm, the center O of which is 15 mm toward the top of the head from the intersection P of a first virtual line VL1 connecting the outer corner of the eye of the human head model HM with the top of the ear, and a second virtual line VL2 extending vertically through a point 30 mm from the end of the first virtual line VL1 on the outer corner of the eye. The first virtual line VL1 and the second virtual line VL2 are virtual lines that extend along the surface of the human head model HM. Furthermore, as the "human head model HM," a female human head model (width 151.24 mm, depth 206.82 mm, height 233.01 mm) created based on the average female head data (2014 edition) manufactured by Digital Human Technology Co., Ltd. can be used.

[0015] In this embodiment, the holder 10 is formed in a band shape that extends circumferentially around the wearer's head when worn. Specifically, the holder 10 has an upper edge 11 and a lower edge 12 that are elongated in the left-right direction, and a pair of side edges 13 that extend from both ends of the upper edge 11 to both ends of the lower edge 12, and is formed in a generally rectangular shape that is elongated in the left-right direction as a whole. Note that the shape of the holder 10 is not limited to this, and it may be formed in a rectangular shape that is elongated in the left-right direction, or at least one of the upper edge 11, the lower edge 12, and the side edge 13 may locally protrude, or at least one of the upper edge 11, the lower edge 12, and the side edge 13 may be curved overall or locally.

[0016] The vertical length L1 of the holder 10 (see FIG. 1 ) is preferably 60 mm or more, more preferably 80 mm or more, and even more preferably 100 mm or more, from the viewpoint of increasing the coverage area and contact area of ​​the holder 10 with respect to the wearer's face, thereby giving the wearer a sense of immersion and comfort due to contact with the holder 10 and improving the quality of the wearer's sleep. Furthermore, the vertical length L1 of the holder 10 is preferably 150 mm or less, more preferably 135 mm or less, and even more preferably 120 mm or less, from the viewpoint of preventing the wearer from feeling uncomfortable and the quality of the wearer's sleep from being reduced due to an excessive increase in the coverage area of ​​the holder 10 with respect to the wearer's face (e.g., an increase in the coverage area of ​​the forehead or the holder 10 covering the wearer's mouth). That is, the vertical length L1 of the holder 10 is preferably 60 mm or more and 150 mm or less, more preferably 80 mm or more and 135 mm or less, and even more preferably 100 mm or more and 120 mm or less.

[0017] In this specification, the "vertical length of the holder" refers to any one of the lengths (1) to (3) below. (1) When the upper edge 11 and the lower edge 12 are not formed in a straight line extending in the left-right direction, such as when the upper edge 11 and the lower edge 12 are formed in an arc shape, the linear length in the vertical direction from a tangent line in the left-right direction of the upper edge 11 to a tangent line in the left-right direction of the lower edge 12. (2) When the upper edge 11 and the lower edge 12 are formed in a straight line extending in the left-right direction, the linear length in the vertical direction from the upper edge 11 to the lower edge 12. (3) When either the upper edge 11 or the lower edge 12 is formed in a straight line extending along the left-right direction, and the other of the upper edge 11 or the lower edge 12 is not formed in a straight line extending along the left-right direction, the straight line length along the up-down direction from either the upper edge 11 or the lower edge 12 to a tangent along the left-right direction of the other of the upper edge 11 or the lower edge 12.

[0018] Furthermore, when the eye mask 1 is worn, it is preferable that the covering portion of the holder 10 in the area from a line passing through the upper and lower ends of the base of one of the wearer's ears to a line passing through the upper and lower ends of the base of the other ear of the wearer has at least the above-mentioned length L1, it is more preferable that the portions covering the wearer's eyes, temples and ears have at least the above-mentioned length L1, and it is even more preferable that the portions covering the wearer's eyes and the portions covering the wearer's ears have at least the above-mentioned length L1.

[0019] The "area from the line passing through the upper and lower ends of the base of one ear of the wearer to the line passing through the upper and lower ends of the base of the other ear of the wearer" may be defined using the head of the wearer wearing the eye mask 1, or may be defined using a human head model HM. In Figure 3A, as an example, a line VL3 passing through the upper and lower ends of the base of one ear of the human head model HM is shown. Note that the line passing through the upper and lower ends of the base of the other ear of the human head model HM is not shown because it is symmetrical to the line VL3.

[0020] When the eye mask 1 is worn, the area of ​​the holder 10 on the top side of the head from the line connecting the lower end of the base of one ear to the lower end of the base of the other ear of the wearer is 8000 mm from the viewpoint of covering at least the eyes and ears of the wearer. ２ It is preferable that the thickness is 16,000 mm or more, and from the viewpoint of covering at least the area from the eyes to the ears of the wearer, ２ It is more preferable that the thickness is 28000 mm or more, and from the viewpoint of increasing the coverage area and contact area of ​​the holder 10 with respect to the wearer's face, thereby giving the wearer a sense of immersion and comfort due to contact with the holder 10, and improving the quality of sleep of the wearer, it is preferable that the thickness is 28000 mm or more. ２ More preferably, it is equal to or greater than this.

[0021] The "line connecting the lower end of the base of one ear and the lower end of the base of the other ear of the wearer" may be defined using the head of the wearer wearing the eye mask 1, or may be defined using a human head model HM. Figure 3B shows, as an example, a line VL4 connecting the lower end of the base of one ear and the lower end of the base of the other ear of the human head model HM.

[0022] The holder 10 also has a nasal passage portion 14 that allows the wearer's nose to pass through. The nasal passage portion 14 is a generally triangular cutout that tapers from the lower edge portion 12 to the upper edge portion 11. The nasal passage portion 14 may be formed on a vertical center line 15 that divides the holder 10 in half in the left-right direction. Specifically, the nasal passage portion 14 may be formed so that the center of the nasal passage portion 14 in the left-right direction is located on the vertical center line 15. The vertical center line 15 is an imaginary straight line that passes through the center of the holder 10 in the left-right direction and extends in the up-down direction.

[0023] In this way, since the holder 10 has the nasal passage 14, the holder 10 is not positioned on the bridge of the wearer's nose, improving the fit of the holder 10 to the wearer's face. This has the advantage of improving the sense of immersion given to the wearer and improving the quality of sleep of the wearer.

[0024] The nose passage portion 14 may be a slit formed from the lower edge portion 12 toward the upper edge portion 11, or may be an opening that allows the wearer's nose to be exposed. Also, the holder 10 may be configured without the nose passage portion 14.

[0025] 1 and 2, the holder 10 according to this embodiment has a skin-side fabric 10A that is positioned on the skin side of the wearer when the eye mask 1 is worn, and a non-skin-side fabric 10B that is positioned on the non-skin side of the wearer when the eye mask 1 is worn. The skin-side fabric 10A and the non-skin-side fabric 10B are joined together. Various known methods can be used to join the skin-side fabric 10A and the non-skin-side fabric 10B, such as gluing or sewing.

[0026] In this embodiment, the mean deviation (MMD) of the coefficient of friction of the skin-side fabric 10A is preferably 0.09 or less, more preferably 0.07 or less, and even more preferably 0.06 or less, from the viewpoint of providing comfort to the wearer by making the holder 10 feel good against the skin and improving the quality of the wearer's sleep.

[0027] The mean deviation (MMD) of the coefficient of friction of the skin side fabric 10A can be measured by the following method using an automatic surface tester (KES FB4-AUTO-A, manufactured by Kato Tech Co., Ltd.). That is, a measuring probe using a steel piano wire with a diameter of 0.5 mm is used to measure the coefficient of friction of a surface of 1 cm2. ２ The friction force is measured when the test piece is moved back and forth over a length of 30 mm at a load of 50 gf and a speed of 1 mm / s. The analysis distance is 20 mm, with 5 mm of data cut off from both ends. The measurement surface is such that the skin side of the skin side fabric 10A faces the measuring probe. Measurements are taken at three different points on the skin side fabric 10A, and the average value is taken as the mean deviation (MMD) of the coefficient of friction of the skin side fabric 10A. The lower the mean deviation (MMD) of the coefficient of friction, the smoother the measurement surface can be evaluated.

[0028] In this embodiment, the skin side fabric 10A has a resistance of 0.5 gf / cm ２ The deformation amount (T0.5) when a pressure of 0.5 gf / cm is applied to the skin side fabric 10A is preferably 0.15 mm or more, more preferably 0.18 mm or more, and even more preferably 0.21 mm or more, from the viewpoint of improving the fit of the holder 10 to the face of the wearer, thereby giving the wearer a sense of immersion and improving the quality of sleep of the wearer. ２ The deformation amount (T0.5) when a pressure of 0.5 gf / cm is applied to the skin side fabric 10A is preferably 1.0 mm or less, more preferably 0.7 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.5 mm or less. ２ The deformation amount (T0.5) when a pressure of 0.15 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less is applied is preferably 0.15 mm or more and 0.7 mm or less, more preferably 0.18 mm or more and 0.7 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.21 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less.

[0029] 0.5gf / cm for skin side fabric 10A ２ The deformation amount (T0.5) when a pressure of 0.02 mm / s is applied can be measured using an automatic compression tester (KES FB3-AUTO-A, manufactured by Kato Tech Co., Ltd.) by the following method. ２ At a compression load of 0.5 g / cm ２The sinking of the skin side fabric 10A at this point is defined as T0.5. The measurement surface is such that the skin side of the skin side fabric 10A faces the measuring probe. Measurements are taken at three different points on the skin side fabric 10A, and the average value is used. The higher the T0.5, the softer the measurement surface can be evaluated to be.

[0030] The material of the skin-side fabric 10A is not particularly limited as long as it is a material that can be used for an eye mask, and various arbitrary materials can be used. For example, one or more materials selected from cotton, linen, silk, wool, polyester, nylon, rayon, acrylic, polyurethane, polypropylene, etc. can be used. The material of the non-skin-side fabric 10B may be the same as or different from the material of the skin-side fabric 10A.

[0031] The holder 10 having the above configuration is configured to be attachable to the wearer's head by being wrapped around the wearer's head in the circumferential direction and secured by detachable portions 30 provided at both left and right ends of the holder 10. In this embodiment, the holder 10 is configured to be attachable to the wearer's head by securing a first detachable portion 30a provided on the skin-side fabric 10A at an end on one side edge 13 of the holder 10 and a second detachable portion 30b provided on the non-skin-side fabric 10B at an end on the other side edge 13 of the holder 10. The detachable portion 30 can be, for example, a hook-and-loop fastener.

[0032] The configuration for attaching the holder 10 to the wearer's head is not limited to the configuration in which it is fixed by the above-mentioned detachable part 30, and various known configurations can be used. For example, one or more bands or the like spanning from one end of the holder 10 to the other end in the left-right direction can be used, or a ring-shaped holder 10 configured to be stretchable can be used.

[0033] [Configuration of Heating Element] As shown in Figures 1, 2, and 4, the heating element 20 has a rectangular planar shape. Specifically, the heating element 20 preferably has a square or approximately square planar shape, or a rectangular or approximately rectangular planar shape that is elongated in the left-right direction. When the heating element 20 has a square or approximately square planar shape, the contact area between the wearer's skin and the holder 10 is increased, which has the advantage of providing the wearer with a comfortable feeling due to contact with the holder 10 and improving the quality of the wearer's sleep. On the other hand, when the heating element 20 has a rectangular or approximately rectangular planar shape, the heating area provided by the heating element 20 is increased, which has the advantage of improving the comfort provided to the wearer and improving the quality of sleep. Figures 1 and 4 illustrate a heating element 20 having a substantially square planar shape as an example.

[0034] The planar shape of the heating element 20 is not limited to a rectangle, but may be other shapes such as a circle or a polygon.

[0035] The horizontal length L2 of the heating element 20 (see FIG. 4 ) is preferably 60% or more, more preferably 100% or more, and even more preferably 250% or more of the vertical length L3 of the heating element 20 (see FIG. 4 ) from the viewpoint of increasing the heat area provided by the heating element 20, thereby improving the comfort provided to the wearer and improving the quality of sleep of the wearer. Furthermore, the horizontal length L2 of the heating element 20 is preferably 1000% or less, more preferably 700% or less, and even more preferably 400% or less of the vertical length L3 of the heating element 20, from the viewpoint of increasing the contact area between the wearer's skin and the holder 10 and providing the wearer with comfort through contact with the holder 10. That is, the horizontal length L2 of the heating element 20 is preferably 60% or more and 1000% or less, more preferably 100% or more and 700% or less, and even more preferably 250% or more and 400% or less of the vertical length L3 of the heating element 20.

[0036] The length L2 of the heating element 20 in the left-right direction is preferably 30 mm or more, more preferably 40 mm or more, and even more preferably 50 mm or more, from the viewpoint of increasing the heat area provided by the heating element 20 to improve the comfort provided to the wearer and improve the quality of sleep of the wearer. Furthermore, the length L2 of the heating element 20 in the left-right direction is preferably 140 mm or less, more preferably 130 mm or less, and even more preferably 125 mm or less, from the viewpoint of increasing the contact area between the wearer's skin and the holder 10 and providing the wearer with comfort through contact with the holder 10. That is, the length L2 of the heating element 20 in the left-right direction is preferably 30 mm or more and 140 mm or less, more preferably 40 mm or more and 130 mm or less, and even more preferably 50 mm or more and 125 mm or less.

[0037] 2, the heating element 20 is configured to be attachable to the skin-side surface (skin-side fabric 10A) of the holder 10. Specifically, the heating element 20 is configured to be attached to the skin-side surface of the holder 10 by being fixed with an attachment part 40 provided on at least one of the holder 10 and the heating element 20. In other words, the holder 10 is configured to be able to hold the heating element 20. The attachment part 40 can be, for example, an adhesive such as double-sided tape or a hook-and-loop fastener.

[0038] In this embodiment, the attachment portion 40 is provided on the skin-side fabric 10A of the holder 10. The attachment portion 40 is formed in an elongated rectangular shape extending in the left-right direction. The shape of the attachment portion 40 is not limited to this, and may be formed in, for example, a substantially rectangular shape, a square shape, a substantially square shape, another polygonal shape, or a circular shape. From the viewpoint of preventing the attachment portion 40 from contacting the wearer's skin and causing discomfort to the wearer, it is preferable that the attachment portion 40 has a shape and size that fits within the projected area of ​​the heating element 20, but this is not limited thereto.

[0039] In this embodiment, the heating elements 20 are provided in positions that allow them to directly face the wearer's eyes. Specifically, two heating elements 20 are provided, each of which is provided in a position that allows them to directly face the wearer's eyes. In addition, in this embodiment, the attachment unit 40 is provided in a position that allows them to face the wearer's eyes via the heating elements 20. Specifically, two attachment units 40 are provided, each of which is provided in a position that allows them to face the wearer's eyes via each heating element 20. The heating elements 20 are configured so that the spacing between each heating element 20 can be adjusted by arbitrarily adjusting the attachment positions relative to the attachment units 40.

[0040] The distance D1 between the inner end of the attachment section 40 where one heating element 20 (eye-side heating element) is provided and the inner end of the attachment section 40 where the other heating element 20 (eye-side heating element) is provided is preferably 2 mm or more, more preferably 10 mm or more, and even more preferably 20 mm or more, from the viewpoints of improving the fit of the heating element 20 to the wearer's eyes, efficiently conducting heat from the heating element 20 to the wearer, and improving the wearer's quality of sleep. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of facing the heating element 20 to the wearer's eyes, the distance D1 is preferably 80 mm or less, more preferably 70 mm or less, and even more preferably 60 mm or less. That is, the distance D1 is preferably 2 mm or more and 80 mm or less, more preferably 10 mm or more and 70 mm or less, and even more preferably 20 mm or more and 60 mm or less.

[0041] In this specification, the "inner end of the mounting part where the heating element (eye-side heating element) is provided" refers to the end of the mounting part 40 where the heating element 20 (eye-side heating element) is provided that is closer to the mounting part 40 where the other heating element 20 (eye-side heating element) is provided, as shown in Fig. 1. Also, in this specification, the "separation distance between the inner end of the mounting part where one heating element (eye-side heating element) is provided and the inner end of the mounting part where the other heating element (eye-side heating element) is provided" refers to the linear distance in the left-right direction between the inner end of the mounting part 40 where one heating element 20 (eye-side heating element) is provided and the inner end of the mounting part 40 where the other heating element 20 (eye-side heating element) is provided, as shown in Fig. 1.

[0042] Furthermore, the distance D2 between the outer end of the attachment section 40 where one heating element 20 (eye-side heating element) is provided and the outer end of the attachment section 40 where the other heating element 20 (eye-side heating element) is provided is preferably 110 mm or more and 150 mm or less, more preferably 115 mm or more and 145 mm or less, and even more preferably 120 mm or more and 140 mm or less, from the viewpoint of facing the heating element 20 toward the wearer's eyes.

[0043] In this specification, the "outer end of the mounting part where the heating element (eye-side heating element) is provided" refers to the end of the mounting part 40 where the heating element 20 (eye-side heating element) is provided that is farther away from the mounting part 40 where the other heating element 20 (eye-side heating element) is provided, as shown in Fig. 1. Also, in this specification, the "separation distance between the outer end of the mounting part where one heating element (eye-side heating element) is provided and the outer end of the mounting part where the other heating element (eye-side heating element) is provided" refers to the linear distance in the left-right direction between the outer end of the mounting part 40 where one heating element 20 (eye-side heating element) is provided and the outer end of the mounting part 40 where the other heating element 20 (eye-side heating element) is provided, as shown in Fig. 1.

[0044] However, the position at which the heating element 20 is provided is not limited to a position directly facing the wearer's eyes, and the heating element 20 can be provided at any position on the holder 10. However, from the viewpoint of providing warmth to areas where the wearer is likely to feel comfortable, the heating element 20 is preferably provided at a position directly or indirectly facing at least one of the wearer's eyes, temples, and ears. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of providing warmth to the wearer's eyes while also conducting appropriate heat to the wearer's temples and ears, thereby improving the comfort provided to the wearer, the heating element 20 is more preferably provided at a position directly or indirectly facing the wearer's eyes.

[0045] In addition, when the heating element 20 is indirectly facing the wearer's eyes, it is when the heating element 20 is stored inside the holder 10 and faces the wearer's eyes via the skin-side fabric 10A of the holder 10, as described below.

[0046] When the heating element 20 is placed directly opposite the wearer's temple, the distance between the inner end of the attachment portion 40 where one heating element 20 (temple side heating element) is provided and the inner end of the attachment portion 40 where the other heating element 20 (temple side heating element) is provided is preferably 130 mm or more and 220 mm or less, more preferably 135 mm or more and 210 mm or less, and even more preferably 140 mm or more and 200 mm or less, from the viewpoint of placing the heating element 20 opposite the wearer's temple.

[0047] Furthermore, the distance between the outer end of the attachment portion 40 where one heating element 20 (temple side heating element) is provided and the outer end of the attachment portion 40 where the other heating element 20 (temple side heating element) is provided is preferably 190 mm or more and 280 mm or less, more preferably 200 mm or more and 270 mm or less, and even more preferably 210 mm or more and 260 mm or less, from the viewpoint of facing the heating element 20 to the wearer's temple.

[0048] When the heating element 20 is placed directly opposite the wearer's ear, the distance between the inner end of the attachment portion 40 where one heating element 20 (ear-side heating element) is provided and the inner end of the attachment portion 40 where the other heating element 20 (ear-side heating element) is provided is preferably 240 mm or more and 320 mm or less, more preferably 250 mm or more and 310 mm or less, and even more preferably 260 mm or more and 300 mm or less, from the viewpoint of placing the heating element 20 opposite the wearer's ear.

[0049] Furthermore, the distance between the outer end of the attachment portion 40 where one heating element 20 (ear-side heating element) is provided and the outer end of the attachment portion 40 where the other heating element 20 (ear-side heating element) is provided is preferably 320 mm or more and 400 mm or less, more preferably 330 mm or more and 390 mm or less, and even more preferably 340 mm or more and 380 mm or less, from the viewpoint of facing the heating element 20 to the wearer's ear.

[0050] The "inner end of the mounting part where the heating element (temple-side heating element) is provided" and the "inner end of the mounting part where the heating element (ear-side heating element) is provided" are defined in the same way as the "inner end of the mounting part where the heating element (eye-side heating element) is provided." Similarly, the "outer end of the mounting part where the heating element (temple-side heating element) is provided" and the "outer end of the mounting part where the heating element (ear-side heating element) is provided" are defined in the same way as the "outer end of the mounting part where the heating element (eye-side heating element) is provided."

[0051] Furthermore, the "distance between the inner end of the attachment part where one heating element (temple side heating element) is provided and the inner end of the attachment part where the other heating element (temple side heating element) is provided" and the "distance between the inner end of the attachment part where one heating element (ear side heating element) is provided and the inner end of the attachment part where the other heating element (ear side heating element) is provided" are defined in the same way as the "distance between the inner end of the attachment part where one heating element (eye side heating element) is provided and the inner end of the attachment part where the other heating element (eye side heating element) is provided." Similarly, the "distance between the outer end of the attachment part where one heating element (temple side heating element) is provided and the outer end of the attachment part where the other heating element (temple side heating element) is provided" and the "distance between the outer end of the attachment part where one heating element (ear side heating element) is provided and the outer end of the attachment part where the other heating element (ear side heating element) is provided" are defined in the same way as the "distance between the outer end of the attachment part where one heating element (eye side heating element) is provided and the outer end of the attachment part where the other heating element (eye side heating element) is provided."

[0052] The heating element 20 may be provided in a position that can directly or indirectly face the wearer's eyes and temples, or the wearer's eyes and ears. By providing the heating element 20 in such a position, the heating effect of the heating element 20 can be enhanced, which has the advantage of improving the comfort provided to the wearer.

[0053] Only one heating element 20 and one mounting portion 40 may be provided on the entire holder 10, or multiple heating elements 20 may be provided as in this embodiment. When multiple heating elements 20 are provided, the heating characteristics of each heating element 20, which will be described later, may be the same or may vary depending on the portion that the heating element 20 faces.

[0054] The total area of ​​the surface of the heat generating element 20 facing the face of the wearer is set to 2400 mm from the viewpoint of increasing the heat area provided by the heat generating element 20, thereby improving the comfort of the wearer and improving the quality of sleep of the wearer. ２ It is preferable that the length is 3500 mm or more. ２ More preferably, it is 5000 mm or more. ２Furthermore, the total area of ​​the surface of the heating element 20 facing the face of the wearer is preferably 24,000 mm or more, from the viewpoint of increasing the contact area between the wearer's skin and the holder 10 and providing the wearer with a comfortable contact with the holder 10. ２ It is preferable that the length is equal to or less than 22,000 mm. ２ More preferably, it is 20,000 mm or less. ２ More preferably, the total area of ​​the heating element 20 facing the wearer's face is 2400 mm or less. ２ Over 24,000 mm ２ It is preferable that the length is 3500 mm or less. ２ More than 22000mm ２ More preferably, it is 5000 mm or less. ２ More than 20,000 mm ２ It is more preferable that:

[0055] [Heat generation characteristics of the heating element] The heating element 20 is configured to generate heat through an oxidation reaction of an oxidizable metal. In this embodiment, the heating element 20 is configured to generate hot steam through an oxidation reaction of the oxidizable metal. Note that an example of a configuration in which the heating element 20 does not generate hot steam is a configuration in which the heating element 20 does not include a water retention layer 24, which will be described later.

[0056] Examples of the form of such a heating element 20 that can be used include a powder mixture (see, for example, the description in JP 2004-16753 A (JP Patent Application No. 2002-180501)), a sheet such as a paper-made sheet (see, for example, the description in JP 2005-058744 A (JP Patent Application No. 2004-31360)), or a coated sheet in which a dispersion or the like is applied to a substrate (see, for example, the description in JP 2013-146555 A (JP Patent Application No. 2012-279804)).

[0057] The detailed structure of the heating element 20 will now be described with reference to Figures 4 and 5. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the heating element 20 has a first sheet 21 that is positioned on the skin side of the wearer when the eye mask 1 is worn, a second sheet 22 that is positioned on the non-skin side of the wearer when the eye mask 1 is worn, a base layer 23 provided between the first sheet 21 and the second sheet 22, a water-retaining layer 24 provided between the first sheet 21 and the base layer 23, and a heating layer 25 provided between the base layer 23 and the water-retaining layer 24, and is formed into a sheet-like shape having a laminated structure as a whole.

[0058] The first sheet 21 and the second sheet 22 are joined together at their peripheries, forming a bag-like shape with an internal space as a whole. That is, in this embodiment, the base layer 23, the moisture-retaining layer 24, and the heat-generating layer 25 are contained in the internal space formed between the first sheet 21 and the second sheet 22. Forming the first sheet 21 and the second sheet 22 into a bag-like shape with an internal space has the advantage of allowing the amount of heat and water vapor to be appropriately adjusted. Furthermore, the heat-generating element 20 may further include a nonwoven fabric layer on the wearer's skin side of the first sheet 21 and the wearer's non-skin side of the second sheet 22. The nonwoven fabric layer improves adhesion to the holder 10 and facilitates adjustment of the amount of steam and temperature around the eyes.

[0059] The first sheet 21 is breathable. The breathability of the first sheet 21 allows water vapor released from the water retaining layer 24 to be supplied to the wearer, thereby advantageously warming the wearer's eyes, etc. On the other hand, the second sheet 22 is breathable or non-breathable. The breathability or non-breathability of the second sheet 22 allows water vapor released from the water retaining layer 24 to be efficiently supplied to the wearer. Note that the first sheet 21 may be breathable or non-breathable, or the second sheet 22 may be breathable. Furthermore, a portion of the first sheet 21 or the second sheet 22 may be breathable, breathable or non-breathable.

[0060] In this specification, an air permeability of less than 30,000 sec / 100 mL is defined as "air permeable," an air permeability of 30,000 sec / 100 mL or more but less than 80,000 sec / 100 mL is defined as "impermeable," and an air permeability of 80,000 sec / 100 mL or more is defined as "non-air permeable." Note that air permeability is a value measured according to JIS P8117 (revised in 2009), and is the value at which 100 mL of air flows through a material at a pressure of 6.42 cm under a certain pressure. ２ It is defined as the time it takes for air to pass through an area of ​​1000m2. Therefore, a large air permeability value means that it takes longer for air to pass through, meaning that the breathability is low. Conversely, a small air permeability value means that the breathability is high. In this way, there is an inverse relationship between the air permeability value and the breathability. Air permeability can be measured using an Oken air permeability meter.

[0061] The base layer 23 may be a non-breathable or poorly breathable sheet such as polyethylene-laminated tissue paper, polyethylene film, or polyethylene terephthalate film.

[0062] The water retention layer 24 is a layer formed by laminating a sheet containing a water retention material and water on the heat generation layer 25. Examples of the water retention material include one or more selected from carbon components, fibrous materials, and water-absorbing powders. Examples of the water include an aqueous electrolyte solution. Examples of the sheet include a sheet formed by applying a paste containing a water retention material and water to a single sheet and integrating the two sheets, and a sheet formed by sandwiching the paste between two sheets and integrating the two sheets.

[0063] Examples of the carbon component include one or more selected from activated carbon, acetylene black, and graphite. As the fiber material, hydrophilic fibers, particularly cellulose fibers, are preferably used. As the cellulose fibers, chemical fibers (synthetic fibers) and natural fibers can be used. Examples of the water-absorbing powder include one or more selected from vermiculite, sawdust, silica gel, pulp powder, and water-absorbing polymers.

[0064] Examples of water-absorbent polymers include hydrophilic polymers having a crosslinked structure that can absorb and retain liquids 20 times or more their own weight. The shape of the water-absorbent polymer may be spherical, blocky, grape-bunch-like, or fibrous. The mass-average particle size of the water-absorbent polymer is preferably 1 μm or more, more preferably 10 μm or more, and even more preferably 100 μm or more. The mass-average particle size of the water-absorbent polymer is preferably 1000 μm or less, more preferably 700 μm or less, and even more preferably 500 μm or less. The particle size of the water-absorbent polymer is measured by laser diffraction.

[0065] Specific examples of water-absorbent polymers include one or more selected from the group consisting of starch, crosslinked carboxylmethylated cellulose, polymers or copolymers of acrylic acid or alkali metal acrylates, polyacrylic acid and its salts, and polyacrylate graft polymers. Among these, polymers or copolymers of acrylic acid or alkali metal acrylates, polyacrylic acid and its salts, and polyacrylate graft polymers are preferred because they make it easier to maintain the amount of water carried within a specific range.

[0066] The heat generating layer 25 is a layer formed by applying a paste-like heat generating composition containing an oxidizable metal, a carbon component, and water to the base material layer 23 .

[0067] The oxidizable metal is a metal that generates heat of oxidation reaction, and examples thereof include powders or fibers of one or more types selected from iron, aluminum, zinc, manganese, magnesium, and calcium. Among these, iron is preferred from the viewpoints of ease of handling, safety, production cost, storage stability, and stability, and iron powder is particularly preferred. Examples of iron powder include reduced iron powder and atomized iron powder. The particle size of the oxidizable metal particles can be, for example, about 0.1 μm or more and 300 μm or less.

[0068] The carbon component has at least one of the functions of water retention, oxygen supply, and catalytic activity, and preferably has all three. For example, one or more carbon components selected from activated carbon, acetylene black, and graphite can be used. Among these, activated carbon is more preferably used because it easily adsorbs oxygen when wet and maintains a constant moisture content in the heating element 20.

[0069] The water contained in the heat generating layer 25 is preferably an aqueous electrolyte solution, and more preferably an aqueous solution in which a thickener and a salt as an electrolyte are dissolved in water, but is not limited to this.

[0070] From the viewpoint of providing comfort to the wearer and improving the quality of sleep, the maximum temperature of the heating element 20 is preferably 36°C or higher, more preferably 37°C or higher, and even more preferably 38°C or higher. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of preventing the wearer from feeling uncomfortable, the maximum temperature of the heating element 20 is preferably 45°C or lower, more preferably 44°C or lower, and even more preferably 43°C or lower. In other words, the maximum temperature of the heating element 20 is preferably 36°C or higher and 45°C or lower, more preferably 37°C or higher and 44°C or lower, and even more preferably 38°C or higher and 43°C or lower.

[0071] The heating element 20 preferably generates heat at a temperature of 38°C or higher for a heating time of 5 minutes or more, more preferably 6 minutes or more, and even more preferably 8 minutes or more, from the viewpoint of providing comfort to the wearer and improving the quality of sleep.

[0072] From the viewpoint of supplying enough water vapor for the wearer to feel comfortable, the total cumulative amount of water vapor emitted from the heating element 20 over 10 minutes from the start of water vapor generation is preferably 160 mg or more, more preferably 300 mg or more, even more preferably 1000 mg or more, and even more preferably 1600 mg or more. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of maintaining a comfortable temperature, the total cumulative amount of water vapor emitted from the heating element 20 over 10 minutes from the start of water vapor generation is preferably 6000 mg or less, more preferably 4000 mg or less, and even more preferably 2000 mg or less. Note that the "cumulative amount of water vapor emitted over 10 minutes from the start of water vapor generation" refers to the total amount (total) of all heating elements 20 provided in the holder 10.

[0073] [Method for Measuring the Amount of Water Vapor Generated] In this specification, "steam is generated" means that the total amount of water vapor generated from each heating element 20 over 10 minutes, as measured by the following method, is 10 mg / 10 minutes or more. This amount of water vapor generated can be easily achieved by using, for example, a paste containing an oxidizable metal, a carbon material, and water as the heating element 20. Here, the cumulative amount of water vapor emitted over 10 minutes from the start of water vapor generation from the heating element 20 is a value measured as follows using a measuring device 50 shown in FIG. 6. In the following description, the target is a heating element 20 that is sealed in an oxygen-shielding bag or the like and is not generating heat. The "start time of heat generation" is defined as the time required from the start of opening the oxygen-shielding bag, exposing the heating element 20 to an oxygen-containing atmosphere such as air, and placing the heating element 20 in the measuring device 50 shown in FIG. 6. The measuring device 50 shown in Figure 6 includes an aluminum measuring chamber (volume 4.2 L) 51, an inlet channel 52 for introducing dehumidified air (humidity less than 2%, flow rate 2.1 L / min) into the lower part of the measuring chamber 51, an outlet channel 53 for discharging air from the upper part of the measuring chamber 51, an inlet thermo-hygrometer 54 and an inlet flow meter 55 provided in the inlet channel 52, an outlet thermo-hygrometer 56 and an outlet flow meter 57 provided in the outlet channel 53, and a thermometer (thermistor) 58 provided in the measuring chamber 51. The thermometer 58 has a temperature resolution of about 0.01°C. Note that the amount of steam generated in this specification refers to the total amount measured up to 10 minutes after the "start of heat generation" of the heating element 20.

[0074] The heating element 20 may contain, for example, fragrance components described in "Synthetic Fragrance Chemistry and Product Knowledge" (by Genichi Indo, published by The Chemical Daily) within the range that does not impair the effects of the present invention. Specific examples include terpene hydrocarbons such as myrcene, farnesene, pinene, limonene, camphene, phellandrene, terpinene, terpinolene, p-cymene, cedrene, and caryophyllene; aldehydes such as hexyl cinnamic aldehyde, 2-methyl-3-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-propanal, 4-(4-hydroxy-4-methylpentyl)-3-cyclohexene-1-carboxaldehyde, and vanillin; aromatic alcohols such as benzyl alcohol, phenylethyl alcohol, pamplefleur (2-methyl-4-phenylpentanol), dimethylbenzyl carbinol, and phenylhexanol (3-methyl-5-phenylpentanol); phenols such as anethole and eugenol; and lactones such as γ-nonalactone and γ-undecalactone.

[0075] [Method of Using the Eye Mask] Next, a description will be given of a method of using the eye mask 1 according to this embodiment. Before use, the heating element 20 according to this embodiment is stored in a sealed state in an oxygen-blocking bag (not shown).

[0076] When using the eye mask 1, the wearer first opens the oxygen-blocking bag and removes the heating element 20. This brings the heating element 20 into contact with air, and the heating element 20 begins to generate heat due to an oxidation reaction of the oxidizable metal contained in the heating element 20.

[0077] After removing the heating element 20 from the oxygen barrier bag, the wearer attaches the heating element 20 to a desired position on the skin-side fabric 10A of the holder 10 (a position that faces the wearer's eyes in FIG. 7A ). Then, while aligning the heating element 20 with a desired position on the face (the wearer's eyes in FIG. 7A ), the wearer wraps the holder 10 around the circumference of the head and fastens the attachment / detachment parts 30 provided on both left and right ends of the holder 10 at the back of the head (see FIG. 7B ). This allows the wearer to wear the eye mask 1 as shown in FIG. 7A .

[0078] [Advantages of the eye mask according to this embodiment] As described above, the eye mask 1 according to this embodiment comprises a holder 10 having a shape that covers at least the eyes and ears of the wearer when worn, and a heating element 20 provided on the holder 10.

[0079] The eye mask 1 having such a configuration can provide warmth with the heat of the heating element 20 while improving light blocking and sound blocking properties with the holder 10. This has the advantage of providing comfort to the wearer and improving the quality of sleep of the wearer. Note that "improving sleep quality" means, for example, providing ease of falling asleep and a sense of restful sleep.

[0080] Furthermore, in the eye mask 1 according to this embodiment, the holder 10 has a shape that covers at least the area from the wearer's eyes to ears when worn. With an eye mask 1 having such a configuration, the coverage area and contact area of ​​the holder 10 with respect to the wearer's face are increased, giving the wearer a sense of immersion and security, and providing the wearer with a comfortable feeling due to contact with the holder 10. Furthermore, the area over which heat is conducted by the heating element 20 is increased, enhancing the thermal effect. This has the advantage of improving the quality of sleep of the wearer.

[0081] Furthermore, in the eye mask 1 according to this embodiment, the heating element 20 is positioned so that it can directly or indirectly face at least one of the wearer's eyes, temples, and ears. The eye mask 1 having such a configuration has the advantage that the heat from the heating element 20 can provide comfort to the wearer, thereby improving the quality of sleep of the wearer.

[0082] Furthermore, in the eye mask 1 according to this embodiment, the heating element 20 is positioned so that it can directly or indirectly face the wearer's eyes and temples, or the wearer's eyes and ears. The eye mask 1 having such a configuration can enhance the thermal effect of the heating element 20, thereby improving the comfort of the wearer. This has the advantage of further improving the quality of sleep of the wearer.

[0083] Furthermore, in the eye mask 1 according to this embodiment, the planar shape of the heating element 20 is rectangular. The eye mask 1 having such a configuration has the advantage of being able to enhance the thermal effect of the heating element 20 while improving the manufacturing efficiency and ease of handling of the heating element 20.

[0084] Furthermore, in the eye mask 1 according to this embodiment, the holder 10 is formed in a band shape that extends circumferentially around the wearer's head when worn. With this configuration, the coverage area and contact area of ​​the holder 10 with respect to the wearer's face are further increased, providing the wearer with a more immersive feeling and providing the wearer with an even more comfortable feeling due to contact with the holder 10. Furthermore, the area of ​​conduction of heat from the heating element 20 is further increased, further enhancing the thermal effect. This has the advantage of further improving the quality of sleep for the wearer.

[0085] Furthermore, in the eye mask 1 according to this embodiment, the heating element 20 is configured to be attachable to the skin-facing surface of the holder 10. The eye mask 1 configured in this way has the advantage that the eye mask 1 can be used repeatedly by replacing the heating element 20.

[0086] [Modifications] The eye mask according to the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the technical concept of the present invention.

[0087] For example, in the above embodiment, the holder 10 has been described as having a shape that covers the area from the wearer's eyes to the ears, but this is not limited thereto, and the holder 10 may have a shape that does not cover the area between the wearer's eyes and ears. In other words, the holder 10 may be configured to have an opening in the area between the eyes and ears.

[0088] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the heating element 20 has been described as being configured to be attachable to the skin-side surface of the holder 10, but this is not limited thereto, and the heating element 20 may be configured to be storable inside the holder 10. In other words, the holder 10 may be configured to be able to store the heating element 20 inside. This configuration has the advantage of increasing the contact area between the wearer's skin and the holder 10, thereby providing the wearer with a comfortable feeling due to contact with the holder 10. Another advantage is that the heating element 20 can be easily held and can be prevented from falling off.

[0089] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the heating element 20 is described as generating heat through an oxidation reaction of an oxidizable metal, but this is not limited to this, and various known configurations can be used, such as a configuration in which the heating element 20 is heated with a heating device such as a microwave oven before using the eye mask 1 to generate heat.

[0090] It is clear from the claims that the above-mentioned modifications are included within the scope of the present invention.

[0091] In relation to the above-described embodiment, the present invention further discloses the following eye mask.

[0092] <1> An eye mask comprising: a holder having a shape that covers at least the eyes and ears of a wearer when worn; and a heating element provided in the holder.

[0093] The eye mask according to the present invention has a shape that covers at least the area from the wearer's eyes to the ears when worn. ... ２ or more, 16000 mm ２ It is preferable that the length is 28,000 mm or more. ２More preferably, the above is the case. The eye mask according to <2> above. <4> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <3> above, wherein the heating element is provided in a position that can directly or indirectly face at least one of the wearer's eyes, temples, and ears. <5> The eye mask according to <4> above, wherein the heating element is provided in a position that can directly or indirectly face the wearer's eyes and temples, or the wearer's eyes and ears.

[0094] <6> The eye mask according to <4> or <5>, wherein the heating element is provided at a position that can directly face the wearer's eyes and temples, or the wearer's eyes and ears. <7> The total area of ​​the heating element facing the wearer's face is 2400 mm ２ Over 24,000 mm ２ Less than or equal to 3500 mm ２ It is preferable that the length is 5000 mm or more. ２ More preferably, it is 22,000 mm or more. ２ It is preferable that the length is 20,000 mm or less. ２ The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <6> is more preferably as follows: <8> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <7>, wherein the planar shape of the heating element is rectangular. <9> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <8>, wherein the holder is formed in a band shape that extends circumferentially along the wearer's head when worn.

[0095] <10> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <9>, wherein the heating element is configured to be attachable to the skin-facing surface of the holder. <11> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <9>, wherein the holder is configured to be able to store the heating element therein. <12> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <11>, wherein the length of the holder in the vertical direction is 60 mm or more, preferably 80 mm or more, and more preferably 100 mm or more. <13> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <12>, wherein the length of the holder in the vertical direction is 150 mm or less, preferably 135 mm or less, and more preferably 120 mm or less.

[0096] <14> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <13>, wherein the holder has a nasal passage portion through which the wearer's nose can pass, and the nasal passage portion is a notch formed so as to taper from the lower edge to the upper edge of the holder. <15> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <14>, wherein the holder has a skin-side fabric that faces the wearer's skin when worn, and a non-skin-side fabric that faces the wearer's non-skin when worn. <16> The skin-side fabric has a mean deviation (MMD) of the coefficient of friction of 0.09 or less, preferably 0.07 or less, and more preferably 0.06 or less. <17> The eye mask according to <15>, wherein the skin-side fabric has a coefficient of friction of 0.5 gf / cm ２ The eye mask according to item <15> or <16>, wherein the deformation amount (T0.5) when a pressure of 0.15 mm or more is applied is 0.15 mm or more, preferably 0.18 mm or more, and more preferably 0.21 mm or more.

[0097] <18> 0.5 gf / cm ２The eye mask according to any one of <15> to <17>, wherein the deformation amount (T0.5) when a pressure of 1.0 mm or less is applied is 1.0 mm or less, preferably 0.7 mm or less, and more preferably 0.5 mm or less. <19> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <18>, wherein the length of the heating element in the left-right direction is 60% or more, preferably 100% or more, and more preferably 250% or more, of the length of the heating element in the up-down direction. <20> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <19>, wherein the length of the heating element in the left-right direction is 1000% or less, preferably 700% or less, and more preferably 400% or less, of the length of the heating element in the up-down direction. <21> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <20>, wherein the length of the heating element in the left-right direction is 30 mm or more, preferably 40 mm or more, and more preferably 50 mm or more.

[0098] <22> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <21>, wherein the length of the heating element in the left-right direction is 140 mm or less, preferably 130 mm or less, and more preferably 125 mm or less. <23> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <22>, wherein the heating element is configured to generate heat through an oxidation reaction of an oxidizable metal. <24> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <23>, wherein the heating element is configured to generate hot steam through an oxidation reaction of an oxidizable metal. <25> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <24>, wherein the heating element comprises: a first sheet positioned on the wearer's skin side when worn; a second sheet positioned away from the wearer's skin when worn; a water-retaining layer provided between the first sheet and the second sheet; and a heat-generating layer provided between the second sheet and the water-retaining layer, wherein the heat-generating layer contains an oxidizable metal, a carbon component, and water.

[0099] <26> The eye mask according to <25>, wherein the first sheet is breathable, and the second sheet is poorly breathable or non-breathable. <27> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <26>, wherein the maximum temperature of the heating element is 36°C or higher, preferably 37°C or higher, and more preferably 38°C or higher. <28> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <27>, wherein the maximum temperature of the heating element is 45°C or lower, preferably 44°C or lower, and more preferably 43°C or lower. <29> The heat generating element generates heat at a temperature of 38°C or higher for 5 minutes or longer, preferably 6 minutes or longer, and more preferably 8 minutes or longer. The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <28>, wherein the maximum temperature of the heating element is 45°C or lower, preferably 44°C or lower, and more preferably 43°C or lower. <30> The eye mask according to any one of <1> to <29>, wherein the holder is formed in a band shape that extends circumferentially around the wearer's head when worn, and the holder is configured to be attachable to the wearer's head by being fixed with detachable parts provided at both left and right ends of the holder in a state where the holder is wrapped around the wearer's head circumferentially.

[0100] The present invention will be specifically described below based on examples, but the object of the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0101] Example 1 An eye mask according to Example 1 was produced according to the following procedure.

[0102] [Preparation of Holder] First, the skin side fabric 10A and the non-skin side fabric 10B were prepared in the shapes shown in Figures 1 and 2. Light fleece 43728 (manufactured by Sawamura Co., Ltd.) was used as the material for the skin side fabric 10A, and cotton-backed two-spun satin 35142 (manufactured by Estear Co., Ltd.) was used as the material for the non-skin side fabric 10B. Next, the peripheral edges of the skin side fabric 10A and the non-skin side fabric 10B were joined to prepare the holder according to Example 1. The holder according to Example 1 has a shape that covers the area from the wearer's eyes to their ears when the eye mask is worn.

[0103] [Preparation of Heating Element] First, salt as an electrolyte and a thickener (Labor Gum GS-C: manufactured by DSP Gokyo Food & Chemical Co., Ltd.) were dissolved in water (tap water) to prepare an aqueous solution. Iron powder (reduced iron powder: manufactured by Dowa IP Creation Co., Ltd.) was added as an oxidizable metal and stirred. Activated carbon (Carborafine: manufactured by Osaka Gas Chemicals Co., Ltd.) was then added as a reaction accelerator and stirred thoroughly until uniformly dispersed, yielding a paste-like heat-generating composition. The salts used were sodium chloride (Japanese Pharmacopoeia sodium chloride: manufactured by Tomita Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.), tripotassium phosphate (food additive tripotassium phosphate: manufactured by Yoneyama Chemical Co., Ltd.), and potassium hydroxide (liquid caustic potash (48%): manufactured by Asahi Glass Co., Ltd.). The blending ratios were 55.2% iron powder, 34.2% water, 4.4% activated carbon, 0.1% thickener (xanthan gum), 1.0% tripotassium phosphate, 0.1% potassium hydroxide, and 5.0% sodium chloride.

[0104] Thereafter, the heat generating composition paste described above was applied to a polyethylene-laminated tissue paper in a basis weight of 745 g / m. ２ Then, a sheet of wood pulp paper (basis weight 20 g / m) was applied onto the heat-generating composition. ２ , manufactured by Ino Paper Co., Ltd.) and a water-absorbing polymer (spherical, average particle size 300 μm, Aqualic CA, manufactured by Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd., basis weight 70 g / m ２ ) and wood pulp paper (basis weight 30 g / m ２ A polymer sheet (having an air permeability of 2 seconds / 100 mL when absorbing 10 to 45% by mass of water by weight of the maximum water absorption capacity) was laminated and integrated with a base material layer 23, a heat-generating layer 25, and a water-retaining layer 24. This laminate (base material layer 23, heat-generating layer 25, and water-retaining layer 24) was cut to a size of 49 mm x 49 mm. Next, the laminate (base material layer 23, heat-generating layer 25, and water-retaining layer 24) was sandwiched between a breathable first sheet 21 and a non-breathable second sheet 22 cut to a size of 63 mm x 63 mm, and the four sides of these sheets were heat-sealed to obtain a heat-generating element in which the base material layer 23, heat-generating layer 25, and water-retaining layer 24 were housed within a bag made of the first sheet 21 and the second sheet 22. Note that the heat-generating element of Example 1 was produced in an oxygen-free atmosphere.

[0105] [Production of eye mask] Two heating elements produced as described above were attached to the skin side fabric 10A of the holder produced as described above to produce an eye mask according to Example 1. In Example 1, the heating elements were attached in positions that allowed them to directly face the eyes of the wearer.

[0106] Examples 2 to 4 Eye masks according to Examples 2 to 4 were produced in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the size of the heating element was changed and the attachment position of the heating element was changed so that it could directly face the temples of the wearer, away from the eyes. The sizes of the heating elements in the eye masks according to Examples 2 to 4 are as shown in Table 1.

[0107] [Examples 5 and 6] An eye mask according to Example 5 was produced in the same manner as Example 1, except that the number of heating elements was changed to four and the heating elements were attached to positions that could directly face the wearer's eyes and ears. Furthermore, an eye mask according to Example 6 was produced in the same manner as Example 1, except that the heating elements were attached to positions that could directly face the wearer's ears.

[0108] [Example 7] An eye mask according to Example 7 was produced in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the shape of the holder was changed so that it would cover the eyes and ears of the wearer when the eye mask was worn (i.e., so that it would not cover the temples).

[0109] Comparative Example 1 An eye mask according to Comparative Example 1 was produced in the same manner as in Example 1, except that no heating element was provided.

[0110] [Comparative Example 2] An eye mask according to Comparative Example 2 was produced in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the shape of the holder was changed so that it would cover the wearer's eyes when the eye mask was worn (i.e., so that it would not cover the temples or ears).

[0111] [Test 1] The following Test 1 was conducted to evaluate which parts of the wearer's face are warmed when wearing the eye masks of Examples 1 to 7 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2. The heating elements of Examples 1 to 7 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2 were stored sealed in oxygen-blocking bags.

[0112] First, the temperature sensors of a data collection thermometer (LT-8, manufactured by Gram) were attached to the wearer's upper eyelid, temple, and ear, and secured with surgical tape. Next, the heating element of Example 1 was removed from the oxygen-blocking bag and attached to the skin-side fabric 10A of the holder of Example 1. Then, in an environment of room temperature 20°C and humidity 50% RH, the wearer was asked to wear the eye mask of Example 1, and the maximum temperature reached 60 minutes after opening the oxygen-blocking bag was measured. Similar measurements were also performed on the eye masks of Examples 2 to 7 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2. The measurement results of Test 1 are shown in Table 1.

[0113] The maximum temperature was measured as follows. That is, the temperature was measured over time with the measuring device of the data collection thermometer connected to the temperature sensor. The temperature was measured at 10-second intervals starting from the start of heat generation, and the measurement was continued for a total of 60 minutes. The maximum temperature measured from the heat generation profile plotted with the measured temperature (°C) on the vertical axis and the measurement time (seconds) on the horizontal axis was taken as the "maximum temperature."

[0114]

[0115] [Evaluation of Test 1] As shown in Table 1, in the eye masks according to Examples 1 to 7 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2, it was revealed that the area directly facing the heating element was warmest, and that even areas not directly facing the heating element but covered with a holder were relatively warm. On the other hand, it was revealed that areas not directly facing the heating element and not covered with a holder were not warmed.

[0116] [Test 2] The following Test 2 was conducted on the eye masks of Examples 1 to 7 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2 to evaluate the comfort of contact with the holder, the comfort of the heat from the heating element, the sense of security, the sense of immersion, and the quality of sleep.

[0117] Five expert panelists wore the eye masks according to Examples 1 to 7 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2 before going to sleep, and evaluated the comfort of contact with the holder, the comfort of the heat from the heating element, the sense of security, the sense of immersion, and the quality of sleep according to the following evaluation criteria. The evaluation results of Test 2 are shown in Table 2. The bedtime and sleep duration when wearing the eye mask were set to be similar to those when not wearing the eye mask (average usual sleeping conditions).

[0118] [Evaluation criteria for comfort when in contact with the holder] A: When using the eye mask, you can feel a comfortable (soft) sensation over a wide area of ​​your face. B: When using the eye mask, you can feel a comfortable (soft) sensation over a somewhat wide area of ​​your face. C: When using the eye mask, you can feel a comfortable (soft) sensation on part of your face.

[0119] [Evaluation criteria for comfort due to heat from the heating element] A: Comfortable warmth can be felt while using the eye mask. B: The eye mask feels a little hot or lukewarm while using it, but the heat can be perceived and there is no problem with use. C: The eye mask is too hot to use or the heat cannot be perceived.

[0120] [Evaluation criteria for sense of security] A: There is a great sense of security while using the eye mask. B: There is a sense of security while using the eye mask. C: There is no sense of security while using the eye mask.

[0121] [Evaluation criteria for immersion] A: There is a strong sense of immersion while using the eye mask. B: There is a sense of immersion while using the eye mask. C: There is no sense of immersion while using the eye mask.

[0122] [Sleep quality evaluation criteria] A: The quality of sleep was much better than when an eye mask was not worn. B: The quality of sleep was better than when an eye mask was not worn. C: The quality of sleep was the same as when an eye mask was not worn. The specific evaluation criteria for A to C above are as follows: First, when it was felt that there was a significant improvement in falling asleep, waking up mid-sleep, and feeling of deep sleep compared to when an eye mask was not worn, a score of 3 was given; when it was felt that there was an improvement, a score of 2 was given; and when it was felt that there was no change, a score of 1 was given. Then, when the average total score of the five expert panelists was 2 points or more, a score of A was given; when it was more than 1 point but less than 2 points, a score of B was given; and when it was 1 point, a score of C was given.

[0123]

[0124] [Evaluation of Test 2] As shown in Table 2, the eye masks of Examples 1, 3, and 6 were rated A in all categories. In addition, the eye masks of Examples 2, 5, and 7 were rated B in terms of comfort when in contact with the holder, but were rated A in all other categories. Furthermore, the eye mask of Example 4 was rated A in terms of comfort and sense of security when in contact with the holder, but was rated B in all other categories.

[0125] On the other hand, the eye mask of Comparative Example 1 received an A rating for comfort due to contact with the holder, but a B rating for sense of security, and all other ratings were C. The eye mask of Comparative Example 2 received an A rating for comfort due to the heat of the heating element, but all other ratings were C.

[0126] From the above results, it became clear that the larger the coverage area and contact area of ​​the holder 10 with respect to the wearer's face, the better the quality of sleep of the wearer. It also became clear that the presence or absence and size of the heating element 20 affect the quality of sleep of the wearer.

[0127] 1: Eye mask 10: Holder 10A: Skin-side fabric 10B: Non-skin-side fabric 11: Upper edge 12: Lower edge 13: Side edge 14: Nose passage 15: Vertical center line 20: Heating element 21: First sheet 22: Second sheet 23: Base material layer 24: Moisture-retaining layer 25: Heating layer 30: Detachable portion 30a: First detachable portion 30b: Second detachable portion 40: Wearing portion 50: Measuring device 51: Measuring chamber 52: Inflow channel 53: Outflow channel 54: Inlet thermo-hygrometer 55: Inlet flow meter 56: Outlet thermo-hygrometer 57: Outlet flow meter 58: Thermometer

Claims

1. An eye mask comprising a holder having a shape that covers at least the eyes and ears of the wearer during wearing, and a heating element provided on the holder.

2. The eye mask according to claim 1, wherein the holder has a shape that covers at least the region from the eyes to the ears of the wearer during wearing.

3. When worn, the area of the covering surface on the top of the head is 8,000 mm or more, above the line connecting the lower end of the root of one ear and the lower end of the root of the other ear of the wearer. ２ The eye mask according to claim 2, wherein the area is 8,000 mm or more.

4. The eye mask according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the heating element is provided at a position where it can be directly or indirectly opposed to at least one of the eyes, temples, and ears of the wearer.

5. The eye mask according to claim 4, wherein the heating element is provided at a position where it can be directly or indirectly opposed to the eyes and temples of the wearer, or the eyes and ears of the wearer.

6. The total area of the surface of the heating element facing the face of the wearer is 2,400 mm ２ or more and 24,000 mm ２ or less. The eye mask according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The eye mask according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the planar shape of the heating element is a quadrilateral.

8. The eye mask according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the holder is formed in a belt shape that extends along the circumferential direction of the head of the wearer during wearing.

9. The eye mask according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the heating element is configured to be attachable to the surface on the skin side of the holder.

10. The eye mask according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the holder is configured to be able to house the heating element inside.

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