JP2003024361A - Steam generation tool - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a steam generation tool which gives a moisture keeping effect and moisture to an applied site, gives a steaming effect and a hot compress effect or a cold compress effect, realizes the promotion of blood circulation and the improvement of metabolism at this applied site, etc., gives the reduction of inflammation, the constricting effect or the tightening up effect of the skin and realizes the efficient percutaneouse administration of supported medical agent, cosmetic, etc., by imparting the steaming effect with steam to a place to be treated. SOLUTION: In the steam generating tool for imparting the steaming effect with steam to the place to be treated, water absorptive fiber objects (except for a matter obtained by turning water absorptive polymer into fibers) are laminated between a film-like or sheet-like moisture permeable base material and coating material.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a steam generator which is applied to an application site of a human body and imparts a steam effect by steam to the application site to give a moisturizing effect or moisturization to the application site. , In particular, by providing a warm compress or a cold compress effect together with a steam effect, the circulation of blood is promoted and the metabolism is improved at the application site, etc., and the inflammation is alleviated and the astringent or tightening effect of the skin is given. Further, the present invention relates to a water vapor generator capable of efficiently absorbing drugs, cosmetics, etc. at the application site.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Chronic itching of the skin, dry skin, rough skin, skin disorders such as tears and roughness in the lips and nasal cavities, or wrinkles, or eye strain such as tired eyes and dry eyes,
It is mainly caused by dryness of the skin, mucous membranes and eyeballs, and avoids dryness and supplies appropriate water to the skin and eyeballs to moisturize these skin disorders and eye strain. Is said to be good.

Conventionally, as a method of supplying water to dry such skin and eyeballs, a towel heated with hot water, a steamed towel, an electric heater, a humidifier using ultrasonic waves, or a steam facial device has been adopted. Has been done.

However, the method of using a towel heated with hot water or a steaming towel is difficult to control the heat generation temperature, and there is a risk that the temperature becomes too high and burns occur.
There is a problem in that the water oozing out from the towel stains clothes and the like, and it lacks safety, usability, and handleability.

In addition, a towel heated with hot water or a steamed towel is complicated to be heated with hot water or with a heater, and the vaporization heat is removed when steam evaporates, so that the temperature drops in a short time. However, there is a problem that the usability is lost.

On the other hand, methods such as an electric heater or a humidifier using an ultrasonic wave or a steam facial device require a dedicated device and cannot be used at any place at any time. It is inferior in sex.

Therefore, in order to solve various problems in the towel or steam towel heated with hot water, the humidifier using the electric heater or ultrasonic waves, the steam facial device, etc.,
Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 11-342147 discloses an invention of a steam generator capable of easily supplying moisture and warmth to the skin or mucous membrane of any part of the body at any time.

This steam generator has a steam generator utilizing chemical energy and is applied to the skin or mucous membrane, and the surface of the steam generator to be applied to the skin or mucous membrane is transparent. It is an object of the present invention to provide a steam generator which is composed of a wet base material and has a temperature of steam released from the surface thereof controlled to 50 ° C. or lower.

The chemical energy in the steam generator is heat of neutralization of acid and alkali, heat of hydration of inorganic salts (calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, calcium oxide, magnesium oxide, zeolite, etc.), oxidation of metal powder. Heat, etc. are mentioned, and as a specific utilization mode of the steam generating part utilizing this chemical energy, for example, when utilizing heat of neutralization of acid and alkali or heat of hydration of inorganic salts, steam is used. It is disclosed that the generation unit can be configured by a heating unit that generates heat of neutralization and heat of hydration, and an evaporation unit that releases steam by heat generated from these.

Further, among the utilization modes of chemical energy, the mode in which the heating element itself generates water vapor is preferable because it is not necessary to provide an evaporation section separately from the heating section, and examples thereof include metal powder and salts. It is disclosed that a steam composition containing water and water and releasing steam in association with the oxidation reaction of the metal powder can be mentioned.

[0011]

However, in this steam generator, since the exothermic temperature is set from the beginning, there is a drawback in that the exothermic temperature cannot be adjusted according to the mode of use and the preference of the user. is there.

Since the steam generator uses chemical energy, once a chemical (exothermic) reaction occurs, it is difficult to control the temperature and the temperature cannot be controlled, and the exothermic temperature is set first. Even if it is, the temperature becomes too high or lower than the set temperature.

Furthermore, since heat can be applied to the application site together with water vapor, blood circulation in the skin can be promoted and symptoms such as dry skin can be relieved, but it is better to cool rather than warm up such as inflammation. There is a large limitation in use that it cannot be used for symptoms for which is effective.

In addition, in this steam generator, it is necessary to adjust the moisture permeable sheet to a very large moisture permeability of 4000 to 8000 g / m ² · 24 h, and such a moisture permeable sheet having a large moisture permeability is used. And the metal powder necessary for the exothermic reaction or acid or alkali spills or oozes from the moisture permeable sheet to stain the application part, and spilled metal powder or oozing acid or alkali directly contacts the skin. There is a fatal problem in terms of safety such as burns and inflammation caused by contact.

In particular, since this steam generator uses chemical energy, it is necessary to take measures to prevent a chemical reaction when it is not used, for example, to enclose it in an airtight packing material. However, there is a problem in that the manufacturing process is complicated, and since the chemical energy is consumed in one use, it can be used only in a disposable manner, which is extremely uneconomical.

Therefore, as a result of extensive studies made by the present inventors in order to solve the above technical problems, as a steam generator for imparting a steam effect by steam to such an application site, a film-like or sheet-like moisture-permeable property is obtained. A water vapor generating tool is formed by laminating a water absorbing fibrous body between a base material and a covering material, and when the water vapor generating tool is used, water is absorbed by impregnating the water vapor generating tool with water. By heating in a microwave oven or cooling in a refrigerator, etc. according to the user's preference, suitable steam can be supplied to the attachment site for a long period of time, and the desired heating or cooling effect can be obtained. It has been found that it can be applied as a steam generator and can be used multiple times.

That is, the inventor of the present invention, as a steam generator for imparting a steam effect by steam to an application site, is one in which a water-absorbent fiber body is laminated between a film-like or sheet-like moisture-permeable substrate and a covering material. By using, when it is desired to warm the application site, it is possible to heat the water vapor generator having absorbed water to a desired temperature with a microwave oven or the like, and conversely to cool the application site. In this case, it has been found that the steam generator can be used by being cooled in a refrigerator or a freezer and can be repeatedly used for a certain number of times.

Further, the present inventor forms the base material of the steam generator with a moisture-permeable film or sheet, whereby the water absorbed by the water-absorbent fibrous body permeates the base material as water vapor. It was found that an appropriate amount of water (steam) can be supplied to the application site to alleviate the dryness of the skin and moisturize the skin.

On the other hand, when the inventor of the present invention forms the covering material of the steam generator with a film or sheet having a low moisture permeability, the generated steam permeates the covering material and evaporates into the atmosphere. It has become possible to prevent the occurrence of water vapor and direct the release of the generated water vapor in one direction on the application surface side (base material side), and it has been found that the water vapor can be efficiently applied to the skin surface or the like. Of.

Further, the present inventor forms a water vapor generator as a sheet-like one in which a water-absorbent fibrous body is laminated between a moisture-permeable base material and a covering material, so that it is thin, flexible and improves the touch. Moreover, since the water-absorbent fibrous body does not come into direct contact with the skin surface, it does not cause low-temperature burns or overcooling, and it is also found that the usability and safety can be improved. I got it.

In addition, the inventor of the present invention is not required to contain water in the steam generator having such a structure when it is not used. It has been found that not only the preserving method is not required, but the preservability and handleability are improved, and the manufacturing process can be simplified.

In particular, the inventor of the present invention makes a moisture-permeable base material and / or a water-absorbent fiber material carry a percutaneously absorbable drug or the like to form a skin stratum corneum slowed or loosened by water vapor,
It has also been found that the drug or the like is appropriately absorbed, whereby the pharmacological effect of the drug can be enhanced.

The present invention has been completed on the basis of the above-mentioned findings, and imparts a moisturizing effect or moisturizing to the application site by imparting a steam effect by steam to the application site, and at the same time, a warm compress or a hot compress It provides a cold compress effect, promotes blood circulation at the site of application, improves metabolism, and reduces inflammation and astringents and tightens the skin, while efficiently carrying the carried drugs and cosmetics. It is an object of the present invention to provide a steam generator that can be transdermally administered.

[0024]

In order to achieve this object, the steam generator of the present invention is a steam generator for imparting a steam effect by steam to an application site,
The water vapor generator is characterized in that a water-absorbent fibrous body (excluding those obtained by fibrating a water-absorbent polymer) is laminated between a film- or sheet-like moisture-permeable substrate and a coating material. It is a thing.

In the present invention, the term "fiberized water-absorbing polymer" refers to a fiber obtained by directly spinning a water-absorbing polymer, for example, a polymer containing sodium polyacrylate as a main component, and natural fibers and / or Artificial fiber as a core material, which is spun into fibers to coat the surface with a water-absorbing polymer, for example, a polymer containing sodium polyacrylate as a main component, that is, the surface of natural fibers and / or artificial fibers. Is a fiber coated with a water-absorbing polymer. Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail.

In the present invention, the steam effect by steam means supplying water by steam to the application site, thereby giving a moisturizing effect and moisturizing to the application site, and further, depending on the case, in the stratum corneum of the skin. It can also cause relaxation and loosening.

In the present invention, in order to realize such a steam effect by water vapor, a water-absorbent fibrous body (a water-absorbent polymer is made into a fiber between a film-like or sheet-like moisture-permeable substrate and a covering material. In order to prevent evaporation of the generated water (steam), improve the usage time, and efficiently supply the application area intensively, It uses a moisture-permeable film or sheet as a substrate.

According to the present invention, the water vapor generating tool comprises a film-like or sheet-like moisture-permeable base material and a coating material and a water-absorbent fibrous body laminated between them.
When using the steam generator, when it is desired to absorb water by impregnating it with water and heat the application site, the steam generator is heated to a desired temperature in a microwave oven or the like before use. On the contrary, when it is desired to cool the application site, the steam generator can be used by cooling it in a refrigerator or a freezer, that is, the present invention is a moisture-permeable substrate-water-absorbing material. By adopting the structure of the fibrous body-covering material, there is a great advantage in that one extreme steam generator can be used for both extreme uses such as heat and cold.

Further, according to the present invention, it is possible to avoid direct contact of the water-absorbent fiber body with the skin surface by adopting the structure of the moisture-permeable substrate-water-absorbent fiber body-coating material. It also has the advantage of being able to prevent low-temperature burns and overcooling, and can be safely used even for parts such as the eyes and mucous membranes that are relatively weak to external stimuli.

Here, the water-absorbent fibrous body of this laminated body forms a central portion as a steam generator and a heat or cold heat generator in the steam generator of the present invention.

In the present invention, the water-absorbent fibrous body is formed of at least one selected from natural fibers and / or artificial fibers, and has a property of swelling mainly by smooth and smooth absorption of water. The form is not particularly limited as long as it has a certain amount, and may be a certain fixed mass (lump) of fibers, but in consideration of the feeling of use and the ability to follow the skin surface, natural fibers are particularly preferable. And / or a film or sheet made of artificial fibers is preferable.

In the present invention, not only hydrophilic fibers but also hydrophobic fibers may be formed into a film or sheet having a sponge-like three-dimensional network structure, etc. As a result, any material that can absorb water can be preferably used.

Specifically, the film or sheet made of the natural fiber and / or the artificial fiber generally includes, for example, cloth, towel cloth, blanket cloth, pile cloth, knitting,
Examples thereof include quilts, non-woven fabrics and woven fabrics.

As the natural fiber, for example, cotton,
Plant fiber such as kapok, flax, ramie, cannabis, jute, spiro, manila, sisal, coyer fiber,
Examples of animal fibers include domestic silk, tulip silk, wool (sheep), cashmere hair, camel hair, alpaca hair, mohair, and rabbit hair.

Examples of the artificial fibers include recycled fibers such as artificial silk thread, suf, viscose, and bemberg, polyamide fibers (such as nylon), polyester fibers (such as tetron, terylene, decron), and polyacrylic fibers. Fiber (Auron, Exlan, Bonnell, Casimirone, Kanecaron, etc.), Polyvinyl / alcohol fiber (Vinylon), Polyalkylene paraoxybenzoate fiber (benzoate), Polyurethane fiber (Polyurethane) [Spantex], Polyvinylidene chloride fiber (Vinylidene), polyvinyl chloride fiber (polyvinyl chloride), polyacrylonitrile fiber, polyethylene fiber (polyethylene), polypropylene fiber (polypropylene), polyclar, polypropylene (pyrene), etc. Wei, or semi-synthetic fibers such as that manufactured the with natural substances and synthetic substances copolymerized with such as acetic artificial fibers.

However, as the water-absorbent fibrous material in the present invention, in consideration of availability and cost, paper or paperboard formed into a film or a sheet by making a paper pulp raw material is used. Particularly preferred.

That is, in the manufacturing process, by using a paper material having a structure in which fibers are intertwined in a mesh shape as a water-absorbent fiber body, good water absorption can be secured and cost reduction can be realized. An extremely excellent steam generator that is easy to handle, does not cause secondary pollution, and does not adversely affect the environment by using paper materials such as paper or paperboard that have excellent material recovery and disposal Can be.

As the paper pulp raw material, the main pulps currently used in the paper industry can be used, and specific examples thereof include mechanical pulp, chemical pulp, semi-chemical pulp and waste paper pulp. In addition to these, non-wood pulp such as hemp pulp, linder pulp, straw pulp, and synthetic pulp can be used.

The method for making paper from these pulps is not particularly limited, and known paper making methods and paper machines can be used. Specifically, for example, Fourdrinier paper machine, twin wire Papermaking can be performed using a paper machine, a cylinder paper machine, or the like.

In the present invention, the water absorption is further improved by laminating two or more sheets of the above-mentioned water-absorbent fiber bodies or by supporting the water-absorbent polymer on these water-absorbent fiber bodies. Therefore, it is a particularly preferable embodiment.

The water-absorbing polymer is not particularly limited as long as it is a polymer material which mainly gels water smoothly and absorbs a large amount of water, and known hydrophilic polymer materials are preferably used. Specifically, synthetic high-molecular hydrophilic polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyacrylic acid and its salts, and maleic anhydride copolymers, and natural hydrophilic agents such as dextran, pullulan, and gelatin can be used. Examples thereof include semi-synthetic compounds such as organic polymers, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose and carboxymethyl cellulose. In the present invention, 1 selected from these hydrophilic polymer materials.
One kind or two or more kinds of water-absorbing polymers may be mentioned, and if necessary, these may be treated with a surfactant or a combination of these and a surfactant may be used to improve hydrophilicity. is there.

As a method of supporting these water-absorbent polymers on the water-absorbent fiber body, the water-absorbent fiber body is supported so as to enter the voids in the mesh structure of the water-absorbent fiber body, or two or more water-absorbent fiber bodies are laminated. At this time, a method of supporting the water-absorbent polymer by interposing it so as to be sandwiched between them can be mentioned.

As described above, the steam generator of the present invention is a laminated body in which the water-absorbent fibrous body is laminated with the moisture-permeable base material and the covering material sandwiched therebetween, and the base material is a moisture-permeable film or sheet. By being formed, the water contained in the water-absorbent fibrous material can permeate through the base material to suitably supply the water content (water vapor) to the application site, but the moisture permeability of the base material is However, since it greatly affects the steam effect of the steam generator of the present invention, it is preferable to control the moisture permeability.

[0044] preferable to manage the range of moisture permeability 2000~7500g ^/ m 2 · 24hr moisture permeable substrate in Risshi method specifically, the moisture permeability is 7500g ^/ m 2 · 24
If it exceeds hr, it may be too large and water or the like may ooze out from the base material, which may deteriorate the usability or stain clothes or the like.
If the moisture vapor transmission rate is less than 2000 g / m ² · 24 hr, it is not preferable because the desired steam effect cannot be obtained because it is too small.

Therefore, in the present invention, the moisture permeability of the moisture-permeable substrate is further adjusted to 2500 to 5500 g / L by the Lissie method.
It is preferable to control in the range of m ² · 24 hr, and it is particularly preferable to control in the range of 3000 to 4500 g / m ² · 24 hr.

By the way, the Lissie method (Lyssy method) is a method based on the industrial standards of various countries in the world.
According to IS Z 0208 and JIS K 7129, the temperature is set to 40 ° C. and the relative humidity difference is kept to 90% RH. Therefore, in this device, the lower chamber in the state of 100% relative humidity and the highly sensitive humidity sensor are used. The measurement sample is inserted on the boundary surface of the upper chamber where the
H (100% -90%), centered around this, measure the time (several seconds) required for the humidity to increase from +1 to -1, that is, from about 9% to about 11%. In this method, the transmittance is obtained by comparing with the result of the calibration performed under the same conditions using a standard sample whose transmittance is known in advance.

The base material used in the present invention is in the form of a flexible or moisture-permeable film or sheet, and is preferably particularly limited as long as the moisture permeability is within the above range. However, it is possible to appropriately select and use a cloth made of a known natural fiber and / or an artificial fiber or a film or sheet made of a polymer material, and at least one kind selected from these cloths and the like. You may use it as a laminated film or sheet which laminated | stacked the above.

As the cloth made of natural fibers and / or artificial fibers, cloth, towel cloth, pile cloth, knitting, quilt, non-woven cloth and woven cloth can be generally mentioned.

Examples of the natural fibers include cotton,
Plant fiber such as kapok, flax, ramie, cannabis, jute, spiro, manila, sisal, coyer fiber,
Examples of animal fibers include domestic silk, tulip silk, wool (sheep), cashmere hair, camel hair, alpaca hair, mohair, and rabbit hair.

Examples of the artificial fibers include recycled fibers such as artificial silk thread, suf, viscose, and bemberg, polyamide fibers (such as nylon), polyester fibers (such as tetron, terylene, decron), and polyacrylic fibers. Fiber (Auron, Exlan, Bonnell, Casimirone, Kanecaron, etc.), Polyvinyl / alcohol fiber (Vinylon), Polyalkylene paraoxybenzoate fiber (benzoate), Polyurethane fiber (Polyurethane) [Spantex], Polyvinylidene chloride fiber (Vinylidene), polyvinyl chloride fiber (polyvinyl chloride), polyacrylonitrile fiber, polyethylene fiber (polyethylene), polypropylene fiber (polypropylene), polyclar, polypropylene (pyrene), etc. Wei, or semi-synthetic fibers such as that manufactured the with natural substances and synthetic substances copolymerized with such as acetic artificial fibers.

On the other hand, examples of the film or sheet made of the polymer material include polyurethane, polyethylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, polyamide, polyester, polyacetal, polysulfone, polyphenylene oxide, polybutadiene, polypropylene, cellophane, Examples thereof include those obtained by forming at least one kind of polymer material selected from polychloroprene, polyamino acid, nitrile rubber, butyl rubber and silicone rubber into a film shape or a sheet shape,
In the present invention, moisture permeability is imparted to a film-less sheet made of these polymer materials by means of stretching, physical perforation or the like.

In the steam generator of the present invention,
The cloth or the film made of the polymer material made of the natural fiber and / or the artificial fiber may be used alone, but a laminated film or sheet obtained by laminating at least one selected from these cloths and the like. It is preferable to use as a base material because the strength of the base material is improved and the water vapor permeability is easily adjusted. In particular, a cloth body made of natural fibers and / or artificial fibers is used as a sticking surface on the body surface, and By forming a film or sheet made of a material on the side of the hydrous gel, it is possible to prevent the soiling of clothes and the like due to the exudation of water from the water absorbent fiber body, in addition to improving the touch and the feeling of use. Therefore, it is preferable.

In the present invention, the basis weight of the moisture permeable substrate is not particularly limited, but specifically, the basis weight is preferably about 10 to 1000 g / m ^2. .

When the basis weight of the moisture-permeable substrate is less than 10 g / m ² , it is difficult to obtain the necessary mechanical strength and it may be difficult to make the thickness uniform, which is preferable. Absent.

On the other hand, the moisture-permeable base material has a basis weight of 1000 g / m 2.
^When it exceeds ² , the flexibility is lowered, the conformability to the body surface is remarkably lowered, the followability to the deformation and movement of the body surface is lowered, and the handle becomes stiff and the texture is deteriorated, which is not preferable.

[0056] Thus, in particular, the basis weight of the moisture-permeable base material, generally it is preferred basis weight is between 20 to 500 g / ^{m 2} approximately, more preferably in the range of 25~300g / ^{m 2,} particularly preferably 30 to It is desirable that the range is 200 g / m ² .

As described above, the steam generator of the present invention is a laminate in which the water-absorbent fiber body is laminated on the moisture-permeable base material and further covered with a covering material.

In the present invention, the basis weight of the covering material is
Although not particularly limited, specifically, the basis weight is generally 10 to 10 for the same reason as in the case of the moisture permeable substrate.
It is preferably about 00 g / m ² , and preferably 20 to
The amount is preferably about 500 g / m ² , more preferably 25 to 300 g / m ² , and particularly preferably 30 to 30 g / m ^2.
It is desirable that the range is 200 g / m ² .

In the present invention, the same material as the moisture-permeable base material is used as the material for the covering material, but as described below, a material having a gas barrier property is desirable in order to prevent evaporation of water vapor. Therefore, a non-porous film or sheet formed of a polymer material, or a laminate obtained by laminating a non-woven fabric, a woven fabric, a woven fabric or a knitted fabric on the non-porous film or sheet is preferably used.

That is, as the coating material, the same material as the above-mentioned moisture-permeable base material can be preferably used. However, unlike the base material, this coating material has a water-absorbent fibrous body containing moisture in the atmosphere. It does not have to have moisture permeability, because it plays the role of preventing transpiration and preventing the clothes from being contaminated by coming into contact with clothes and the like, but rather having moisture permeability limited. Is preferably used.

Specifically, it is preferable that the moisture permeability of the coating material is 1000 g / m ² · 24 hr or less by the Lissie method, and if the moisture permeability exceeds 1000 g / m ² · 24 hr, the moisture content from the coating material is too large. It is likely to evaporate, which may shorten the use time and stain clothes and the like.

Therefore, in the present invention, the moisture-permeable substrate
Moisture vapor transmission is 500 g / m by Lissi method ^Two・ Below 24 hours
It is preferable to manage, especially 350 g / m^Two・ 24h
It is preferable to control it to r or less.

In the present invention, when the water-absorbent fiber body is laminated on the moisture-permeable substrate and the covering material is coated thereon, the water-absorbent fiber having an area slightly smaller than that of the moisture-permeable substrate and the covering material. The body is used to provide a region where the moisture permeable base material and the covering material can be bonded, fused or sewn at the peripheral edge so that moisture does not evaporate into the atmosphere or seep out of the edge of the laminate. It is preferable.

In the present invention, the laminate of the moisture-permeable base material, the water-absorbent fibrous body and the covering material is quilted, or an appropriate portion of the laminate is bonded, fused or sewn. It is preferable to form a joint portion that suppresses the movement and unevenness of the water-absorbent fibrous body by applying a means, and it is particularly preferable to quilt this laminate.

By the way, in a preferred embodiment of the steam generator of the present invention, a moisture permeability adjusting film may be laminated on a part or all of the moisture permeable substrate, and the moisture permeability of the moisture permeable substrate may be appropriately adjusted. It is possible to do so.

In particular, in the present invention, it is preferable that the moisture permeable base material is provided with a locking means so that the moisture permeability adjusting film can be detachably locked to the water vapor generator. By configuring like this,
A person who uses the steam generator of the present invention can adjust the steam effect by appropriately changing the water vapor permeability according to his / her preference.

The locking means is not particularly limited as long as it can removably lock the moisture permeability adjusting film from the moisture permeable substrate, but specifically, it is provided on the substrate. In addition, a part of or the whole of the water vapor transmission rate adjusting film can be removably locked through a pocket, a velcro (registered trademark), a hook, a belt, or the like.

As this moisture vapor transmission rate control film, the same ones as the film or sheet made of the cloth or polymer material used as the above-mentioned moisture vapor permeable substrate and coating material can be used. It is preferable to use a thin one so as not to spoil the usability of the ingredient,
From this viewpoint, in particular, polyurethane, polyethylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, polyamide, polyester, polyacetal, polysulfone, polyphenylene oxide, polybutadiene, polypropylene, cellophane, polychloroprene, polyamino acid, nitrile rubber, butyl rubber and It is preferable to use a film or sheet formed of at least one selected from silicone rubber.

In the steam generator of the present invention,
In order to prevent misalignment and dropout during use and to improve usability and handleability, an adhesive part should be provided on at least a part of the moisture-permeable base material of the steam generator, and the steam generator should be attached to the body surface. It is preferable to configure so that

In this case, it is not preferable to stack the pressure-sensitive adhesive on the entire surface of the moisture-permeable substrate to form the pressure-sensitive adhesive portion, because the moisture permeability of the substrate may be impaired. Alternatively, it is preferable to provide an adhesive portion by laminating an adhesive on the peripheral portion.

In the present invention, as the adhesive portion, a known adhesive can be preferably used and is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to use a lipophilic adhesive having high adhesiveness. Specifically, for example, (meth) acrylic acid butyl ester, (meth) acrylic acid pentyl ester, (meth) acrylic acid hexyl ester, and other (meth) acrylic acid alkyl esters represented by hexyl ester, and copolymers with these esters are possible. (Meth) acrylic acid, itaconic acid, maleic acid, maleic anhydride, hydroxyethyl (meth) acrylate, hydroxypropyl (meth) acrylate, (meth) acrylamide, dimethylacrylamide, methylaminoethyl methacrylate, (meth) Functional monomers such as methoxyethyl acrylate and / or acrylonitrile, vinegar Vinyl, vinyl propionate, acrylic composition is a copolymer of such vinyl monomers such as vinyl pyrrolidone are exemplified.

Other examples include silicone rubber, polyisoprene rubber, polyisobutylene rubber, polybutadiene, styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer rubber, styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer rubber, acrylic rubber and natural rubber. Examples thereof include a rubber-based viscous substance containing as a main component, a vinyl-based polymer such as polyvinyl ether, polyvinyl alcohol, and a vinyl-based viscous substance containing a polyvinyl acetate as a main component.

By the way, except when the water vapor generator of the present invention is used, the exposed surface of the adhesive portion is preferably covered with a so-called releasable protective film. Examples of the releasable protective film include polyurethane and polyethylene. A film or sheet formed of ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, polybutadiene, polypropylene, cellophane, polychloroprene, polyamino acid, nitrile rubber, butyl rubber, silicone rubber or the like can be used.

In the steam generator of the present invention,
A structure in which the area of the provided adhesive section is variable,
That is, by configuring the area of the adhesive portion so that it can be changed flexibly, the adhesiveness to the body surface, the conformability, etc. can be changed according to the purpose of use and the application site of the user, and the handleability is improved. It is particularly preferable because it can further improve usability.

The method of varying the area of the adhesive portion is not particularly limited, but, for example, a part or all of the adhesive portion is composed of a plurality of adhesive layers, which are attached to the body surface. A method of arranging so that it can be peeled off depending on the location can be mentioned.

In the steam generator of the present invention,
It is preferable that the moisture-permeable substrate and / or the water-absorbent fiber body carry at least one or more selected from various percutaneously absorbable drugs, cosmetics, far-infrared radiators and tourmaline according to the use. .

In particular, in the present invention, when a moisture-permeable base material and / or a water-absorbent fiber body is loaded with a percutaneously absorbable drug or cosmetic, the skin is exposed to water supplied from the water-absorbent fiber body. The stratum corneum is relaxed and loosened, and the drug or the like is easily absorbed on the skin surface, so that the drug can be efficiently administered.

The transdermal drug is not particularly limited, and known drugs can be appropriately selected and used. Specific examples include corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory analgesics, and hypertension. Agents, anesthetics, hypnotics, tranquilizers, antihypertensive agents, antibiotics, antibacterial substances, vitamins,
Antiepileptic agents, coronary vasodilators, antihistamines, antifungal substances and the like can be preferably used.

Further, sublimable crystals, peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil,
It is also one of the preferred embodiments to add rosemary oil, lavender oil, etc., if necessary.

Further, boric acid solution, physiological saline solution, bitumenous solution, alcoholic water, flaxseed oil, lime water, liver oil, olive oil, ribanol water, potassium permanganate solution, mentha water, which are generally used as poultices, Creosote, mustard, etc. may be absorbed in the thermal buffer sheet, but in the present invention, it is not essential that they contain water, and therefore, a solid powder of these active ingredients in the form of fine powder or granules should be used. It can also be used.

The cosmetics are also not particularly limited, and cleanse, beautify, and increase the attractiveness of the human body,
A general cosmetic that is intended to be used by a method such as rubbing, spraying or similar to the body in order to change the appearance or keep the skin or hair healthy, and has a mild effect on humans. Can be appropriately selected and used, but specifically, anti-inflammatory agents, astringents, cooling agents,
Drugs for preventing skin roughness such as vitamins, hormones, antihistamines, sebum inhibitors, drugs for acne such as keratin exfoliating and dissolving agents, animal and plant extracts such as aloe extract, ginseng extract, licorice extract, nutrients such as amino acids, etc. Can be mentioned.

Further, as the far-infrared radiator which is carried on the substrate and / or the hydrogel together with the above-mentioned medicines or cosmetics or in place of the above-mentioned medicines or cosmetics, a radio wave having a wavelength range near the far-infrared region is suitable. It is not particularly limited as long as it has a function of radiating to infrared rays, but among them, non-metal inorganic solids that radiate far infrared rays (far infrared radiating ceramics) are preferable, and specifically, metal oxides and carbides. ,
At least one selected from nitrides and carbonates can be appropriately selected and used.

The metal in the far-infrared radiation ceramic is not particularly limited, but for example, Al, Be, V, Fe, Y, Co, Cu, Ni, S.
i, Sn, Ti, Cr, Ce, Zr, Ca, Ta and N
Examples thereof include a metal or alloy selected from b and the like, which is formed into a film-less sheet, a powder or a grain.

Next, "tourmaline" which is carried on the base material and / or the hydrous gel together with the above-mentioned drug, cosmetic or far-infrared radiator or in place of the above-mentioned drug, cosmetic or far-infrared radiator is also called tourmaline. It is called, and even if it is crushed finely, there are + and − poles on both sides of the crystal spontaneously, and the weak current of this tourmaline flows into the water in the air and the water contained in the cells of the human body, so that the water content becomes negative. As a result of the change to hydroxyl ions, which have a surface-active effect, it stimulates the nervous system and enhances the functions of the hypothalamus (regulation of body temperature, hormone secretion, autonomic nerves) and activates immune function and natural healing functions. Not only has a function of cleaning, but also has a cleaning effect,
The deodorizing effect and the sterilizing effect can be obtained.

Further, the tourmaline continues to flow electrons semipermanently, and the permanent electrode of the tourmaline has a current of several tens of microamperes at the same level as the biological current in the skin surface layer and the acupuncture points (good conducting points) which are electric conductors. This weak electric current acts as a current stimulus, and active hydrogen generated by its electrolysis removes active oxygen that adversely affects the human body, promotes the action on the hypothalamus, and It absorbs the heat emitted from the body and irradiates it with far-infrared rays to promote blood circulation in the human body and metabolism, and the negative ions released from tourmaline relax the mind and body, recover from fatigue and lower blood pressure. The effects such as are expressed.

As described above, due to the far-infrared effect and negative ion effect of tourmaline, activation of metabolism, activation / reduction of blood and cells, promotion of blood circulation, stiff shoulder, low back pain, improvement of coldness, fatigue recovery, gastrointestinal strengthening, Synergistic effects of far-infrared effect and tourmaline's negative ion effect such as visceral diseases, athlete's foot, atopy, beautiful skin effect, autonomic nerve stabilization (relaxing effect), immune recovery, weakened body, etc. are extremely excellent. It becomes a thing.

In the present invention, tourmaline is
Raw stones can be used as they are, or they can be made into powder form and dispersed and kneaded in a water-absorbent fiber body / moisture permeable base material. It is used in various modes such as coating and supporting on a material or kneading directly into the fiber of a moisture permeable substrate.

[0088]

EXAMPLES The present invention will now be described in detail based on examples, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

Referring to the attached drawings, FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an embodiment in which the steam generator of the present invention is applied to the face, FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along the line AA, and FIG. 3 is its use. It is a top view showing a state.

1 and 2, the facial steam generator 1 according to the present invention comprises a moisture-permeable base material 2, a water-absorbent fiber body 3 laminated on the moisture-permeable base material 2, and a covering material 4 covering the water-absorbent fiber body 3. In this case, the water-absorbent fibrous body 3 is formed in the same shape as the moisture-permeable base material 2 and the coating material 4, and in addition, the moisture-permeable base material 2, the water-absorbent fiber body 3 and the coating material. A patch cloth 5 is applied and sewn 6 so as to cover the peripheral portion of the laminated body made of the material 4. Reference numeral 7 is a mouth portion that opens at the mouth portion of the face.

In the facial steam generator 1 according to the present invention, the moisture-permeable substrate 2 is formed of a flexible and moisture-permeable film or sheet. In this case, a polyester span is used. Bond (basis weight 30 g / m ² )
And a polyester spunless (basis weight: 50 g / m ² ) are formed, and the moisture permeability is 3850 g.
/ M ² · 24 hr, and the polyester spanless (basis weight 50 g / m ² ) is exposed to the outside.

The water-absorbent fibrous body 3 constitutes the steam-generating section of the steam-generating unit 1 of the present invention, and is a heat or cold heat generating body. , A tissue paper formed into a film by making a paper pulp raw material, and sodium polyacrylate, which is a water-absorbent polymer, is sprinkled on both sides of the tissue paper, and five sheets of the adhered paper are stacked to have a basis weight of 200.
It is made up to be g / m ² .

Further, as the coating material 3, a polyethylene film (gas barrier film, thickness 20 μm) between a polyester non-woven fabric (basis weight 50 g / m ² ) and a polyester spun bond (basis weight 30 g / m ² ). ), The moisture permeability of the laminated film is adjusted to 25 g / m ² · 24 hr or less, and the polyester spunbond (basis weight 30 g / m 2) is used.
² ) is exposed to the outside.

The covering material 3 plays a role of preventing moisture in the water-absorbent fibrous body 4 from evaporating into the atmosphere and preventing the clothes from being soiled by coming into contact with them. Therefore, the moisture permeability thereof is adjusted to 25 g / m ² · 24 hr or less, and rather limits the moisture permeability.

In the facial steam generator 1 according to the present invention, the moisture-permeable base material 2 and / or the water-absorbent fibrous body 3 may contain a transdermal drug, cosmetic, At least 1 selected from far infrared radiator or tourmaline
It is also possible to support more than one kind.

Then, as shown in FIG. 3, the steam generator 1 for the face was immersed in water for 1 minute and then heated in a microwave oven of 500 W for 1 minute, and the subject 20 complains of eye strain. We applied it to the human face for 7 to 10 minutes and used it, and conducted a questionnaire survey on its feeling of use and effect.

As a result, in the usage mode of the thermal test,
Subjects (12 women and 8 men, age 26-
Eighteen (52 years old) responded that eye fatigue was remarkably alleviated, and the remaining two subjects also alleviated eye fatigue to some extent, and none of them answered that there was no effect. Furthermore, 10 out of 12 female subjects could moisturize their skin, and answered that the makeup of the next day was good.

By the way, the water vapor generator 1 for the face
As described above, after heating in a microwave oven, it was confirmed that suitable heat and steam of about 45 ° C. to 38 ° C. were generated for about 10 minutes.

[0099]

[Effects] The present invention has the above-mentioned structure, that is, as a steam generator for imparting a steam effect by steam to an application site, a water-absorbent fibrous body between a film-like or sheet-like moisture-permeable substrate and a covering material. To form a laminated steam generator, and when the steam generator is used, water is absorbed by impregnating the steam generator with water and heated in a microwave oven according to the preference of the user. Or, by cooling in a refrigerator or the like, it is possible to supply suitable water vapor to the pasting site for a long period of time, and it is also possible to give a desired heating effect or cooling effect,
Moreover, it is a steam generator that exhibits a very beneficial effect that enables it to be used multiple times.

That is, according to the present invention, as a steam generator for imparting a steam effect by steam to an application site, a water-absorbent fiber body is laminated between a film-like or sheet-like moisture-permeable substrate and a covering material. By using, when you want to warm the application site, you can use the steam generator that has absorbed water by heating it to a desired temperature in a microwave oven, or conversely if you want to cool the application site. Then,
The steam generator can be used by being cooled in a refrigerator or a freezer, and can be used repeatedly for about 20 to 30 times, which is extremely economical.

Further, in the water vapor generating device according to the present invention, the base material is formed of a moisture permeable film or sheet, so that the water absorbed by the water absorbent fibrous material permeates the moisture permeable base material as water vapor. As a result, an appropriate amount of water (water vapor) is supplied to the application site to alleviate the dryness of the skin or the like and moisturize.

On the other hand, in the steam generator according to the present invention, the coating material of the steam generator is formed of a gas barrier film or sheet, so that the generated steam permeates the coating material and evaporates into the atmosphere. It is possible to prevent the above from occurring and direct the release of the generated water vapor in one direction of the application surface side (base material side), and it is also possible to effectively apply the water vapor to the skin surface and the like. Of.

Further, by forming the water vapor generator as a sheet-like one in which the water-absorbent fibrous body is laminated between the moisture-permeable base material and the covering material, it is thin, flexible and the touch can be remarkably improved. Moreover, since the water-absorbent fibrous body does not come into direct contact with the skin surface, it does not cause low-temperature burns or overcooling, etc., and it is possible to further improve the usability and safety. It manifests.

In addition, since the steam generator according to the present invention does not contain water when it is not used, it does not require a special storage method such as enclosing it in a non-breathable packaging material, so that the storage stability and Not only is the handleability extremely improved, but the manufacturing process can be simplified.

In particular, in the water vapor generating device according to the present invention, the moisture permeable base material and / or the water absorbent fibrous material is loaded with a transdermal drug or the like to form a skin stratum corneum slowed or loosened by water vapor. The drug and the like are preferably absorbed, and thereby, the pharmacological effect of the drug and the like can be enhanced.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an embodiment in which the steam generator of the present invention is applied to a face.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along line AA of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a usage state of FIG. 1.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 Steam generator 2 moisture permeable base material 3 Water-absorbent fiber 4 coating material 5 patch 6 sewing 7 mouth

   ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued front page    F-term (reference) 4C099 AA01 CA05 CA19 EA04 GA01                       GA02 JA03 JA04 LA04 LA14                       NA10 TA04

Claims (14)

[Claims] 1. A steam generator for imparting a steam effect by steam to an application site, wherein the steam generator is a water absorbent fiber between a film- or sheet-like moisture-permeable substrate and a covering material. A steam generator comprising a stack of bodies (excluding those obtained by converting a water-absorbent polymer into fibers). 2. The steam generator according to claim 1, wherein the water-absorbent fibrous body is formed of at least one selected from natural fibers and / or artificial fibers. 3. The water vapor generator according to claim 1, wherein the water-absorbent fibrous body is paper or paperboard which is formed into a film or sheet by papermaking a paper pulp raw material. 4. The water vapor generation tool according to claim 1, wherein the water-absorbent fiber body carries a water-absorbent polymer. 5. The moisture permeability of the moisture-permeable substrate is 2 by the Lissi method.
The steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, which is controlled in a range of 000 to 7,500 g / m ² · 24 hr. 6. The moisture permeability of the coating material is 100 by the Lissie method.
The steam generator according to any one of claims 1 to 5, which has a weight of 0 g / m ² · 24 hr or less. 7. The moisture-permeable base material or coating material is at least one selected from the group consisting of a cloth made of natural fibers and / or artificial fibers or a film or sheet made of a polymer material. The steam generator according to any one of claims. 8. The steam generator according to claim 7, wherein the cloth body is at least one selected from a cloth, a towel cloth, a pile cloth, a quilt, a knit, a non-woven cloth and a woven cloth. 9. A film or sheet made of a polymer material is polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, polyacetal, polysulfone, polyphenylene oxide, polybutadiene, polypropylene, cellophane, The steam generator according to claim 7, wherein the steam generator is made of at least one selected from polychloroprene, polyamino acids, nitrile rubber, butyl rubber, and silicone rubber. 10. A moisture permeability adjusting film is removably laminated on a part or all of the moisture permeable substrate.
10. The steam generator according to any one of 1 to 9. 11. A moisture vapor transmission rate control film comprising polyurethane, polyethylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, polyamide, polyester, polyacetal, polysulfone, polyphenylene oxide, polybutadiene, polypropylene, cellophane, polychloroprene, polyamino acid, The steam generator according to claim 10, wherein the steam generator is made of at least one selected from nitrile rubber, butyl rubber, and silicone rubber. 12. The pressure-sensitive adhesive portion for sticking an outer cover is formed on both ends or a peripheral portion of a moisture-permeable substrate.
A steam generator according to any one of 1. 13. The area of the adhesive portion is variable.
The steam generator according to. 14. The moisture-permeable substrate and / or the water-absorbent fibrous body carries at least one selected from percutaneously absorbable drugs, cosmetics, far-infrared radiators and tourmaline. 14. The steam generator according to any one of 1 to 13.