JP3116840U - Foot sterilizer - Google Patents

Abstract

An inexpensive and portable foot sterilizer, footwear, socks, and footrest are provided.
The foot sterilization apparatus is connected to a portable power supply unit, and generates an ultraviolet ray by an electric power supplied from the power source, and an ultraviolet ray generated by the ultraviolet ray generation unit connected to the ultraviolet ray generation unit. An optical fiber 520 propagating through the optical fiber, the optical fiber 520 of the ultraviolet radiation unit being disposed so that the optical fiber passes through the gap between the toes of the human body, And a clad formed on the film around the core, wherein the clad has an exposed portion for exposing a part of the core and emitting ultraviolet rays to the outside, and the human body is exposed to the ultraviolet rays emitted from the exposed portion. The toes are sterilized and disinfected.
[Selection] Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a foot sterilizing apparatus, footwear, socks, and footrests that sterilize a foot by irradiating ultraviolet rays using an optical fiber.

  Athlete's feet, beetles, and white clouds are among the most difficult to treat. Ringworm fungus, which is the main cause, does not easily die to many drugs, but eventually gains resistance and repeats recurrence. And the cure of this disease caused by ringworm is an eternal concern for humankind.

  On the other hand, in hospitals and the like, there is a treatment method of sterilizing by applying “ultraviolet rays” to the executives, which is one of effective treatment methods. This is because ringworm bacteria are sterilized because they cannot withstand the active oxygen generated by ultraviolet rays.

  However, it is almost impossible to apply ultraviolet rays to affected areas in hospitals in a busy living environment, and treatment methods using ultraviolet rays have not been established.

  Some devices have been put to practical use at home, such as sterilization using ultraviolet rays, but such devices are about the size of a foot bath, so they are inconvenient and expensive to carry, and are easy to carry around and easily at any time. The device was not capable of sterilization.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an inexpensive and portable foot sterilizer, footwear, socks, and footrest.

(1) The present invention
A foot sterilizer,
An ultraviolet ray generator that is connected to the portable power source and generates ultraviolet rays by the electric power supplied from the power source;
Including an optical fiber that is connected to the ultraviolet ray generation unit and propagates the ultraviolet ray generated by the ultraviolet ray generation unit, and the optical fiber includes an ultraviolet ray emission unit that is disposed so as to pass through a gap between a toe and a finger of a human body,
The optical fiber of the ultraviolet radiation part is:
Including a core through which ultraviolet rays pass and a clad formed on the film around the core;
The clad is formed with an exposed portion for exposing a part of the core and radiating ultraviolet rays to the outside, and sterilizing and disinfecting the toes of the human body with the ultraviolet rays emitted from the exposed portion.

  The ultraviolet ray generator can be constituted by, for example, an ultraviolet lamp.

  The wavelength of the ultraviolet rays to be generated can be set as appropriate, but if it is set around 183 nm, ozone is generated and the bactericidal effect is increased. A light source for generating ultraviolet rays having different wavelengths may be provided to generate ultraviolet rays having different wavelengths.

  An optical fiber is composed of a core and a clad having different refractive indexes of light. Here, the core is a light guide portion of an optical fiber designated by a high refractive index region, and the clad is formed in a film shape around the core and has a lower refractive index than the core.

  The optical fiber may be a clad optical fiber (for example, a step index optical fiber) in which the refractive index changes discontinuously in the radial direction of the fiber and transmits light by total reflection. For example, a graded index optical fiber).

  The material of the optical fiber may be glass, plastic, or other materials.

  Here, the optical fiber is formed in a straight stick shape, and an exposed portion is provided.

  There may be one or more exposed portions. For example, it may be formed continuously in a groove shape or may be formed discontinuously.

  The exposed portion can be formed by, for example, making a cut, scratching, cutting, making a hole, making a groove, or making a cut in the outer periphery of the optical fiber.

  In this case, only the clad part may be cut, scratched, cut out, perforated or grooved, or a part of the clad and core may be cut, scratched or cut off. It is also possible to make a hole or make a groove.

  A plurality of optical fibers may be included.

  By combining a plurality of optical fibers, it becomes possible to irradiate necessary and sufficient ultraviolet rays over a wider range.

  Here, the ultraviolet rays generated by one ultraviolet ray generator may be distributed to a plurality of optical fibers, or a corresponding ultraviolet ray generator may be provided for each optical fiber.

  A portable power source such as a dry battery or a rechargeable battery can be used for the power supply unit.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to treat athlete's foot by irradiating ultraviolet rays from the exposed portion, sterilizing the toes of the human body, with a simple configuration in which the exposed portion is provided in the clad.

  Using an optical fiber requires very little power, so a dry cell power supply can be used.

  The exposed portion may be formed as one or a plurality of holes provided in the clad of the optical fiber.

  There may be one hole or a plurality of holes.

  Here, the one or more holes are provided in a portion closer to the light source than the tip portion which is the portion farthest from the light source of the optical fiber.

Further, the position of the hole, the size of the hole, the direction of the hole, the shape of the hole, the number of holes, and the interval between the holes can be appropriately set according to the purpose. Alternatively, it may be formed as a lateral groove in which the core is exposed by taking a predetermined length with a predetermined width along the outer periphery.

  For example, the clad may be cut off once (360 degrees) along the outer periphery with a predetermined width. If it does in this way, an ultraviolet-ray can be irradiated to the direction of 360 degree | times along the outer periphery of an optical fiber.

  Further, a predetermined length (for example, an outer peripheral portion corresponding to a predetermined angle θ) may be cut off along the outer periphery.

  There may be one longitudinal groove or a plurality of longitudinal grooves.

  Here, the one or more vertical grooves are provided in a portion closer to the light source than the tip portion that is the portion farthest from the light source of the optical fiber.

  Further, the position of the longitudinal groove, the size of the longitudinal groove (width and length of the longitudinal groove), the shape of the longitudinal groove, the number of longitudinal grooves, and the interval at which the longitudinal grooves are arranged can be appropriately set according to the purpose. .

  The exposed portion may be formed as a lateral groove in which the core is exposed by removing a predetermined length of the clad of the optical fiber along the axial direction with a predetermined width.

  For example, the clad may be cut from end to end along the axial direction with a predetermined width. If it does in this way, an ultraviolet-ray can be irradiated to a predetermined direction along the axial direction of an optical fiber.

  Moreover, you may cut out only predetermined length along an axial direction.

  One transverse groove may be provided, or a plurality of transverse grooves may be provided.

  Here, the one or more lateral grooves are provided in a portion closer to the light source than the tip portion which is the portion farthest from the light source of the optical fiber.

  Further, the position of the horizontal groove, the size of the horizontal groove (width and length of the horizontal groove), the shape of the horizontal groove, the number of horizontal grooves, and the interval at which the horizontal grooves are arranged can be appropriately set according to the purpose.

  The exposed portion may be formed as a spiral groove when the core of the optical fiber is exposed by spirally removing the cladding of the optical fiber by a predetermined width and a predetermined length along the outer periphery.

  In this way, it is possible to irradiate ultraviolet rays in a 360 degree direction around the optical fiber.

  The spiral groove may be provided from end to end of the optical fiber, or may be provided in a part of the optical fiber.

  One spiral groove or a plurality of spiral grooves may be provided.

  Here, the one or more spiral grooves are provided in a portion closer to the light source than the tip portion that is the portion farthest from the light source of the optical fiber.

Also, the position of the spiral groove, the size of the spiral groove (the width and length of the spiral groove), the shape of the spiral groove, the number of spiral grooves, the spacing between the spiral grooves Can be appropriately set according to the purpose.
(2) The foot sterilizer of the present invention is
The ultraviolet ray generator is
A timer unit that counts the UV generation time and detects whether or not a predetermined time set in advance is reached;
And an ultraviolet ray generation stop processing unit that stops or temporarily stops the generation of ultraviolet rays when the timer unit detects that a predetermined time has been reached.

  The ultraviolet ray generation stop processing unit can stop the generation of ultraviolet rays, for example, by turning off the power. Then, once stopped, ultraviolet rays may not be generated unless the power switch is turned on again, or the power may not be turned on until a predetermined time has elapsed even if the power switch is turned on.

  The term “pauses the generation of ultraviolet rays” refers to a case where ultraviolet rays are automatically generated again after a predetermined time has elapsed after being temporarily stopped.

In this way, it is possible to limit the ultraviolet irradiation time within a predetermined time, automatically preventing excessive application of ultraviolet rays, and ensuring the safety of the user.
(3) The foot sterilizer of the present invention is
The exposed part of the optical fiber of the ultraviolet radiation part is
It is provided in the predetermined part located in the vicinity of the assumption affected part of a toe of a human body.

The predetermined part located in the vicinity of the assumed affected part of the toes of the human body means a predetermined part of the optical fiber that passes (contacts) the athlete's foot part of the finger. If it does in this way, an ultraviolet-ray can be irradiated only to the affected part of athlete's foot.
(4) The present invention is a footwear including the foot sterilizer according to any of the above,
It is characterized in that the optical fiber passes through a portion assumed to hit a gap between the toes when worn by a person.

  Here, the footwear is a person who wears sandals, shoes, slippers or the like regardless of whether they are outdoors or indoors.

Thus, by incorporating the foot sterilizer into a part of the footwear, it is possible to easily treat athlete's foot using the free time of daily life at any time.
(5) The present invention is a sock including any of the above foot sterilizers,
It is characterized in that the optical fiber passes through a portion assumed to hit a gap between the toes when worn by a person.

Thus, by incorporating the foot sterilizer into a part of the socks, it is possible to easily treat athlete's foot anytime using the free time of daily life.
(6) The present invention is a footrest including any of the above foot sterilizers,
It is characterized in that the optical fiber passes through a portion assumed to hit a gap between the toes in a state where a person's feet are placed.

  The footrest may be, for example, a footrest for reflexology or a toe stretcher (an object extending between the toes).

  Thus, by incorporating the foot sterilizer into a part of the footrest, it is possible to easily treat athlete's foot anytime using the free time of daily life.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  In addition, this Embodiment described below does not limit the content of this invention described in the claim of a utility model at all.

  1A and 1B are diagrams for explaining a foot sterilization apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 1A is a view showing the positional relationship between a toe sterilization apparatus and toes when the toes are viewed from the toe direction, and FIG. 1B is a foot sterilization when the toes are viewed from the side direction. It is a figure which shows the arrangement | positioning relationship between an apparatus and a toe.

  2A, 2B, and 2C are views of the foot sterilizer according to the present embodiment as viewed from the front, top, and lateral directions, respectively.

  A foot sterilization apparatus 500 according to the present embodiment is connected to a portable power source (not shown), and generates a UV light by an electric power supplied from the power source (UV generating unit) 510, and the light source (UV) And an optical fiber 520 that propagates ultraviolet rays generated by the light source unit (ultraviolet generation unit) 510. The optical fiber 520 is disposed so as to pass through the gap between the toes 610-1 and fingers 610-2 of the human body and functions as an ultraviolet radiation unit.

  Here, the optical fiber 520 includes a core through which ultraviolet light passes and a clad formed on the coating around the core as described later with reference to FIGS. 11 to 15, and a part of the core is exposed to the clad. An exposed portion for radiating ultraviolet rays 530 to the outside is formed.

  And it is comprised so that sterilization of the toes 600-1 and 600-2 of a human body can be performed with the ultraviolet-ray 530 radiated | emitted from the exposed part of the optical fiber 520. FIG.

  The optical fiber 520 may be configured as a set of a plurality of optical fibers. By combining a plurality of optical fibers, it becomes possible to irradiate necessary and sufficient ultraviolet rays over a wider range.

  The light source unit (ultraviolet light generating unit) 510 can be constituted by, for example, an ultraviolet lamp.

  The optical fiber 520 includes a core and a clad having different light refractive indexes. Here, the core is a light guide portion of an optical fiber designated by a high refractive index region, and the clad is formed in a film shape around the core and has a refractive index lower than that of the core.

  The optical fiber 520 may be a clad optical fiber (for example, a step index optical fiber) in which the refractive index changes discontinuously in the radial direction of the fiber and transmits light by total reflection, or the refractive index changes continuously due to refraction. It may be a converging optical fiber that transmits light, for example, a graded index optical fiber).

  The material of the optical fiber may be glass, plastic, or other materials.

  Here, the optical fiber is formed in a straight stick shape, and an exposed portion is provided.

  There may be one or more exposed portions. For example, it may be formed continuously in a groove shape or may be formed discontinuously.

  The exposed portion can be formed by, for example, making a cut, scratching, cutting, making a hole, making a groove, or making a cut in the outer periphery of the optical fiber.

  In this case, only the clad part may be cut, scratched, cut out, perforated or grooved, or a part of the clad and core may be cut, scratched or cut off. It is also possible to make a hole or make a groove.

  A power source (not shown) can use a portable power source such as a dry battery or a rechargeable battery.

  Further, the light source unit (ultraviolet ray generation unit) 510 counts the ultraviolet ray generation time and detects whether or not a predetermined time set in advance has been reached, and detects that the timer unit has reached the predetermined time and detects ultraviolet rays. It may be configured to include an ultraviolet light generation stop processing unit that stops or temporarily stops the generation of.

  In this way, it is possible to limit the ultraviolet irradiation time within a predetermined time, and it is possible to automatically prevent excessive application of ultraviolet rays and ensure the safety of the user.

  FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams for explaining an example of the optical fiber wiring of the foot sterilizer of the present embodiment. In this example, one or one bundle (a plurality of optical fibers) is formed for each finger of the human foot 600, and both ends of the ring are connected to the light source unit. That is, a thumb ring (ring for inserting the thumb 610-1) 520-1, an index finger ring (ring for inserting the index finger 610-2) 520-2, a middle finger ring (ring for inserting the middle finger 610-3) ) 520-3, ring for ring finger (ring for inserting ring finger 610-4) 520-4, ring for ring finger (ring for inserting child ring 610-5) 520-5 Then, both ends of each ring are connected to a light source unit (ultraviolet light generation unit) 510.

  In this way, when both ends of each ring are connected to the light source unit (ultraviolet ray generating unit) 510, it is possible to irradiate all fingers with ultraviolet rays equally.

  Further, the exposed portion of the optical fiber 520 of the ultraviolet radiation portion is provided in a predetermined portion 522 located in the vicinity of the assumed affected part (athlete's foot) of the human toe. On the other hand, the exposed portion is not provided in the portion 524 that is difficult to be affected by athlete's foot even around the toes. If it does in this way, an ultraviolet-ray can be irradiated only to the affected part of athlete's foot.

  Note that the position of the light source unit (ultraviolet light generating unit) 510 is not limited to the position on the finger 610 of the foot 600, and is appropriately determined according to the use and the shape of the article used (for example, the shape of the footwear when embedded in footwear) Can be set.

  4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining an example of the optical fiber wiring of the foot sterilizer according to the present embodiment. In this example, one end or one bundle (a plurality of optical fibers) of the optical fiber 520 prepared for each foot of the human body is connected to the light source unit (ultraviolet light generation unit) 510, and these fingers are crossed to put each finger. Thumb ring (ring for inserting thumb 610-1) 520-1, index finger ring (ring for inserting index finger 610-2) 520-2, middle finger ring (ring for inserting middle finger 610-3) Five rings of 520-3, ring for ring finger (ring for inserting ring finger 610-4) 520-4, ring for child finger (ring for inserting child finger 610-5) 520-5 are generated. However, in this example, the five rings are continuous, and only two places at both ends are connected to the light beam. Therefore, it is preferable to provide the exposed portion so that the ratio of ultraviolet rays emitted from the exposed portion is uniform so that the light far enough from the light source can reach the finger. For example, in the case where the exposed portion is formed as one or a plurality of holes provided in the cladding of the optical fiber, the density of the holes is set so as to become denser as the distance from the light source portion (ultraviolet ray generating portion) 510 increases. Alternatively, the size of the hole may be increased as the distance from the light source unit (ultraviolet light generation unit) 510 increases.

  Further, the exposed portion of the optical fiber 520 of the ultraviolet radiation portion is provided in a predetermined portion 522 located in the vicinity of the assumed affected part (athlete's foot) of the human toe. On the other hand, the exposed portion is not provided in the portion 524 that is difficult to be affected by athlete's foot even around the toes. If it does in this way, an ultraviolet-ray can be irradiated only to the affected part of a athlete's foot.

  The position of the light source unit is not limited to the case where the light source is next to the thumb, but can be appropriately set according to the use and the shape of the article to be used (for example, the shape of the footwear when embedded in footwear). The light source unit (ultraviolet light generating unit) 510 is not limited to one. For example, the light source unit is placed on both the side of the thumb and the side of the little finger, and both ends of the two optical fibers are connected to the respective light source units. It is also possible to form a ring for inserting the toes by crossing the optical fibers.

  FIGS. 5A and 5B are diagrams for explaining an example of the optical fiber wiring of the foot sterilizer of the present embodiment. In this example, one end or one bundle (a plurality of optical fibers) of the optical fiber 520 prepared for each foot of the human body is connected to the light source unit (ultraviolet light generating unit) 510, and the upper and lower sides are connected between each finger. An optical fiber is wired on the lattice, and a thumb ring (ring for inserting a thumb 620-1) 520-1, an index finger ring (ring for inserting an index finger 620-2) 520-2, and a middle finger Ring (ring for inserting middle finger 620-3) 520-3, ring for ring finger (ring for inserting ring finger 620-4) 520-4, ring for child finger (ring for inserting child finger 620-5) 5 rings of 520-5 are generated.

  However, in this example, the five rings are continuous, and only two places at both ends are connected to the light beam. Therefore, it is preferable to provide the exposed portion so that the ratio of ultraviolet rays emitted from the exposed portion is uniform so that the light far enough from the light source can reach the finger. For example, in the case where the exposed portion is formed as one or a plurality of holes provided in the cladding of the optical fiber, the density of the holes is set so as to become denser as the distance from the light source portion (ultraviolet ray generating portion) 510 increases. Alternatively, the size of the hole may be increased as the distance from the light source unit (ultraviolet light generation unit) 510 increases.

  Further, the exposed portion of the optical fiber 520 of the ultraviolet radiation portion is provided in a predetermined portion 522 located in the vicinity of the assumed affected part (athlete's foot) of the human toe. On the other hand, the exposed portion is not provided in the portion 524 that is difficult to be affected by athlete's foot even around the toes. If it does in this way, an ultraviolet-ray can be irradiated only to the affected part of a athlete's foot.

  The position of the light source unit is not limited to the case where the light source is next to the thumb, but can be appropriately set according to the use and the shape of the article to be used (for example, the shape of the footwear when embedded in footwear). The light source unit (ultraviolet light generating unit) 510 is not limited to one. For example, the light source unit is placed on both the side of the thumb and the side of the little finger, and both ends of the two optical fibers are connected to the respective light source units. It is also possible to form a lattice into which the toes are inserted by defeating the optical fiber connecting the two optical fibers.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the footwear of the present embodiment.

  The footwear 700 of the present embodiment is a footwear including the foot sterilization apparatus 500 of the present embodiment, and the portion assumed to hit the gap between the finger 610 and the finger 610 of the foot 600 when worn by a person is described above. It arrange | positions so that the optical fiber 520 may pass.

  Thus, by incorporating the foot sterilization device 500 into a part of the shoe, it is possible to treat athlete's foot anytime using the free time of daily life.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the sock of the present embodiment.

The sock 800 of the present embodiment is a sock including the foot sterilization apparatus 500 of the present embodiment,
It is arranged so that the optical fiber 520 passes through a portion assumed to hit the gap between the finger 610 and the finger 610 of the foot 600 when worn by a person.

  Thus, by incorporating the foot sterilizer 500 into a part of the socks, it is possible to treat athlete's foot anytime using the free time of daily life.

  FIG. 8 is a view showing an example in which the foot sterilization apparatus of the present embodiment is embedded in the shoe sole.

  For example, the foot sterilization apparatus of the present embodiment may be fixedly embedded in the shoe sole during the manufacturing process. Further, for example, the foot sterilization device of the present embodiment may be configured to be detachable from the shoe sole, and the user may attach the foot sterilization device of the present embodiment to the shoe sole as needed during use. .

  FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the footrest of the present embodiment.

  The footrest of the present embodiment is a footrest including the foot sterilization apparatus 500 of the present embodiment, and the portion assumed to hit the gap between the toes in the state where the person's feet are placed is described above. It is arranged so that the optical fiber can pass.

  For example, the shape and material of the pedestal pedestal may be a shape or material that allows easy foot placement.

  In this way, for example, by incorporating the foot sterilizer 500 into a part of a reflexology footrest or a toe stretcher (a product extending between the toes), it is possible to utilize the free time of daily life. It is possible to treat athlete's foot at any time.

  FIGS. 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the configuration of the optical fiber of the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 10 (A), a foot sterilization device (optical fiber sterilization device) 10 of the present embodiment is connected to a power supply unit 40, and generates an ultraviolet ray by an electric power supplied from the power supply. And an optical fiber 20 that is connected to the ultraviolet ray generator and propagates ultraviolet rays generated by the ultraviolet ray generator.

  Here, the optical fiber 20 includes a core (inner layer) that transmits ultraviolet rays, and a clad (outer layer) that has a refractive index different from that of the core and is formed on the film around the core. An exposed portion for exposing a portion of the ultraviolet light to the outside is formed, and the ultraviolet light is leaked from the exposed portion.

  Furthermore, if a voltage / current variableer supplied by the power supply unit 40 is provided, the “ultraviolet ray irradiation intensity” can be adjusted, and more appropriate ultraviolet ray irradiation can be performed.

  The material of the optical fiber 20 may be glass or plastic. The optical fiber 20 has the property that light traveling through the core (inner layer) part is totally reflected inside the cladding (outer layer), and therefore reaches far. For this reason, there is a possibility that the clad may be damaged, or if the fiber itself bends greatly, light leaks or attenuates, and the light cannot be transmitted well. Therefore, it is preferable to use the optical fiber without bending (in a straight line state).

  In this embodiment, by exposing a part of the core (inner layer) from the clad (outer layer) of the optical fiber with holes or grooves, it becomes possible to easily irradiate ultraviolet rays over a wide range. By adjusting the “hole size, number, spacing, position”, “number of grooves, angle, width”, etc., it becomes possible to irradiate ultraviolet rays according to the purpose.

  On the other hand, many types of optical fibers have been produced, ranging from thin fibers having a diameter of 1 mm or less to many times thicker. Furthermore, the combination of the diameters of optical fibers enables sterilization and disinfection according to the application.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 10B, a plurality of optical fibers may be included. At this time, the light generated by one ultraviolet ray generator may be distributed to a plurality of optical fibers, or a plurality of ultraviolet ray generators may be provided to generate one ultraviolet ray corresponding to each optical fiber. You may make it have a part.

  FIGS. 11A and 11B are views for explaining a case where an exposed portion is formed by making a hole in a clad of an optical fiber.

  As shown in FIG. 11A, holes 110-1 to 110-12 are made in the clad of the optical fiber 100. Then, as shown in FIG. 11B, a part of the core (inner layer of optical fiber) 160 is exposed from a hole (for example, 130 or 140) formed in the clad (outer layer of optical fiber) 150, and ultraviolet rays are emitted from the exposed portion. Is done.

  Further, by devising the shape of the hole in the clad (outer layer) 150 of the optical fiber 100, the range 120 where the ultraviolet ray can be irradiated can be adjusted, and the ultraviolet ray can be irradiated in the target direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 11B, the shape of the hole may be a cylindrical shape 140 or a conical shape 130. When the cone 130 is used, the ultraviolet irradiation range 120-1 is increased by increasing the angle θ around the apex of the cross section of the cone, and the ultraviolet irradiation range 120-1 is decreased by decreasing the angle θ. be able to.

  12A and 12B are diagrams for explaining the case where the exposed portion is formed as a lateral groove in which the core is exposed by removing a predetermined length of the optical fiber cladding along the outer periphery with a predetermined width. is there.

  As shown in FIG. 12A, lateral grooves 210-1 to 210-11 are provided in the clad of the optical fiber 200 so as to be perpendicular to the axial direction 202 of the optical fiber 200.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 12B, a part of the core (inner layer) 260 is exposed from a lateral groove (for example, 230) provided in the clad (outer layer) 250 of the optical fiber 200, and ultraviolet rays are emitted from the exposed portion.

  Here, the degree of emission of ultraviolet rays can be adjusted according to the spacing between the lateral grooves. Therefore, an optimal lateral groove may be provided according to the application of sterilization irradiation.

  Also, the degree of UV emission can be adjusted according to the length of the lateral grooves and the location of the lateral grooves.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 12B, a lateral groove 230 may be provided so as to go around the clad (outer layer) of the optical fiber. In this way, ultraviolet rays can be emitted in the direction of 360 degrees around the outer periphery of the optical fiber.

  Further, the ultraviolet irradiation range around the groove can be adjusted by the angle θ when a part of the clad is cut out as the horizontal groove.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the width and length (angle) of the lateral groove and the irradiation range of the ultraviolet rays.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 13, a lateral groove 240 may be formed in a part of the clad (outer layer) 250 of the optical fiber. If it does in this way, an ultraviolet-ray can be emitted to the predetermined range 220 around an optical fiber.

  Here, the irradiation range of the ultraviolet rays can be adjusted by appropriately setting the width l1 and the length l2 of the lateral grooves.

  FIGS. 14A to 14D illustrate a case where the exposed portion is formed as a lateral groove in which the core is exposed by removing the clad of the optical fiber by a predetermined width and a predetermined length along the axial direction. FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 14A, a longitudinal groove 310 having a predetermined width l3 and a predetermined length l4 is formed in the cladding of the optical fiber 300 along the axial direction 302 of the optical fiber 302.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 14B, a part of the core (inner layer) 360 is exposed from a longitudinal groove (for example, 330) formed in the cladding (outer layer) 350 of the optical fiber 300, and ultraviolet rays are emitted from the exposed portion. (See 320).

  Here, when the optical fiber is disposed in the optical fiber sterilization apparatus or when the optical fiber sterilization apparatus is set, the direction in which the ultraviolet rays are irradiated can be adjusted by adjusting the direction in which the transverse groove is directed.

  Here, the ultraviolet emission position can be adjusted by the position where the lateral groove is provided (for example, the position in the axial direction). Therefore, a longitudinal groove may be provided at an optimum position according to the application of sterilization irradiation.

  For example, if a vertical groove 332 is provided as shown in FIG. 14C, the vicinity of 322 is an ultraviolet emission position, and if a vertical groove 334 is provided as shown in FIG. Position.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining a case where the exposed portion is formed as a spiral groove when the cladding of the optical fiber is spirally removed by a predetermined length with a predetermined width along the outer periphery to expose the core. FIG.

  As shown in the figure, a groove 910 having a predetermined width l5 and a predetermined length is formed in the clad of the optical fiber 900 along the outer periphery of the optical fiber.

  In this way, a part of the core (inner layer) 960 is exposed from the groove 930 on the spiral formed in the clad (outer layer) 950 of the optical fiber 900, and ultraviolet rays are emitted from the exposed portion, so that it is used for sterilization. be able to. Moreover, it is possible to irradiate ultraviolet rays around the optical fiber in the direction of 360 degrees.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining the ultraviolet ray generator.

  The ultraviolet ray generator 30 includes an ultraviolet light source 32, a reflecting plate, and a reflecting mirror 34. Here, the reflecting plate and the reflecting mirror 34 are installed so that the reflected ultraviolet rays are collected on the cross section of the optical fiber, and the ultraviolet rays emitted from the ultraviolet light source 32 are guided toward the optical fiber 20 by the reflecting plate and the reflecting mirror 34.

  The ultraviolet light source can be composed of, for example, an ultraviolet lamp.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining the connection portion.

  You may make it provide the flexible joints 52-1 to 52-3 in the connection part 50 of the one or several optical fibers 20-1 to 20-3 and the ultraviolet-ray generation part 30. FIG. By doing in this way, the angle adjustment of the optical fibers 20-1 to 20-3 becomes free.

  FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining another example of the connection portion.

  The connecting portion 50 between the one or more optical fibers 20-1 to 20-5 and the ultraviolet ray generator 30 may be curved. For example, it may be hemispherical as shown in FIG. 18 or may be a full spherical surface (not shown).

  If the connection part 50 is formed as a curved surface in this way, it is easy to connect optical fibers in multiple directions at the same time.

It is a figure for demonstrating the foot sterilizer of this Embodiment. 2A, 2B, and 2C are views of the foot sterilizer according to the present embodiment as viewed from the front, top, and lateral directions, respectively. FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams for explaining an example of the optical fiber wiring of the foot sterilizer of the present embodiment. 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining an example of the optical fiber wiring of the foot sterilizer according to the present embodiment. 5A and 5B are diagrams for explaining an example of the optical fiber wiring of the foot sterilizer according to the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the footwear of the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the sock of the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a case showing an example in which the foot sterilizer of the present embodiment is embedded in a shoe sole. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the footrest of the present embodiment. FIGS. 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the configuration of the optical fiber of the present embodiment. 11A and 11B are diagrams for explaining a case where an exposed portion is formed by making a hole in the clad of an optical fiber. 12A and 12B are diagrams for explaining the case where the exposed portion is formed as a lateral groove in which the core is exposed by removing a predetermined length of the optical fiber cladding along the outer periphery with a predetermined width. is there. It is a figure for demonstrating the width | variety and length (angle) of a horizontal groove, and the irradiation range of an ultraviolet-ray. 14A to 14D illustrate the case where the exposed portion is formed as a lateral groove in which the core is exposed by removing the cladding of the optical fiber by a predetermined width and a predetermined length along the axial direction. FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the case where the clad of an optical fiber is spirally taken by predetermined length along the outer periphery only by predetermined length, and an exposed part is formed as a spiral groove when a core is exposed. It is a figure for demonstrating an ultraviolet-ray generation part. It is a figure for demonstrating a connection part. It is a figure for demonstrating the other example of a connection part.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 20 Optical fiber 30 Ultraviolet light generation part 32 Ultraviolet light source 34 Reflector, reflector 40 Power supply part 50 Connection part 52-1 to 52-3 Flexible joint 100 Optical fiber 110 Hole 150 Cladding 160 Core 200 Optical fiber 210 Horizontal groove 250 Cladding 260 Core 300 Optical fiber 310 Vertical Groove 350 Cladding 360 Core 400 Optical fiber sterilizer 410 Ultraviolet generator 412 Ultraviolet generator 420-1 to 420-3 Optical fiber 500 Foot sterilizer 510 Ultraviolet generator (light source)
520 Optical fiber 700 Footwear 800 Socks 900 Footrest

Claims (6)

A foot sterilizer,
An ultraviolet ray generator that is connected to the portable power source and generates ultraviolet rays by the electric power supplied from the power source;
Including an optical fiber that is connected to the ultraviolet ray generation unit and propagates the ultraviolet ray generated by the ultraviolet ray generation unit, and the optical fiber includes an ultraviolet ray emission unit that is disposed so as to pass through a gap between a toe and a finger of a human body,
The optical fiber of the ultraviolet radiation part is
Including a core through which ultraviolet rays pass and a clad formed on the film around the core;
The clad is formed with an exposed portion for exposing a part of the core and radiating ultraviolet rays to the outside, and sterilizing and disinfecting human toes with ultraviolet rays emitted from the exposed portion. Sterilizer. In claim 1,
The ultraviolet ray generator is
A timer unit that counts the UV generation time and detects whether or not a predetermined time set in advance is reached;
A foot sterilization apparatus comprising: an ultraviolet ray generation stop processing unit that stops or temporarily stops the generation of ultraviolet rays when the timer unit detects that a predetermined time has been reached. In any one of Claims 1-2.
The exposed part of the optical fiber of the ultraviolet radiation part is
A foot sterilization apparatus, which is provided in a predetermined portion located near an assumed affected part of a toe of a human body. Footwear including the foot sterilizer according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
Footwear characterized by being arranged so that the optical fiber passes through a portion assumed to hit a gap between a toe when worn by a person. A sock including the foot sterilizer according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
A sock characterized by being arranged so that the optical fiber passes through a portion assumed to hit a gap between a toe when worn by a person. A footrest comprising the foot sterilizer according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
A footrest characterized by being arranged so that the optical fiber passes through a portion assumed to hit a gap between a toe with a human foot placed.