JP7108413B2 - clothing - Google Patents

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a garment for biological information measurement, in which electrodes are formed on the front body.

In recent years, wearable biological information measuring devices (sensing wear) have been attracting attention in the fields of health monitoring, medical care, nursing care, and rehabilitation. A wearable biological information measuring device is a device in which a biological information measuring device is attached to, for example, clothing, a belt, a strap, etc., and can easily measure biological information such as an electrocardiogram by wearing the device. As a biological information measuring device, for example, an electrode for measuring biological information is provided.

In the case of a clothing-type wearable biological information measuring device, for example, a body made of woven or knitted fabric is provided with electrodes, and an electronic unit or the like having a function of computing and processing electrical signals obtained by the electrodes. Wiring is provided, and by wearing this clothing in daily life, it is possible to easily measure biological information such as fluctuations in heart rate in various daily situations.

In order to improve the measurement accuracy of biological information in a wearable biological information measuring device, it is necessary to bring the measuring surface of the electrode into close contact with the body. Therefore, in the case of a clothing-type wearable biological information measuring device, a garment such as compression wear that strongly tightens the upper body is used as the clothing main body, and this tightening brings the measurement surface of the electrode into close contact with the body. However, even when the biometric information measuring device is provided in the compression wear, it is difficult to stably and accurately measure biometric information from the electrodes. In particular, when the person being measured walks, jogs, or runs, the movement of the person to be measured may result in insufficient contact between the measuring surface of the electrode and the body, which may interfere with the measurement of biological information. There were things I couldn't do. Therefore, in order to increase the adhesion between the electrodes and the body when the biometric information measurement device is installed in the compression wear, the electrodes should be wetted with water beforehand, or the moisture generated by sweating during exercise should be used to increase the adhesion. , which improves the measurement accuracy.

By the way, a person to be measured who wears compression wear equipped with a biological information measuring device is often engaged in sports on a daily basis or is an athlete, and is assumed to have a muscular body.

On the other hand, biological information such as an electrocardiogram can be effectively used in the medical field, the medical treatment field, the rehabilitation field, and the like. In such fields, the body type of a person to be measured who wears a clothing-type wearable biological information measuring device may be of medium build, thin, or obese. Therefore, a clothing-type wearable biological information measurement device is required to be compatible with a wide range of body types.

In Patent Literature 1, the present inventors have identified a measurement position where biological information can be most stably measured, and have proposed a sensing wear to which highly adhesive flexible electrodes are attached.

Further, Patent Literature 2 discloses a method of strongly attaching a biological information measuring device to the body. Specifically, a garment has been proposed in which a first fabric circumferentially on the wearer and to which the electrodes are attached has a higher garment pressure than a second fabric surrounding it.

Further, Patent Document 3 proposes a method of attaching the electrodes to the body by providing a stretchable fabric in the area including the place where the electrodes are installed, and fixing the whole area around the place of installation in a stretched state. It is

Furthermore, Patent Document 4 discloses a shirt in which a stretchable member is provided along the entire circumference of the waist of the shirt, and by stretching the stretchable member, the sensor provided on the shirt is worn. It is stated that it is to be brought into contact with human skin.

On the other hand, the present inventors have studied wearing comfort, and in Non-Patent Literature 1, have shown the results of evaluating the effects of pressure applied to the human body on pressure sensation and comfort. This non-patent document 1 clarified that the chest, abdomen, and upper arms in particular feel a large and strong sense of pressure value, and that the comfortable sensation changes remarkably, making it easy to feel discomfort. For this reason, compression wear that tightens the entire upper body is effective in improving mobility during sports, but there is a problem that it is very uncomfortable and burdens the body when used in daily life.

JP 2017-29692 A International Publication No. 2016/134484 pamphlet JP 2016-179250 A U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0184270

Japan Textile Consumer Science Journal, Vol. 52, No. 3 (2011)

The present invention has been made with a focus on the above problems, and its purpose is to be able to stably and accurately measure biometric information despite less pressure and less discomfort due to wearing. To provide clothing for biological information measurement.

The clothing according to the present invention, which has solved the above problems, has the following structure.
[1] A garment in which an electrode that contacts the wearer's skin is formed on the front body, and a member that shortens the circumference of the garment's waist is provided in a partial section of the waist of the garment. clothing characterized by
[2] The garment according to [1], wherein the member for shortening the waist circumference of the wearer is provided on the outer side surface of the garment.
[3] The garment according to [1], wherein at least one member for shortening the circumference of the waist of the wearer is provided on each of the left and right side surfaces of the outer side of the garment.
[4] Any one of [1] to [3], wherein the front body has a stress of 0.02 to 1 N per 1 cm width when stretched 10% in the lateral direction, and an elongation recovery rate of 80 to 100%. Clothing described in .
[5] The clothing has an average wearing pressure of 1.0 kPa or less (not including 0 kPa) when standing upright and not moving, and an average wearing pressure of 2.0 kPa or less (0 kPa The clothing according to any one of [1] to [4].
[6] The clothing according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein the electrodes are provided on the thorax or lower abdomen of the clothing.
[7] The clothing according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the electrodes are sheet-shaped.
[8] The garment according to [7], wherein the sheet electrodes have an electrode surface area of 5 to 100 cm ² and an average thickness of 10 to 500 μm.
[9] The member for shortening the wearer's waist circumference is at least one selected from the group consisting of hooks, hooks, buttons, strings, adhesive tapes, hook-and-loop fasteners, and self-adhesive tapes [1] The clothing according to any one of to [8].
[10] The garment according to [9], wherein the self-adhesive tape has elasticity.
[11] The clothing according to any one of [1] to [10], wherein the clothing further has wiring that connects the electrode and the electronic unit, and the electrode and the wiring are made of the same material. .
[12] The clothing according to any one of [1] to [11], which is sports innerwear, a T-shirt, a polo shirt, a camisole, an underwear, underwear, a hospital gown, or a sleepwear.

The garment of the present invention has an electrode formed on the front body that contacts the wearer's skin, and a member for shortening the circumference of the garment's waist is provided in a partial section of the waist of the garment. As a result, by using this member, the waist length of the garment can be shortened according to the body shape of the wearer. Therefore, since the adhesion between the skin of the wearer and the electrodes can be improved, biological information can be stably and accurately measured. In addition, since it is not necessary to tighten the clothes tightly in order to improve the adhesion between the skin and the electrodes, the feeling of oppression the wearer receives when wearing the clothes can be reduced, and the clothes can be worn comfortably.

Specifically, like the garment of the present invention, by attaching a member for adjusting the circumference of the waist to the side of the garment, the wearer who has a stiff body and finds it difficult to turn the arm around the back of the body ( For example, even elderly people can easily adjust the waist circumference. In addition, it becomes easy for a third party to adjust the waist circumference of the wearer's clothing. It can be easily adjusted. In addition, in the present invention, by combining with clothing made of a fabric having a predetermined preferable stretch recovery rate, it becomes easier to adjust the compression of the clothing, so that a third party, not the wearer himself, can adjust the waist circumference of the wearer. Even if the circumference of the garment is adjusted, the pressure of the garment can be set to a region where the wearer does not feel uncomfortable. Furthermore, for example, when a self-adhesive tape is used, the self-adhesive tape is more flexible than a general hook-and-loop fastener, so even if the wearer is lying sideways, the flank area can be stretched. Discomfort can be reduced.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining a member for shortening the circumference of the waist of clothing, (a) showing a configuration example using a hook, and (b) showing a configuration example using a self-adhesive tape. ing. FIG. 2 is a front view of the T-shirt according to the invention. FIG. 3 is a rear view of the T-shirt according to the invention. FIG. 4 is a side view of the T-shirt according to the present invention, showing a state in which the waist circumference of the garment is not shortened. FIG. 5 is a side view of the T-shirt according to the present invention, showing a state in which the waist circumference of the garment is shortened.

The garment of the present invention has electrodes formed on the front body that come into contact with the wearer's skin. The clothing is characterized in that a member for shortening the circumference of the waist of the clothing (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a width-reducing member) is provided in a part of the waist of the clothing.

The clothing of the present invention will be described in detail below.

The front body of the clothing is provided with electrodes that come into contact with the wearer's skin, and the electrode surfaces of the electrodes come into direct contact with the wearer's skin, so that electrical signals from the body can be measured and biological information can be obtained. can be measured. As biological information, by calculating and processing electrical signals obtained by electrodes with an electronic unit, etc., physical information such as electrocardiogram, heart rate, pulse rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, body temperature, myoelectricity, and perspiration can be obtained. is obtained.

As the electrodes, electrodes capable of measuring an electrocardiogram are preferably provided. An electrocardiogram means information obtained by detecting electrical changes due to the movement of the heart through electrodes on the surface of a living body and recording them as waveforms. An electrocardiogram is generally recorded as a waveform in which time is plotted on the horizontal axis and potential difference is plotted on the vertical axis. A waveform appearing on an electrocardiogram for each heartbeat is mainly composed of five typical waves, namely, P wave, Q wave, R wave, S wave, and T wave, and U wave also exists. Also, the beginning of the Q wave to the end of the S wave is sometimes called the QRS wave.

Among these waves, the clothing of the present invention is preferably provided with electrodes capable of detecting at least R waves. The R wave indicates the excitation of both the left and right ventricles and is the wave with the largest potential difference. Heart rate can also be measured by providing an electrode capable of detecting R waves. That is, the time from the peak of the R wave to the peak of the next R wave is generally called the RR interval (seconds), and the heart rate per minute can be calculated based on the following formula. In this specification, the QRS wave is also included in the R wave unless otherwise specified.
Heart rate (beats/min) = 60/RR interval

A specific configuration of the electrodes will be described in detail later.

It is preferable that the electrodes are provided on the thorax or lower abdomen of the garment. Biological information can be measured with high accuracy by providing the electrodes on the thorax or the lower abdomen of the garment. More preferably, the electrodes are provided in a region of the clothing that contacts the skin between the top of the seventh rib and the bottom of the ninth rib of the wearer.

The electrodes are lines parallel to the wearer's left and right posterior axillary lines, and are drawn at a distance of 10 cm from the wearer's posterior axillary line to the wearer's back side. is preferably provided in the region of

The electrodes are preferably provided in an arc shape along the waist of the wearer.

The number of electrodes provided on the garment is at least two, preferably two electrodes are provided on the thoracic region or the lower abdomen of the garment, and the two electrodes are arranged parallel to the left and right posterior axillary lines of the wearer. It is preferable that the line be provided in a region on the wearer's ventral side surrounded by lines drawn at a place 10 cm away from the wearer's posterior axillary line on the back side of the wearer. In addition, when three or more electrodes are provided, the positions where the third and subsequent electrodes are provided are not particularly limited, and may be provided, for example, on the back body.

The clothing is provided with a member (width-reducing member) for shortening the circumference of the waist of the clothing in a partial section of the waist of the clothing. By using the width-reducing member, the waist circumference of the garment can be shortened according to the body shape of the wearer. As a result, the adhesion between the wearer's skin and the electrodes can be improved, so biological information can be stably and accurately measured. In addition, since it is not necessary to tighten the clothes tightly in order to improve the adhesion between the skin and the electrodes, the feeling of oppression the wearer receives when wearing the clothes can be reduced, and the clothes can be worn comfortably.

The width-reducing member must be provided in a part of the waist of the garment. Since the clothing can be partially tightened by providing it in a partial section, it is possible to reduce the oppressive feeling that the wearer receives.

The total length of the sections provided with the width-reducing members is preferably 50% or less, more preferably 40% or less, and even more preferably 30% or less when the length of the waist of the garment is taken as 100%. The lower limit is not particularly limited as long as the width can be shortened, preferably 10% or more, more preferably 20% or more.

The number of the width-reducing members is not particularly limited, and one or two or more may be provided around the outer waist of the garment.

It is preferable that the width-reducing member is provided on the outer side surface of the garment. By providing it on the outer side of the clothing, the clothing can be easily tightened after the clothing is put on, so that the circumference of the waist can be easily shortened according to the body shape of the wearer.

It is preferable that at least one width-reducing member is provided on each of the outer left and right side surfaces of the garment. By providing at least one each, the circumference of the waist can be easily shortened according to the body shape of the wearer. In addition, by providing them on the left and right sides, it is possible to evenly tighten the left and right in a well-balanced manner.

The position where the body width reduction member is provided may be left-right symmetrical or left-right asymmetrical on the left and right sides of the outer side of the garment. The number of width-reducing members may be the same or different on the outer left and right side surfaces of the garment.

Although the type of the body width reduction member is not particularly limited, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of hooks, hooks, buttons, cords, adhesive tapes, hook-and-loop fasteners, and self-adhesive tapes is preferable, and hook-and-loop fasteners are more preferable. Alternatively, it is a self-adhesive tape, particularly preferably a self-adhesive tape. By providing a plurality of hooks, hooks, buttons, etc. among these, the circumference of the waist can be adjusted stepwise. Strings, adhesive tapes, hook-and-loop fasteners, self-adhesive tapes, and the like can be adjusted steplessly, that is, freely, in the circumference of the waist.

The self-adhesive tape is a tape that sticks to itself although the tape itself has no adhesiveness. Specifically, the self-adhesive tape is characterized by the phenomenon that the nap of a woven or knitted fabric obtained using bulky yarn such as short fiber or false twisted crimped yarn sticks to the other fabric due to random fluff on the surface ( fastener phenomenon).

Examples of the self-adhesive tape include short fibers made of synthetic fibers such as cotton and cellulose fibers, polyester, nylon, and acrylic, false twist crimped yarns of polyester and nylon, polyurethane fibers with excellent elongation, and the like. Stretchable fabrics and knitted fabrics that are combined to give elasticity and swelling are processed with weakly adhesive resins such as polyurethane resins, synthetic rubber materials, and natural rubber materials to give them self-adhesiveness, and raised processing. Examples include those that have self-adhesive properties. In the raising process, the self-adhesiveness of the raised side and the non-raised side is high, so that the self-adhesiveness is low between the front side and the back side, but the combination of the front side and the back side can produce a fabric with high self-adhesiveness.

In addition, by bonding two kinds of fabrics together, it is possible to improve the self-adhesiveness and prevent fraying from the cut surface.

The self-adhesive tape can be easily produced by using a woven or knitted fabric made of yarns containing nanofibers with a fiber diameter of 1 μm or less. The fiber diameter of the nanofiber means the diameter of a single fiber. In the case where the cross-sectional shape of the single fiber is an irregular cross section that is not circular, the fiber diameter is the average value of the diameters of the circumscribed circle and the inscribed circle of the irregular cross section of the single fiber. The fiber diameter of the nanofibers is preferably 900 nm or less, more preferably 800 nm or less. Although the lower limit of the fiber diameter of the nanofibers is not particularly limited, the fiber diameter of the nanofibers is preferably 100 nm or more, more preferably 200 nm or more, from the viewpoint of ease of production of the nanofibers.

The type of nanofiber is not particularly limited, and regenerated fibers such as rayon, semi-synthetic fibers such as acetate, or synthetic fibers can be used. When the nanofibers are synthetic fibers, materials for the nanofibers include polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate, and polybutylene terephthalate; polyamides such as nylon 6 and nylon 66; The cross-sectional shape of the nanofiber is not particularly limited, and may be circular, elliptical, polygonal, star-shaped, or the like.

It is preferable that a plurality of nanofibers are bundled to form threads that constitute a woven or knitted fabric. That is, the nanofibers are preferably arranged in a woven or knitted fabric as multifilament yarns.

The fineness of the multifilament yarn containing nanofibers is not particularly limited, but the fineness is preferably 10 dtex or more, more preferably 20 dtex or more, preferably 500 dtex or less, and more preferably 300 dtex or less. If the multifilament yarn containing nanofibers has such a fineness, the multifilament yarn will have an appropriate strength, and the multifilament yarn can be easily formed into a woven or knitted fabric. .

The self-adhesive tape preferably has elasticity. Also, the self-adhesive tape preferably has air permeability.

FIG. 1(a) shows a configuration example using a hook as the width-reducing member. The width-reducing member 21 is composed of belt-like members 11 and 12. The belt-like member 11 has a male hook 13 at its end, and the belt-like member 12 has a plurality of female hooks 14. As shown in FIG. FIG. 1(a) shows the strip-shaped members 11 and 12 not connected, and the male hook 13 is combined with one of the female hooks 14 while pulling the strip-shaped members 11 and 12 together. As a result, the circumference of the waist can be shortened.

Although FIG. 1A shows a configuration example using a hook, a hook, a button, or the like may be used instead of the hook. When hooks are used, a male hook may be provided on one belt-shaped member and a female hook may be provided on the other belt-shaped member. When buttons are used, one band-shaped member may be provided with a button, and the other band-shaped member may be provided with a buttonhole.

FIG. 1(b) shows a configuration example using a self-adhesive tape as the width-reducing member. The width-reducing member 21 is composed of belt-shaped members 11 and 12, and both of the belt-shaped members 11 and 12 are self-adhesive tapes. FIG. 1(b) shows a state in which the belt-like members 11 and 12 are not connected. By connecting the belt-like members 11 and 12 while drawing them together, the circumference of the waist can be shortened.

Note that FIG. 1B shows a configuration example using a self-adhesive tape, but a string, an adhesive tape, a hook-and-loop fastener, or the like may be used instead of the self-adhesive tape.

A configuration example in which a self-adhesive tape is provided as the width-reducing member on a part of the waist of the garment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5. FIG. The present invention is not limited to the illustrated examples, and it is possible to make modifications within the scope that is compatible with the gist of the above and below, and all of them are included in the technical scope of the present invention. .

2 to 5 are schematic diagrams showing the appearance of a T-shirt 1 having electrodes formed on the front body 2 that contact the wearer's skin. Note that the electrodes are not shown in FIGS. 2 to 5. FIG.

FIG. 2 shows a front view of the T-shirt 1. On the outer side of the front body 2 of the T-shirt 1, a belt-shaped self-adhesive tape 11a is provided on the right side surface, and a belt-shaped self-adhesive tape 11a is provided on the left side surface. A self-adhesive tape 11b is provided.

FIG. 3 shows a back view of the T-shirt 1. On the outside of the back body 3 of the T-shirt 1, planar self-adhesive tapes 12a1 and 12a2 are provided on the right side and the left side. are provided with planar self-adhesive tapes 12b1 and 12b2. The ends of the strip-shaped self-adhesive tape 11a can be connected to any of the planar self-adhesive tapes 12a1 or 12a2. The ends of the band-shaped self-adhesive tape 11b can be connected to any of the planar self-adhesive tapes 12b1 or 12b2.

4 and 5 show side views of the right side of the T-shirt 1. FIG. FIG. 4 shows a state in which the band-shaped self-adhesive tape 11a and the planar self-adhesive tapes 12a1 and 12a2 are not connected. On the other hand, in FIG. 5, the ends of the strip-shaped self-adhesive tape 11a are connected to the planar self-adhesive tape 12a1, and the strip-shaped self-adhesive tape 11a and the planar self-adhesive tape 12a2 are connected. is not connected. Dotted lines 21 and 31 shown in FIG. 5 indicate the distance between the front body 2 and the back body when the ends of the band-shaped self-adhesive tape 11a and the planar self-adhesive tape 12a1 shown in FIG. 4 are not connected. 3 positions are shown respectively. As is clear from FIGS. 4 and 5, by connecting the ends of the band-shaped self-adhesive tape 11a and the planar self-adhesive tape 12a1, the circumference of the waist, particularly the thoracic region and the lower thoracic region, is reduced. It can be seen that the perimeter in the abdomen is shortened. The band-shaped self-adhesive tape 11a may be connected to the planar self-adhesive tape 12a2 without being connected to the planar self-adhesive tape 12a1.

4 and 5 show a configuration example in which one strip-shaped self-adhesive tape 11a is provided, but the number of strip-shaped self-adhesive tapes 11a is not limited to one, and may be two or more. In particular, when the electrodes formed on the front body extend in the body length direction, by shortening the circumference of the waist using two or more strip-shaped self-adhesive tapes 11a, the entire electrode can be uniformly applied with low pressure. Since it is in close contact with the body, biological information can be measured with high accuracy.

4 and 5 show a configuration example in which two planar self-adhesive tapes serving as receivers for the belt-shaped self-adhesive tape 11a are provided, but the number of planar self-adhesive tapes is limited to two. It is not limited, and may be one or three or more.

When two or more planar self-adhesive tapes are provided, it is preferable to displace the planar self-adhesive tapes vertically as shown in FIGS. By shifting the position, it becomes easier to adjust the degree of tightness of the clothing, so that it becomes easier to adjust the circumference of the waist according to the body shape of the wearer.

Moreover, it is preferable that the band-shaped self-adhesive tape 11a and the planar self-adhesive tapes 12a1 and 12a2 are provided with their relative positions shifted in the vertical direction. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, by providing the belt-shaped self-adhesive tape 11a above the planar self-adhesive tapes 12a1 and 12a2, the belt-shaped self-adhesive tape 11a can be moved obliquely downward. Since it can be connected to the sheet-like self-adhesive tape 12a1 or 12a2 while being pulled, it becomes easy to connect the belt-like self-adhesive tape 11a.

The belt-shaped self-adhesive tape and the planar self-adhesive tape are provided at the same positions on the right and left sides of the T-shirt 1, as shown in FIGS. There may be, but they may be different. In addition, the number of strip-shaped self-adhesive tapes and planar self-adhesive tapes may be the same on the right and left sides of the T-shirt 1 as shown in FIGS. , can be different.

The clothing has an average wearing pressure of 1.0 kPa or less (excluding 0 kPa) while standing and immovable, and a wearing pressure of 2.0 kPa or less (excluding 0 kPa) during walking at the site where the electrodes are formed. is preferably

By setting the average wearing pressure to be 1.0 kPa or less in an upright position, it is possible to reduce the oppressive feeling that the wearer receives when wearing the clothing, so that the clothing can be worn comfortably. The average wearing pressure in an upright position is more preferably 0.8 kPa or less, and still more preferably 0.6 kPa or less. It is preferable that the average wearing pressure in an upright position is as small as possible, but does not include 0 kPa.

By setting the average wearing pressure during walking to 2.0 kPa or less, it is possible to reduce the feeling of oppression the wearer receives when wearing the clothing, and the clothing can be worn comfortably. The average wearing pressure during walking is more preferably 1.8 kPa or less, and still more preferably 1.6 kPa or less. The average wearing pressure during walking is preferably as small as possible, but does not include 0 kPa.

The wearing pressure may be adjusted by inserting a pressure sensor into the clothing and adjusting the wearing pressure with the width shortening member while measuring biological information such as electrocardiogram, or wearing the garment while measuring biological information such as electrocardiogram with electrodes. However, the wearing pressure may be adjusted by the body width shortening member so that the measurement can be performed with less noise such as an electrocardiogram while maintaining comfort when worn.

In the garment of the present invention, the average wearing pressure in regions other than the regions where the electrodes are formed is preferably as small as possible, for example, 0.9 kPa or less, more preferably 0.6 kPa or less, and still more preferably 0.6 kPa or less. It is 4 kPa or less. It is preferable that the average contact pressure at sites other than the sites where the electrodes are formed be as small as possible, including 0 kPa.

In addition, when the pressure on the wearer's abdomen increases, the wearer tends to feel uncomfortable. .2 kPa or less. The compression on the abdomen is preferably as low as possible, including 0 kPa.

The front body on which the electrodes are provided has a stress per 1 cm width at 10% elongation in the lateral direction (wale direction) (hereinafter sometimes referred to as 10% elongation force) of 0.02 to 1 N (2 to 100 cN). It is preferable that the elongation recovery rate after repeated elongation in the lateral direction (wale direction) is 80 to 100%.

If the 10% elongation force is less than 0.02 N, the front body tends to stretch, and the excess when the front body is pulled to adjust the wearing pressure becomes too large, which tends to deteriorate the appearance when worn. Therefore, the 10% elongation force is preferably 0.02N or more, more preferably 0.05N or more, and still more preferably 0.1N or more. However, if the 10% elongation force exceeds 1 N, the front body will be difficult to stretch and the stretchability of the front body will be poor, making it difficult to adjust the wearing pressure. Therefore, the 10% elongation force is preferably 1N or less, more preferably 0.5N or less, and still more preferably 0.3N or less.

The elongation force may be measured by the cut strip method described in JIS L1018 (1999), "8.14.1 Elongation force at constant elongation".

If the elongation recovery rate is less than 80%, the front body is stretched by pulling the front body, the wearing pressure during wearing is lowered, the electrodes are peeled off from the skin, and the measurement of electrocardiogram, etc. becomes unstable. Prone. Therefore, the elongation recovery rate is preferably 80% or more, more preferably 85% or more, and still more preferably 90% or more.

The elongation recovery rate may be measured based on JIS L1018 (1999) "8.15.2 Method B (constant load method)".

The front body on which the electrodes are provided has a stress per 1 cm width at 20% elongation in the lateral direction (wale direction) (hereinafter sometimes referred to as 20% elongation force) of 0.1 to 1.2 N (10 to 120 cN). is preferably The 20% elongation force can be used as an index for evaluating the followability of the front body when the wearer exercises, that is, the ease of movement of the wearer. If the 20% elongation force is less than 0.1N, it becomes difficult to set the 10% elongation force within the proper range. Therefore, the 20% elongation force is preferably 0.1N or more, more preferably 0.2N or more, and still more preferably 0.3N or more. However, if the 20% elongation force exceeds 1.2 N, the clothing will not be able to flexibly follow the movement of the body when taking a deep breath, expanding the chest, or exercising. It is difficult to reduce the burden on Therefore, the 20% elongation force is preferably 1.2N or less, more preferably 1.1N or less, and still more preferably 1.0N or less.

In the garment of the present invention, the fabrics of the back body and the front body may be different or the same.

It is preferable that the front body and the back body of the garment are continuously connected.

The garment of the present invention is contracted in the section provided with the width-reducing member. That is, by using the width-reducing member to loosen the cloth around the wearer's waist, the circumference of the garment can be shortened.

The fabrics of the front body and the back body that make up the above clothing (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as fabrics) are made of elastic threads (hereinafter referred to as stretchable (sometimes referred to as thread) is preferably used. Elastic yarn, false-twisted crimped yarn, latently crimped yarn, etc. can be used as the stretchable yarn. In addition, a stretchable composite yarn in which these stretchable yarns are mixed with general fibers may be used.

Examples of the elastic thread include polyurethane-based elastic thread, polyester-based elastic thread, polyolefin-based elastic thread, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, and stretchable composite fibers. Among them, polyurethane-based elastic thread is preferable, and is excellent in terms of thread elasticity, heat set property, chemical resistance, and the like.

The above-mentioned false-twisted crimped yarn means a textured yarn obtained by crimping long fibers by twisting, forming, or the like.

By using false-twisted crimped yarn, crimps are generated by the heat during dyeing and the force of the soft cloth, and the fabric can be apparently shrunk, so the elongation force and elongation elastic modulus of the fabric can be further increased. can be enhanced.

The crimp elongation of the false-twisted crimped yarn is preferably 20 to 60%. When the crimp elongation rate is within this range, the elongation force of the fabric can be ensured. The crimp elongation of the false-twisted crimped yarn is more preferably 25 to 55%, still more preferably 30 to 50%.

The crimp recovery rate of the false-twisted crimped yarn is preferably 10 to 30%. If the crimp recovery rate of the false-twisted crimped yarn is within this range, the kickback property of the knitted fabric can be further improved. The crimp recovery rate of the false twist crimped yarn is more preferably 10 to 25%, still more preferably 15 to 25%.

The latently crimped yarn means a yarn composed of bicone-type fibers produced using two kinds of polymers, or a different shrinkage mixed woven yarn produced by combining yarns with different shrinkage ratios.

By using latently crimped yarn, crimps are generated by the heat during dyeing and the force of the soft fabric, and the fabric can be apparently shrunk, so that the elongation force and elongation elastic modulus of the fabric can be further increased. can be done.

The crimp elongation rate of the latently crimped yarn is preferably 20 to 60%. When the crimp elongation rate is within this range, it becomes easier to secure the elongation force of the fabric. The crimp elongation rate of the latently crimped yarn is more preferably 25 to 55%, still more preferably 30 to 50%.

The crimp recovery rate of the latently crimped yarn is preferably 10 to 30%. When the crimp recovery rate of the latently crimped yarn is within this range, the kickback property of the knitted fabric is more likely to be improved. The crimp recovery rate of the latently crimped yarn is more preferably 10 to 25%, still more preferably 15 to 25%.

The mixing ratio of the elastic yarn or elastic composite yarn contained in the fabric is preferably 2 to 100% by mass. If the mixing ratio is less than 2% by mass, the stretchability of the fabric becomes difficult to obtain, and the wearer tends to feel oppressed during movement. Therefore, the mixing ratio is preferably 2% by mass or more, more preferably 3% by mass or more, and still more preferably 5% by mass or more.

The form of the fabric constituting the clothing is not particularly limited as long as it has the above-described elongation characteristics in the weft direction of the fabric, and it may be either a knitted fabric or a woven fabric. Also, the texture of the knitted or woven fabric is not particularly limited.

(knitting)
Knitting structures when weft knitting (circular knitting) is used for the above fabric include, for example, plain knitting (plain knitting), rubber knitting, double-sided knitting, pearl knitting, tuck knitting, floating knitting, single hem knitting, lace knitting, and attachment. Knitting etc. are mentioned. In the case of weft knitting, the yarn length of the elastic yarn to be knitted may be appropriately adjusted based on the gauge of the knitting machine, the knitting structure, and the thickness of the yarn. In order to effectively develop elasticity and recovery from elongation, the length of the elastic yarn is preferably 200 to 600 mm, more preferably 230 to 550 mm, still more preferably 250 to 500 mm per 100 wales.

Knitting structures when warp knitting is used for the fabric include, for example, single denby knitting, open denby knitting, single atlas knitting, double cord knitting, half knitting, half base knitting, satin knitting, tricot knitting, half tricot knitting, Examples include fleece knitting and jacquard knitting. Preferred knitting structures among these are half knitting and open Denby knitting. In the case of warp knitting, the thread length of the thread to be knitted is defined by the runner. A runner is the yarn length required to knit one rack (480 courses). The yarn length of the yarn to be knitted may be appropriately adjusted based on the gauge of the knitting machine, the knitting structure, and the thickness of the yarn. In order to effectively develop elasticity and recovery from elongation, the length of the elastic yarn is preferably 600 to 2200 mm, more preferably 700 to 2100 mm, still more preferably 750 to 2000 mm per rack.

(fabric)
Examples of the weave of the woven fabric include a plain weave, a twill weave, a satin weave, and the like, a modified weave, a warp double weave, a weft double weave, and the like, a single double weave, and a warp velvet weave. Plain weave and twill weave are preferred among these weaves. Plain weaves include, for example, broad (poplin), tropical, and the like. Twill weave includes, for example, cashmere.

In the case of the woven fabric, the stretch yarn may be used at least in the weft direction, and may be used in both the warp and weft directions. However, if it is used only in the warp direction, it becomes difficult to adjust the stretchability in the weft direction.

The cover factor (CF) of the woven fabric is preferably, for example, 1000-2500. When the CF of the woven fabric is less than 1000, the kickback property and stretch recovery of the woven fabric tend to deteriorate. Therefore, the CF of the woven fabric is preferably 1,000 or more, more preferably 1,100 or more, and even more preferably 1,200 or more. However, if the CF of the woven fabric exceeds 2500, the extensibility of the woven fabric tends to decrease. Therefore, the CF of the woven fabric is preferably 2500 or less, more preferably 2300 or less, still more preferably 2100 or less. The CF of the woven fabric can be calculated by the following formula.
CF = √ [warp fineness (dtex) x warp density (lines/inch)] + √ [weft fineness (dtex) x weft density (lines/inch)]

The garment of the present invention is not particularly limited as long as the electrode that contacts the wearer's skin is formed on the front body, and the form is not particularly limited. clothes, nightwear, and the like. If the garment has sleeves, it may have short sleeves, half sleeves, three-quarter sleeves, long sleeves, or the like, and the shape of the sleeves may be raglan sleeves.

Next, the electrodes provided on the front body of the clothing will be described.

It is preferable that the electrodes have stretchability so that they can follow the movement of the person to be measured.

Examples of the electrode having stretchability include an electrode made of a conductive fabric and a sheet-shaped electrode formed using a conductive composition containing a conductive filler and a flexible resin. . Electrodes made of the above-described conductive fabric include, for example, conductive fibers or conductive yarns in which a base fiber is coated with a conductive polymer, or a surface coated with a conductive metal such as silver, gold, copper, or nickel. woven fabrics, knitted fabrics, non-woven fabrics, or non-conductive yarns made of conductive fibers, conductive yarns made of conductive metal fine wires, conductive yarns made by blending conductive metal fine wires and non-conductive fibers, etc. embroidered fabric can be used as an electrode made of a conductive fabric.

It is preferable that the electrode includes a conductive layer capable of detecting electrical information of a living body, and further has an insulating layer on the side opposite to the skin, that is, on the clothing side of the conductive layer. Hereinafter, the insulating layer on the clothing side may be referred to as the first insulating layer.

In addition to the electrodes, the clothing has wiring that connects the electrodes with an electronic unit or the like having a function of calculating the electrical signal obtained by the electrodes. The wiring includes a conductive layer for transmitting biological electrical signals detected by the electrodes to an electronic unit or the like, and an insulating layer (first insulating layer) on the side opposite to the skin, that is, on the clothing side of the conductive layer. It is preferable to have The wiring preferably has an insulating layer also on the skin side of the conductive layer. Hereinafter, the insulating layer on the skin side may be referred to as a second insulating layer.

The conductive layer, the first insulating layer, and the second insulating layer will be specifically described below.

(Conductive layer)
A conductive layer is necessary to ensure electrical continuity.

The conductive layer preferably contains a conductive filler and a flexible resin, and can be formed using a composition (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a conductive paste) in which each component is dissolved or dispersed in an organic solvent.

As the conductive filler, metal powder, metal nanoparticles, conductive materials other than metal powder, and the like can be used. One type of the conductive filler may be used, or two or more types may be used.

Examples of the metal powder include silver powder, gold powder, platinum powder, palladium powder and other precious metal powders; copper powder, nickel powder, aluminum powder, brass powder and other base metal powders; and alloyed base metal powder obtained by alloying a base metal with a noble metal such as silver. Among these, silver powder and/or copper powder are preferable, and high conductivity can be expressed at low cost.

As the metal powder, it is preferable to mainly use flaky powder or amorphous cohesive powder (for example, 50% by mass or more). Flake-like powder and irregularly-shaped cohesive powder have a larger specific surface area than spherical powder and the like, and are therefore preferable because they can form a conductive network even with a low filling amount.

The particle size of the flake powder is not particularly limited, but the average particle size (50% D) measured by a dynamic light scattering method is preferably 0.5 to 20 μm, more preferably 3 to 12 μm. If the average particle size exceeds 20 μm, it may become difficult to form fine wiring. If the average particle size is less than 0.5 μm, the particles cannot contact each other at low filling, and the conductivity may deteriorate. As the flaky powder, it is preferable to use, for example, flaky silver powder.

The irregularly-shaped aggregated powder is three-dimensionally aggregated spherical or irregularly-shaped primary particles. Since the irregularly-shaped cohesive powder is not in a monodispersed form, the particles are in physical contact with each other, which facilitates the formation of a conductive network, which is more preferable.

As the irregularly-shaped aggregated powder, for example, it is preferable to use irregularly-shaped aggregated silver powder.

The metal nanoparticles refer to particles having a particle diameter of several nanometers to several tens of nanometers among the metal powders described above.

The proportion of the metal nanoparticles in the conductive filler is preferably 20% by volume or less, more preferably 15% by volume or less, and even more preferably 10% by volume or less. If the content of the metal nanoparticles is too high, it may become difficult to uniformly disperse them in the resin, and the metal nanoparticles as described above are generally expensive. desirable.

Examples of conductive materials other than the metal powder include carbon-based materials such as graphite, carbon black, and carbon nanotubes. The conductive material other than the metal powder preferably has a mercapto group, an amino group, or a nitrile group on its surface, or is surface-treated with a rubber containing a sulfide bond and/or a nitrile group. In general, conductive materials other than metal powders themselves have strong cohesive force, and conductive materials other than metal powders with high aspect ratios have poor dispersibility in resins, but have mercapto groups, amino groups, or nitrile groups on the surface. Alternatively, surface treatment with rubber containing sulfide bonds and/or nitrile groups increases the affinity for the resin, disperses it, forms an effective conductive network, and achieves high conductivity.

The proportion of the conductive material other than the metal powder in the conductive filler is preferably 20% by volume or less, more preferably 15% by volume or less, and even more preferably 10% by volume or less. If the content of the conductive material other than the metal powder is too high, it may become difficult to uniformly disperse it in the resin. It is desirable to reduce the amount used.

The conductive layer is formed by stacking or arranging two or more types of conductive layers in which the type of conductive filler or the amount of the conductive filler added is changed, and a plurality of conductive layers are integrated. I don't mind.

The conductive filler in the conductive layer (in other words, the conductive filler in the total solid content of the conductive paste for forming the conductive layer) is preferably 15 to 45% by volume, more preferably 20 to 40% by volume. is. Too little conductive filler may result in insufficient conductivity. On the other hand, if the amount of the conductive filler is too large, the stretchability of the conductive layer tends to decrease, so cracks or the like may occur when the electrodes and wiring are stretched, and good conductivity may not be maintained.

The conductive layer may contain non-conductive particles, and the non-conductive particles preferably have an average particle size of 0.3 to 10 μm.

As the non-conductive particles, for example, metal oxide particles can be used. Specifically, metals such as silicon oxide, titanium oxide, magnesium oxide, calcium oxide, aluminum oxide, iron oxide, and barium sulfate particles can be used. sulfates, metal carbonates, metal titanates, and the like can be used. Among these, it is preferable to use barium sulfate particles.

Examples of the flexible resin include thermoplastic resins, thermosetting resins, and rubbers having an elastic modulus of 1 to 1000 MPa. Rubbers are preferable in order to develop elasticity of the film. The flexible resin may be of one type or two or more types.

The elastic modulus of the flexible resin is more preferably 3 to 600 MPa, still more preferably 10 to 500 MPa, and particularly preferably 30 to 300 MPa.

Examples of the rubber include urethane rubber, acrylic rubber, silicone rubber, butadiene rubber, nitrile group-containing rubber such as nitrile rubber and hydrogenated nitrile rubber, isoprene rubber, vulcanized rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, butyl rubber, chloroprene rubber, and chlorosulfone. polyethylene rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, vinylidene fluoride copolymer and the like. Among these, nitrile group-containing rubber, chloroprene rubber, and chlorosulfonated polyethylene rubber are preferred, and nitrile group-containing rubber is particularly preferred.

The nitrile group-containing rubber is not particularly limited as long as it is a nitrile group-containing rubber or elastomer, but nitrile rubber and hydrogenated nitrile rubber are preferable. Nitrile rubber is a copolymer of butadiene and acrylonitrile, and when the amount of bound acrylonitrile is large, the affinity with metals increases, but rubber elasticity, which contributes to stretchability, decreases. Therefore, the amount of bound acrylonitrile in the acrylonitrile-butadiene copolymer rubber is preferably 18 to 60 mass %, particularly preferably 40 to 55 mass %.

The conductive layer is formed directly on the first insulating layer described later using a composition (conductive paste) obtained by dissolving or dispersing each component described above in an organic solvent, or by coating or printing in a desired pattern. It can be formed by forming a coating film, volatilizing the organic solvent contained in the coating film, and drying the coating film. The conductive layer is formed by applying or printing the conductive paste on a release sheet or the like to form a coating film, and volatilizing the organic solvent contained in the coating film and drying it to form a sheet-like conductive layer in advance. may be formed and laminated in a desired pattern on the first insulating layer described later.

The conductive paste may be prepared by adopting a conventionally known method of dispersing powder in a liquid, and can be prepared by uniformly dispersing a conductive filler in a flexible resin. For example, metal powder, metal nanoparticles, conductive materials other than metal powder, and the like may be mixed with a resin solution, and then uniformly dispersed by an ultrasonic method, a mixer method, a three-roll mill method, a ball mill method, or the like. These means can be used in combination.

The method of applying or printing the conductive paste is not particularly limited, but for example, coating method, screen printing method, lithographic offset printing method, inkjet method, flexographic printing method, gravure printing method, gravure offset printing method, stamping method, dispensing A printing method such as squeegee printing or the like can be employed.

The dry film thickness of the conductive layer is preferably 10 to 150 μm, more preferably 20 to 130 μm, still more preferably 30 to 100 μm. If the dry film thickness of the conductive layer is too thin, the electrodes and wirings are susceptible to repeated expansion and contraction and deteriorate, which may hinder or interrupt conduction. On the other hand, if the dry film thickness of the conductive layer is too thick, the stretchability is hindered, and the electrodes and wiring become too thick, which may make wearing uncomfortable.

(first insulating layer)
In addition to acting as an insulating layer, the first insulating layer acts as an adhesive layer for forming the conductive layer of the electrodes and wiring on the fabric, and the opposite side of the fabric on which the first insulating layer is laminated when worn (that is, , the outside of the garment) also acts as a waterproof layer that prevents moisture from reaching the conductive layer. In addition, by providing the first insulating layer on the clothing side of the conductive layer, the first insulating layer can suppress stretching of the fabric and prevent excessive stretching of the conductive layer. As a result, cracks can be prevented from occurring in the first insulating layer. On the other hand, as described above, the conductive layer has good stretchability. It is thought that when formed, the conductive layer is excessively stretched along with the stretching of the fabric, and as a result, cracks occur in the conductive layer.

The first insulating layer may be made of insulating resin, and the type of resin is not particularly limited.

As the resin, for example, a polyurethane resin, a silicone resin, a vinyl chloride resin, an epoxy resin, a polyester elastomer, or the like can be preferably used. Among these, polyurethane-based resins are more preferable, and the adhesiveness to the conductive layer is further improved.

The resin constituting the first insulating layer may be of only one type, or may be of two or more types.

The method for forming the first insulating layer is not particularly limited. It can be formed by forming a film, evaporating the solvent contained in the coating film, and drying it. A commercially available resin sheet or resin film can also be used.

The average film thickness of the first insulating layer is preferably 10 to 200 μm. If the first insulating layer is too thin, the insulating effect and anti-stretching effect may be insufficient. Therefore, the average film thickness of the first insulating layer is preferably 10 μm or more, more preferably 30 μm or more, still more preferably 40 μm or more. However, if the first insulating layer is too thick, the stretchability of the electrodes and wiring may be hindered. In addition, the electrodes and wiring become too thick, which may make wearing uncomfortable. Therefore, the average film thickness of the first insulating layer is preferably 200 μm or less, more preferably 180 μm or less, still more preferably 150 μm or less.

(Second insulating layer)
It is preferable that the wiring has a second insulating layer formed on the conductive layer. By providing the second insulating layer, it is possible to prevent moisture such as rain, snow, and sweat from coming into contact with the conductive layer.

As the resin forming the second insulating layer, the same resin as the resin forming the first insulating layer described above can be used, and the resin preferably used is also the same.

The resin constituting the second insulating layer may be of only one type, or may be of two or more types.

The resin forming the second insulating layer may be the same as or different from the resin forming the first insulating layer, but is preferably the same. By using the same resin, the coverage of the conductive layer and damage to the conductive layer due to biased stress during expansion and contraction of the wiring can be reduced.

The second insulating layer can be formed by the same forming method as the first insulating layer. A commercially available resin sheet or resin film can also be used.

The average film thickness of the second insulating layer is preferably 10 to 200 μm. If the second insulating layer is too thin, it is likely to deteriorate when repeatedly stretched, and the insulating effect may be insufficient. Therefore, the average film thickness of the second insulating layer is preferably 10 μm or more, more preferably 30 μm or more, still more preferably 40 μm or more. However, if the second insulating layer is too thick, the stretchability of the wiring is hindered, and the thickness of the wiring is too thick, which may make wearing uncomfortable. Therefore, the average film thickness of the second insulating layer is preferably 200 μm or less, more preferably 180 μm or less, still more preferably 150 μm or less.

It is preferable that the load per unit width applied to the electrodes and wirings when stretched by 10% is 100 N/cm or less. If the load per unit width applied at 10% elongation exceeds 100 N/cm, the elongation of the electrodes and wiring will be difficult to follow the elongation of the fabric, which may hinder the comfort of wearing the garment. Therefore, the load per unit width applied at 10% elongation is preferably 100 N/cm or less, more preferably 80 N/cm or less, and even more preferably 50 N/cm or less.

It is preferable that the electrode and the wiring have a change ratio of electric resistance of 5 times or less when elongated by 20%. If the electrical resistance change rate exceeds 5 times when stretched by 20%, the electrical conductivity decreases significantly. Therefore, the rate of change in electrical resistance at 20% elongation is preferably 5 times or less, more preferably 4 times or less, and still more preferably 3 times or less.

Although the electrodes and the wiring may be made of different materials, they are preferably made of the same material.

When the electrodes and the wires are made of the same material, the width of the wires is preferably 1 mm or more, more preferably 3 mm or more, and still more preferably 5 mm or more. Although the upper limit of the wiring width is not particularly limited, for example, it is preferably 10 mm or less, more preferably 9 mm or less, and still more preferably 8 mm or less.

The electrical resistance of the electrode surface is preferably 1000 Ω/cm or less, more preferably 300 Ω/cm or less, still more preferably 200 Ω/cm or less, and particularly preferably 100 Ω/cm or less. In particular, when the electrode is in the form of a sheet, the electrical resistance of the electrode surface can usually be suppressed to 300Ω/cm or less.

The form of the electrode is preferably sheet-like. By making the electrode sheet-like, the electrode surface can be widened, so that the contact area with the wearer's skin can be ensured. The sheet-shaped electrode preferably has good bendability. Further, the sheet-shaped electrode preferably has stretchability.

The size of the sheet-shaped electrode is not particularly limited as long as it can measure electrical signals from the body, but the area of the electrode surface is preferably 5 to 100 cm ² and the thickness is preferably 10 to 500 μm.

The area of the electrode surface is more preferably 10 cm ² or more, still more preferably 15 cm ² or more. The area of the electrode surface is more preferably 90 cm ² or less, still more preferably 80 cm ² or less.

If the electrode is too thin, the conductivity may be insufficient. Therefore, the average thickness is preferably 10 μm or more, more preferably 30 μm or more, still more preferably 50 μm or more. However, if it is too thick, the wearer may feel a foreign object and feel uncomfortable. Therefore, the average thickness is preferably 500 µm or less, more preferably 450 µm or less, still more preferably 400 µm or less.

The shape of the electrode is not particularly limited as long as it follows the curve of the body corresponding to the position where the electrode is placed and is a shape that easily follows the movement of the body and adheres easily. A rectangular shape, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, and the like can be mentioned. If the shape of the electrode is polygonal, the vertices may be rounded so as not to damage the skin.

The average thickness of the wiring is preferably 10 to 500 μm. If the thickness is too thin, the conductivity may become insufficient. Therefore, the average thickness is preferably 10 μm or more, more preferably 30 μm or more, still more preferably 50 μm or more. However, if the thickness is too thick, the wearer may feel a foreign object and feel uncomfortable. Therefore, the average thickness is preferably 500 µm or less, more preferably 300 µm or less, still more preferably 200 µm or less.

The electrodes and wiring are preferably formed directly on the fabric that constitutes the garment.

The method of forming the electrodes and wiring on the fabric is not particularly limited as long as it is a method that does not interfere with the elasticity of the electrodes and wiring. From the point of view, known methods such as lamination with an adhesive and lamination with a hot press can be employed.

It is preferable that the clothing includes an electronic unit or the like having a function of calculating the electrical signals obtained by the electrodes. By calculating and processing electrical signals obtained by the electrodes in the electronic unit and the like, biological information such as electrocardiogram, heart rate, pulse rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, body temperature, myoelectricity, and perspiration can be obtained.

It is preferable that the electronic unit and the like be attachable to and detachable from clothing.

It is preferable that the electronic unit and the like further have display means, storage means, communication means, a USB connector, and the like.

The electronic unit or the like may include a sensor capable of measuring environmental information such as temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure, or a sensor capable of measuring position information using GPS.

By using the above clothing, it can be applied to techniques for grasping a person's psychological state and physiological state. For example, it is possible to detect the degree of relaxation for mental training, detect drowsiness to prevent drowsy driving, measure an electrocardiogram to diagnose depression and stress, and the like.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited by the following examples, and can be carried out with modifications within the scope that can conform to the gist of the above and below. Of course, it is also possible, and all of them are included in the technical scope of the present invention.

A garment having electrodes in contact with the wearer's skin formed on the front body was manufactured, and the average wearing pressure around the waist of the wearer when the garment was worn was measured while standing still and walking. In addition, a sensory evaluation was carried out to determine whether or not the subject felt a sense of oppression when wearing the clothing. In addition, wearing clothes, the electrocardiogram was measured while standing still and walking, and the SN ratio was obtained.

The clothes that serve as the substrate for forming the electrodes were manufactured using fabrics evaluated according to the following criteria.

<British cotton count (total fineness)>
The British cotton count was measured based on the method described in JIS L1095, "9.4.2 Apparent tex/count".
<Knitted fabric density>
The density of the knitted fabric was measured based on the method described in JIS L1096 (2010), "8.6.2 Density of knitted fabric".

<thread length>
For the weft knitting yarn length, the yarn length per 100 wales of the finished fabric was measured, and this was taken as the weft knitting yarn length. The knitting yarn length of warp knitting was obtained by measuring the yarn length per 480 courses (one rack) of the finished fabric, and using this as the knitting yarn length of warp knitting.
<Textile cover factor>
The cover factor of the woven fabric was calculated by the following formula.
CF = √ [warp fineness (dtex) x warp density (lines/inch)] + √ [weft fineness (dtex) x weft density (lines/inch)]

<Mass per unit area in the standard state of the fabric (knitted fabric basis weight)>
The mass per unit area of the dough under standard conditions was measured based on Method A described in JIS L1096 (2010), "8.3.2 Mass per unit area under standard conditions". Measurement was performed n=3 times, and an average value was obtained.

<Elongation force (elongation stress)>
The elongation force of the fabric was measured by the cut strip method described in JIS L1018 (1999), "8.14.1 Elongation force at constant elongation". A test piece was taken in the wale direction (transverse direction) of the fabric. A test piece with a test width of 2.5 cm and a distance between grips of 10 cm was stretched at a tensile speed of 30 cm per minute (30 cm / min), and the tensile stress when stretched 10% was measured. N). Also, under the same conditions, the tensile stress at 20% elongation was measured and defined as the 20% elongation force (N).

<Elongation recovery rate (elongation elastic modulus)>
The elongation recovery rate of the fabric was measured based on JIS L1018 (1999) "8.15.2 B method (constant load method)". A test piece was taken in the lateral direction (wale direction) of the fabric. The maximum elongation rate was 20%, and the elongation recovery rate (elongation elastic modulus) after repeating the elongation 10 times was determined.

(Examples 1 and 2: bare cotton sheeting)
Using a 33-inch, 28-gauge single circular knitting machine (VXC-3FA manufactured by Fukuhara Seiki Seisakusho), British cotton count 80/1 combed yarn [ C80s], 78 dtex 68 filament nylon 6 long fiber (Silfine manufactured by Toyobo Co., Ltd., real twist 600 T / m) [Ny78T68], and 22 dtex melt-spun spandex (Espa M manufactured by Toyobo Co., Ltd.) [Uy22T] I knitted bare cotton sheeting (grey fabric). A cotton yarn and a nylon 6 long fiber were alternately knitted at a ratio of 1:1, and each yarn length was 250 mm/100 wales. The spandex draft rate was 2.5 times. The blend ratio of the obtained gray fabric was 43% cotton, 46% Ny (nylon), and 11% PU.

The resulting gray fabric is preset at 170 ° C. for 45 seconds using a pin tenter manufactured by Hirano Techseed, and then scouring and bleaching (passing) by a conventional method using a jet dyeing machine "NS type" manufactured by Hisaka Oxidation bleaching), nylon piece dyeing (acid dye, Nippon Kayaku's "Kayanol Blue NR", fabric adhesion amount is 1.0% o.w.f), water absorption processing, softening agent treatment, dyeing machine taken out from

Centrifugal dehydration and drying (120°C x 3 minutes) were carried out, and the final setting was carried out using a pin tenter under the conditions of 160°C x 30 seconds to adjust the desired density to obtain the final dough. The final fabric had a basis weight of 147 g/m ² and a finished width of 145 cm. Table 1 shows the detailed structure and evaluation results (elongation force, elongation recovery rate) of the resulting fabric.

(Example 3: milling cutter)
Using 100% US cotton Supima British cotton count 50 count combed yarn [C50s], a milling machine was knitted with an 18 inch-18 gauge milling machine LRB (Nagata Seiki). The knitting condition during knitting was a yarn length of 480 mm/100 wales.

Without opening the knitted fabric, scouring and bleaching with a jet dyeing machine, cotton dyeing (reactive dye, "Sumifix Supra Blue BRF" manufactured by Sumika Chemtex, fabric adhesion amount is 1% o.w.f ). After that, the fabric was subjected to softening treatment, taken out from the dyeing machine, dehydrated by centrifugation, and subjected to rough stitching and round set finishing. The final fabric had a basis weight of 93 g/m and a round width (W) of 35 cm. Table 1 shows the detailed structure and evaluation results (elongation force, elongation recovery rate) of the resulting fabric.

(Example 4: tricot)
Using a Karl Mayer tricot knitting machine (HKS2, reed width: 180 inches, 28 gauge), polyurethane elastic thread 44 dtex-40 filament [N44T40f] for the middle reed, and nylon 6 78 decitex for the front and back reeds. 68 filaments (.DELTA.bright) [Uy78T] were combined to knit a gray fabric with a front reed of 10/23, a middle reed of 00/33, and a back reed of 10/34. The front yarn length was 195 cm/rack, the middle yarn length was 130 cm/rack, and the back yarn length was 195 cm/rack. The resulting gray fabric is continuously scoured, preset (using a pin tenter, 180°C x 30 seconds), and dyed (jet dyeing machine). Seconds) was performed, and the density was adjusted to obtain a fabric having a warp density of 82 courses/inch, a transverse density of 54 courses/inch, and a basis weight of 196 g/m ² . Table 1 shows the detailed structure and evaluation results (elongation force, elongation recovery rate) of the resulting fabric.

(Example 5: plain weave)
Polyester spun as weft (Y-shaped cross section with 3 convex parts, irregularity 2.3, full dull with titanium oxide concentration 3.0% by mass, single fiber fineness 1.0 dtex, fiber length 32 mm, tensile strength 4.3 cN / dtex, crimp 100 gelen/15 yd roving consisting of 12 pieces/25 mm) and melt-spun spandex (Espa M manufactured by Toyobo) are drafted 3.5 times and supplied to the front roller, and spun at a twist coefficient of 4.2. Finally, it was cast at 70° C. for 15 minutes to obtain a core spun yarn of English cotton count 40 [cotton 40s]. The mixing ratio of polyurethane fibers in the spun yarn was 8.6%.

100% U.S. cotton Supima British cotton count 50 count combed yarn was arranged as warp at a density of 95 / inch, and the core spun yarn was arranged as weft at a density of 70 / inch using an air jet loom. A plain weave was obtained. The blend ratio of the obtained gray fabric was 97% cotton and 3% polyurethane.

The same fabric is subjected to singeing, desizing, scouring, peroxide bleaching, and mercerization in a normal continuous finishing process, and fluorescent dyes are applied in a continuous process of padding, drying, and curing ("HOSTALUX ERC", Fluorescent whitening treatment was carried out at a coating weight of 0.2% o.w.f), and finally sunhorizing treatment was carried out to finish the fabric with a plain weave structure.

The obtained fabric had a basis weight of 135 g/m ² , a thickness of 0.05 mm, a warp density of 127 lines/inch, and a weft density of 70 lines/inch.

Table 1 shows the detailed structure and evaluation results (elongation force, elongation recovery rate) of the resulting fabric.

Next, the fabrics obtained in Examples 1 to 5 were used to manufacture clothes serving as base materials for the above clothes. In Examples 1 to 5, the same fabric was used for the front body fabric and the back body fabric to manufacture the clothes. Specifically, using the fabric obtained in Example 1, a T-shirt having the sewing dimensions shown in Table 1 below was manufactured. Using the fabric obtained in Example 2, sleeveless underwear having the sewing dimensions shown in Table 1 below was produced. Using the fabric obtained in Example 3, a camisole having the sewing dimensions shown in Table 1 below was manufactured. Using the fabric obtained in Example 4, a T-shirt having the sewing dimensions shown in Table 1 below was manufactured. Using the fabric obtained in Example 5, a short-sleeved shirt (polo shirt) with a collar having the sewing dimensions shown in Table 1 below was manufactured. As Comparative Examples 1 and 2, commercially available compression wear was purchased and prepared. The compression wear prepared in Comparative Example 1 was short-sleeved, and the compression wear prepared in Comparative Example 2 was sleeveless. Table 1 below shows the composition of the fabrics constituting the compression wear prepared in Comparative Examples 1 and 2.

(Comparative example 1)
The body fabric of the compression wear prepared in Comparative Example 1 was tricot knitted with nylon filament 56dtex [N56dtex] and spandex 44dtex [Uy44T]. The blend ratio was 79% nylon and 21% polyurethane, the warp density was 111 courses/inch, the transverse density was 68 courses/inch, and the basis weight of the fabric was 230 g/m ² .

(Comparative example 2)
The body fabric of the compression wear prepared in Comparative Example 2 was tricot knitted with polyester filament 56dtex [E56dtex] and spandex 44dtex [Uy44T]. The blend ratio was 82% polyester and 18% polyurethane, the warp density was 119 courses/inch, the transverse density was 60 courses/inch, and the basis weight of the fabric was 222 g/m ² .

Next, electrodes and wiring were formed on the front body of the obtained clothing (base material), and an electronic unit was attached to manufacture the clothing.

The electrodes were provided in the lower abdomen of the thorax in Examples 1 and 3 to 5, in the thorax in Example 2 and Comparative Example 1, and in the right chest and left armpit in Comparative Example 2. Infrathorax means the lower part of the pectoral muscles, and thoracic part means the upper part of the pectoral muscles.

The electrodes and wirings were formed by the following procedure.

(Conductive paste)
20 parts by mass of nitrile rubber (“Nipol DN003” manufactured by Nippon Zeon Co., Ltd.) was dissolved in 80 parts by mass of isophorone to prepare an NBR solution. To 100 parts by mass of the obtained NBR solution, 110 parts by mass of silver particles (“Aggregated silver powder G-35” manufactured by DOWA Electronics, average particle diameter 5.9 μm) are blended and kneaded in a three-roll mill to form a conductive paste. Obtained.

(electrodes and wiring)
The conductive paste was applied onto a release sheet and dried in a hot air drying oven at 120° C. for 30 minutes or more to prepare a sheet-like conductive layer with a release sheet.

Next, a polyurethane hot-melt sheet was attached to the conductive layer surface of the sheet-like conductive layer with a release sheet, and then the release sheet was peeled off to obtain a sheet-like conductive layer with a polyurethane hot-melt sheet. The polyurethane hot-melt sheets were laminated using a hot press under the conditions of a pressure of 0.5 kg/cm ² , a temperature of 130° C., and a pressing time of 20 seconds.

Next, the polyurethane hot-melt sheet side of the sheet-like conductive layer with the polyurethane hot-melt sheet having a length of 12 cm and a width of 2.4 cm was placed on a polyurethane hot-melt sheet having a length of 13 cm and a width of 2.4 cm, and one end in the length direction thereof was aligned. A laminate of a polyurethane hot-melt sheet and a sheet-shaped conductive layer was produced. A polyurethane hot-melt sheet corresponds to the first insulating layer described above.

Next, the same polyurethane hot-melt sheet on which the first insulating layer was formed was applied to an area having a length of 4 to 6 cm and a width of 2.4 cm so as to partially cover the first insulating layer and the conductive layer. A second insulating layer was formed on a portion of the conductive layer by stacking from a portion 2 cm away from the top. That is, a device connection portion of length 2 cm × width 2 cm with the conductive layer exposed at the end, an insulating portion having a laminated structure of the first insulating layer / conductive layer / second insulating layer, and the conductive layer exposed at the opposite end A stretchable electrode part was prepared in which electrodes each having a length of 4 to 6 cm and a width of 2 cm were arranged in this order in the longitudinal direction.

Next, two stretchable electrode parts are placed symmetrically on the inner side of the front body fabric of the garment obtained in Examples 1 to 5, that is, at a predetermined position on the side where the electrode surface contacts the wearer's skin. Affixed in a form to produce the above garment. Two electrodes were provided on the fabric of the front body, and the total area of the electrode surfaces of the two electrodes and the average thickness of the electrodes were measured, and the results are shown in Table 1 below.

In addition, in Examples 1, 2, 4, and 5, Velcro (registered trademark) was attached as a width-reducing member on the upward arc on the outer side of the front body, along with the electrodes, at a position shifted 5 cm to the side from the end of the electrodes. established. In addition, in Example 3, a string was provided as a width-reducing member on the circumference of the outer side of the front body, along with the electrodes, at a position shifted to the side by 5 cm from the electrode end. In addition, in Comparative Examples 1 and 2, the body width reducing member was not provided on the outer side of the front body.

The obtained clothes were worn and the following evaluations were performed. The wearer is as follows. Wearer A was a 30-year-old male with a height of 170 cm, a weight of 70 kg, a shoulder width of 45 cm, a chest circumference of 85 cm, and a waist circumference of 80 cm. Wearer B was a 25-year-old female with a height of 158 cm, a weight of 48 kg, and a shoulder width of 40 cm.

First, the average wearing pressure around the wearer's waist while standing still and walking was measured. The wearing pressure was measured using an air pack type contact pressure measuring device ("AMI3037-10" manufactured by AMI Techno Co., Ltd.) to measure the wearing pressure at each part of the body during wearing. The measurement position of the wearing pressure was performed on the chest. Wearing pressure on the chest corresponds to wearing pressure around the waist. As reference data, the wearing pressure was also measured on the armpits, the abdomen, and the back. The chest was measured at the left lower rib, the abdomen was measured at the umbilical region 3 cm below the chest, and the back was measured at the region 5 cm in front of the waist.

The wearing pressure was measured while standing immobile and walking according to the following procedure. That is, after wearing the clothes and standing upright and immobile for 5 minutes in a room at 25° C. and 50% RH, the wearing pressure was measured and the average value was obtained. In addition, the wearer walked on a treadmill set at a speed of 2.7 km/h for 12 minutes, measured the wearing pressure during walking, and calculated the average value. The measurement results are shown in Table 1 below.

Next, a sensory evaluation was performed to determine whether or not the subject felt a sense of oppression when wearing the clothing. That is, the subjects wore clothes, and the feeling of oppression of the clothes when standing upright and immovable was evaluated according to the following criteria. 5 points if you feel no pressure at all, 4 points if you feel some pressure, 3 points if you feel pressure, 2 points if you feel strong pressure, and 1 if you feel very strong pressure. It was set as a point and evaluated on a 5-point scale. Table 1 below shows the evaluation results.

As is clear from Table 1 below, the clothing of Examples 1 to 5 is provided with a member that shortens the circumference of the waist of the clothing in a partial section of the waist. It is possible to reduce the pressure on the chest (that is, around the waist) when standing upright and walking while maintaining the pressure on the chest (that is, around the waist) at a low level. Therefore, the wearer was comfortable wearing the garment.

On the other hand, since the clothes of Comparative Examples 1 and 2 are compression wear, the upright immobility in the chest (i.e., waist circumference) and the wearing pressure during walking are increased, or the upright immobility in areas other than the wearer's chest (i.e., waist circumference). As a result, the wearing pressure during walking increased, and the wearer felt tightness and discomfort.

In addition, wearing clothes, electrocardiograms were measured while standing immobile and walking according to the following procedure, and the SN ratio was obtained. That is, after wearing clothes and standing immobile for 20 minutes in a room at 25° C. and 50% RH, the electrocardiogram was measured while standing immobile for an additional 12 minutes. Next, the subject walked for 12 minutes on a treadmill set at a speed of 2.7 km/h, and an electrocardiogram during walking was measured. Based on the recorded electrocardiogram, both standing immobile and walking, from the waveform in 10 minutes excluding 1 minute from the start of measurement and 1 minute until the end of measurement, the signal (S) is the dispersion of the amplitude of the R wave, and the R wave and The SN ratio was determined by the S/N formula, where the variance of the amplitude of the waveform between the R waves was defined as noise (N). The calculation results of the SN ratio are shown in Table 1 below. In Comparative Examples 1 and 2, water was sprayed on the electrode surfaces to wet them before the electrocardiogram was measured.

As is clear from Table 1 below, the clothes of Examples 1 to 5 have little noise, have a good SN ratio, and measure an electrocardiogram waveform that can easily detect R waves, both when standing immobile and when walking. did it.

On the other hand, in Comparative Example 1, although the SN ratio was good when standing upright and immobile, the contact between the electrodes and the living body surface was poor during walking, and a lot of noise was detected during measurement. Biometric information could not be measured correctly. In Comparative Example 2, the SN ratio of standing upright and immobile was small, detection of R waves was difficult, and biological information could not be measured correctly. Moreover, the measurement itself could not be performed during walking.

1 T-shirt 2 Front body 3 Back body 11, 12 Belt-shaped member 11a, 11b Belt-shaped self-adhesive tape 12a1, 12a2, 12b1, 12b2 Planar self-adhesive tape 13 Male hook 14 Female hook 21 Width reduction member

Claims (10)

Clothing in which electrodes that contact the wearer's skin are formed on the front body,
The garment has a back body,
The electrode is a stretchable electrode containing a thermoplastic resin, a thermosetting resin, or rubber having an elastic modulus of 1 to 1000 MPa,
The front body contains elastic yarn, false twisted crimped yarn, or latent crimped yarn, and has a stress of 0.02 to 1 N per 1 cm width when stretched 10% in the transverse direction, and an elongation recovery rate of 80. ~100%,
A member for shortening the circumference of the waist of the clothing is provided only in a part of the waist of the clothing,
The member for shortening the circumference of the waist of the garment is a belt-shaped member and a planar member , and the belt-shaped member for shortening the circumference of the waist of the garment is provided outside the front body, The planar member for shortening the circumference of the waist is provided on the outside of the back body, and
relative positions of the belt-like member for shortening the circumference of the waist of the garment and the planar member for shortening the circumference of the waist of the garment are displaced in the vertical direction of the garment ,
A garment, wherein the relative position of the belt-like member for shortening the circumference of the waist of the garment is higher than the planar member for shortening the circumference of the waist of the garment. 2. The garment according to claim 1, wherein the member for shortening the circumference of the waist of the garment is provided on the outer side surface of the garment. 2. The garment according to claim 1, wherein at least one member for shortening the circumference of the waist of the garment is provided on each of left and right lateral surfaces of the garment. 4. The garment according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the electrodes are provided on the thoracic region or the lower abdominal region of the thorax of the garment. 5. The clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the electrodes are sheet-shaped. 6. The clothing according to claim 5, wherein the sheet-like electrode has an electrode surface area of 5 to 100 cm ² and an average thickness of 10 to 500 μm. 7. The garment according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the member for shortening the waist circumference of the garment is at least one selected from the group consisting of adhesive tapes, hook-and-loop fasteners, and self-adhesive tapes. 8. The garment according to claim 7, wherein said self-adhesive tape has elasticity. 9. The clothing according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the clothing further has wiring that connects the electrodes and an electronic unit, and the electrodes and the wiring are made of the same material. 10. The garment according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the garment is sports innerwear, a T-shirt, a polo shirt, a camisole, an underwear, an underwear, a hospital gown, or a sleepwear.

Images