JP2010070871A - Supporter - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a supporter having an oppressive pressure distribution where the oppressive pressure gradually changes which prevent occurrence of displacement or the like in a wearing position, does not become worse in wearing feeling even when worn for a long time, and enables a wearer to rapidly recognize the displacement in wearing position, a change in posture, or the like when they occur. <P>SOLUTION: The supporter 1(A) for the lower leg covers a region at least from the ankle to the calf, has the oppressive pressure distribution where the oppressive pressure gradually gets smaller along a direction to the calf from the ankle when worn, and is structured as follows: an area corresponding to at least one portion selected from the muscle, the ligament, the tendon, or the joint of a wearer has a functional area 10 coming in contact with the skin surface at the portions to give her (him) tactile stimulation; and patterns formed from fibers having a linear width of 10-50,000 nm are formed on the skin-contact surface of the functional area 10 so as to have friction properties different from those in the area other than the functional area 10. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a lower limb or upper limb supporter. More specifically, a supporter for the lower limb having a compression pressure distribution in which the compression pressure gradually decreases in the direction from the ankle to the calf when worn, or at least the wrist to the maximum circumference of the forearm, and the wrist when worn A supporter for the upper limb that has a pressure distribution that gradually reduces the pressure according to the direction from the maximum forearm to the forearm, compressing or tightening the wearer's muscles, ligaments, tendons, joints, etc., and applying tactile stimulation The present invention relates to a supporter used to protect, limit, reinforce, strengthen, etc. these functions.

  Taping tape, bandage, supporters, etc. to treat or prevent diseases, fatigue, pain, etc. of lower limb or upper limb muscles, ligaments, tendons or joints (hereinafter simply referred to as “muscles”), and support exercise in use. These apply pressure (tightening force) to the parts corresponding to muscles, etc., to compress or tighten the muscles, distribute the load on the muscles, reduce the load, and useless movement of the muscles etc. To stabilize muscles and other functions.

  In particular, the supporter is widely used for sports and daily use because it can be easily and quickly worn without requiring a certain level of skill like a taping tape. Further, the supporter is superior in stability and durability to continuous use as compared to taping tape and bandage, and has an advantage that running cost is reduced when used for a long period of time.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a foot supporter that tightens gradually as it goes from the upper part to the lower part in the calf or ankle part and tightens strongly in the arch part.

  Patent Document 2 describes a sock or tubular lower limb supporter that covers a foot, an ankle, and a calf, and a portion that covers from the sole corresponding to the ribs and / or the cuboid to the side of the ankle. A sock or tubular lower limb supporter characterized in that it is provided with a stretchable reinforcement part and has a pressure distribution that gradually reduces the pressure from the ankle to the calf when worn. Yes.

  These supporters promote the circulation of blood flow in the entire lower limbs by providing a pressure distribution that gradually reduces the pressure from the ankle to the calf when worn, reducing fatigue such as preventing and reducing swelling of the lower limbs. The effect of is demonstrated. In addition, by supporting the gastrocnemius muscle as a whole and not applying excessive pressure, the circulation of the blood flow is promoted without hindering the movement of the muscle contraction, which increases the reflex of the ankle joint and causes sprains and the like. It becomes difficult.

  However, since these supporters are configured to provide a predetermined pressure distribution, the mounting position cannot be firmly fixed like a taping tape, and misalignment, wrinkles, and wrinkles are likely to occur during wearing. There is a problem. If the wearing position is deviated or if there is a twist or wrinkle, the set wearing pressure cannot be applied to the desired muscle or the like, and there is a possibility that a sufficient effect cannot be obtained. This is a big problem for supporters that are used for sports with a lot of movement and for long time use for daily life.

  In order to prevent the occurrence of misalignment, kinking, wrinkles, etc. (hereinafter, simply referred to as “misplacement of the wearing position”), it is necessary to increase the pressure applied to the part corresponding to the muscle or the like and the pressure applied to the entire supporter. Think. However, in this case, it becomes difficult to obtain the effect of the compression pressure distribution as described above. Moreover, a feeling of wear may deteriorate due to excessive pressure, or a considerable amount of force may be required for wearing, and wearing may be inconvenient.

  As a solution to such a problem, for example, Patent Document 3 proposes a stocking in which the surface of an elastic cuff that presses the buttock is covered with a non-slip material such as silicone.

  On the other hand, in connection with the present invention, Patent Document 4 discloses that a sea-island composite fiber unstretched yarn having an extremely large number of islands is fluidly stretched, or the stretched yarn after fluid stretching is further stretched or heat-treated. Nanofibers having a fiber diameter of 10 to 1,000 nm are disclosed. This nanofiber is a fine polyester fiber that has excellent mechanical strength and is effective for applications requiring light weight, heat retention, and moisture absorption.

  Patent Document 5 describes an ink-jet printing method in which an image is printed by ejecting ink-jet ink for textile printing onto a fabric. Patent Document 6 discloses a method of manufacturing a fabric having a fine three-dimensional pattern in which a fiber-exhaust processed region and a surrounding fiber-extracted unprocessed region are clearly divided using inkjet printing. It is disclosed.

Japanese Utility Model Publication 3-41734 JP 2007-332469 A JP 2000-510743 A JP 2005-325494 A JP 2007-247109 A JP 2006-219809 A

  In order to effectively exert the function of the supporter with the pressure distribution that gradually changes the pressure, prevent the occurrence of displacement of the wearing position accompanying exercise and long-time wearing, and set the set pressure It is necessary to give the desired muscle appropriately.

  The stocking disclosed in Patent Document 3 prevents a wearing position from being shifted by a non-slip material such as silicone. However, when this type of slipper is used for a long time, it may cause stuffiness, itchiness, etc., and there has been a problem that wearing is stopped in the middle due to the poor wearing feeling. If it is not worn continuously, the functions of the supporter will not be exhibited effectively.

  Accordingly, the present invention provides a supporter having a compression pressure distribution in which the compression pressure gradually changes, prevents the occurrence of a shift in the wearing position, etc., and does not deteriorate the wearing feeling even when worn for a long time. The main purpose is to provide a supporter capable of promptly recognizing this when a shift or a change in posture occurs.

  In order to deal with such problems, the present inventors first focused on the wearer's somatic sensation, particularly tactile sensation and pressure sensation, as an index for comfortably wearing the supporter for a long time. Then, subjective data such as feelings received by the wearer when applying predetermined friction or pressure, for example, support feeling, pressure feeling, comfort, fit feeling, discomfort, stability, etc., were analyzed. As a result of this analysis, the present inventors have found that the perception pattern of the sensation received by the wearer greatly depends on tactile stimulation.

  Furthermore, the present inventors have also paid attention to the skin structure and the tactile receptor in the skin. There are innumerable fibrous crevice on the skin surface. The skin groove has a depth of several tens to several hundreds of μm and a width of several hundreds of μm, and functions to actively receive tactile stimulation by increasing the surface area of the skin. In addition, it is known that the tactile receptor on the skin can recognize irregularities of several μm to several tens of μm, and receptor molecules such as TRPV3 and TRPV4 that are supposed to accept mechanical stimuli are one epidermal cell having a size of several tens of μm. It has been shown to exist in one.

  From these facts, the present inventors appropriately control tactile stimulation in consideration of functions such as skin structure and tactile receptors in order to set the perception pattern of the sensation received by the wearer to a desired pattern. I thought it was necessary. Then, we examined the relationship between tactile stimulation and sensory perception patterns for the fabric characteristics of various supporters. As a result, it has been found that by providing the skin contact surface of the supporter in a predetermined form and imparting a tactile stimulus to the tactile reception function of the skin, the wearer can effectively recognize a sense of support and the like, and the present invention is completed. It came to.

That is, the present invention is a supporter for lower limbs that covers at least the ankle to the calf and has a compression pressure distribution in which the compression pressure gradually decreases in the direction from the ankle to the calf when worn, A region corresponding to one or more sites selected from a ligament, a tendon, or a joint is provided with an action region that can touch the skin surface of the site to give a tactile stimulus, and a line width is provided on the skin contact surface of the function region. The present invention provides a supporter in which a pattern made of a fibrous body having a thickness of 10 to 50,000 nm is formed, and frictional characteristics different from those of other regions other than the working region are imparted. In addition, the present invention simultaneously supports at least the upper limb having a compression pressure distribution that covers at least the wrist to the maximum forearm and has a compression pressure that gradually decreases in the direction from the wrist to the maximum forearm when worn. An action region capable of applying a tactile stimulus in contact with the skin surface of the site in a region corresponding to one or more sites selected from the wearer's muscles, ligaments, tendons or joints. Provided is a supporter in which a pattern made of a fibrous body having a line width of 10 to 50,000 nm is formed on the skin contact surface of the region, and frictional characteristics different from those of other regions other than the active region are imparted.
The action area of these supporters exhibits a frictional characteristic different from that of the other area by a pattern made of a fibrous body formed on the skin contact surface, and gives tactile stimulation different from that of the other area to the wearer. Thereby, in this supporter, a wearer can easily recognize tactile stimulation from the skin contact surface of the action region.
The line width of the fibrous body is 10 to 50,000 nm, and preferably 10 to 1,000 nm. By forming a pattern with a fibrous body having a line width of 10 to 50,000 nm on the skin contact surface of the active region, the pattern can be brought into close contact with the skin surface and tactile stimulation can be imparted to a wide skin surface area. . Furthermore, by forming a pattern with a fibrous body having a nano-order line width of 10 to 1,000 nm, it becomes possible to further enhance the adhesion to the skin surface and effectively impart tactile stimulation.
In the supporter according to the present invention, the pattern can be formed by weaving or knitting a fiber as a fibrous body. This pattern can also consist of a fibrous body formed by ink jet printing on the skin contact surface of the working area.
These patterns may comprise a plurality of pattern shapes. Furthermore, when the said action | operation area | region provided separately in the area | region corresponding to two or more site | parts selected from a wearer's muscle, a ligament, a tendon, or a joint is formed in the skin contact surface of each action area | region. The patterns may have different pattern shapes.
In the supporter according to the present invention, the action region includes a fabric made of fibers having a larger line width than the fibrous body, and the pattern formed on the skin contact surface of the fabric by the fibrous body. It is preferable that
This active region preferably has a higher tightening force than the other regions and supports one or more sites selected from the wearer's muscles, ligaments, tendons or joints.

  In the present invention, the “fibrous body” is a long and thin line, that is, a line having a sufficient length compared to the width (thickness), and the line width is 10 to 50,000 nm. Refers to things. Specifically, the fibrous body may be a fiber (fiber) or a fibrous structure formed by inkjet printing. The fibrous structure formed by ink jet printing includes a concavo-convex structure formed on the surface of the fabric by the ink to be printed itself, and a concavo-convex structure formed on the surface of the fabric by the printed discharging agent. To do. More specifically, the fiber as the fibrous body includes natural fiber and chemical fiber. Among these, chemical fibers include synthetic fibers (polyester synthetic fibers, polyamide synthetic fibers, polyurethane synthetic fibers, polyacrylonitrile synthetic fibers, polyolefin synthetic fibers) and semi synthetic fibers (cellulose semi synthetic fibers, Protein-based semi-synthetic fibers), regenerated fibers (cellulose-based regenerated fibers), inorganic fibers (glass fibers / carbon fibers) and the like are included.

  The “line width” of the fibrous body refers to a width in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the fibrous body. When the fibrous body is a fiber, the line width means a fiber diameter that is an inscribed circle diameter of the fiber cross section. Moreover, when the fibrous body is a fibrous structure formed by ink jet printing, the line width means the width of a linear concave portion or convex portion that forms the fibrous structure.

  Furthermore, the “pattern” is defined as a pattern formed by setting the thickness, material, density, form, fabric structure (knitted fabric, woven fabric, non-woven fabric, etc.) of the fibrous body to certain conditions. The This pattern may be formed by arranging the fibrous bodies regularly so that a predetermined form appears repeatedly, or the arrangement of the fibrous bodies is not regular, but is designed and decorated. It may be formed so as to exhibit a predetermined form.

  According to the present invention, in a supporter having a compression pressure distribution in which the compression pressure gradually changes, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a shift in the wearing position, etc., and to have a comfortable wearing feeling even when worn for a long time, A supporter capable of promptly recognizing this when a change in posture or the like occurs is provided.

  DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments for carrying out the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, embodiment described below shows an example of typical embodiment of this invention, and, thereby, the range of this invention is not interpreted narrowly.

1. Supporter for lower limbs (thigh and lower leg) (1) Overall shape of supporter FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a supporter according to the first embodiment of the present invention, which is used to support a lower limb including the thigh and lower leg. is there. (A) is a front view and (B) is a rear view.

  In the figure, the supporter denoted by reference numeral 1A is made of a stretchable material, and is formed into a tights shape that covers from the waist to the bottom of the wearer. The supporter 1A is worn in a state of being in close contact with the lower limb skin surface from the wearer's waist to the bottom of the foot due to the elasticity of the material.

  The material of the supporter 1A is, for example, a polyamide-based synthetic fiber, a polyester-based synthetic fiber, a polyurethane-based synthetic fiber, a polyacrylonitrile-based synthetic fiber, a polyolefin-based synthetic fiber, a cellulose-based fiber, a filament yarn, a spun yarn, a blended yarn, Twisted yarn, processed yarn and the like can be used. These materials are formed into the entire shape of the supporter 1A by a conventionally known method.

(2) Compression Pressure Distribution The supporter 1A has a compression pressure distribution in which the compression pressure gradually decreases according to the direction from the ankle to the calf when worn. The compression pressure can be set to a predetermined value by controlling the density of the filament yarn and the like, the size of the stitches, the degree of stretch of the elastic yarn, and the like. Further, the compression pressure can also be controlled by stitching an elastic fabric at a position where the compression pressure is applied or by applying or impregnating an elastic resin.

  The compression pressure is set gradually smaller from the ankle to the calf. For example, the compression pressure of the ankle can be set to 18 to 67 hPa, and the calf can be set to about 9 to 54 hPa. The compression pressure can be measured by, for example, using an air pressure measuring instrument (manufactured by AMI) and installing a pressure sensor of the measuring instrument between the supporter and the skin surface in a state where the supporter is mounted.

  By providing such a pressure distribution, the supporter 1A promotes the circulation of blood flow in the entire lower limbs, and provides an effect of reducing fatigue such as prevention and reduction of swelling of the lower limbs. In addition, by supporting the lower limb muscles such as the gastrocnemius and quadriceps muscles and their associated ligaments, tendons or joints without excessive pressure, the movement of muscle contraction is not hindered. Since circulation is promoted, reflection at the ankle and knee joints increases, and sprains and the like are less likely to occur.

(3) Action region The supporter 1A is provided with an action region 10 in contact with the skin surface of the site in a region corresponding to the site of the wearer's muscle or the like. The action area 10 has a function of supporting the wearer's muscle and the like together with the above-described compression pressure distribution, and also functions to impart tactile stimulation to the skin surface such as the muscle.

  Specifically, the action area 10 of the supporter 1A according to the present embodiment is provided in areas corresponding to the waist, thigh, knee, calf, ankle, and sole (arch part). These action regions 10 have a function of supporting the waist of the wearer and the like, and touching the skin surface such as the waist to give tactile stimulation.

  For example, in FIG. 1 (A), the action region denoted by reference numeral 101 is composed of three substantially X-shaped portions arranged along the thigh when worn, and the wearer's quadriceps, sewing Supports muscles, adductor muscles, etc. and fulfills the function of giving tactile stimulation to the skin surface of the thigh The action region indicated by reference numeral 102 includes an annular portion arranged along the outer shape of the patella at the time of wearing, supports the wearer's knee joint, and gives tactile stimulation to the skin surface of the knee.

  Furthermore, for example, in FIG. 1 (B), the action region indicated by reference numeral 103 is formed in a substantially X shape that is arranged along the waist when worn, and the wearer's spine standing muscle, gluteus medius and Supports the gluteal muscle. Further, the action region indicated by reference numeral 104 has a substantially Y-shape consisting of a base portion that covers the skin surface of the Achilles tendon and a branch portion that extends from the base portion in two directions along the outer edge of the gastrocnemius muscle. Molded to support the wearer's gastrocnemius, long peroneal and soleus muscles. These action regions 103 and 104 are respectively in contact with the skin surface of the waist and calf to provide tactile stimulation.

  The action area 10 can be provided, for example, by separately creating the cloth of the action area 10 and the cloth of another area, and combining them by sewing, welding, or the like. Further, for example, after the entire shape of the supporter 1A is formed, the action region 10 may be formed by inserting / removing a predetermined thread, sewing a predetermined fabric, or the like.

  A preferred embodiment of the action region 10 is an embodiment in which a pattern made of a fibrous body having a line width of 10 to 50,000 nm is formed on the skin contact surface of the base fabric using a fabric such as a woven fabric, a knitted fabric or a non-woven fabric as a base fabric. (The pattern formation will be described in detail later). In this aspect, it is preferable that the fabric used as the base fabric is composed of fibers having a large line width as compared with the fibrous body forming the skin contact surface pattern. Specifically, the fabric serving as the base fabric is preferably a fabric composed of fibers having a fiber diameter larger than 1,000 nm or yarns having a diameter larger than 50,000 nm. These fibers or yarns include polyamide-based synthetic fibers, polyester-based synthetic fibers, polyurethane-based synthetic fibers, polyacrylonitrile-based synthetic fibers, polyolefin-based synthetic fibers, cellulose-based fibers, etc., or filament yarns made from these fibers, spun yarns Blended yarn, twisted yarn and processed yarn can be used.

  As described above, the function region 10 is formed from a fabric composed of fibers having a large line width as a base fabric, and a pattern is formed on the skin contact surface by a fibrous body having a small line width, thereby supporting the function region 10. In addition, the tactile stimulation function can be stabilized and the degree of compression and stimulation can be easily controlled.

(4) Function of supporting the action area Each action area 10 has higher elasticity and elasticity than other areas of the supporter 1A, so that it has higher tightening force (compression force) than other areas. It can be demonstrated. Based on this tightening force, the action region 10 compresses or tightens the muscles of the wearer to protect, limit, reinforce, strengthen, etc. their functions. Strengthen protection and reinforcement functions. Note that the tightening force (compression force) in other regions other than the action region 10 may be set higher than that in the action region 10 depending on the wearing part of the clothes and the purpose of use.

  Specifically, for example, the action area 101 compresses or tightens the wearer's quadriceps, sewing muscle, adductor muscle, etc., and wasteful movement of these muscles and associated ligaments, tendons or joints. Supporting while suppressing (blur), coupled with the effect of pressure distribution, effectively prevent fatigue and injury of these muscles.

  In the supporter according to the present invention, a pattern made of a fibrous body is formed on the skin contact surface of the action area 10, and a frictional characteristic different from that of other areas other than the action area is given, so that the wearer can also be worn The person can quickly recognize this (details will be described later). At this time, since the part that becomes the skin contact surface to which the friction characteristic is imparted is formed by a pattern made of a fibrous body having a very thin line width, the action area 10 has adhesion and adaptability to the skin. Becomes extremely good and can be formed of a thin and lightweight fabric. As a result, the supporter 1A can reduce discomfort due to pressure and tightening due to the bulk and weight of the fabric even when worn for a long time, and also provides stability, support, comfortable wearing, etc. to muscles etc. It becomes possible to make it easy to recognize. Furthermore, the adhesion of the action area 10 to the skin and the high adaptability promote the circulation of blood flow in the lower limbs even with thin and lightweight fabrics, and enhance the effect of reducing fatigue such as prevention and reduction of swelling of the lower limbs. Is possible.

In order to obtain such a fatigue reduction effect and a comfortable wearing feeling, the fabric constituting the action region 10 is preferably a fabric having a thickness of less than 0.6 mm and a weight per unit area of less than 250 g / m ^2. A fabric having a thickness of less than 0.3 mm and less than 150 g / m ² is more preferable.

(5) Tactile stimulation function of the action area The skin contact surface of each action area 10 is formed with a pattern made of a fibrous body having a line width of 10 to 50,000 nm, and is given frictional characteristics different from those of other areas. ing. That is, a predetermined pattern is formed on the skin contact surface of the action region 10 by setting the thickness, material, density, form, fabric structure (knitted fabric, woven fabric, non-woven fabric, etc.) of the fibrous body to certain conditions. This pattern exhibits frictional characteristics different from those of other regions. Thereby, the skin contact surface of the action area 10 can give the wearer a tactile stimulus that is different from other areas.

  Furthermore, the pattern of the skin contact surface of the action region 10 is formed by a fibrous body having a line width equal to or smaller than the depth and width of the skin groove, so that it can be easily adhered to the skin groove. That is, the pattern formed by the fibrous body by setting the line width of the fibrous body to 10 to 50,000 nm with respect to the depth of several tens to several hundred μm and the width of several hundred μm of the skin groove. It adheres to the skin groove and is adapted to the skin extension. Thereby, the skin contact surface of the working area 10 can effectively provide tactile stimulation to a large skin surface area. In addition, the skin contact surface of the working area 10 has a soft tactile sensation and excellent ventilation / sweat wicking function, and it is comfortable without causing stuffiness or itchiness due to the pattern formed with very thin fibrous bodies. Demonstrate a comfortable wearing feeling.

  In order to effectively exert the above-described pressure distribution and the support function of muscles and the like by the action area 10, the pressure distribution is prevented by preventing the shift of the supporter's wearing position caused by exercise or wearing for a long time. In addition, it is necessary that the pressure applied by each action region 10 is appropriately applied to the muscles and the like.

  Supporter 1A is configured so that a tactile stimulation different from other areas is effectively applied by the skin contact surface of the action area 10 so that the wearer can easily perform tactile stimulation from the skin contact surface of the action area 10. To be recognized. Therefore, when a deviation occurs in the wearing position of the action region 10, the wearer can easily recognize the deviation and correct it, and at the same time, the deviation in the position of the compression pressure distribution is also corrected. The

  In addition, in the supporter 1A, the friction characteristics of the skin contact surface of the action area 10 are designed so that the surface friction is larger than that of other areas, thereby effectively preventing the displacement of the action area 10. Can do.

  Furthermore, in the supporter 1A, since the tactile stimulation is effectively applied by the skin contact surface of the action area 10, a sense of support or the like is given to the wearer by physiological reflex by the tactile stimulation without excessive tightening or compression. It is possible to effectively recognize and support the transition to an appropriate posture and the maintenance of an appropriate posture.

(6) Skin contact surface pattern of action region The pattern formed on the skin contact surface of action region 10 is not particularly limited as long as it is a pattern formed by a fibrous body having a line width of 10 to 50,000 nm. It can be constituted by the outer shape of two or more fibrous bodies. The pattern is preferably a pattern in which the fibrous bodies are regularly arranged so that a predetermined form appears repeatedly. However, the arrangement of the fibrous bodies is not regular, but the pattern is designed and decorated to have a predetermined shape. It may be formed to take the form of

  Only one type of pattern may be formed in one working region 10, or a plurality of different patterns may be formed. Further, when separate action areas 10 are provided in areas corresponding to two or more parts selected from the wearer's muscles, ligaments, tendons or joints, the skin contact surfaces of each action area 10 are mutually attached. Different patterns can be formed. In this manner, by forming a plurality of different patterns in the action region 10, it is possible to apply an optimal tactile stimulus according to the site and purpose.

(6-1) Pattern formation by fiber The pattern of the skin contact surface of the action region 10 is a fibrous body having a line width of 10 to 50,000 nm. As the fibrous material satisfying the line width, natural fibers or chemical fibers which are conventionally known fibers can be employed. In particular, synthetic fibers such as polyester synthetic fibers, polyamide synthetic fibers, polyurethane synthetic fibers, polyacrylonitrile synthetic fibers, polyolefin synthetic fibers, semi synthetic fibers such as cellulose semi synthetic fibers and protein semi synthetic fibers, Regenerated fibers such as cellulose-based regenerated fibers, and chemical fibers such as inorganic fibers such as glass fibers and carbon fibers can be suitably used. The form of the fiber used is preferably a filament that is one continuous long fiber, and more preferably a filament yarn composed of one or more filaments. As the filament yarn, a monofilament yarn composed of one filament, a multifilament yarn composed of a plurality of filaments, an alignment yarn in which a plurality of filaments are aligned, a twisted yarn, a filament processed yarn that has been stretched or bulked, A form such as a covered yarn obtained by winding a filament yarn around a filament yarn in a coil shape can be used, and a fiber-like pattern can be formed by using one or a plurality of these yarns.

  Among these, as the fibrous body, it is particularly preferable to employ a so-called nanofiber having a line width (fiber diameter) of 10 to 1000 nm. For example, the fine polyester fiber described in Patent Document 4 can be used.

  By forming a pattern of nano-order ultrafine fibers on the skin contact surface of the action area 10, the ultrafine fibers can be brought into close contact with the wearer's skin surface, and tactile stimulation can be effectively applied and recognized. Moreover, a comfortable wearing feeling such as a slimy texture and touch can be realized.

  In addition, by forming a pattern with nanofibers having a surface area many times that of commonly used fibers, the surface friction of the skin contact surface of the working area 10 can be increased, and deviation during supporter wear can be suppressed. Further, tactile stimulation, compression, tightening, etc. can be applied continuously, discontinuously or intermittently to the target site.

  Formation of the pattern by the fiber can be performed by weaving, knitting, entanglement, alignment, bonding, or the like of the fiber (including the yarn made of the fiber), but it is preferably formed by weaving or knitting. As the yarn made of fiber, monofilament yarn, multifilament yarn, alignment yarn, twisted yarn, stretchable yarn, bulky yarn, covered yarn and the like can be used. The pattern formation with fibers may be formed using only one type of these fibers or yarns made of fibers, or may be formed using a plurality of types.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a pattern formed by weaving using the fiber 21 or the yarn 22 made of the fiber 21 as the fibrous body 20.

  As an example of pattern formation by weaving, fibers 21 as the fibrous body 20 that are plain weave, twill, satin weave, or the like can be used. Fig. 2 (A-1) shows a plain weave pattern of the fiber 21, (A-2) shows a twill weave pattern, and (A-3) shows a satin weave pattern. Further, as another example of pattern formation by weaving, a yarn 22 made of a plurality of fibers 21 obtained by plain weaving, twill weaving, satin weaving, or the like can be used. Fig. 2 (B-1) shows a plain weave pattern of yarn 22, (B-2) shows a twill weave pattern, and (B-3) a satin weave pattern. The yarn 22 is a multifilament yarn composed of a plurality of fibers 21, and can be used in the form of, for example, an alignment yarn, a twisted yarn, a stretchable yarn, a bulky yarn, or the like.

  Further, a pattern may be formed by a knitting structure by knitting using the same material as the fiber 21 and the yarn 22 shown in FIG. As pattern formation by knitting, pattern formation by warp knitting structure or weft knitting structure using fiber 21 or yarn 22 can be used. As a pattern by the warp knitting structure, a fabric pattern by tricot knitting, cord knitting, atlas knitting, chain knitting, etc. can be used. As a pattern by the weft knitting structure, a fabric pattern by flat knitting, rubber knitting, pearl knitting, etc. can be used. . In addition, these knitting structures may be appropriately combined with a double structure using two sheets, a tuck knitting, a transfer knitting, a floating knitting, a pile knitting, a splicing knitting, etc. to change the pattern of the skin contact surface. Good.

(6-2) Pattern Formation by Inkjet Printing The pattern of the skin contact surface in the working area 10 can also be formed by a fibrous body subjected to inkjet printing on the skin contact surface.

  In this case, the fibrous body can have a fibrous structure formed by inkjet printing. The fibrous structure formed by ink jet printing includes a concavo-convex structure formed on the surface of the fabric by the ink to be printed itself, and a concavo-convex structure formed on the surface of the fabric by the printed discharging agent. To do. Each of these fibrous structures has a shape that is extremely long with respect to the width (thickness), and the line width is 10 to 50,000 nm, and the line width is preferably 10 to 1000 nm. .

  Ink-jet printing processes the original pattern of the pattern to be formed with a computer and prints the result using an ink-jet method, so that various patterns can be created easily and at low cost.

  Therefore, if a fibrous body (fibrous structure) and a pattern made of this fibrous body are formed on the skin contact surface of the working area 10 by ink jet printing, a desired surface can be obtained depending on the part of the skin surface with which the working area 10 comes into contact. A pattern can be formed.

  Pattern formation by inkjet printing can be performed by a conventionally known method. For example, when forming a fibrous body by the inkjet ink itself for textile printing ejected by the inkjet method, (a) a step of pre-treating the skin contact surface of the action area 10 with a bleeding inhibitor, glue, etc. b) A step of directly or indirectly attaching the ink by an ink jet method, (c) a post-treatment step by heating color development, washing, drying, or the like. In each of these steps, a known pretreatment agent or ink disclosed in Patent Document 5, an ink jet ejection method, an ink fixing process, a cleaning operation, or the like can be used.

  In addition, for example, in the case where the irregularities formed by the discharge agent discharged by the inkjet method are made into a fibrous body, a drug that dissolves, contracts, or decomposes part of the skin contact surface of the action region 10 (so-called extraction). A method of forming a three-dimensional fibrous structure having irregularities by depositing an ink containing a (corrosive) by an inkjet method can be used (see Patent Document 6 above).

  The form of the pattern formed by inkjet printing is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a striped pattern, a lattice pattern, a mesh pattern, or a combination of these.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a pattern formed by inkjet printing. Here, a case where the fibrous body 20 is formed by the inkjet ink for textile printing itself is shown.

  3 (A) to 3 (D) are striped patterns, (A) is a pattern in which fibrous bodies 20 are arranged in parallel at regular intervals, and (B) is a plurality of fibrous bodies 20 having different line widths. A pattern arranged in parallel at regular intervals, (C) is a repeating pattern of parallel stripes from a wide fibrous body 20 to a narrow fibrous body 20, (D) is a fibrous body consisting of wavy lines A pattern in which 20 are arranged in parallel at regular intervals and a pattern in which fibrous bodies 20 made of zigzag lines are arranged in parallel at regular intervals are separately arranged in one action region.

  3 (E) to (H) are fibrous patterns having a lattice pattern, (E) is a pattern in which a plurality of quadrilaterals are partitioned by the fibrous body 20, and (F) is a plurality of parallelograms having a fibrous body. (G) is a pattern in which a plurality of triangles are partitioned by the fibrous body 20, and (H) is a pattern in which a plurality of hexagons and triangles are partitioned by the fibrous body 20.

  3 (I) and 3 (J) are fibrous patterns in which the fibrous body 20 has a mesh pattern. In addition, (K) and (L) are fibrous patterns in which the fibrous body 20 exhibits a combination of a striped pattern, a lattice pattern, and a mesh pattern.

  In this way, by forming a pattern of nano-order fibrous bodies (fibrous structures) on the skin contact surface of the action area 10, it improves the adhesion of the wearer to the skin surface and effectively stimulates tactile stimulation. Can be granted and recognized. Moreover, a comfortable wearing feeling such as a slimy texture and touch can be realized. In addition, the surface area of the skin contact surface of the action area 10 can be increased to increase the surface friction, suppress the shift while wearing the supporter, continuously, discontinuously or intermittently to the target site, Compression, tightening, etc. can be applied.

2. Lower limb (lower leg) supporter FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a supporter according to a second embodiment of the present invention, which is used to support a lower leg including a calf, an ankle and a sole. (A) is a front view and (B) is a rear view.

  In the figure, the supporter denoted by reference numeral 1B is made of a stretchable material and is formed into a high sock shape covering from below the knee of the wearer to the sole of the foot. The supporter 1B is worn in a state of being in close contact with the skin surface of the sole from below the knee of the wearer due to the stretchability of the material.

  The supporter 1B is obtained by removing the thigh including the knee and the portion covering the waist from the tights-shaped supporter 1A. The material, the compression pressure distribution, and the configuration and function of the action region are the same as those of the supporter 1A.

3. Supporter for upper limbs (upper limb and shoulder / waist) (1) Overall shape of supporter FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a supporter according to the third embodiment of the present invention, which is used for supporting the upper limb and the shoulder / waist. It is. (A) is a front view and (B) is a rear view.

  In the figure, the supporter indicated by reference numeral 1C is formed of a stretchable material, and is molded into a shirt shape covering the upper limb including the wrist to the shoulder of the wearer and the trunk including the shoulder to the chest and the waist. Yes. The supporter 1C is worn in a state of being in close contact with the skin surface of the upper body of the wearer due to the elasticity of the material.

(2) Compression Pressure Distribution The supporter 1C has a compression pressure distribution in which the compression pressure gradually decreases according to the direction from the wrist to the upper arm when worn. The compression pressure can be, for example, a wrist pressure of 18 to 67 hPa and a forearm maximum encircling portion of 9 to 54 hPa.

  By providing such a pressure distribution, the supporter 1C promotes the circulation of blood flow in the entire upper limb, and provides an effect of reducing fatigue such as prevention and reduction of swelling of the upper limb. It also supports the muscles from the wrist to the shoulder and the associated ligaments, tendons or joints without excessive pressure, promotes blood circulation, and increases wrist and elbow joint reflexes. The occurrence of sprains can be suppressed. Supporters for the upper limbs are those that cover at least the wrist to the maximum forearm and provide a pressure distribution that gradually reduces the pressure according to the direction from the wrist to the maximum forearm when worn. Although it is good, like the supporter 1C shown in FIG. 5, it is more preferable to cover the wrist to the upper arm and provide a compression pressure distribution in which the compression pressure gradually decreases in the direction from the wrist to the upper arm when worn.

(3) Action area | region Supporter 1C has provided the action area | region 10 in the area | region corresponding to an upper arm part, a shoulder part, and a waist | hip | lumbar part. Specifically, in FIG. 5 (A), the action region denoted by reference numeral 105 is composed of two belt-like portions arranged so as to sandwich the upper arm portion when worn, and the wearer's biceps, Supports the head muscles and deltoid muscles, etc., fulfills the function of touching the skin surface of the upper arm and giving tactile stimulation. In addition, the action area denoted by reference numeral 106 is arranged in a band from the chest side through the shoulder to the back side, and supports the shoulder joint of the wearer's greater pectoral muscle, deltoid muscle, trapezius, etc., and tactile stimulation on the skin surface give.

  Since the material of the supporter 1C and the configuration and function of the action area are the same as those of the supporter 1A already described, description thereof is omitted here.

4). FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a supporter used for supporting the upper limb including the elbow and the vicinity thereof, which is a supporter according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. (A) is a front view and (B) is a rear view.

  In the figure, the supporter indicated by reference numeral 1D is formed of a stretchable material, and, similar to the supporter 1C described above, the upper limb including the wrist to the shoulder of the wearer, the torso including the shoulder to the chest, and the waist, It is molded into a shirt shape that covers.

  The action region 10 of the supporter 1D is provided in a region corresponding to the elbow and the vicinity thereof, but the configuration and configuration are the same as those of the supporter 1A. Further, the configuration and function of the compression pressure distribution are the same as those of the supporter 1C.

  As mentioned above, the preferred embodiment of the supporter according to the present invention has been exemplified with specific muscles, ligaments, tendons or joints centered on the lower limbs and upper limbs. Here, the shape or position of the action region provided in the supporter according to the present invention is provided in a region corresponding to one or more parts selected from muscles, ligaments, tendons or joints. If it is not damaged, it is not necessary to be completely the same as the shape or position described here, and some changes in shape and position are also included in the scope of the present invention.

  The supporter according to the present invention can prevent the occurrence of a shift in the wearing position accompanying exercise or long-time wearing, and can appropriately apply the set wearing pressure to a desired muscle or the like. Furthermore, with this supporter, the wearer can feel a sense of support or the like by physiological reflection by a predetermined tactile stimulus, and can shift to an appropriate posture or hold an appropriate posture. Therefore, this supporter is suitably used for medical use, sports use or daily life, for treating or preventing pain such as muscles due to disease or fatigue, and for supporting exercise.

It is a supporter which concerns on 1st embodiment of this invention, Comprising: It is a schematic diagram which shows the supporter used for the support of the leg which contains a thigh and a leg. (A) is a front view and (B) is a rear view. It is a figure which shows the example of the pattern formed by the weaving using a fiber. It is a figure which shows the example of the pattern formed by inkjet textile printing. It is a supporter which concerns on 2nd embodiment of this invention, Comprising: It is a schematic diagram which shows the supporter used for the support of the lower leg including a calf, an ankle, and a sole. (A) is a front view and (B) is a rear view. It is a supporter which concerns on 3rd embodiment of this invention, Comprising: It is a schematic diagram which shows the supporter used for support of an upper limb and a shoulder / waist. (A) is a front view and (B) is a rear view. It is a supporter which concerns on 4th embodiment of this invention, Comprising: It is a schematic diagram which shows the supporter used for support of an upper limb including the elbow and its vicinity. (A) is a front view and (B) is a rear view.

Explanation of symbols

1A, 1B, 1C, 1D supporter
10 Area of action
20 Fibrous material
21 fiber
22 Yarn

Claims (9)

A support for a lower limb that covers at least from the ankle to the calf and has a compression pressure distribution in which the compression pressure gradually decreases according to the direction from the ankle to the calf when worn,
A region corresponding to one or more sites selected from the wearer's muscles, ligaments, tendons or joints is provided with a region of action that can contact the skin surface of the site and apply tactile stimulation.
A supporter in which a pattern made of a fibrous body having a line width of 10 to 50,000 nm is formed on the skin contact surface of the working region, and frictional characteristics different from those of other regions other than the working region are imparted. It is a supporter for upper limbs that covers at least the wrist to the maximum circumference of the forearm and has a compression pressure distribution in which the compression pressure gradually decreases according to the direction from the wrist to the maximum forearm at the time of wearing,
A region corresponding to one or more sites selected from the wearer's muscles, ligaments, tendons or joints is provided with a region of action that can contact the skin surface of the site and apply tactile stimulation.
A supporter in which a pattern made of a fibrous body having a line width of 10 to 50,000 nm is formed on the skin contact surface of the working region, and frictional characteristics different from those of other regions other than the working region are imparted.   The supporter according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fibrous body is a fiber having a line width of 10 to 1,000 nm.   The supporter according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the pattern is formed by weaving or knitting a fiber as a fibrous body.   3. The supporter according to claim 1, wherein the pattern is made of the fibrous body formed by ink-jet printing on the skin contact surface of the working area.   The said action area | region consists of the fabric which consists of a fiber which has a big line | wire width compared with the said fibrous body, and the said pattern formed with the fibrous body on the skin contact surface side of this fabric. The supporter of any one of these.   The supporter as described in any one of Claims 1-6 in which the said pattern formed in the skin contact surface of the said action | operation area | region contains several pattern shape. Each of the regions corresponding to two or more sites selected from the wearer's muscles, ligaments, tendons or joints, each having a separate region of action;
The supporter as described in any one of Claims 1-6 in which the said pattern formed in the skin contact surface of each action area has a mutually different pattern shape. The said action | operation area | region has higher tightening force than another area | region, and supports one or more site | parts selected from a wearer's muscle, a ligament, a tendon, or a joint. Supporter.