U.S. patent application number 14/246433 was filed with the patent office on 2014-08-07 for cover sheet for a body measuring apparatus and an automatic sheet dispenser therfor.
This patent application is currently assigned to TANITA Corporation. The applicant listed for this patent is TANITA Corporation. Invention is credited to Masaaki FURUE, Kazuaki NATSUME, Makoto NIIZATO, Minoru OGURA.
Application Number | 20140221808 14/246433 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39495618 |
Filed Date | 2014-08-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140221808 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
FURUE; Masaaki ; et
al. |
August 7, 2014 |
COVER SHEET FOR A BODY MEASURING APPARATUS AND AN AUTOMATIC SHEET
DISPENSER THERFOR
Abstract
A cover sheet (1) used in a body measuring apparatus having
electrodes for supplying current to a human body or for measuring a
difference in electrical potential between two sites of the body.
The cover sheet has electric conductive area portions (2)
corresponding to the electrodes of the body measuring apparatus and
having a electric conductivity in thickness direction, and
insulation area portions (3) spacing adjacent electric conductive
area portions (2) and having electrically insulating property at
least along a plane direction. The cover sheet is used to prevent
cross-infection and can be used safely without slip and prepared
cheaply without affecting to impedance, with assuring completely
insulation between adjacent electrodes. Conductivity is created
with conductive solid ("dry type") or conductive liquid ("wet
type"). The cover sheet is fed automatically by a sheet
dispenser.
Inventors: |
FURUE; Masaaki; (Tokyo,
JP) ; OGURA; Minoru; (Tokyo, JP) ; NIIZATO;
Makoto; (Tokyo, JP) ; NATSUME; Kazuaki;
(Tokyo, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
TANITA Corporation |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
TANITA Corporation
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
39495618 |
Appl. No.: |
14/246433 |
Filed: |
April 7, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12032073 |
Feb 15, 2008 |
8725229 |
|
|
14246433 |
|
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
600/393 ;
128/849 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 5/4869 20130101;
A61B 5/6829 20130101; A61B 46/10 20160201; A61B 2562/247 20130101;
A61B 46/40 20160201; A61B 5/0537 20130101; A61B 5/4872 20130101;
A61B 5/411 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/393 ;
128/849 |
International
Class: |
A61B 19/08 20060101
A61B019/08; A61B 5/053 20060101 A61B005/053 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Feb 15, 2007 |
JP |
2007-34782 |
Nov 20, 2007 |
JP |
2007-300859 |
Claims
1. A disposable cover sheet detachably used in a body composition
measuring apparatus comprising a plurality of electrodes on a
platform thereof where feet bottoms of an examinee contact, for
supplying an electric current to a human body and for measuring a
difference in electrical potential between two sites of the body in
order to measure a body composition using a body impedance
technique, said disposable cover sheet being adapted to cover said
platform, wherein said disposable cover sheet (1) comprises
electric conductive area portions (2) corresponding to said
plurality of electrodes on said on a platform and having an
electric conductivity through a thickness direction from a surface
to an opposite surface of the cover sheet, and insulation area
portions (3) spacing said electric conductive area portions (2) and
having electrically insulating property at least along a plane
direction.
2. The disposable cover sheet according to claim 1, wherein said
electric conductivity in the thickness direction of said electric
conductive area portions (2) is created by dispersing, applying or
adding electro-conductive solid material into and/or onto a sheet
material.
3. The disposable cover sheet according to claim 2, wherein said
electro-conductive solid material is in a form of particles, powder
or fibers.
4. The disposable cover sheet according to claim 1, wherein said
disposable cover sheet (1) is made of non-woven web or fabric,
fiber web, felt, textile, knitting or film.
5. The disposable cover sheet according to claim 1, wherein said
disposable cover sheet (1) possesses an anti-slip property at least
on a part of said disposable cover sheet (1).
6. The disposable cover sheet according to claim 1, wherein said
body measuring apparatus comprises a body composition measuring
apparatus comprising four electrodes in order to measure a body
composition using the body impedance technique, and said disposable
cover sheet (1) including four electric conductive area portions
(2) corresponding to said four electrodes of said body composition
measuring apparatus.
7. The disposable cover sheet according to claim 6, wherein said
body composition measuring apparatus comprises said four electrodes
on a platform (11) thereof, where feet bottoms of an examinee
contact, and said disposable cover sheet (1) is configured to be
placed on said platform (11) in such a manner that said four
electric conductive area portions (2) are positioned on said four
electrodes of said body composition measuring apparatus,
respectively.
8. The disposable cover sheet according to claim 1, wherein said
body measuring apparatus comprises a body composition measuring
apparatus comprising four electrodes in order to measure a body
composition using the body impedance technique, at least two
electrodes of said four electrodes of said body composition
measuring apparatus are hand electrodes (15) with which hands of an
examinee contact, said disposable cover sheet (1) is configured to
cover said hand electrodes (15) in such a manner that said electric
conductive area portions (2) are positioned on said at least two
electrodes, respectively.
9. The disposable cover sheet according to claim 1, wherein said
electric conductive area portions (2) and/or said insulation area
portions (3) are prepared from non-woven web.
10. The disposable cover sheet according to claim 1, wherein said
electric conductive area portions (2) and/or said insulation area
portions (3) are prepared from a laminated material.
11. A stock of the disposable cover sheet (1) according to claim 1,
wherein said stock comprises a plurality of unit cover sheets (1')
connected in series.
12. The stock according to claim 11 in a form of a roll.
13. A stock of the disposable cover sheet (1) according to claim 1,
wherein said stock comprises a plurality of unit cover sheets (1')
stacked one over other in partly nested manner.
14. A set of the stock of the disposable cover sheet (1) according
to claim 11, and an openable container (70, 71) packing said stock
inside.
15. The set according to claim 14, wherein said disposable cover
sheet (1) is made of wet type cover sheet in which said electric
conductivity in the thickness direction is created by impregnating,
adhering or applying electro-conductive liquid into and/or onto a
non-woven web or textile, fiber web or film.
16. An automatic cover-sheet dispenser of the disposable cover
sheet (1) defined in claim 1, comprising a feeding unit (A) of said
disposable cover sheet (1) arranged at a side of the electrodes of
said body measuring apparatus, and a collecting unit (B) of said
disposable cover sheet (1).
17. The automatic cover-sheet dispenser according to claim 16,
wherein said disposable cover sheet (1) is stocked in a form of a
roll or a stack in said feeding unit (A).
18. The automatic cover-sheet dispenser according to claim 16,
wherein said feeding unit (A) has further means (77-79, 80-84) for
feeding electro-conductive liquid.
19. A method of preventing fouling of a body composition measuring
apparatus comprising a plurality of electrodes on a platform (11)
thereof, where feet bottoms of an examinee contact, in order to
measure a body composition using a body impedance technique,
comprising: covering said platform (11) of said body composition
measuring apparatus with a disposable cover sheet comprising a
plurality of electric conductive area portions (2) corresponding to
said plurality of electrodes of said platform (11) of said body
composition measuring apparatus and having an electric conductivity
in a thickness direction, and insulation area portions (3) spacing
said plurality of electric conductive area portions (2) from one
another and having an electrically insulating property at least
along a plane direction, said disposable cover sheet comprising
anti-slip treatment arranged on at least part of an upper surface
and/or a lower face thereof.
20. The disposable cover sheet according to claim 1, wherein
removal of the cover sheet does not affect operation of the body
measuring apparatus.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention relates to a cover sheet used in a live body
measuring apparatus or in a weigh-measuring unit equipped with
electrodes for supplying electric current to a live body and/or for
measuring a potential difference between two sites of the live
body.
[0003] More particularly, this invention relates to a cover sheet
used in a "body composition measuring apparatus" for measuring body
impedance using a body impedance technique, and an automatic
dispenser of the cover sheets.
[0004] This invention further relates to a "cover sheet stock"
comprising a plurality of unit cover sheets connected or stacked
one another in separable manner, and a set or combination of the
cover sheet stock and an openable container such as bag and case
for storing the cover sheet stock hermetically.
[0005] 2. Description of Related Arts
[0006] The "body composition measuring apparatus" is known for
calculating an amount of internal fat or other information
concerning body composition and/or structure from detected
impedance between two sites of the body (i.e. between distal areas)
and from body conditions such as body height and body weight.
Applicant Company produces and commercializes a variety of body
composition measuring apparatus. The mechanism of such body
composition measuring apparatus is disclosed in many documents such
as JP-A1-05-49050 (now Japanese Patent No. 1848283).
[0007] The principle of the body composition measuring using the
impedance technique in which a difference in electric inductivity
on different parts of a body composition is measured is disclosed
in following documents: Keisoku Gijutsu, "Measuring Technique",
September, 2004, p. 14-20 and Nihon Rinsyo, Vol. 53, 1995 special
edition, Jun. 22, 1995, p. 179-182. The contents of documents
listed above consist part of this specification.
[0008] In mass physical checkup or health examination in which a
great number of unnamed persons use a same body composition
measuring apparatus or a weigh-measuring unit one after another, it
is advisable to take a precaution against a cross infection. In
such body composition measuring apparatus or the weigh-measuring
unit, an examinee stands thereon barefoot, so that a danger of
cross infection increase.
[0009] Still more, a body composition measuring apparatus using
impedance technique is sensitively affected by the body status
(biological variability) of examinee as described in above
documents. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid such situation that
the examinees feel discomfort or panic. In case of a mass physical
checkup or a complete medical checkup which force many examinees to
be measured by turns, several examinees feel hesitated to use the
same measuring apparatus just after other examinee used it. In
light of this, it is beneficial or advantageous to let the
examinees know cleanness of the measuring apparatus to obtain a
proper measuring result.
[0010] Above-mentioned problem may not be so serious in case of
home uses. However, there is a need to use a cover sheet for the
measuring apparatus as an etiquette sheet when a visitor such as
friends and relatives comes and uses a body composition measuring
apparatus or the weigh-measuring unit under a cleaned
condition.
[0011] By wiping its platform, a surface the measuring apparatus
could be kept clean. In case of the mass physical checkup or
complete medical checkup, however, it needs to be kept cleaned up
by an operator. Moreover, water left non-uniformly on a surface of
a measuring unit may cause an error in measuring. It is not easy to
keep its surface clean by simple means in such measuring apparatus
as an internal fat meter in which a delicate difference in electric
conductivity of body composition is measured.
[0012] The platform of the measuring apparatus may be covered by a
simple cover sheet. The platform of a body composition measuring
apparatus, however, has a plurality of electrodes (generally two or
four electrodes) and these electrodes must be electrically isolated
each other. Covering materials that give influence to impedance
cannot be selected. Moreover, it could never be allowed that an
examinee, for example an old person, slips and get injured during
its use. Furthermore, costly methods or materials are not
acceptable in practical uses.
[0013] An object of the present invention is to provide a cover
sheet for a body composition measuring apparatus using the
impedance technique, which can prevent a cross injunction, which
can be used safely, without giving serious influence to impedance
to be measured, which can assure isolation between cathodes, and
which can be used at low cost.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
disposal cover sheet made of non-woven web optionally having
anti-slip treatment on at least part thereof, which is placed, in
use, on a face of a weigh-measuring unit.
[0015] Still another object of this invention is to provide a cover
sheet stock comprising a plurality of unit cover sheets connected
or stacked one another in separable manner, and a set or
combination of the stock and an openable container in which the
stock is stored hermetically.
[0016] Still another object of this invention is to provide an
automatic cover sheet dispenser for feeding and setting the cover
sheet onto electrode portions of a live body measuring apparatus
automatically.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] A first subject of the present invention resides in a cover
sheet used in a body measuring apparatus having electrodes for
supplying current to a human body or for measuring a difference in
electrical potential between two sites of the body, in which the
cover sheet has electric conductive area portions corresponding to
the electrodes of the body measuring apparatus and having a
electric conductivity in thickness direction, and insulation area
portions spacing adjacent electric conductive area portions and
having electrically insulating property at least along a plane
direction.
[0018] In an example of this invention, the electric conductivity
in thickness direction is created by dispersion, adhesion or
addition of electro-conductive solid material into and/or onto a
sheet material (this case is called hereinafter, "dry type"). This
electro-conductive solid material may be electro-conductive
particles, powder or fibers.
[0019] In an example of this invention, the electric conductivity
in thickness direction is created by impregnation, adhesion or
absorption of electro-conductive liquid into and/or onto a sheet
material (this type is called hereinafter, "wet type"). This
electro-conductive liquid may be an electro-conductive aqueous
solution.
[0020] The "dry type" and the "wet type" can be used in
combination. For example, a "dray type" cover sheet may be coated
with electro-conductive aqueous solution such as water.
[0021] The sheet material may be in a form of non-woven web or
textile, fiber web, felt, woven textile, knitting or film.
[0022] The cover sheet according to the present invention has
preferably anti-slip means arranged on at least part of an upper
surface and/or a lower face thereof.
[0023] The electric conductive area portions may be located at
positions corresponding to electrode portions that contact with
feet bottom of an examinee on a platform of a body composition
measuring apparatus or with hands of the examinee.
[0024] The cover sheet according to this invention may be made of
non-woven web and can be disposal. The electric conductive area
portions may be prepared by electro-conductive treatment.
[0025] A second subject of this invention resides in a disposal
cover sheet made of a non-woven web and having at least partly
anti-slip treatment.
[0026] A third subject of this invention resides in a stock of the
cover sheet, comprising a plurality of unit cover sheets connected
in series in separable manner, each unit cover sheet comprising
electric conductive area portions corresponding to said electrodes
of said body measuring apparatus and having a electric conductivity
in thickness direction, and insulation area portions spacing
adjacent electric conductive area portions and having electrically
insulating property at least along a plane direction. A preferable
form of the stock is a roll form. The stock can be made of a
plurality of stacked unit cover sheets. In this case, it is
preferable to nest two unit cover sheets partly successive so that
the unit cover sheets can be withdrawn continuously like so-called
"tissue paper" stack in a box.
[0027] A forth subject of this invention resides a set of the stock
of the wet type cover sheet and an open-able container packing the
stock hermetically. This set is advantageous to prevent evaporation
of the electro-conductive liquid during use or storage, when the
electric conductivity in thickness direction is created by
impregnation, adhesion or absorption of electro-conductive liquid
into and/or onto a sheet material. In particular, this set can be
used in home uses to store of the wet type cover sheets.
[0028] A fifth subject of this invention resides an automatic
cover-sheet dispenser, comprising a feeding unit of the cover sheet
arranged at a side of the electrodes of said body measuring
apparatus, and a collecting unit of the cover sheet which can be
arranged at opposite side or even at the same side as the feeding
unit. The automatic cover-sheet dispenser is particularly
advantageous in such a case that many examinees are measured
successively in a health center, hospital and complete physical
examination. The cover sheet can be fed from a cover sheet stock in
a form a roll or stack.
[0029] The automatic cover-sheet dispenser may have a feeder of
electro-conductive liquid. The electric conductive area portions of
a cover sheet can be impregnated, adhered or absorbed with the
electro-conductive liquid by passing the cover sheet through a bath
containing the electro-conductive liquid. The electro-conductive
liquid can be fed also by a sponge roll through which water is fed
continuously, or can be sprayed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates a plane view of a cover sheet according
to this invention.
[0031] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view along
cross-sections of A-A line and B-B line in FIG. 1.
[0032] FIG. 3A shows a body composition measuring apparatus using
the body impedance technique.
[0033] FIG. 3B illustrates an embodiment of a cover sheet according
to this invention used in the body composition measuring apparatus
shown in FIG. 3A.
[0034] FIG. 4A shows a family type or home use type of a body
composition measuring apparatus.
[0035] FIG. 4B illustrates another embodiment of the cover sheet
according to the invention for the family type body composition
measuring apparatus of FIG. 4A,
[0036] FIG. 5A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a variation of
the cover sheet according to invention.
[0037] FIG. 5B illustrates a cross-sectional view of further
variation of the cover sheet according to invention.
[0038] FIG. 6A is an illustrative perspective view of another
variation of the cover sheet according to invention.
[0039] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the cover sheet of FIG.
6A.
[0040] FIG. 7A is an illustrative rear view of a handset used in a
body composition measuring apparatus.
[0041] FIG. 7B is an illustrative front view of the handset of FIG.
7A.
[0042] FIG. 7C shows a handset cover fitted on the handset of FIG.
7A.
[0043] FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a set of a cover sheet
stock and a container packing the stock.
[0044] FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment of a set of a cover
sheet stock and of a container packing the stock suitable for "wet
type".
[0045] FIG. 10 is an illustrative perspective view of an example of
an automatic cover-sheet dispenser according to the present
invention, front parts of housings being removed so as to show
interiors of the dispenser.
[0046] FIG. 11 is a variation of FIG. 10, equipped with a
humidifier.
[0047] FIG. 12 is an illustrative perspective view of a cover sheet
dispenser that is designed for home uses.
[0048] FIG. 13 is an illustrative perspective view of a variation
of FIG. 12.
[0049] FIG. 14 is an illustrative perspective view of a variation
of the cover sheet shown in FIG. 5A.
[0050] FIG. 15 is an illustrative cross section of anther type of a
cover sheet dispenser designed for the variation of FIG. 14.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0051] "A body composition measuring apparatus" is understood as a
measuring apparatus that calculates the information of a body
composition and structure (such as amount of fat) from impedance
between two portions of a body and from physical conditions such as
body height and body weight.
[0052] "A thickness direction" is understood as a direction from a
surface to an opposite surface of the cover sheet, and "plane
direction" is understood as a direction that is in parallel to or
almost parallel to the surfaces.
[0053] Expression of "has a electric conductivity" means literally
having a property of electric conductivity. Ideally condition is
zero electric resistance but it is possible to have a certain
degree of electric resistance. In any way, the electric resistance
is desirably homogeneous throughout the electric conductive area
portions.
[0054] Expression of "having at least partly anti-slip treatment"
is understood as such anti-slip treatment as not affecting the
measured results in a body composition measuring apparatus using
the body impedance.
[0055] The measured valued obtained by a body composition measuring
apparatus may be corrected by using a calibration table or
curve.
[0056] The "electro-conductive solid" is understood as
electro-conductive particles or powder which is solid at usage,
such metal powder of aluminum, iron, silver and gold or of metal
salt or inorganic powder such as carbon powder, metal fibers or
carbon fibers. Carbon nanotubes also can be used. In general, the
electro-conductive solid is added to a sheet material such as
non-woven web, fiber web and felt at a preparation stage of the
cover sheet, or the electro-conductive solid is kneaded into fibers
during a stage when the fibers are prepared, or the
electro-conductive solid is applied, penetrated or dispersed onto a
surface of the cover sheet or into the cover sheet, to create the
electric conductivity in thickness direction.
[0057] The "electro-conductive liquid" is understood as
electro-conductive liquid that is liquid state at usage and is
usually aqueous solution. The electro-conductive liquid can be tap
water (usually containing chloride). Water can be added with
suitable substances that can increase the electro-conductivity,
and/or, that can create uniform electro-conductivity, such as agent
for generating electro-conductive ions such as water-soluble salts
such as sodium chloride. The aqueous solution may contain agents
that can avoid or retard desiccation such as humectants, wetting
agent and dry resistance agent such as acryl amide, polyvinyl
acetoamimde, polyalkylene glycol esters. The aqueous solution may
contain other additives such as antibacterial agent, disinfectant,
anti-microbial agent, deodorant, antioxidant, moisture retaining
agent, additives having a variety of functions such as relaxation,
freshness, anti-phlogistic and analgesic properties, catechin
possessing many actions contributing to health and beauty such as
anti-fungus, anti-allergic, humidity retention, environment
atmosphere improvement and aromatherapy actions, and additives such
as sterilization ceramics and borax, photo-catalysts such as
titania, antioxidants, flame retardants or the like.
[0058] Expression of "having an anti-slip character" is understood
as such a condition that the cover sheet does not slide on the body
measuring apparatus or on a weigh-measuring unit, even when a aged
person of the largest danger in injury uses the body measuring
apparatus or the weigh-measuring unit.
[0059] The cover sheet according to this invention is preferably
prepared from non-woven web or textile from the viewpoint of
strength, insulation, hygiene, safety and cost. Non-woven web is a
well-known material and variety types of non-woven webs are sold on
market. Non-woven web can be produced by a variety of methods and
from a variety of materials. The materials may be natural fiber
such as fibers of cotton, hemp or bamboo, animal fibers such as
sheep wool, silk, chemical fiber such as rayon, cupra, acetate,
polyamide, polyester, polyacrylonitrile, polyvinyl alcohol,
polyolefin such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinylidene
chloride and polyurethane, inorganic fiber such as glass fiber,
metallic fibers and carbon fibers. The method for producing
non-woven webs also is not specially limited and can be used any
known technique such as adhesive method, thermal bond method,
ultrasonic wave adhesive method, needle punch method, span lace
method, stitch bond method, span bond method, melt blow method,
centrifugal force method, flash spin method, voltage dry spin
method, film method, air lay method, guard method and garneting
machine method.
[0060] The cover sheet according to the invention is preferably
disposal type, since the production cost is mostly important. In
light of this, it is preferable to choose, as a material of the
cover sheet according to the invention, commodity material such as
polyolefin, cotton and a mixture of polyolefin and cotton or paper.
In particular, a preferable material is non-woven web of
polyester/pulp having high strength and of low cost which is
advantageously used in medical machines and in disposal masks,
surgical drapes and surgical gowns.
[0061] In the cover sheet according to the invention, the electric
conductive area portions corresponding to electrode portions of a
body composition measuring apparatus must be electrically
conductive. This electric conductive area portions may be formed
(1) directly from electric conductive materials, or (2) by
subjecting a non-conductive material such as non-woven web or
plastic material to so-called electro-conductive treatment. The
latter electro-conductive treatment is suitable for mass
productive.
[0062] In the case (1) in which the electric conductive area
portions are made directly from electric conductive material, a
cover sheet according to the invention can be produced by making
openings in a non-conductive sheet at portions corresponding to the
electrodes, placing an electric conductive patch onto the opening
and then connecting or securing an outer periphery or an edge of
the electric conductive patch to an inner periphery or an edge of
the opening with adhesive or by welding. The electric conductive
patch can be made of any electric conductive material. In general,
the non-woven web can be rendered or changed into electric
conductive by two methods. In first method, an electric conductive
material is kneaded into (mixed with) a material for the non-woven
web and the resulting mixture is spun into filaments or fibers, so
that the electric conductive patch is prepared from the resulting
electric conductive filaments or fibers. In the second method,
commercially available non-woven web is subjected to so-called
electric conductive treatment to produce the electric conductive
patch. The electric conductive patch may have any shape such as
knit, woven fabric, non-woven web and sheet. For example, the
electric conductive patch may can be made of textiles and non-woven
fabric of fibers or sheets impregnated with electric conductive
material. Sheet or textile made of synthetic resign such as
polyamide, polyurethane or acetate in which carbon is dispersed may
be used as the conductive patch if the cost permits. A
non-conductive sheet for forming the non-conductive area portion
may be made from any insulation material such as polyethylene and
polyester/paper mixture.
[0063] In the case (2) in which a non- conductive material is
rendered or changed to the conductive area portions by the electric
conductive treatment, one can use well-known technique of electric
conductive treatment. The insulation area portion may be masked
during the electric conductive treatment. A variety of electric
conductive materials used in the treatment are also well-known and
metal powder such as powder of aluminum, iron, silver and gold or
of metal salt or inorganic powder such as carbon powder or carbon
fiber are used generally. It is preferable to use electric
conductive filler such as carbon black that is relatively cheap and
suitable for mass production. In the electric conductive treatment,
a solution in which the electric conductive material is dispersed
may be applied onto a non-woven web through a pattern sheet having
through holes corresponding to electrodes. It may be possible to
use a compound that can disperse the electric conductive material
uniformly and improve wettability to the non-woven web, such as a
solvent (i.e. water, alcohol or ester) containing surface-active
agent and salt.
[0064] The electric conductive area portions and/or the insulation
area portions may be made of laminating material. For instance, an
upper surface of insulation area portions may be made of low
density polyethylene film and a lower surface may be made of a
non-woven web of rubber or elastomer. Although there may be little
advantage to make the electric conductive area portions a laminate
structure from a viewpoint of improvement in electric conductivity
in thickness direction, the electric conductive area portions may
be made of a plurality of laminated layers. For instance, the upper
surface of electric conductive area portions may be made of
polyamide mesh and the lower surface may be made of a non-woven web
of electric conductive polyamide. It is also possible to use a
variety of laminated combinations such as a combination of
antibacterial non-woven web/bacteria impermeability non-woven web
or a combination of textile/non-woven web.
[0065] The cover sheet according to the present invention can
contain other additives such as antibacterial agent,
anti-microorganism agent, deodorant, antioxidant, moisture-keeping
agent, relaxation agent, freshness-keeping agent, anti-inflammation
agent, analgesic agent, or additives acting or contributing for
health and beauty and possessing anti-fungus property,
anti-allergic action, moisturizing effect and environment
atmosphere improving effect such as catechin, sterilization
ceramics and borax, or photo catalyst such as titanium oxide,
antioxidant and fire retardant.
[0066] The cover sheet according to this invention has preferably
anti-slip property at least a part of its upper surface and/or
lower surface. In particular, slip between the cover sheet and the
platform is not desirable for safety. When the cover sheet
according to this invention itself possesses an anti-slip property,
it can be used safely with no anti-slip treatment on the platform.
The anti-slip treatment may be arranged even on the platform by
applying a urethane film at least partly for example and in this
case, the cover sheet according to this invention having an
anti-slip property can be used more safely. The anti-slip property
can be imparted also by a property of material itself. In fact, a
material such as polyurethane itself can be an anti-slip cover
sheet. In case of a non-woven web made of polyethylene, polyester
or a mixture with cellulose, it is preferable to effect anti-slip
treatment on at least a part, preferably whole surface of the
sheet. This anti-slip treatment can be done by any well-known
technique such as coating natural or synthetic rubber material,
elastomer, silicon rubber or adhesive in a desired pattern such as
a dot patter and a line pattern. The anti-slip treatment can be
done over whole surface of a sheet, provided that such treatments
do not affect measurement.
[0067] The anti-slip treatment can be omitted or weakened when the
cover sheet is held by the feeding unit and by the collecting unit
in the automatic dispenser in which the cover sheet is fed
continuously from a stock roll.
[0068] It is preferable to indicate or mark the electric conductive
area portions on the cover sheet according to this invention, so
that operator, user or examinee can easily recognize or confirm, at
a glance, locations of the electric conductive area portions and
align them to the electrode portions of a measuring apparatus
without mistake. For this purpose, it is preferable to print a
frame (window) at the electric conductive area portions. It is also
preferable to mark a spot for alignment such as center marks and
lines indicating installation positions. For instance, feet marks
can be printed on a cover sheet according to the invention to
facilitate positioning of feet.
[0069] Now, actual usage of the cover sheet according to the
present invention will be explained with reference to the attached
drawings.
[0070] FIG. 1 is an illustrative plane view of the cover sheet (1)
according to the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an illustrative
cross-sectional view along A-A line and B-B line in FIG. 1. This
cover sheet (1) comprises electric conductive area portions (2)
corresponding to electrode portions of a body composition measuring
apparatus and insulation area portions (3) spacing adjacent
electric conductive area portions (2). The electric conductive area
portions (2) must be electro-conductive along the thickness
direction (a direction from bottom to top in FIG. 2). The
insulation area portions (3) must have an insulation property at
least in planar direction (in a plane of FIG. 1). Anti-slip dots
(4) of rubber are formed on a lower surface of the cover sheet
(1).
[0071] FIG. 3A shows a body composition measuring apparatus (10)
using the impedance technology. The body composition measuring
apparatus (10) of FIG. 3A is a multi-frequency type body
composition measuring apparatus for measuring a body fat
percentage, a muscle mass, a water content in body and weight.
[0072] FIG. 3B shows an embodiment of a cover sheet (1) according
to the present invention used in the body composition measuring
apparatus (10) of FIG. 3A. In use, an examinee stands on a platform
(11) and holds handset (15) to display a variety of data mentioned
above. The platform (11) has electrode portions (12), four portions
in this drawing and insulation portions (13) spacing adjacent
electrode portions (12). The cover sheet (1) shown in FIG. 3B
according to this invention can be used to prevent a
cross-infection via the platform (11) and/or handset (15). The
anti-slip treated on the lower surface of the cover sheet (1) make
a person on the coversheet (1) safe from slipping.
[0073] FIG. 4A shows a family type or home use type body
composition measuring apparatus and FIG. 4B shows an embodiment of
the cover sheet (1) according to this invention used in the body
composition measuring apparatus of FIG. 4A. Reference numbers used
in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B are same as those used in FIG. 3A and FIG.
3B. In FIG. 4A, plane fasteners (14) are secured by double-stick
tapes onto the body composition measuring apparatus at suitable
positions. In use, the cover sheet (1) made of non-woven web is
pressed onto the plane fasteners (14) so that the cover sheet (1)
is fixed securely. In family type body composition measuring
apparatus, the same cover sheet may be used repeatedly for family
members without changing until it gets dirty, therefore in most
cases, the labor in changing the cover sheet caused by using the
plane fasteners (14) does not matter.
[0074] FIG. 5A illustrates a variation of the cover sheet (1)
according to this invention. In FIG. 5A, the insulation area
portions (3) are made of a laminate. For instance, an upper
insulation area portion (31) may be made of a low density
polyethylene sheet, while a lower insulation area portion (32) may
be made of a urethane sheet. Materials of the upper and lower
insulation area portions (31 and 32) can be selected from a variety
of plastic materials, paper and elastomers with considering cost,
strength, workability and other factors. They can have any desired
configurations such as non-woven web, textile, sheet and film. The
electric conductive area portions (2) also may be made from a
variety of materials like the insulation area portions (13 and 32),
provided that the electric conductive areas meet such requirement
that they have the electric conductivity along thickness
direction.
[0075] FIG. 5B illustrates a simplified variation of the cover
sheet (1) having no lower insulation area portions (32) shown in
FIG. 5A. The electric conductive area portions (2) are fixed at
their outer periphery to the insulation area portions (31 and 32)
with adhesive or by welding.
[0076] FIG. 6A is a schematic view of another variation of a cover
sheet of non-woven web for uses in a family type or home use type
body composition measuring apparatus shown in FIG. 4A. To clarify
the drawing, a scale in thickness direction is enlarged. FIG. 6A is
an illustrative perspective view, while FIG. 6B is an illustrative
cross-sectional view along C-C line of FIG. 6A. In this embodiment,
electric conductive area portions (2) are prepared by rendering or
treating corresponding portions of a non-woven web to electric
conductive. In this cover sheet (1), a window (5) is made at a
location corresponding to a meter portion in the family type body
composition measuring apparatus shown in FIG. 4A so as to read the
measured data without difficulties. The window (5) can be covered
by a transparent sheet. Marks (6) are printed to indicate the feet
setting positions. The marks may indicate the orientation of
orientation of left, right, up and bottom. Or, footmarks can be
printed so that the cover sheet (1) is not placed at wrong position
and/or direction.
[0077] FIG. 7A illustrates a handset (15) used in the body
composition measuring apparatus (10) shown in FIG. 3A. FIG. 7A is a
view of rear surface, while FIG. 7B is a view of front face of the
handset (15). The handset (15) has two electrodes (16 and 17)
spaced or isolated by insulation portions (18). This handset (15)
is connected to a body composition measuring apparatus (10) through
a lead wire (19). In use, an examinee standing on the platform (11)
holds the handset (15), and the electrodes (16 and 17) function as
hand electrodes.
[0078] FIG. 7C illustrates a handset cover (40) fitted over the
handset (15). This handset cover (40) can be inserted onto the
handset (15) from a free end that is opposite to the lead wire
(19). Electric conductive area portions (41 and 42) are formed on
the handset cover (40) at the positions corresponding to each
electrode. In the drawing, the handset (15) has a square shape in
cross-sectional, so that the electric conductive area portions (41
and 42) are positioned at proper positions corresponding to the
electrodes (16 and 17) when the handset cover (40) is inserting
simply onto the handset (15) since the handset cover (40) has a
three-dimensional shape corresponding to that of the handset
(15).
[0079] In another variation (not shown), the handset cover can be a
simple sheet as is shown in FIG. 4B. This sheet may be wound around
the handset (15) and is secured at correct position of the handset
(15) by plane fasteners (not shown).
[0080] The cover sheet according to this invention can be used as a
fouling prevention sheet or an etiquette sheet by placing it on a
simple body weighing meter having no electrodes.
[0081] The cover sheet according to the present invention can be
used in a form of unit cover sheet one by one, but it may be much
convenient for users that the cover sheets are supplied in a form
of a stock in which a plurality of unit cover sheets are connected
in series in detachable manner, so that a user can draw each unit
cover sheet from the stock as necessary. The stock can be a form of
a roll form in which a plurality of unit cover sheets are connected
and wound, or in a form of stack like so-called "tissue paper" box
in which a plurality of unit cover sheet stacked with nesting
partly so that successive two unit cover sheets can be drawn
without discontinuity.
[0082] In case of the wet type cover sheet, the maker supplies the
stock in a form of a set of the stock and a container packing the
stock hermetically inside so that users keeps the packed condition
until use, to prevent desiccation of the wet type cover sheets. The
container may be a plastic bag or box having optionally a barrier
layer for humidity and having an opening through which the cover
sheet is withdrawn.
[0083] FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 illustrate two embodiments of the set
according to the present invention, comprising a cover sheet stock
and a container packing the stock.
[0084] In case of FIG. 8, a plurality of unit cover sheet (1') are
stacked alternately like so-called "tissue paper" with nesting
partly so that successive two unit cover sheets can be drawn
without discontinuity, and a stack of the unit cover sheets (1') is
stored in a soft plastic bag (50) having a barrier layer for
humidity. FIG. 8 illustrates a state when a leading end (11) of a
unit cover sheet (1') is drawn out of an opening (52) formed in the
bag (50). In order to avoid desiccation of the wet type cover
sheets, a suitable lid (not shown) can be bond or welded around the
opening (52).
[0085] In case of FIG. 9, a plurality of unit cover sheet (1') are
connected in series with detachable manner and wound in a form of a
roll shaped stock (60). This stock (60) is stored in a plastic
container (61) such as a plastic case. A detaching line such as
perforations or easy separable line (not shown) is made between
successive two unit cover sheets. When the stock (60) is set in the
plastic box (61), a user can turn a lid (64) around a hinge (63).
To guide a center core (65) of the roll stock (60), guide grooves
(not shown) are formed on inner surfaces of the plastic box (61). A
hermetic seal may be arranged at an outlet of the plastic box (61)
through which a leading end of the roll stock (60) is drawn.
[0086] The cover sheet of this invention can be placed or set on
the electrode zones of a body measuring apparatus automatically by
using an automatic cover-sheet dispenser. The automatic cover-sheet
dispenser is particularly advantageous when many examinees are
measured successively in a health center, hospital and complete
physical examination. The automatic cover-sheet dispenser may have
a feeding unit for the cover sheet arranged at a side of the body
measuring apparatus and a collecting unit of the cover sheet at an
opposite side.
[0087] The automatic cover-sheet dispenser has preferably a feeding
unit and a collecting unit of the cover sheet. The feeding unit is
equipped with (1) a case for storing a stock in a form of a roll or
of stack, and (2) means for drawing the cover sheet out of the
stack (such as driving means and guides). The collecting unit is
equipped with (3) driving means (such as driving means and guides)
for drawing the cover sheet supplied from the feeding unit and (4)
a collecting case for collected cover sheet. The automatic
cover-sheet dispenser has preferable means for controlling or
synchronizing operations of the feeding unit and of the collecting
unit, a switch for initiating a feed motion of the cover sheet, and
a display showing operation conditions.
[0088] The automatic cover-sheet dispenser may have following
optional means: [0089] (6) Sensors to detect electro-conductivity,
a resistance meter (arranged usually at the feeding unit side),
[0090] (7) Indexing means for positioning the cover sheet at a
proper position on the electrode zones of the body measuring
apparatus (this indexing can be marks printed on the cover sheet
that are detected optically), [0091] (8) Means for holding the
cover sheet temporally on the electrode zones of the body measuring
apparatus with no slip, [0092] (9) Means for feeding water or
humidity (in case of wet type cover sheet)
[0093] The automatic cover-sheet dispenser according to the present
invention can be combined or used together with any existing body
measuring apparatus with neither modification nor change
thereof
[0094] FIG. 10 is an illustrative perspective view of an example of
the automatic cover-sheet dispenser according to the present
invention. FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view in which front
parts of housings are removed to show interiors of the dispenser.
FIG. 11 is a variation of FIG. 10.
[0095] The automatic cover-sheet dispenser shown in FIG. 10 has a
feeding unit (A) and a collecting unit (B) of the cover sheet. Two
units (A, B) are connected by a connecting plate (C) which fixes a
relative position of the units (A, B). In order to facilitate
adaptation of the automatic cover-sheet dispenser to an existing
body measuring apparatus, the feeding unit (a), the collecting unit
(B) and the connecting plate (C) may be integrated by a simple
connecting means (not shown) such as screws or clamps.
[0096] A housing of the feeding unit (A) comprises a container (70)
for a stock (60) and a container cover (71), which are connected
through a hinge (72). In use, a user is requested only to open the
container cover (71), to insert a new roll stock (60) in the
container (70), to pull out a leading top of a cover sheet from the
stock and to place the cover sheet on a platform (11) of the body
measuring apparatus (10), and then to close the container cover
(71). The drawn cover sheet is clamped between an upper presser
roller (73) supported by the container cover (71) and a lower
presser roller (74) supported by the container (70). These presser
rollers (73, 74) may be used as terminals of a conductor sensor or
of a resistance meter. It is also possible to use a mechanism to
drive the presser rollers (73, 74) vertically, so that a clearance
between the presser rollers (73, 74) is enlarged when the cover
sheet is advanced, and the cover sheet is clamped by the presser
rollers (73, 74) during a stage of measurement to prevent slip of
the cover sheet (1).
[0097] The collecting unit (B) has basically same mechanism as the
feeding unit (A). In case of the collecting unit (B), it is
necessary to arrange a driver (such as an electric motor) for
pulling the cover sheet (1) or for rotating a core shaft around
which the cover sheet (1) is wound and a mechanism for connecting
the core shaft to the driver. It is preferably to arrange another
driver also in the feeding unit (A) and to synchronize motions of
two divers.
[0098] In the housings of the feeding unit (A) and/or the
collecting unit (B), a variety elements or mechanisms (not shown)
such as a guide means of the core shaft, a conductor sensor or a
resistance meter, a feed mechanism, drivers for the presser rollers
(73, 74) and a computer (such as a control board) for controlling
all movements in the automatic cover sheet dispenser can be
arranged. These elements are not shown in the drawings for
clarity.
[0099] The automatic cover sheet dispenser shown in FIG. 10 can be
used for both type cover sheets of wet type and dray type. To avoid
dry-out of the wet type cover sheet, it is advantageous to keep the
container cover (71) at a closed position.
[0100] FIG. 11 is an illustrative perspective view of another
example of the automatic cover-sheet dispenser according to the
present invention and is a variation of FIG. 10. In the dispenser
of FIG. 11, a feeder of electro-conductive liquid such as water is
added to the dispenser of FIG. 10. In FIG. 11, the housings shown
in FIG. 10 are not shown for clarity. The electro-conductive liquid
(77) such as water is fed to a pan (77). Water may be fed from a
portable water tank (not shown) arranged in a housing in the
feeding unit (A). Water in the pan (77) may be maintained at a
predetermined level.
[0101] FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 show further another type cover sheet
dispensers that are designed for home uses by simplifying and
reducing the sized of the dispenser shown in FIG. 11 equipped with
a feeder of electro-conductive liquid (such as water). FIG. 12 and
FIG. 13 are illustrative cross sections of the feeder of
electro-conductive liquid and same reference numbers are assigned
to the same or similar parts.
[0102] The feeder of electro-conductive liquid shown in FIG. 12 is
designed so as to use only the feeding unit (A) of FIG. 11. A
container cover (71) has a handle (not shown) for facilitating
transportation thereof or to increase its portableness. In use, a
user opens the container cover (71), inserts a new roll stock (60)
in the container (70), draws a leading end of the cover shoot (1)
and passes it under a guide roller (78) immersed in water, and then
closes the container cover (71). The cover sheet (1) pulled out is
cut along perforations and a separate cover sheet is set on the
platform (11) of the body measuring apparatus as is shown in FIG.
3B and in FIG. 4B.
[0103] In FIG. 13, water is not fed to the pan (77) but is fed to
water feed rollers (80, 81) such as sponge rollers to avoid
spillage of water. Water is supplied from a water tank (83) through
a feed controller (82) to at least one of the sponge rollers. A
shallow pan (84) is arranged to collect dropped excessive
water.
[0104] This housing also has a handle (not shown) for facilitating
transportation thereof or to increase its portableness. In use, a
user opens the container cover (71), inserts a new roll stock (60)
in the container (70), draws a leading end of the cover shoot (1)
and passes it under a sponge roller (80), and then closes the
container cover (71). To facilitate changing operation of the roll
stock (60), it is desirable to have such a design that a leading
end of the cover sheet (1) is passed under the sponge roller (80)
when the container cover (71) is opened. In the case of FIG. 13,
the cover sheet (1) pulled out is cut along perforations and a
separate cover sheet is set on the platform (11) of the body
measuring apparatus as is shown in FIG. 3B and in FIG. 4B.
[0105] The cover sheet dispensers shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 are
suited in particular for home uses of the wet type cover sheet but
can be used also for the dry type.
[0106] FIG. 14 is a variation of the cover sheet shown in FIG. 5A
and is used mainly for wet type. This cover sheet according to the
present invention has a three-layered structure. For example, a
non-woven web (20) is sandwiched between opposite surface sheets
(31, 32) of insulation material such as low density polyethylene.
Zones corresponding to the electric conductive area portions (2) of
the surface sheets (31, 32) are punched out to form openings and
the non-woven web (20) is appeared at the openings (punched out
zones). A difference from the cover sheet of FIG. 5A resides in
that the non-woven web (20) is not subjected to electro-conductive
treatment. Namely, the cover sheet of FIG. 14 is used in the wet
type and electro-conductive liquid is coated, sprayed or adhered
onto the electric conductive area portions (2) to create the
electro-conductive property, at usage for example. In fact, only
the electro-conductive liquid sprayed gives the electric
conductivity in thickness direction. The non-woven web (20) can be
connected to the surface sheets (31, 32) of low density
polyethylene by adhesive or welding.
[0107] If necessary, insulation of the surface sheets of low
density polyethylene can be assured by effecting such a treatment
that the electro-conductive liquid do not penetrate into other
parts of the electric conductive area portions (2) in the non-woven
web (20). For example, a zone preventing penetration of
electro-conductive liquid can be arranged at the centerline or zone
of the non-woven web (20). In practice, a water-repellent line is
coated or welded on the non-woven web (20) along its longitudinal
centerline, or a material of the non-woven web (20) is replaced by
water-impermeable or water-repellent material along its
longitudinal centerline or zone. In the same manner, it is possible
to effect similar treatment that prevent penetration of the
electro-conductive liquid of the cover sheet (1) along transverse
direction (from bottom to top direction in FIG. 14)
[0108] There is no serious problem even if the surface sheets (31,
32) contain a small amount of electro-conductive liquid. In fact, a
distance between electrodes in a plane direction is very longer
than a thickness, so that electric resistance of the surface sheets
(31, 32) in the plane direction is high and gives no influence to
measurement. If necessary, a calibration table can be added to a
measuring circuit.
[0109] FIG. 15 is an illustrative cross section of a device used to
coating, spraying or adhering electro-conductive liquid onto the
cover sheet shown in FIG. 14. In FIG. 14, same reference numbers
are assigned to the same or similar parts shown in FIG. 12 and in
FIG. 13. A difference from FIG. 13 resides in that the water feed
roller is replaced by a spray nozzle (85). A pattern plate having
perforation patterns corresponding to the electric conductive area
portions (2) (not shown) can be arranged between the cover sheet
(1) and the spray nozzle (85), so that a spray (86) of the
electro-conductive liquid such as an aqueous solution is limited to
the electric conductive area portions (2). It is also possible to
synchronize a timing of spraying with a feed speed of the cover
sheet, and to use a more than two spray nozzles or to arrange the
spray nozzle at opposite side of the cover sheet.
[0110] Devices shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 also can be used to
effecting coating, adhesion or spraying of the electro-conductive
liquid onto the non-woven web (20) shown in FIG. 14.
[0111] Now, embodiments of the present invention will be
explained.
EXAMPLE
Embodiment 1
[0112] On a sheet (3) of low density of polyethylene, four square
opening, each having a dimension of 13 mm.times.13 mm, were made at
positions corresponding to the area portion of "2" in FIG. 3B. Four
square electric conductive patches (2) of 15 mm.times.15 mm were
cut from an electric conductive non-woven web (thickness of 0.3 mm)
in thickness direction consisting of commercially available
polyester/paper. Each square electric conductive patch of the
electric conductive non-woven web (2) was secured at its outer
periphery onto each square opening of sheet (3) of low density of
polyethylene with adhesive or a heat seal to obtain a cover sheet
according to this invention having a structure shown in FIG. 5B.
Resistance values of the square patches of electric conductive
non-woven web (2) along thickness direction were in a range of from
400 to 500 ohm.
[0113] A platform of a body composition measuring apparatus
commercially available from applicant in the name of MC-180 was
covered with this cover sheet and the body fat of an examinee was
measured. For comparison, data without the cover sheet were also
obtained. It was possible to cancel a difference in measured
results obtained when the cover sheet was used and when the cover
sheet was not used, by effecting compensation of data obtained.
Embodiment 2
[0114] The same operation as Embodiment 1 was repeated, with using
a commercially available electric conductive polyurethane foam
sheet (thickness under no compression; 5 mm, and thickness under 40
kg weight; 0 3 mm) instead of the square patch of electric
conductive non-woven web (2). Resistance value along thickness
direction of the square electric conductive web (2) was several
ohms.
[0115] The cover sheet was evaluated by the same method as
Embodiment 1. In this case, measured result could be used without
compensation.
Embodiment 3
[0116] The same operation as Embodiment 2 was repeated, with using
a textile made of electric conductive polyamide fibers as the
square patch of electric conductive non-woven web (2). Resistance
value along thickness direction of the square electric conductive
web (2) was several ohms.
[0117] The cover sheet was evaluated by the same method as
Embodiment 1. In this case, measured result could be used without
compensation.
Embodiment 4
[0118] A cover sheet according to this invention was prepared by
subjecting a non-woven web of a polypropylene to electric
conductive treatment.
[0119] An electric conductive paint was coated onto a commercially
available non-woven web of polypropylene at limed areas
corresponding to the electric conductive area portion in FIG. 6A,
in such a manner that the electric conductive paint penetrated
through the non-woven web of a polypropylene from top to bottom.
The electric conductive paint was prepared by mixing 100 parts by
weight of pulverized silver powders having an average parcel
diameter of 50 micro meter and an apparent density of 0.03
gram/cm.sup.3 obtained by crushing silver foils having an average
thickness of 0.2 micro meter, 1000 parts by weight of acrylic
resign and 3000 parts by weight of toluene for 10 minutes. The
electric conductive paint was applied onto the non-woven web of
propylene and passed through the web from top to bottom. The
specific resistance measured after drying was such excellent value
as 7.times.10.sup.-4 .OMEGA.-cm in electric conductivity.
[0120] The cover sheet was evaluated by the same method as
Embodiment 1 and found that the measuring result could be used
without compensation.
[0121] Anti-slip dots of rubber were printed (diameter of dot is
about 1 to 3 mm, space between dots is about 1 cm) on a lower
surface of the insulation area portion (3) of the non-woven web. No
slip was observed when the obtained cover sheet was placed on a
platform (11) of the body composition measuring apparatus (10).
Embodiment 5
Wet Type Cover Sheet for Home Uses
[0122] A roll stock (60) of the cover sheet according to the
present invention was prepared by using a patch (13 mm.times.13 mm,
a thickness of 1 mm under non-compressed condition) of non-woven
web of rayon and pulp blend for the electric conductive patches (2)
and a film of low density polyethylene (thickness of 15 to 40
.mu.m) for the insulation area portions (31, 32) shown in the cross
section of FIG. 5A. Outer periphery of the patch was heat-welded
onto an inner periphery of an opening made in the film of low
density polyethylene.
[0123] The resulting cover sheet was immersed in an aqueous
solution in which water-keeping agent; antibacterial agent and
perfume were dissolved so that the rayon - pulp blend fabric,
absorbed the solution. Water remained on the low density
polyethylene film was removed by passing the cover sheet through a
water-suction rollers. Then, the cover sheets were wound in a roll
stock.
[0124] The roll stock (60) has a width of 430 mm, a length of about
27 m to and contained hundred units cover sheets (1') (each having
a dimension of 430.times.450 mm). Perforations, which were tearable
by hands, were formed between successive two unit cover sheets.
[0125] The patch of non-woven web of rayon-pulp blend absorbing the
solution showed nearly zero resistance.
Embodiment 6
Wet Type Cover Sheet for Complete Physical Examination
[0126] A roll stock (60) of the wet type cover sheet was prepared
by the same process as Embodiment 5. In this case, however, the
tearable perforations were not formed because the cover sheets are
not cut. A space between successive two unit cover sheets (1')
(430.times.450 mm) was reduced. The total length of hundred unit
cover sheets was 450 m.
[0127] The resulting roll stock can be used without trouble in the
automatic cover-sheet dispenser of the cover sheet shown in FIG.
10.
[0128] It should be understood that the present invention should
not be limited to Embodiments of described above but persons
skilled in the arts can improve, modify and change the Embodiments
without deviating from the scope of the present invention.
* * * * *