Waterproof zipper chain tape and its manufacturing method

Abstract

The present invention provides a waterproof zipper chain and a method for preparing the same. The zipper chain has through holes (9) formed at regular intervals along the side edges (23, 33) of the zipper tapes (21, 31) covered by a waterproof layer (26) along a tape base fabric (25). The side edges (23, 33) of the zipper tapes (21, 31) are subjected to plasma treatment or corona treatment on one or both sides of the zipper tapes (21, 31) to form an activated area on the surface of the waterproof layer (26). The zipper teeth (29, 39) are injection molded and attached to the side edges (23, 33) of the zipper tapes (21, 31). The molten resin that becomes the zipper teeth (29, 39) after hardening adheres to the activated area and fills the through holes (9).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a waterproof zipper chain tape and a manufacturing method thereof. Background Art

[0002] Waterproof sliding zippers have traditionally been used. These zippers are typically used for marine sports applications like wetsuits, but are rarely opened and closed. Furthermore, the slider has high sliding resistance, requiring considerable force to open and close.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a waterproof sliding zipper comprising a waterproof layer made of a polyurethane elastomer and zipper elements made of a polymer alloy of polyurethane resin and ABS resin. Specifically, to facilitate high-frequency welding of the waterproof sliding zipper to a polyurethane-based substrate, a polyurethane elastomer is used as the waterproof layer (paragraphs 0010, 0016, and 0025 of the document). The document also lists the drawbacks of using polyurethane resin as the raw material for the zipper elements (paragraph 0017 of the document), ultimately adopting a polymer alloy of polyurethane resin and ABS resin (paragraph 0018 of the document).

[0004] Patent Document 2 discloses the use of plasma to remove protruding portions of fastener tape fibers. Patent Documents 3 and 4 disclose the use of plasma treatment or corona treatment for surface modification.

[0005] [Prior art literature]

[0006] [Patent Document]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-267935

[0008] [Patent Document 2] China Invention Patent Application Publication No. 104026815

[0009] [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2017 / 064759

[0010] [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-77916

[0011] Zipper elements are in an environment with harsh chemical conditions, and "element turn" is sometimes prone to occur. For example, in order to improve the sliding properties of the slider, a lubricant other than the recommended lubricant (such as grease) is applied to the zipper element array. In such an unexpected situation, it was confirmed that if force is applied and the opening and closing operations are repeated, even if the sliding zipper is opened and closed a small number of times, element turn may occur. In addition, "element turn" means that when the sliding zipper is opened and closed, the zipper elements are continuously subjected to force from the slider, causing the zipper elements to rotate on the surface of the zipper tape (specifically, on the waterproof layer).

[0012] The probability of element rotation increases with the number of times the slide zipper is opened and closed. Therefore, suppressing the occurrence of element rotation is beneficial even when the zipper elements are not in a chemically harsh environment. Summary of the Invention

[0013] The inventors of the present application have come up with the following invention based on the new problem that when fastener elements are placed in an environment with harsh chemical conditions, the fastener elements are prone to deviation.

[0014] A method for manufacturing a waterproof slide fastener stringer according to one embodiment of the present invention includes the following steps:

[0015] A step of forming through holes penetrating the zipper tape at regular intervals along the side edge of the zipper tape covered with the waterproof layer on the tape base fabric;

[0016] A step of performing plasma treatment or corona treatment on the side edges of the fastener tape on one or both sides thereof to form an activated area on the surface of the waterproof layer; and

[0017] In the process of attaching the fastener elements to the side edge portions of the fastener tape by injection molding, the molten resin that becomes the fastener elements after curing adheres to the activated areas and fills the through-holes.

[0018] Plasma treatment or corona treatment is known as a method for improving the wettability of a surface. However, during the injection molding of zipper elements, if the wettability of the surface of the zipper tape (especially the surface of the waterproof layer) is increased, it may lead to poor filling or burr formation. This is because the increase in the wettability of the surface of the waterproof layer affects the movement of the molten resin in the molding cavity. Poor filling leads to a decrease in the adhesion energy of the zipper elements to the waterproof layer. The generation of burrs is not limited to the waste of material, but also increases the burden of the appearance inspection of the sliding zipper product, and depending on the situation, may lead to a decrease in the yield of the sliding zipper. Contrary to the above assumption, the inventors of the present application applied plasma treatment or corona treatment to the surface of the waterproof layer to which the zipper elements are attached before injection molding the zipper elements and attaching them to the zipper tape. As a result, the adhesion energy of the zipper elements relative to the surface of the waterproof layer can be significantly improved, and the occurrence of element deviation can be significantly reduced.

[0019] Waterproof slide fasteners are generally not opened and closed frequently, and their maximum opening and closing times are not often estimated. By suppressing the occurrence of element rotation in waterproof slide fasteners, the maximum opening and closing times of the waterproof slide fastener can be increased, thereby enabling expansion to applications with a high opening and closing frequency.

[0020] In some cases, after forming the through holes in the side edges of the zipper tape, the side edges of the zipper tape are subjected to plasma treatment or corona treatment to remove yarns or fibers of the tape base fabric in the through holes.

[0021] In some cases, the step of performing plasma treatment or corona treatment on the side edges of the zipper tape on one or both sides of the zipper tape to form an activated area on the surface of the waterproof layer includes:

[0022] forming a plasma irradiation area on the surface of the waterproof layer at the side edge of the zipper tape; and

[0023] The zipper tape is conveyed from the upstream side to the downstream side.

[0024] The activated region is formed continuously along the longitudinal direction of the fastener tape.

[0025] In some cases, the spot diameter of the plasma irradiation region is larger than the diameter of the through hole, and the spot diameter of the plasma irradiation region is less than 2 times or less than 1.5 times the width of the side edge portion.

[0026] In some cases, the process of applying plasma treatment or corona treatment to the side edges of the zipper tape on one or both sides to form an activated area on the surface of the waterproof layer is performed except for the side edges of the zipper tape where the stopper is to be formed. Plasma is intermittently irradiated from the plasma irradiation portion, or the formation of a plasma irradiated area (plasma spot) on the zipper tape is intermittently prevented.

[0027] In some cases, the method further includes subjecting the base fabric to a plasma treatment or corona treatment before the base fabric is covered with the waterproof layer. This treatment may include forming a plasma irradiated area on the surface of the base fabric and conveying the base fabric from upstream to downstream.

[0028] A waterproof layer can be formed on both the upper and lower surfaces of the tape base fabric by extrusion molding. The zipper tape can have a tape body with an embossed pattern on both sides and side edges with smooth surfaces on both sides. The waterproof layer can be made of polyurethane, and the zipper elements can be made of polyamide.

[0029] In some cases, the zipper element includes a filling portion that fills the through hole; an upper portion coupled to the upper end of the filling portion; and a lower portion coupled to the lower end of the filling portion, the upper portion and the lower portion respectively having a head, a neck, and a torso, and the end surface of the side edge portion of the zipper tape is arranged in a groove between the head of the upper portion and the head of the lower portion.

[0030] In some cases, with respect to a zipper tooth provided between the two ends of a waterproof zipper chain tape, when one of the upper and lower parts is removed, the remaining upper part or the lower part moves in a manner away from the overlapping ends of the waterproof zipper chain tape, and when a load curve is generated by measuring the load required for the displacement of the remaining upper part or the lower part, when calculating the area of the load curve in the interval from the maximum value initially reached by the measured load value to the point where the measured load value becomes zero, S>200 is satisfied, where S represents the area of the load curve in the said interval (unit: N·mm).

[0031] A waterproof fastener stringer according to another aspect of the present invention is a waterproof fastener stringer in which resin fastener elements are attached to a fastener tape having a base fabric covered with a waterproof layer, wherein:

[0032] The zipper element includes: at least one filling portion for filling a through hole passing through the zipper tape; an upper portion coupled to an upper end of the at least one filling portion; and a lower portion coupled to a lower end of the at least one filling portion.

[0033] Regarding a zipper tooth provided between the two ends of a waterproof zipper chain tape, when one of the upper and lower parts is removed, the remaining upper part or the lower part moves in a manner away from the overlapping ends of the waterproof zipper chain tape, and when a load curve is generated by measuring the load required for the displacement of the remaining upper part or the lower part, when calculating the area of the load curve in the interval from the maximum value initially reached by the measured load value to the time when the measured load value becomes zero, S>200 is satisfied, where S represents the area of the load curve in the said interval (unit: N·mm).

[0034] Regarding the above-mentioned features, the load curve is drawn by measuring the load applied to the remaining upper or lower part for every 0.1mm displacement of the remaining upper or lower part. In addition, the above-mentioned area is obtained by integrating the load curve as described below. First, the load value when the measured load value is the maximum is set as the starting point of integration, and the load value when the measured load value is zero is set as the ending point of integration. A small area is obtained based on the two load values measured continuously, and this operation is repeated from the starting point of integration to the ending point of integration. The small area is obtained by the calculation formula = ((first load value + second load value) / 2)×0.1 (here, the first and second load values are values measured continuously; 0.1 corresponds to 0.1mm of the measurement interval). By summing up the small areas obtained in this way, the area of the load curve is obtained. In addition, a clamp can be used on the remaining upper or lower part for movement. In this case, since the clamp moves together with the remaining part of the chain element, the load curve is drawn by measuring the load applied to the clamp for every 0.1mm displacement of the clamp.

[0035] In some cases, the maximum value is greater than 50N, or the maximum value is greater than 58N.

[0036] In some cases, when grease was applied to the zipper elements, the slider was moved at a distance of 600 mm and a speed of 900 mm / s, and a force of 3 kgf was applied in the longitudinal direction and 0.1 kgf in the width direction of the zipper during an opening and closing test, the elements did not turn even after 10,000 cycles. Preferably, the elements did not turn even after 20,000 cycles.

[0037] For zipper tapes tested by load or opening and closing tests, the area of the surface where the zipper elements are attached to the waterproof layer on one side of the zipper tape may be 17.08 mm 2 ±0.2mm 2 If the deviation of the area is small, the area can be 17.08mm 2 ±0.1mm 2 Here, 0.1mm 2Indicates the deviation corresponding to 17.08×0.05=0.854. The deviation may reflect the deviation of thermal shrinkage of the material, etc. In addition, the area of the through hole (and the area of the inner wall surface of the through hole) is not included in the attachment area. The above attachment area is obtained by measuring the cross-sectional area of the zipper element in the plane consistent with the tape surface of the zipper tape (19.35mm 2 ) minus the cross-sectional area of the through hole in the plane (2.27mm 2 ) and found out.

[0038] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a waterproof slide fastener in which occurrence of element deviation is suppressed compared to conventional methods. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Figure 1 It is a schematic plan view of the slide fastener related to one aspect of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 2 This is a schematic partial top view of the zipper tape on the left side, and the dotted circles represent through holes formed at a certain interval in the zipper tape.

[0041] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view taken along the dashed line III-III.

[0042] Figure 4 This is a schematic block diagram related to a manufacturing apparatus for a slide fastener according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the extrusion molding process.

[0044] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the drilling process.

[0045] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the injection molding process.

[0046] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a zipper tape with a base fabric covered with a waterproof layer.

[0047] Figure 9 It is a schematic diagram of the zipper tape of the opening.

[0048] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a zipper tape with zipper elements attached.

[0049] Figure 11 It is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the lower portion of one fastener element is removed in the fastener stringer.

[0050] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram for reference in order to explain the tensile test method.

[0051] Figure 13 This is a graph showing a load curve of the tensile test results of Example 1.

[0052] Figure 14 This is a graph showing a load curve of the tensile test results of Comparative Example 1.

[0053] Figure 15 This is a graph showing a load curve of the tensile test results of Example 2.

[0054] Figure 16 This is a photograph showing a portion of the zipper tape before plasma treatment.

[0055] Figure 17 This is a photograph showing a portion of a zipper tape after plasma treatment.

[0056] [Description of labels]

[0057] 1: Sliding zipper;

[0058] 2: Zipper chain;

[0059] 3: Zipper chain;

[0060] 21: zipper tape;

[0061] 23: lateral edge;

[0062] 25: with base fabric;

[0063] 26: waterproof layer;

[0064] 29: Zipper teeth;

[0065] 31: zipper tape;

[0066] 33: lateral edge;

[0067] 39: Zipper teeth. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] Below, with reference to the attached Figure 1 Various embodiments and features are described. A person skilled in the art can combine the various embodiments and / or features without excessive explanation, and can also understand the synergistic effect brought about by the combination. In principle, repeated descriptions between the embodiments are omitted. The main purpose of describing the invention is to refer to the accompanying drawings, which are simplified for the sake of convenience. Each feature is understood to be not only effective for the waterproof zipper tooth chain and the manufacturing method thereof disclosed in this application, but also a universal feature commonly used in various other waterproof zipper tooth chain and the manufacturing method thereof not disclosed in this specification.

[0069] like Figure 1As shown, the waterproof slide fastener 1 is a tape body that is long in the front-to-back direction and short in the left-to-right direction. It includes left and right waterproof fastener tapes 2 and 3; a slider 4 for connecting and disconnecting the left and right fastener tapes 2 and 3; a front stop 5 connecting the left and right fastener tapes 2 and 3; and a rear stop 6 connecting the left and right fastener tapes 2 and 3. Each fastener tape 2 and 3 includes a waterproof fastener tape 21 and 31 that extends long in the front-to-back direction, and a plurality of fastener elements 29 and 39 that are arranged at regular intervals along the front-to-back direction on the side edges 23 and 33 of the fastener tapes 21 and 31. The remaining portion of the fastener tapes 21 and 31 outside the side edges 23 and 33 is referred to as the tape body 22 and 32. The tape body 22 and 32 is wider than the side edges 23 and 33.

[0070] In this specification, the front-to-back direction corresponds to the direction in which the slider 4 moves to open and close the slide fastener 1. The left-to-right direction is perpendicular to the front-to-back direction and parallel to the tape surfaces of the fastener tapes 21 and 31. The up-down direction is perpendicular to the front-to-back direction and perpendicular to the tape surfaces of the fastener tapes 21 and 31. The tape surfaces of the fastener tapes 21 and 31 define the thickness of the fastener tapes 21 and 31.

[0071] Reference Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 The structure of the zipper stringer 2 on the left side will be described. In addition, the structure of the zipper stringer 3 on the right side is the same as that of the zipper stringer 2 on the left side, and its description is omitted. Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, through-holes 9 are formed at regular intervals along the front-to-back direction in the side edge 23 of the fastener tape 21. The fastener element 29 includes a filling portion 71 that fills the through-holes 9, an upper portion 72 coupled to the upper end of the filling portion 71, and a lower portion 73 coupled to the lower end of the filling portion 71. The upper portion 72 and the lower portion 73 each have a head 76, a neck 77, and a body 78. Optionally, the upper portion 72 and the lower portion 73 each have a shoulder 74 and a fin 75, each thinner than the head 76, neck 77, and body 78. The fin 75 extends from the body 78 toward the tape main body 22. The shoulders 74 extend from the body 78 toward the head 76 on either side of the neck 77.

[0072] In the groove 79 between the head 76 of the upper portion 72 and the head 76 of the lower portion 73, the side edge 23 of the zipper tape 21 protrudes to the right, and its right end surface 23c is exposed in the groove 79. Regarding the right zipper stringer 3, in the groove 79 between the head 76 of the upper portion 72 and the head 76 of the lower portion 73, the side edge 33 of the zipper tape 31 protrudes to the left, and its left end surface is exposed in the groove 79. The right end surface 23c of the zipper tape 21 and the left end surface of the zipper tape 31 are opposite to each other and can be in close contact with each other. When the left and right zipper elements 29 and 39 engage as the slider 4 advances, the right end surface 23c of the zipper tape 21 and the left end surface of the zipper tape 31 are in close contact (preferably compressed), thereby preventing the movement of fluid in the vertical direction.

[0073] The zipper tape 21 comprises a base fabric 25 made of a woven fabric, a knitted fabric, or a mixture thereof, and a waterproof layer 26 covering the circumference of the base fabric 25 (specifically, the upper and lower surfaces and the left and right end surfaces). The base fabric 25 is woven and / or knitted from yarn made of a synthetic resin and has multiple gaps that allow the flow of fluid. For example, when the base fabric 25 is woven from multiple warp yarns and a single weft yarn, gaps form between the warp yarns. Similarly, gaps also form between adjacent weft yarn portions extending in the weft direction. There is a possibility that fluid may flow between the upper and lower surfaces of the base fabric 25 through such gaps. The waterproof layer 26 is formed on the base fabric 25 to seal the above-mentioned gaps in the base fabric 25.

[0074] In addition, within the range of the belt main body 22, 32, embossed patterns are formed on the upper and lower surfaces of the waterproof layer 26 (see Figure 2 ) On the other hand, no embossed pattern is formed on the upper and lower surfaces of the side edges 23 and 33, and specifically, they are smooth surfaces.

[0075] There is no particular limitation on the raw materials of the waterproof layer 26 and the zipper elements 29 and 39. For example, the waterproof layer 26 can be composed of a polyurethane-based, polyester-based, polyamide-based, or vinyl chloride-based thermoplastic elastomer (for example, one of the polyester-based thermoplastic elastomers is sold on the market by Toray DuPont Co., Ltd. as the trade name "Hytrel"). The zipper elements 29 and 39 are composed of one or more thermoplastic resins selected from the group consisting of polyacetal, polyamide, polypropylene, polybutylene terephthalate, and polycarbonate. Alternatively, the zipper elements 29 and 39 are composed of a polymer alloy of polyurethane resin and ABS resin. As a preferred combination, the waterproof layer 26 is polyurethane and the zipper elements 29 and 39 are polyamide.

[0076] The slider 4 has an upper wing plate, a lower wing plate, and a connecting column connecting the upper wing plate and the lower wing plate. A Y-shaped chain tooth passage is provided on the slider 4. Specifically, a connecting column is provided at the front end of the slider 4, and left and right front openings of the connecting column are provided. A rear opening is provided at the rear end of the slider 4. The left and right separated zipper teeth 29, 39 enter the slider 4 through the left and right front openings, are combined at the rear of the connecting column in the slider 4, and exit from the rear opening. The left and right combined zipper teeth 29, 39 enter the slider 4 through a rear opening, are separated by the connecting column in the slider 4, and the separated zipper teeth 29, 39 exit from each front opening.

[0077] As an option, left and right flanges projecting downward are provided on the left and right side edges of the upper wing. Additionally or alternatively, left and right flanges projecting upward are provided on the left and right side edges of the lower wing. The placement of these flanges facilitates smooth movement of the zipper elements 29 and 39 within the Y-shaped element passage.

[0078] The front stop 5 and rear stop 6 are attached to the left and right zipper tapes 21 and 31 via injection molding. The front stop 5 defines the front stop position of the slider 4. The rear stop 6 defines the rear stop position of the slider 4. These stoppers, like the zipper elements, are formed by injection molding and attached to the zipper tapes. However, unlike the zipper elements, the stoppers are attached to both the left and right zipper tapes and are larger than the zipper elements. In other words, they have a greater number of through-holes than the zipper elements.

[0079] Reference Figures 4 to 10 The manufacturing method of the zipper chain is described. Figure 4 As shown, extrusion molding (S101), hole opening (S102), plasma treatment (S103), and finally injection molding (S104) are performed. The two zipper stringers manufactured in this way are connected by a slider to form a zipper chain, and then the front stop 5 and the rear stop 6 are injection molded.

[0080] Extrusion molding (S101) uses, for example, Figure 5 Specifically, the base fabric 25 and a molten or softened material 26' that will become the waterproof layer 26 after hardening are supplied to the extrusion die 111, and the molten or softened material 26' is applied to the circumference of the base fabric 25, which hardens and forms the waterproof layer 26 on the circumference of the base fabric 25.

[0081] The extrusion die 111 has a moving path for conveying the base fabric 25 from the upstream side to the downstream side and a supply path for supplying the molten or softened material 26' to the upper and lower surfaces of the base fabric 25 moving in the moving path. The base fabric 25 moves from the upstream side to the downstream side in the moving path through the moving path of the extrusion die 111. The high-temperature and high-pressure molten or softened material 26' is filled into the supply path of the extrusion die 111 by a feeder such as a screw. In this way, the molten or softened material 26' forms a film on the upper and lower surfaces of the base fabric 25. In order to form a film of the target thickness, the viscosity and supply pressure of the molten or softened material 26' are appropriately adjusted. The molten or softened material 26' is cooled (for example, air-cooled, liquid-cooled) and hardened, and is fixed on the base fabric 25 as a waterproof layer 26. In addition, in Figure 5 Although not shown in the figure, a conveying mechanism for the base fabric 25 such as a clamper and a roller is used.

[0082] Before extrusion molding, plasma treatment or corona treatment is applied to the upper and lower surfaces or one side of the base fabric 25. Thereby, the surface of the side edge portion of the base fabric 25 is modified to promote the close adhesion of the molten or softened material 26' to the surface of the base fabric 25. Preferably, the middle area of the left and right side edges extending along the long side direction of the base fabric 25 (for example, an area away from the side edge portion of one side at a specified distance (for example, 5mm to 15mm)) is subjected to plasma treatment or corona treatment. In addition, both plasma treatment and corona treatment are surface treatments based on discharge phenomena. In plasma treatment, plasma (plasma beam) in a state where electrons with negative charge and cations with positive charge are flying in space is irradiated. Corona treatment irradiates electrons emitted from the electrode and negative ions generated along with the electrons.

[0083] exist Figure 5 In the figure, plasma irradiation parts 121 and 122 are arranged on the upstream side of the extrusion die 111 and on the upper and lower sides of the base fabric 25. The plasma irradiation parts 121 and 122 irradiate the plasma generated by the plasma source (common or separately set) not shown in the figure to the surface of the side edge of the base fabric 25. Typically, the plasma source has a gas flow path and an electrode for plasma-exciting the gas flowing into the gas flow path. For example, air is used as the gas excited by the plasma. If the plasma is irradiated, hydrophilic functional groups are generated on the surface of the yarn of the base fabric 25, thereby improving the wettability. In addition, the surface of the yarn of the base fabric 25 is slightly roughened. By modifying the surface of the yarn of the base fabric 25 in this way, the adhesion between the yarn of the base fabric 25 and the molten or softened material 26' (and then the waterproof layer 26) is improved.

[0084] Similar to the plasma treatment (S103) described later, the plasma irradiation area (plasma spot) is formed corresponding to or limited to the side edge of the base fabric 25. The spot diameter of the plasma irradiation area is preferably less than 2 or 1.5 times the left-right width of the side edge of the base fabric 25. Of course, the base fabric 25 can also be subjected to plasma treatment or corona treatment independently of extrusion molding. Furthermore, since hydrophilic functional groups disappear over time, extrusion molding is preferably performed without delay with plasma irradiation.

[0085] In the hole opening (S102), through holes 9 are formed at regular intervals along the side edges of the zipper tapes 21 and 31 so as to penetrate the zipper tapes 21 and 31. For example, Figure 6 The punching machine shown. The punching machine has one or more (three in the case shown) punches 131 that can be moved up and down, a support platform 132 arranged below the punch 131, and rollers 134 to 137 for conveying the zipper tapes 21 and 31. During the process of conveying the zipper tapes 21 and 31 from the upstream side to the downstream side, the punch 131 stops intermittently and punches holes. The punch 131 descends, forming a through hole 9 in the zipper tapes 21 and 31, and protruding into the hole 132h of the support platform 132. The yarn scraps generated by the punch 131 cutting the tape base fabric 25 fall down and are collected in the trash box 133.

[0086] In addition, the lower end of the punch 131 is not limited to a single-edged one as shown in the figure, and can be formed into a double-edged one or other sharp shape. The number of punches 131 is arbitrary, and can be one, two, or more than three depending on the situation. The result of the opening is that the zipper tapes 21 and 31 are cut from the Figure 8 The status changes shown are Figure 9 The status shown.

[0087] In the plasma treatment (S103), plasma treatment is applied to the side edges of the zipper tapes 21, 31 on one side or both sides thereof to form an activated area on the surface of the waterproof layer 26. In addition, as an alternative to the plasma treatment, corona treatment can also be applied. The activated area is an area where hydrophilic functional groups are generated on the surface of the waterproof layer 26 and / or an area where the surface of the waterproof layer 26 is roughened. The hydrophilic functional groups decrease over time starting from the moment of plasma irradiation. Therefore, it is preferred that no delay time is provided between the plasma treatment (S103) and the injection molding (S104). In some cases, injection molding (S104) is performed within 1 week or within 48 hours from the end of the plasma treatment (S103).

[0088] like Figure 6As shown, plasma irradiation units 138 and 139 are arranged on the upper and lower sides of the zipper tapes 21 and 31 on the downstream side of the punch (punch 131). The plasma irradiation units 138 and 139 irradiate the surfaces of the zipper tapes 21 and 31 with plasma generated by a plasma source. When the plasma is irradiated, hydrophilic functional groups are generated on the surface of the waterproof layer 26, thereby improving wettability. In addition, the surface of the waterproof layer 26 is slightly roughened. By modifying the surface of the waterproof layer in this way, the adhesion between the waterproof layer 26 and the molten resin (and thus the zipper elements 29 and 39) is improved.

[0089] like Figure 9 As shown, plasma irradiation areas (plasma spots) SP are formed on the surface of the waterproof layer at the side edges of the zipper tape. In this state, the zipper tape is conveyed from upstream to downstream, and an activated area is continuously formed along the longitudinal direction of the zipper tape. Plasma irradiation areas SP are formed to correspond to or be limited to the side edges 23 and 33, thereby reducing waste of electricity required for plasma generation. The spot diameter of the plasma irradiation areas SP is preferably larger than the diameter of the through-hole 9. The spot diameter of the plasma irradiation areas SP is preferably less than 2 or 1.5 times the left-right width of the side edges 23 and 33.

[0090] The plasma irradiation area SP is formed across the following areas: in the side edge portions 23, 33, areas where the zipper elements 29, 39 are scheduled to be attached (hereinafter referred to as the scheduled attachment area) and areas where the zipper elements 29, 39 are scheduled not to be attached (hereinafter referred to as the non-attachment area), and the same applies to the activation area. In addition, the non-attachment area is the area between the scheduled attachment areas. In order to suppress the roughening of the non-attachment area, plasma treatment is preferred over corona treatment. In order to reduce the degree of roughening of the surface of the waterproof layer 26, the conditions of plasma irradiation are appropriately adjusted. Preferably, the plasma irradiation gas flow rate is 1400L / h to 1800L / h, the gas type is atmospheric air, the feed speed of the zipper tape is 5m / min to 15m / min, the separation distance between the plasma irradiation portion and the zipper tape directly below is 5mm to 50mm, and the plasma output is 300 to 500W.

[0091] Plasma treatment or corona treatment may or may not be performed within the attachment area of a stopper, such as a front stopper or a rear stopper. For example, plasma irradiation may be performed intermittently, or a shield may be used to block plasma irradiation. In this case, plasma irradiation is performed on the intended attachment area and non-attachment area of the zipper element, while plasma irradiation is not performed on the intended attachment area of the stopper.

[0092] After the hole is opened (S102), yarn or fiber sometimes remains in the through hole 9. The yarn or fiber in the through hole 9 may be, for example, a portion of the yarn of the base fabric 25 that enters the through hole 9, a portion of yarn scraps cut from the yarn of the base fabric 25 that remain in the through hole 9, or fiber scraps generated when the hole is opened with the base fabric 25. In some cases, plasma treatment (S103) is performed after the hole is opened (S102) rather than before the hole is opened (S102). Thus, the yarn or fiber in the through hole 9 is removed. The situation in which the yarn or fiber in the through hole 9 flows on the surface of the zipper elements 29 and 39 during injection molding and appears visually recognizable on the surface of the zipper elements 29 and 39 is suppressed. In addition, this problem becomes a problem particularly when the color of the zipper element 29 is different from the color of the yarn of the base fabric 25, but it should not be limited to this. It can be considered that the yarn or fiber disappears or is cut off or falls due to receiving energy from the plasma.

[0093] Alternatively, a separate plasma treatment machine can be prepared from the hole-drilling machine. In this case, the plasma treatment machine irradiates the zipper tape with plasma on both sides or one side of the side edge to form an activated area on the surface of the waterproof layer. For example, the zipper tape supplied from the hole-drilling machine is wound onto a reel. The plasma treatment machine unwinds the zipper tape from the reel and applies the plasma treatment.

[0094] During injection molding (S104), the fastener elements are injection-molded, attaching them to the side edges of the zipper tape. The molten resin that hardens into the fastener elements adheres closely to the activated areas of the waterproof layer 26 and fills the through-holes 9 of the side edges 23 and 33. The fastener elements adhere to the activated areas formed on the surface of the waterproof layer 26 by plasma irradiation, improving their adhesion to the waterproof layer 26.

[0095] Injection molding (S104) is performed using an injection molding machine in which an upper mold 141 and a lower mold 142 are mounted on a mold clamping device. Figure 7As shown, the zipper tapes 21 and 31 are supplied and clamped between the lower mold 142 and the upper mold 141. The lower mold 142 and the upper mold 141 define a molding cavity 146, and the through-holes 9 of the side edges 23 and 33 are positioned in the molding cavity 146. Molten resin is supplied to the molding cavity 146 via the flow path (injection port, runner, gate) of the mold, so that the molding cavity 146 is filled with molten resin. The molten resin adheres to the activated area on the surface of the waterproof layer 26 and flows into the through-holes 9 provided in the side edges. The molten resin is hardened by the cooling of the upper mold 141 and the lower mold 142, and the zipper elements are attached to the side edges 23 and 33. The molten resin flowing into the molding cavity 146 solidifies to form a filling portion 71 (corresponding to the through-hole 9), an upper portion 72 (corresponding to the upper space of the mold cavity), and a lower portion 73 (corresponding to the lower space of the mold cavity). In addition, description of the detailed structure of the injection molding machine, for example, the injection device, the mold clamping device, etc. will be omitted.

[0096] A through hole 9 is provided for each zipper element 29, 39. The diameter of the through hole 9 is appropriately set to allow the inflow of molten resin into the through hole 9 and / or the flow of molten resin in the upper and lower spaces of the through hole 9. When the diameter of the through hole 9 is too small, an unfilled portion may be generated. When the diameter of the through hole 9 is too large, the contact area between the zipper elements 29, 39 and the zipper tapes 21, 31 becomes smaller. In addition, from the viewpoint of increasing the contact area or other viewpoints, it is preferred that the upper portion 72 and the lower portion 73 have a shoulder portion 74 and / or a fin portion 75 in addition to the head portion 76, the neck portion 77 and the trunk portion 78.

[0097] In this embodiment, before the zipper elements are injection molded and attached to the zipper tape, the surface of the waterproof layer to which they are to be attached is subjected to a plasma or corona treatment. This significantly increases the adhesion energy of the zipper elements to the surface of the waterproof layer 26, significantly reducing the occurrence of element deviation. Furthermore, by performing the plasma or corona treatment after the holes are opened, the plasma irradiation removes the yarns or fibers within the through-holes 9, thereby preventing or suppressing the appearance of yarns or fibers on the surface of the zipper elements.

[0098] It's conceivable that providing two through-holes per zipper element could also prevent the element from turning. However, in this case, the increased number of through-holes reduces the contact area between the waterproof layer and the zipper element. Furthermore, the diameter of the through-holes would need to be reduced, potentially leading to poor filling.

[0099] In the waterproof sliding zipper 1, the sliding resistance of the slider 4 is high. In order to make the slider 4 move smoothly, a lubricant other than the recommended lubricant (such as grease) is sometimes applied to the left and right tooth rows of the zipper teeth 29 and 39. In such an unexpected situation, if force is applied and the opening and closing operations are repeated, the grease penetrates between the zipper teeth and the waterproof layer, which may promote the peeling of the zipper teeth from the waterproof layer. As confirmed by the examples described later, in this embodiment, as described above, even if the zipper teeth are in an environment with harsh chemical conditions, the occurrence of tooth rotation can be effectively suppressed.

[0100] Furthermore, if the side edges 23, 33 of the fastener tapes 21, 31 are smooth, there is a high possibility that molten resin will enter the gap between the lower mold or upper mold and the fastener tapes 21, 31. To reiterate, corona treatment can be used instead of plasma treatment, and similar effects are expected to be achieved.

[0101] Example 1

[0102] Plasma is irradiated on both sides of the side edge of the tape base fabric woven with polyester yarn (hereinafter referred to as the first plasma irradiation). Then, a polyurethane waterproof layer is formed on both sides of the tape base fabric by extrusion molding. The film thickness of the waterproof layer is about 0.2 mm on one side. Then, through holes are formed at intervals of 5 mm on the side edge of the zipper tape along the long side direction. The through holes penetrate the tape base fabric of the zipper tape and penetrate the waterproof layers formed on the upper and lower sides of the tape base fabric. Then, plasma is irradiated on both sides of the side edge of the zipper tape (hereinafter referred to as the second plasma irradiation). Then, polyamide zipper elements are formed by injection molding and attached to the side edge of the zipper tape. In this order, two zipper element tapes are prepared and can be connected by a slider to open and close. In addition, extrusion molding is performed within 48 hours after the first plasma irradiation. Similarly, injection molding is performed within 48 hours after the second plasma irradiation.

[0103] Next, a test was conducted to evaluate the adhesion strength of the zipper elements to the waterproof layer. Figure 11 as well as Figure 12 First, regarding a zipper tooth S29 of a measurement object set in the middle (roughly in the middle) of the two ends of the zipper tooth chain, remove one of the upper and lower parts. Insert the blade of a cutting tool such as pliers between the zipper tape and the upper part 72 or the lower part 73, and cut off the filling part 71. In addition, Figure 11 In the embodiment, the lower portion 73 of the fastener element S29 is removed, but the upper portion 72 may be removed instead.

[0104] Next, the upper portion 72 or lower portion 73 of the remaining zipper element S29 is moved away from the overlapping ends of the waterproof zipper stringer, and the load (unit: Newton (N)) required for the displacement of the upper portion 72 or lower portion 73 of the remaining zipper element S29 is measured to generate a load curve. Figure 12 As shown, the upper clamp 120 holds the remaining upper portion 72 or lower portion 73 of the zipper element S29. In addition, the lower clamp 130 holds the overlapping ends of the zipper element chain. As the upper clamp 120 moves upward, the zipper element S29 moves upward and is eventually peeled off from the zipper tape (waterproof layer). A load curve is generated by measuring the upward load (unit: Newton (N)) applied to the upper clamp 120 for the upward displacement (unit: millimeter (mm)) of the upper clamp 120. In addition, Figure 12 In the figure, the illustration of the zipper elements between the clamps 120 and 130 is omitted.

[0105] Figure 13 The load curve of Example 1 is shown. Figure 13 In the load curve shown, a start line is set orthogonally to the displacement axis at a position corresponding to the maximum value (approximately 61.5N) initially reached by the measured load value, and an end line is set orthogonally to the displacement axis at a position corresponding to the measured load value = zero, thereby enabling the setting of an interval demarcated by the start line and the end line. During the period from the initial value to the maximum value, the waterproof layer peels off from the tape base fabric, and at the maximum value, the waterproof layer partially separates from the tape base fabric. After the maximum value, the zipper chain element (the remaining upper or lower part) peels off from the waterproof layer. The area of the load curve in the above interval (unit: N·mm) reflects the adhesion energy of the zipper chain element to the waterproof layer. The adhesion energy (N·mm) is proportional to the area of the load curve after the maximum value initially reached by the measured load value, reflecting the adhesion energy of the zipper chain element to the waterproof layer.

[0106] The adhesion energy can be obtained by integrating the load curve in the above-mentioned interval. Specifically, the load curve is drawn by measuring the load applied to the upper clamp 120 for every 0.1 mm displacement of the upper clamp 120. The load value when the measured load value is the maximum is set as the starting point of the integration. The load value when the measured load value is zero is set as the ending point of the integration. The small area is calculated based on the continuously measured load values, and the calculation is repeated from the starting point of the integration to the ending point of the integration. The small area can be calculated by the calculation formula = ((first load value + second load value) / 2) × 0.1. By summing up the small areas calculated in this way, the area of the load curve can be calculated. In addition, it is not necessarily limited to this. In order to perform this calculation, the software of Instron can be used.

[0107] In addition, it has been confirmed that there are deviations in the maximum value values for different samples. Table 1 shows the maximum value values of each sample manufactured according to Example 1. The average value of the maximum value is 58.24N. It can be understood from Table 1 that when the adhesion energy (N·mm) is set to S, S>200 is satisfied, and preferably S>300 or S>400 is satisfied. This is the result of the above-mentioned feature, that is, irradiating the surface of the waterproof layer to which the zipper teeth are to be attached with plasma before the zipper teeth are attached to the zipper tape via injection molding.

[0108] [Table 1]

[0109]

[0110] Comparative Example 1

[0111] Fastener stringers were manufactured and evaluated under the same conditions as in Example 1 except that the first and second plasma irradiations were omitted. Figure 14 The load curve of Comparative Example 1 is shown. In the comparative example, when the adhesion energy is represented by S, S<200. Therefore, compared with Example 1, sufficient adhesion energy cannot be obtained.

[0112] In the comparative examples, it was confirmed that the maximum values varied between samples. Table 2 shows the maximum values for each sample produced according to Comparative Example 1. The average maximum value was 37.3 N. The adhesion energy (N·mm) shown in Table 2 corresponds to the area of the load curve in the same range as in Example 1 and reflects the adhesion energy of the zipper element to the waterproof layer.

[0113] [Table 2]

[0114]

[0115] Example 2

[0116] Fastener stringers were manufactured and evaluated under the same conditions as in Example 1 except that the first plasma irradiation was omitted. Figure 15 The load curve of Example 2 is shown. In Example 2, as in Example 1, S>200 is satisfied. The maximum value is approximately 54N.

[0117] Furthermore, an opening and closing test was performed on Example 1 and Comparative Example 1. In the opening and closing test, the slider is reciprocated in the front-to-back direction in the sliding zipper to determine whether the target number of reciprocating movements of the slider can be achieved without the chain teeth turning. If the chain teeth turn before the target number of reciprocating movements is achieved, the opening and closing test is terminated. In this opening and closing test, grease is applied to the zipper teeth for the purpose of promoting the turning of the chain teeth. In addition, the moving distance of the slider is set to 600 mm and the moving speed is set to 900 mm / s. In addition, a force of 3 kgf is always applied in the long side direction of the sliding zipper and a force of 0.1 kgf is always applied in the width direction to perform the test (i.e., the test is performed while the zipper is stretched front, back, left, and right). From the results of the opening and closing test in Table 3, Example 1 obtained significantly advantageous effects compared with Comparative Example 1.

[0118] [Table 3]

[0119]

[0120] Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 This shows the case where the yarn or fiber in the through-hole is removed by the second plasma irradiation in Example 1.

[0121] In addition, the same or equivalent size zipper elements were used in the load test and the opening and closing test. In the above load test and the opening and closing test, the area of the zipper element attached to the waterproof layer on one side of the zipper tape was 17.08 mm. 2 ±0.2mm 2 (Specifically, in each of the above-mentioned embodiments and comparative examples, the 2 ±0.1mm 2 ). In addition, the area of the through hole (and the area of the inner wall surface of the through hole) is not included in the attachment area.

[0122] Based on the above teachings, those skilled in the art can add various modifications to the embodiments. Reference numerals in the claims are for reference only and are not to be used for the purpose of limiting the interpretation of the claims.

[0123] The fastener tape is not limited to being manufactured by extrusion molding, and may also be manufactured by pressing a waterproof layer onto a tape base fabric.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a waterproof zipper chain, wherein: Including the following steps: A process of forming through holes (9) penetrating the zipper tapes (21, 31) at a predetermined interval along the side edges (23, 33) of the zipper tapes (21, 31) covered by the waterproof layer (26) along the base fabric (25); A step of performing plasma treatment on the side edge portions (23, 33) of the zipper tapes (21, 31) on one or both sides thereof to form an activated area on the surface of the waterproof layer (26); as well as In the process of injection molding the zipper teeth (29, 39) to attach the zipper teeth (29, 39) to the side edge portions (23, 33) of the zipper tapes (21, 31), the molten resin that hardens to form the zipper teeth (29, 39) adheres to the activated area and fills the through hole (9).

2. The method for manufacturing a waterproof zipper stringer according to claim 1, wherein: After the through hole (9) is formed at the side edge portion (23, 33) of the zipper tape (21, 31), the side edge portion (23, 33) of the zipper tape (21, 31) is subjected to plasma treatment.

3. The method for manufacturing a waterproof slide fastener stringer according to claim 2, wherein: By performing plasma treatment on the side edge portions (23, 33) of the zipper tapes (21, 31), yarns or fibers of the tape base fabric (25) in the through holes (9) are removed.

4. The method for manufacturing a waterproof slide fastener stringer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The process of performing plasma treatment on the side edge portions (23, 33) of the zipper tapes (21, 31) on one or both sides thereof to form an activated area on the surface of the waterproof layer (26) comprises: forming a plasma irradiation area on the surface of the waterproof layer (26) at the side edge portion (23, 33) of the zipper tape (21, 31); and The zipper tape (21, 31) is conveyed from the upstream side to the downstream side, The activated region is formed continuously along the longitudinal direction of the fastener tape (21, 31).

5. The method for manufacturing a waterproof slide fastener stringer according to claim 4, wherein: The spot diameter of the plasma irradiation area is larger than the diameter of the through hole (9).

6. The method for manufacturing a waterproof slide fastener stringer according to claim 4, wherein: The spot diameter of the plasma irradiation area is smaller than 2 times or 1.5 times the width of the side edge portion (23, 33).

7. The method for manufacturing a waterproof slide fastener stringer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The process of performing plasma treatment on one side or both sides of the zipper tape (21, 31) to form an activated area on the surface of the waterproof layer (26) is performed except for the side edge portion (23, 33) of the zipper tape (21, 31) where a stopper is to be formed.

8. The method for manufacturing a waterproof slide fastener stringer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The method further comprises the step of performing plasma treatment on the belt base fabric (25) before the belt base fabric (25) is covered by the waterproof layer (26).

9. The method for manufacturing a waterproof slide fastener stringer according to claim 8, wherein: Before the belt base fabric (25) is covered by the waterproof layer (26), the process of performing plasma treatment on the belt base fabric (25) comprises: forming a plasma irradiation area on the surface of the belt base cloth (25); and The belt base fabric (25) is conveyed from the upstream side to the downstream side.

10. The method for manufacturing a waterproof slide fastener stringer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: A waterproof layer (26) is formed on the upper and lower surfaces of the belt base cloth (25) by extrusion molding.

11. The method for manufacturing a waterproof slide fastener stringer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The waterproof layer (26) is made of polyurethane, and the zipper elements (29, 39) are made of polyamide.

12. The method for manufacturing a waterproof slide fastener stringer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The zipper teeth (29, 39) include: a filling portion (71) for filling the through hole (9); an upper portion (72) coupled to the upper end of the filling portion (71); and a lower portion (73) coupled to the lower end of the filling portion (71), wherein the upper portion (72) and the lower portion (73) respectively have a head portion (76), a neck portion (77) and a trunk portion (78), and the end surface of the side edge portion (23, 33) of the zipper tape (21, 31) is arranged in a groove between the head portion (76) of the upper portion (72) and the head portion (76) of the lower portion (73).

13. The method for manufacturing a waterproof slide fastener stringer according to claim 12, wherein: With respect to one of the zipper teeth (29, 39) provided between the two ends of the waterproof zipper chain tape (2, 3), when one of the upper portion (72) and the lower portion (73) is removed, the remaining upper portion (72) or the lower portion (73) moves away from the overlapping ends of the waterproof zipper chain tape (2, 3), and when a load curve is generated by measuring a load required for displacement of the remaining upper portion (72) or the lower portion (73), when calculating the area of the load curve in the interval from the maximum value initially reached by the measured load value to the point where the measured load value becomes zero, Satisfy S>200, Here, S represents the area of the load curve in the section (unit: N·mm).

14. A waterproof zipper chain with resin zipper elements (29, 39) attached to a zipper tape (21, 31) having a base fabric (25) covered with a waterproof layer (26), wherein: The zipper element (29, 39) comprises: at least one filling portion (71) for filling the through hole (9) passing through the zipper tape (21, 31); an upper portion (72) coupled to the upper end of the at least one filling portion (71); and a lower portion (73) coupled to the lower end of the at least one filling portion (71). With respect to one of the zipper teeth (29, 39) provided between the two ends of the waterproof zipper chain tape (2, 3), when one of the upper portion (72) and the lower portion (73) is removed, the remaining upper portion (72) or the lower portion (73) moves away from the overlapping ends of the waterproof zipper chain tape (2, 3), and when a load curve is generated by measuring a load required for displacement of the remaining upper portion (72) or the lower portion (73), when calculating the area of the load curve in the interval from the maximum value initially reached by the measured load value to the point where the measured load value becomes zero, Satisfy S>200, Here, S represents the area of the load curve in the section (unit: N·mm).

15. The waterproof slide fastener stringer according to claim 14, wherein: The maximum value is greater than or equal to 50N, or the maximum value is greater than or equal to 58N.

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