Stopper for slide fastener and method for manufacturing slide fastener

Abstract

The stop (7) of the zipper (1) includes: a main body (7a) having a first surface (71) and a second surface (72); a first surface region (76) formed on the side of the first surface (71) of the main body (7a); and a gap or interface (8) formed between the first surface (71) and the second surface (72) of the main body (7a). The first surface region (76) extends across the gap or interface (8) and covers the gap or interface (8), and has a layer thickness (R1) defined between the end (81) on the side of the first surface (71) of the gap or interface (8) and the first surface (71).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a zipper stop and a method for manufacturing a zipper. Background Technology

[0002] As a zipper stop, a known technique involves combining the individual segments fixed to the left and right zipper tapes to form the stop. In Patent Document 1, the first and second segments are combined, and the overlapping portions of their respective stepped sections are ultrasonically heat-fused to form the stop (see Patent Document 1). Figures 1 to 7 In Patent Document 2, the first component and the second component are engaged to form a stop (see Patent Document 2). Figures 1 to 7 ).

[0003] Furthermore, in Patent Document 3, the stop bar is formed using resin from the zipper teeth. Specifically, the zipper teeth are placed in the mold cavity of a mold, and the zipper teeth are reshaped (see Patent Document 3). Figure 15 ).

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Statutory Publication No. 59-25217

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent No. 4191089

[0008] Patent Document 3: International Publication No. 2020 / 115886 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0010] The inventors of this application have discovered a new problem: ensuring the desired strength of the stop bar manufactured by combining the segmented pieces, and at the same time suppressing the deterioration of the stop bar's aesthetics compared to a stop bar manufactured by a single injection molding process.

[0011] Solution for solving the problem

[0012] One embodiment of the zipper stopper disclosed herein includes: a main body having a first surface and a second surface; a first surface region formed on the first surface side of the main body; and a gap or interface formed between the first surface and the second surface of the main body. The first surface region extends across the gap or interface to cover it, and has a layer thickness defined between its end on the first surface side of the gap or interface and the first surface.

[0013] The first and second surfaces can be convex or concave, or flat. Raised or recessed portions, or combinations thereof, can be formed on the first and second surfaces to display patterns such as logos. In one example, the first surface is the upper surface of the main body, and the second surface is the lower surface of the main body; the upper and lower surfaces are flat surfaces extending across gaps or interfaces, respectively.

[0014] The stop code may also include a second surface region formed on the second side of the main body. The second surface region extends across the gap or interface, covering it, and has a layer thickness defined between the end of the gap or interface on the second side and the second surface. Typically, the first surface is the upper surface of the main body, and the second surface is the lower surface of the main body, but this is not a limitation. Advantageously, the gap or interface is not exposed on either the first or second surface. Depending on the situation, the main body may also have a front surface and a rear surface disposed on the opposite side of the front surface, with the first surface region covering the gap or interface along its entire length in the front-rear direction between the front and rear surfaces of the main body. The second surface region covers the gap or interface along its entire length in the front-rear direction between the front and rear surfaces of the main body.

[0015] In several embodiments, the thickness of the first surface layer region and / or the thickness of the second surface layer region is 0.2 mm or more, or less than half the thickness of the main body portion defined by the first and second surfaces.

[0016] In several embodiments, the main body may also have a third surface and a fourth surface disposed on the opposite side of the third surface. A third surface region is formed on the third surface side, at least partially preventing gaps or interfaces from being exposed on the third surface. A fourth surface region is formed on the fourth surface side, at least partially preventing gaps or interfaces from being exposed on the fourth surface.

[0017] In several embodiments, the number of gaps or interfaces appearing at a certain cross-section of the main body is two or more. A certain cross-section can be obtained, for example, at the center line of the stop, but various other planes such as a plane orthogonal to the center line or a plane at an acute angle to the center line can also be used.

[0018] In several embodiments, the gap or interface is formed in a manner that indicates the boundary between the female and male portions contained within the main body.

[0019] Another aspect of the zipper manufacturing method disclosed herein includes: injection molding at least one first resin portion, which should be a portion of a stop, onto the side edge of a first zipper tape; injection molding at least one second resin portion, which should be the remaining portion of a stop, onto the side edge of a second zipper tape; disposing the first and second resin portions in a mold cavity such that a gap is formed between the first and second resin portions; heating the mold to melt the first and second resin portions in their surface regions within the mold cavity, the gap being partially filled by the molten resin; cooling the mold to form a stop having a gap or interface covered by at least one surface region, the at least one surface region being composed of resin formed by the solidification of molten resin.

[0020] In several embodiments, the method further includes: pre-assembling the first resin portion and the second resin portion based on the engagement of the female portion of the first resin portion and the male portion of the second resin portion before the first resin portion and the second resin portion are disposed in the mold cavity of the mold.

[0021] In several embodiments, the arrangement of the first zipper teeth is injection molded on the side edge of the first zipper tape, and the arrangement of the second zipper teeth is injection molded on the side edge of the second zipper tape. A zipper pull prepared for engaging the female portion of the first resin portion and the male portion of the second resin portion is used to engage the first zipper teeth and the second zipper teeth.

[0022] In several implementations, stop marks without gate marks are formed by heating and cooling the mold. For example, no gate marks are formed on the main body.

[0023] The effects of the invention

[0024] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the desired strength of the stop code can be ensured while suppressing the degradation of the stop code's aesthetics. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a top view of one form of zipper disclosed herein.

[0026] Figure 2 In order to Figure 1 The top view of the left-side toothed chain strap used in the manufacture of the zipper is shown.

[0027] Figure 3 In order to Figure 1 The top view of the right-side toothed zipper used in the manufacture of the zipper is shown.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing how the female part of the first resin section and the male part of the second resin section are engaged using a pull head.

[0029] Figure 5This is a schematic diagram showing the process of the female part of the first resin part and the male part of the second resin part engaging, in the order of (A) to (C).

[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the first resin part and the second resin part are arranged in the mold cavity.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the process of placing the first resin part and the second resin part in the mold cavity in the order of (A) to (C).

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the correspondence between the gap between the first resin part and the second resin part and the gap (or interface (hereinafter the same)) formed by the stop bar. In (A), the first resin part and the second resin part are shown before heating and melting, and in (B), the distance along the stop bar is shown. Figure 1 The cross section of the single-dotted dashed line VIII-VIII. The correspondence between the gap shown in (A) and the gap shown in (B) is indicated by the two arrows.

[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the correspondence between the gap between the first resin part and the second resin part and the gap formed by the stop block. In (A), the first resin part and the second resin part are shown before heating and melting. In (B), the gap along the stop block is shown. Figure 1 The cross section of the single-dotted dashed line IX-IX. (And...) Figure 8 Similarly, the correspondence is represented by two arrows.

[0034] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the correspondence between the gap between the first resin part and the second resin part and the gap formed by the stop block. In (A), the first resin part and the second resin part are shown before heating and melting. In (B), the gap along the stop block is shown. Figure 1 The cross section of the centerline CL.

[0035] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the situation where the gap between the first resin part and the second resin part disappears near the front surface of the stop. In (A), the first resin part and the second resin part are shown before heating and melting, and in (B), the stop is shown along... Figure 1 The cross section of the single-dotted dashed line XX.

[0036] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the situation where the gap between the first resin part and the second resin part disappears near the rear surface of the stop. In (A), the first resin part and the second resin part are shown before heating and melting, and in (B), the gap along the stop is shown. Figure 1 The cross section of the single-dotted dashed line XI-XI.

[0037] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram showing the shape where the first resin part and the second resin part merely overlap.

[0038] Figure 14 Is to make Figure 13 A schematic cross-sectional view of the stop block obtained by remelting the first and second resin portions, as shown.

[0039] Figure 15 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a zipper according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional photograph of the stop code made based on this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The following is for reference Figures 1 to 16 Various implementation methods and features are described in detail. Those skilled in the art will be able to combine the various implementation methods and / or features without excessive explanation, and will also understand the complementary effects resulting from their combination. Repetitive descriptions between implementation methods are omitted in principle. The description is primarily for the purpose of illustrating the invention, and simplifications are made for ease of drawing. The features are not only effective for the zipper stops and zipper manufacturing methods disclosed in this application, but are also understood to be general features applicable to various other zipper stops and zipper manufacturing methods not disclosed in this specification.

[0042] In this specification, the front-back direction can be understood based on the direction of movement of the zipper pull. The left-right direction can be understood based on the pair of zipper teeth that engage and disengage via the zipper pull. The up-down direction is orthogonal to the front-back and left-right directions. The terms used to represent these directions can be redefined based on the following description.

[0043] Zipper 1 is installed on various goods such as bags, clothing, and shoes, allowing the opening of the goods to be opened and closed. Zipper 1 includes: left and right (first and second) zipper teeth 2a and 2b, which are formed by 4a and 4b of the left and right zipper teeth 3a and 3b arranged on opposite side edges 3c and 3d of the left and right (first and second) zipper teeth 3a and 3b; a zipper pull 5, which advances to engage the left and right zipper teeth 4a and 4b and retreats to disengage the engagement; and a rear stop (stop bar) 7, which is provided adjacent to the rear end of the arrangement of the left and right zipper teeth 4a and 4b, connecting the left and right zipper teeth 3a and 3b to each other. Front stops 6a and 6b are provided on the left and right zipper teeth 2a and 2b respectively. Furthermore, zipper 1 is not limited to the type shown in the illustration and can also be a so-called invisible zipper.

[0044] Zipper tapes 3a and 3b are flexible members with a thickness defined by their upper and lower surfaces, and in many cases, they are fabric, woven material, or a mixture thereof. Zipper tapes 3a and 3b have a certain lateral width and extend longitudinally in the front-to-back direction. As long as the core thread is positioned at each side edge 3c and 3d of the zipper tapes 3a and 3b, the zipper teeth 4a and 4b can be more securely installed onto each side edge 3c and 3d.

[0045] Zipper teeth 4a and 4b are, for example, resin teeth, but are not limited to this; they can also be metal teeth, ceramic teeth, or spiral teeth. Zipper teeth 4a and 4b are installed on the side edges 3c and 3d of the zipper tapes 3a and 3b (e.g., the core thread). When zipper teeth 4a and 4b are made of resin, such as... Figure 1 As shown, it has a base 41, a head 42, and a neck 43 disposed between them, but this shape is merely an example. Furthermore, ceramic chain teeth are chain teeth that contain ceramic at least partially, without needing to be entirely ceramic. Spiral chain teeth are formed by winding monofilaments into a spiral shape. Metal chain teeth are a well-known type of chain tooth.

[0046] The front stops 6a and 6b, like the zipper teeth 4a and 4b, can be made of metal, resin, or ceramic. Of course, the front stops 6a and 6b can be omitted. The rear stop 7 has an upper surface (first surface) 71 and a lower surface (second surface) 72, and a main body portion 7a whose thickness is defined by these surfaces. The main body portion 7a also has a front surface (third surface) 73, a rear surface (fourth surface) 74, a left side surface (fifth surface) 75a, and a right side surface (sixth surface) 75b. Details of the rear stop 7 will be discussed later. Both the upper surface 71 and the lower surface 72 are flat surfaces that intersect perpendicularly to the vertical direction and extend across the gap or interface 8 discussed later, but they do not necessarily need to be flat. In addition to the main body portion 7a, the rear stop 7 also has a flange 7b that protrudes outward from the main body portion 7a at the center of its thickness defined by the upper and lower surfaces 71 and 72. This is formed in accordance with the clearance space of the resin in the mold 100, which will be discussed later. The flange 7b can be an annular portion surrounding the main body 7a.

[0047] The zipper pull 5, like the zipper teeth 4a, 4b and the front stops 6a, 6b, can be made of metal, resin, or ceramic. The structure of the zipper pull 5 is appropriately determined according to the type of zipper 1. For example... Figure 1 , Figure 4 as well as Figure 5As shown, the zipper pull 5 includes: a lower wing plate 51; an upper wing plate 52; a connecting post 53 that connects the lower wing plate 51 and the upper wing plate 52; a flange portion 54 respectively disposed on the lower wing plate 51 and the upper wing plate 52; a pull tab mounting portion 55 disposed on the upper surface of the upper wing plate 52; and a pull tab 56 mounted on the pull tab mounting portion 55. A Y-shaped zipper tooth passage is provided inside the zipper pull 5 due to the connecting post 53, and the flange portion 54 prevents the zipper teeth 4a and 4b from falling out of the zipper tooth passage. Left and right front openings 58a and 58b are provided on both sides of the connecting post 53, and a rear opening 59 is provided on the opposite side of the left and right front openings 58a and 58b.

[0048] When the zipper pull 5 moves forward, the left and right zipper teeth 4a and 4b enter the zipper pull 5 one by one through the left and right front openings 58a and 58b. Due to the connecting post 53, they engage at the position behind the connecting post 53 and exit the zipper pull 5 through the rear opening 59. When the zipper pull 5 moves backward, the engaged left and right zipper teeth 4a and 4b enter the zipper pull 5 through the rear opening 59. Due to the connecting post 53, they disengage at the position behind the connecting post 53 and exit the zipper pull 5 one by one through the front openings 58a and 58b.

[0049] Make at least one first resin portion 31, which should be a part of the rear stop 7 (refer to) Figure 2 ) and at least one second resin portion 32 that should be the remaining portion of the rear stop 7 (refer to Figure 3 ) combination (refer to) Figure 4 and Figure 5 ), and place it in the mold cavity 105 of the mold 100 (refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The mold 100 is heated to melt the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 in their surface areas within the mold cavity 105. This heating is then followed by cooling of the mold 100, thereby manufacturing the rear stop 7. According to this manufacturing method, within the mold cavity 105 of the mold 100, the resin in the surface areas of the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 melts, partially filling the gap 8' between the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32. A surface layer formed by the solidification of the molten resin covers the gap 8'. This ensures the desired strength of the stop and suppresses the deterioration of its aesthetic appearance. In short, the surface layer formed by the solidification of the molten resin enhances the strength of the rear stop 7 (in other words, the bonding force between the segments of the first resin portion 31 and the segments of the second resin portion 32) and prevents the exposure of the gaps or interfaces 8 of the rear stop 7.

[0050] When the zipper teeth 4a and 4b are made of resin, the first resin part 31, which should become the rear stop 7, can be injection molded simultaneously with the injection molding of the zipper tooth 4a, reducing the burden of color management for both. The same applies to the zipper tooth 4b and the second resin part 32. When the rear stop is formed by injection molding in one step, the injection molding for forming the rear stop is performed at a time that is delayed relative to the injection molding time of the zipper tooth. Therefore, there is a burden of managing the resin material, as well as a burden of managing or operating the injection molding equipment.

[0051] The first resin portion 31 is fixed to the side edge portion 3c (core wire) of the zipper tape 3a at a position adjacent to the rear end of the arrangement of the zipper teeth 4a on the left. The first resin portion 31 has a base portion 31a fixed to the zipper tape 3a and an extension portion 31b extending outward from the tape. A female portion 31c recessed inward from the tape is provided in the extension portion 31b. The female portion 31c has a recess 31p and a pair of protruding narrow portions 31q spaced apart to narrow the entrance of the recess 31p. The recess 31p is recessed to accommodate the head 32e of the male portion 32c, which will be discussed later. The narrow portions 31q engage with the neck 32d of the male portion 32c, which will be discussed later. Furthermore, the female portion 31c does not necessarily need to be recessed inward from the tape. The female portion 31c can be a portion recessed in other directions, such as upward or downward. A protrusion 31d protruding forward compared to the extension 31b is provided in the base 31a, but it can be omitted.

[0052] The outer and inner directions of the zipper tape can be defined as follows: The outer direction is the direction from a point on the tape surface towards a point outside the tape surface, and also includes the direction crossing the core thread. The inner direction is the direction from a point outside the tape surface towards a point on the tape surface, and also includes the direction crossing the core thread.

[0053] The first resin part 31 has an upper surface 11, a lower surface 12, a front surface 13, a rear surface 14, a left side surface (facing inward) 15, and a right side surface (facing outward) 16 (see reference). Figure 2 The upper surface 11 is formed in the same plane as the upper surface of the zipper tooth 4a, or it is formed further away from the upper surface of the zipper tape 3a than the upper surface of the zipper tooth 4a. The lower surface 12 is formed in the same plane as the lower surface of the zipper tooth 4a, or it is formed further away from the lower surface of the zipper tape 3a than the lower surface of the zipper tooth 4a. A step is formed on the front surface 13 to form the aforementioned protrusion 31d. A recess is formed on the right side surface 16 to form the aforementioned female portion 31c. Furthermore, the inner regions of the front surface 13 and the rear surface 14 include regions divided vertically by the zipper tape 3a. The left side surface 15 includes regions divided vertically by the zipper tape 3a.

[0054] The second resin portion 32 is fixed to the side edge portion 3d (core wire) of the zipper tape 3b at a position adjacent to the rear end of the arrangement of the zipper teeth 4b on the right side. The second resin portion 32 has a base portion 32a fixed to the zipper tape 3b and an extension portion 32b extending outward from the tape. A male portion 32c protruding outward from the tape is provided in the extension portion 32b. In some cases, including the example shown in the figure, the male portion 32c has a neck 32d and a head 32e in a direction outward from the tape away from the base 32a. The width of the neck 32d is narrower than the width of the head 32e (in the front-back direction), and it engages with the narrow portion of the female portion 31c described above.

[0055] The second resin part 32 has an upper surface 21, a lower surface 22, a front surface 23, a rear surface 24, a right side surface (facing inward) 25, and a left side surface (facing outward) 26 (see reference). Figure 3 The description of the upper surface 11 and lower surface 12 of the first resin portion 31 also applies to the upper surface 21 and lower surface 22 of the second resin portion 32. A protrusion is formed on the left side surface 26 to form the male portion 32c described above. The male portion 32c does not necessarily need to protrude outwards. The male portion 32c can be a portion that protrudes in other directions, such as upwards or downwards.

[0056] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the first resin part 31 enters the zipper head 5 through the front opening 58a, and the second resin part 32 enters the zipper head 5 through the front opening 58b. The female part 31c of the first resin part 31 and the male part 32c of the second resin part 32 begin to engage at a position behind the connecting post 53. After the engagement is completed, the (engaged) first resin part 31 and second resin part 32 exit the zipper head 5 through the rear opening 59. Although the first resin part 31 and second resin part 32 are engaged, they are individual resin parts. Therefore, a gap 8' is formed between them. Furthermore, after the first resin part 31 and second resin part 32 are engaged as described above, they can also be disengaged using the same zipper head 5, but this is not a limitation. The gap 8' can be visually identified on the upper surface, lower surface, front surface, and rear surface of the engaged first resin part 31 and second resin part 32.

[0057] The first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 are disposed in the mold cavity 105 of the mold 100 (see reference). Figure 6 and Figure 7 For example, the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 are disposed in the cavity 111 of the lower mold 101, and the upper mold 102 descends toward the lower mold 101. If the upper mold 102 is stacked on the lower mold 101, the cavity 111 of the lower mold 101 and the cavity 112 of the upper mold 102 together form a cavity 105.

[0058] The upper surface 11 of the first resin part 31 and the upper surface 21 of the second resin part 32 are positioned near or in contact with the bottom surface of the mold cavity 112 of the upper mold 102. The lower surface 12 of the first resin part 31 and the lower surface 22 of the second resin part 32 are positioned near or in contact with the bottom surface of the mold cavity 111 of the lower mold 101.

[0059] The upper half of the front surface 13 of the first resin portion 31 and the front surface 23 of the second resin portion 32 are positioned near or in contact with the front wall of the mold cavity 112 of the upper mold 102. The lower half of the front surface 13 of the first resin portion 31 and the front surface 23 of the second resin portion 32 are positioned near or in contact with the front wall of the mold cavity 111 of the lower mold 101. The description of the front surface 13 of the first resin portion 31 and the front surface 23 of the second resin portion 32 also applies to the rear surface 14 of the first resin portion 31 and the rear surface 24 of the second resin portion 32, as well as the inward-facing sides of the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 (i.e., the left side 15 and the right side 25).

[0060] The right side 16 of the first resin part 31 and the left side 26 of the second resin part 32 (both are sides facing outwards) face each other or are in contact with each other. That is, these sides do not directly face or contact the mold cavity surface of either the lower mold 101 or the upper mold 102. As a result, regardless of the melting of the surface layers of the first resin part 31 and the second resin part 32 within the mold cavity 105 of the mold 100, a portion of the gap 8' between the first resin part 31 and the second resin part 32 remains as a gap or interface 8 in the rear stop 7.

[0061] With the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 disposed in the mold cavity 105 of the mold 100, the mold 100 is heated, and the surfaces of the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 melt, partially filling the gap 8' between the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32. Heating of the mold 100 can be performed by various methods, such as energizing a heating coil wound around the mold 100. The target temperature of the mold 100 and the holding time of that target temperature are determined by those skilled in the art through experimentation based on the resin materials and sizes of the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32.

[0062] The mold 100 is then cooled by heating. For example, the mold 100 is cooled by flowing refrigerant into a flow path provided within the mold 100. If the mold 100 is cooled, the molten resin in the mold cavity 105 of the mold 100 solidifies to form the surface layer of the back stop 7. The surface layer is, for example, either the first surface layer region or the fourth surface layer region discussed later.

[0063] Reference Figures 8-12 The structure of the 7th stop is explained in detail. For example... Figures 8-10 As shown, the rear stop 7 has a first surface region (upper region) 76 formed on the upper surface 71 side of the main body 7a, a second surface region (lower region) 77 formed on the lower surface 72 side of the main body 7a, and a gap or interface 8 formed between the upper and lower surfaces 71 and 72 of the main body 7a. In this embodiment, the first surface region 76 extends across the gap or interface 8 and covers the gap or interface 8, and has a layer thickness R1 defined between the upper end 81 of the gap or interface 8 and the upper surface 71. Similarly, the second surface region 77 extends across the gap or interface 8 and covers the gap or interface 8, and has a layer thickness R2 defined between the lower end 82 of the gap or interface 8 and the lower surface 72. The gap or interface 8 is formed in the rear stop 7, and these first surface regions 76 and / or second surface regions 77 ensure sufficient mechanical strength of the rear stop 7 for the connection of the left and right zipper tapes 3a and 3b. In addition, compared with a rear stop manufactured by a single injection molding process, the first surface layer region 76 and / or the second surface layer region 77 are used to suppress the deterioration of the appearance of the rear stop 7.

[0064] The gap or interface 8 corresponds to the gap 8' between the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 and extends between the front surface 73 and the rear surface 74 of the main body portion 7a. Preferably, the first surface layer region 76 covers the gap or interface 8 along its entire length in the front-rear direction along the gap or interface 8 between the front surface 73 and the rear surface 74 of the main body portion 7a, and as a result, the gap or interface 8 is not exposed at the upper surface 71 of the main body portion 7a. Similarly, the second surface layer region 77 covers the gap or interface 8 along its entire length in the front-rear direction along the gap or interface 8 between the front surface 73 and the rear surface 74 of the main body portion 7a, and as a result, the gap or interface 8 is not exposed at the lower surface 72 of the main body portion 7a.

[0065] Even when the gap or interface 8 is covered by a surface area, it may still be visually identifiable from the outside through that surface area. To make it difficult to visually identify the gap or interface 8 from the outside through the surface area, a surface treatment (e.g., pear-skin finish) can be applied to the upper surface 71 or lower surface 72 of the main body 7a, either together with or after the heat treatment in the mold described above. For this or other purposes, a pattern such as a logo can be applied to the upper surface 71 or lower surface 72 of the main body 7a. This pattern can be represented by a protrusion, a recess, or a combination thereof formed on the upper surface 71 or lower surface 72 of the main body 7a, but is not limited thereto. For simplicity, recesses or protrusions are provided on the mold cavity surface of the mold (lower mold 101 and / or upper mold 102) used for resin melting, and their patterns are replicated on the main body 7a.

[0066] An intermediate region 7m is provided between the first surface region 76 and the second surface region 77. Compared to the intermediate region 7m, the first surface region 76 and the second surface region 77 are affected by heat. Therefore, an interface may be formed between the first surface region 76 and the intermediate region 7m, and an interface may be formed between the second surface region 77 and the intermediate region 7m, but this is not necessarily the case. Basically, the first surface region 76, the intermediate region 7m, and the second surface region 77 are continuous regions. The boundary between the first surface region 76 and the intermediate region 7m is merely a boundary conveniently defined based on the position of the upper end 81 of the gap or interface 8. Similarly, the boundary between the second surface region 77 and the intermediate region 7m is merely a boundary conveniently defined based on the position of the lower end 82 of the gap or interface 8.

[0067] The thickness R1 of the first surface layer region 76 and the thickness R2 of the second surface layer region 77 are related to the target temperature of the mold 100 and / or the holding time of that target temperature. For example, if the holding time of the target temperature of the mold 100 is increased, the vertical length W8 of the gap or interface 8 is shortened accordingly, while the thickness R1 of the first surface layer region 76 and the thickness R2 of the second surface layer region 77 increase, resulting in improved strength. However, the zipper tapes 3a and 3b may be overheated, and the zipper teeth 4a and 4b may also be overheated. If the holding time of the target temperature of the mold 100 is shortened, the required manufacturing time is reduced, but the thickness R1 of the first surface layer region 76 and the thickness R2 of the second surface layer region 77 decrease. From this perspective, the thickness R1 of the first surface layer region 76 and the thickness R2 of the second surface layer region 77 are 0.2 mm or more, thereby ensuring the required amount of resin melt. As a condition for addition or replacement, the first surface layer region 76 is formed with a layer thickness R1 of less than half the thickness TH7 of the main body 7a defined by the upper and lower surfaces 71 and 72, or less than the upper and lower width W8 of the gap or interface 8. The same applies to the layer thickness R2 of the second surface layer region 77. Furthermore, the maximum value of the layer thickness R1 of the first surface layer region 76 can be the vertical distance between the upper surface 71 of the main body 7a and the upper surface of the strip (or the upper vertex of the core wire). The maximum value of the layer thickness R2 of the second surface layer region 77 can be the vertical distance between the lower surface 72 of the main body 7a and the lower surface of the strip (or the lower vertex of the core wire).

[0068] The gap or interface 8 can be covered by a third surface region 78 formed on the front surface 73 side of the main body 7a, and / or, can be covered by a fourth surface region 79 formed on the rear surface 74 side of the main body 7a (see reference). Figure 11 and Figure 12 The third surface layer region 78 and the fourth surface layer region 79 extend across the gap or interface 8 and cover it. Exposure of the gap or interface 8 at the front surface 73 of the main body 7a can be at least partially prevented by the third surface layer region 78. Exposure of the gap or interface 8 at the rear surface 74 of the main body 7a can be at least partially prevented by the fourth surface layer region 79. Furthermore, the third surface layer region 78 has a layer thickness defined between the front end of the gap or interface 8 and the front surface 73, and the fourth surface layer region 79 has a layer thickness defined between the rear end of the gap or interface 8 and the front surface 73. The gap or interface 8 can be covered by the third surface layer region 78 or the fourth surface layer region 79 along its entire vertical length, but should not be limited thereto.

[0069] The gap or interface 8 is formed in such a way as to indicate the boundary between the female portion 31c' and the male portion 32c' included in the main body portion 7a. The main body portion 7a is formed by melting the surface layers of the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32, thereby partially closing the gap 8' between them. Therefore, when the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 include the female portion 31c and the male portion 32c, the main body portion 7a also includes the female portion 31c' and the male portion 32c'. However, due to the melting of the surface layers of the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32, the female portion 31c of the first resin portion 31 is not exactly the same as the female portion 31c' of the main body portion 7a. The same applies to the male portion 32c of the second resin portion 32 and the male portion 32c' of the main body portion 7a. The female portion 31c' has a female surface that extends to form a concave portion, and the male portion 32c' has a male surface that extends to form a convex portion. The female and male faces are arranged opposite each other with a gap between them, or the female and male faces are in contact.

[0070] For example, Figure 8 A gap or interface 8 is formed at the boundary between the bottom surface of the concave portion of the female part 31c' of the main body 7a and the top surface of the convex portion of the male part 32c' of the main body 7a. If the bottom surface of the concave portion of the female part 31c' of the main body 7a and the top surface of the convex portion of the male part 32c' of the main body 7a are spaced apart, a gap is formed between them. If the bottom surface of the concave portion of the female part 31c' of the main body 7a and the top surface of the convex portion of the male part 32c' of the main body 7a are in close contact, an interface is formed between them.

[0071] The shape and / or number of gaps or interfaces 8 visible on the cut surface may vary depending on the cutting location. For example, as from... Figures 8-10 The comparison is understandable in this way, in Figure 8 In this case, the number of gaps or interfaces is 1. Figure 9 In this case, the number of gaps or interfaces is 3. Figure 10 In this case, the number of gaps or interfaces is two. Figure 9 In the middle, a cross-section of the head of the male part 32c' is provided between gaps 8a and 8b, and a cross-section of the narrow part of the female part 31c' is provided between gaps 8b and 8c. Figure 10 In this structure, a cross-section of male portion 32c' is provided between gap 8d and gap 8e. It can be understood that increasing the number of gaps or interfaces 8 appearing at a certain cross-section (e.g., two, three, or four) contributes to improving the mechanical strength of the rear stop 7. Furthermore, in Figure 9 In the middle, the gaps or interfaces 8a to 8c extend in the vertical direction between the first surface region 76 and the second surface region 77, respectively, and do not reach either the upper surface 71 or the lower surface 72 of the main body 7a.

[0072] The gap or interface 8 is provided between the side edges 3c and 3d (e.g., the core wire) of the zipper tapes 3a and 3b, but is not necessarily limited thereto. The vertical length of the gap or interface 8 is greater than or equal to the thickness of the core wire in the vertical direction, but is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0073] exist Figure 13 In another embodiment shown, the right side (side facing outwards) 16 of the first resin portion 31 and the left side (side facing outwards) 26 of the second resin portion 32 (collectively referred to as the opposing surfaces of the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32) are both formed as inclined surfaces and overlap. As a result, the surface layers of the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 within the mold cavity 105 of the mold 100 are melted and then solidified to form a shape resembling... Figure 14 The gap or interface 8 extends obliquely as shown. Thus, the shape of the gap or interface 8 in a certain cross section varies depending on the engagement state of the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32. In addition to the engagement state shown, many variations of the engagement state of the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 are envisioned, but it would be too lengthy for those skilled in the art to describe them all, so they are omitted.

[0074] In conclusion, refer to Figure 15 The manufacturing method of the rear stop 7 of the zipper 1 will be described. First, at least one first resin portion 31 (S1) that should be a part of the rear stop 7 is injection molded into the side edge portion 3c of the zipper tape 3a. Furthermore, at least one second resin portion 32 (S1) that should be a part of the remaining portion of the rear stop 7 is injection molded into the side edge portion 3d of the zipper tape 3b. Preferably, the zipper tooth 4a is injection molded together with the first resin portion 31 in the side edge portion 3c of the zipper tape 3a. Similarly, the zipper tooth 4b is injection molded together with the second resin portion 32 in the side edge portion 3d of the zipper tape 3b.

[0075] Next, the first resin part 31 and the second resin part 32 are assembled (S2). When the first resin part 31c' and the second resin part 32 are provided with a female part 31c' and a male part 32c', they are engaged. A universal zipper pull 5 can be used to engage the zipper teeth 4a and 4b, and to engage the female part 31c' with the male part 32c'. Needless to say, step S2 can be omitted.

[0076] Next, the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 are disposed in the mold cavity 105 of the mold 100 such that a gap 8' is formed between the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 (S3). Specifically, the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 are disposed one by one in the mold cavity 111 of the lower mold 101, or, the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 are disposed in the mold cavity 111 of the lower mold 101 after being combined. Next, the upper mold 102 is stacked on the lower mold 101. Thus, the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 are disposed within the mold cavity 105 of the mold 100.

[0077] Next, the mold 100 is heated (S4). The target temperature and holding time of the mold 100 are appropriately determined according to the resin material. The first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 melt near the mold cavity surface of the mold cavity 105, that is, in the surface region. The gap 8' is partially filled by the molten resin. In some cases, the mold 100 can be configured in a manner with a suitable thermal conductivity distribution so that the surface region near the gap 8' between the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 is selectively melted. By melting the surface regions of the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 within the mold cavity 105 of the mold 100, the gate marks of the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 disappear. Therefore, no gate marks are formed at the back stop 7. Furthermore, gate marks are marks formed due to cutting at the connection point between the gate and the flow path of the molten resin.

[0078] Next, the mold 100 is cooled (S5). The gap 8' between the first resin portion 31 and the second resin portion 32 is partially filled with the molten and solidified resin. As a result, a stop is formed having a gap or interface 8 covered by at least one surface region, which is composed of resin formed from molten resin and solidified. The gap or interface 8 of the stop 7 may be an internal gap or internal interface substantially or completely surrounded by the first surface region 76, the second surface region 77, the third surface region 78, and the fourth surface region 79, but is not limited thereto.

[0079] Figure 16 Is with Figure 8 Corresponding cross-sectional photographs of the prototype. For example, from... Figure 16 As can be seen, referring to Figure 8 The matters described herein are those based on solid evidence.

[0080] The following inventions are also disclosed in this specification.

[0081] Appendix 1.

[0082] A zipper stop (7) is provided, wherein a first zipper tooth strip (2a) formed by arranging first zipper teeth (4b) on opposite side edges (3c) of a first zipper strip (3a) and a second zipper tooth strip (2b) formed by arranging second zipper teeth (4b) on opposite side edges (3d) of a second zipper strip (3b) are joined together, wherein,

[0083] The zipper's stop length (7) has the following features:

[0084] The main body (7a) has an upper surface (71) and a lower surface (72);

[0085] The upper region (76) is formed on the upper surface (71) side of the main body (7a);

[0086] The lower region (77) is formed on the lower surface (72) side of the main body (7a); and

[0087] A gap or interface (8) is formed between the upper surface (71) and the lower surface (72) of the main body (7a).

[0088] The upper region (76) and the lower region (77) are surface regions of the main body (7a) that extend across the gap or interface (8) to cover the gap or interface (8).

[0089] Based on the foregoing teachings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications to the embodiments. Reference numerals added to the claims are for reference only and should not be referenced for the purpose of limiting the interpretation of the claims. This disclosure is not limited to the rear stop of the zipper, but also applies to its front stop. The surface area need not be a flat layer; other shapes such as arcs can be obtained depending on the shape of the stop.

[0090] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0091] 1. Zipper; 2a, 2b. Zipper teeth and chain strap; 3a, 3b. Zipper strap; 3c, 3d. Side edge; 4a, 4b. Zipper teeth; 5. Slider head; 7. Rear stop (stop bar); 7a. Main body; 8. Gap or interface; 8'. Gap; 31. First resin part; 32. Second resin part; 76. First surface area; 77. Second surface area; 78. Third surface area; 79. Fourth surface area; 100. Mold; 105. Mold cavity.

Claims

1. A stop bar for a zipper, the zipper (1) comprising: The first zipper tooth belt (2a) and the second zipper tooth belt (2b) are formed by arranging the first zipper tooth (4a) and the second zipper tooth (4b) on opposite side edges (3c) of the first zipper belt (3a) and opposite side edges (3d) of the second zipper belt (3b); The zipper pull (5) advances to engage the first zipper tooth (4a) and the second zipper tooth (4b) and retreats to disengage the engagement of the first zipper tooth (4a) and the second zipper tooth (4b); and The stop code (7) is arranged adjacent to the rear end of the arrangement of the first zipper tooth (4a) and the second zipper tooth (4b), so that the first zipper tape (3a) and the second zipper tape (3b) are connected to each other. The stop code (7) has the following features: The main body (7a) has a first surface (71) and a second surface (72). The first surface region (76) is formed on the first surface (71) side of the main body (7a); and The second surface region (77) is formed on the second surface (72) side of the main body (7a). A gap or interface (8) is formed between the first surface (71) and the second surface (72) of the main body (7a). The first surface region (76) extends across the gap or interface (8) and covers the gap or interface (8), and has a layer thickness (R1) defined between the end (81) on the first surface (71) side of the gap or interface (8) and the first surface (71). The second surface region (77) extends across the gap or interface (8) and covers the gap or interface (8), and has a layer thickness (R2) defined between the end (82) on the second surface (72) side of the gap or interface (8) and the second surface (72). The gap or interface (8) is formed only between the opposite side edge (3c) of the first zipper tape (3a) and the opposite side edge (3d) of the second zipper tape (3b). The main body (7a) also has a third surface (73) and a fourth surface (74) disposed on the opposite side of the third surface (73). A third surface region (78) is formed on the third surface (73) side, which at least partially prevents the gap or interface (8) from being exposed on the third surface (73). A fourth surface region (79) is formed on the fourth surface (74) side, which at least partially prevents the gap or interface (8) from being exposed on the fourth surface (74).

2. The stop length of the zipper according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first surface (71) is the upper surface of the main body (7a), and the second surface (72) is the lower surface of the main body (7a).

3. The stop length of the zipper according to claim 2, characterized in that, The gap or interface (8) is not exposed on the first surface (71) and the second surface (72).

4. The stop length of the zipper according to claim 2, characterized in that, The main body (7a) also has a front surface (73) and a rear surface (74) disposed on the opposite side of the front surface (73). The first surface region (76) covers the gap or interface (8) between the front surface (73) and the rear surface (74) of the main body (7a) along its entire length in the front-rear direction. The second surface region (77) covers the gap or interface (8) between the front surface (73) and the rear surface (74) of the main body (7a) along its entire length in the front-rear direction.

5. The stop length of the zipper according to claim 2, characterized in that, The thickness (R1) of the first surface region (76) and / or the thickness (R2) of the second surface region (77) is 0.2 mm or more, or less than half of the thickness (TH7) of the main body (7a) defined by the first surface (71) and the second surface (72).

6. The stop length of the zipper according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The number of gaps or interfaces (8) visible in the specified cross section of the main body (7a) that coincides with the center line of the zipper (1) is two.

7. The stop length of the zipper according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The gap or interface (8) is formed in such a way as to represent the boundary between the female part (31c') and the male part (32c') included in the main body (7a), the female part (31c') having a female surface extending to form a single concave portion, and the male part (32c') having a male surface extending to form a single convex portion, the gap or interface (8) being formed between the female surface and the male surface.

8. The stop length of the zipper according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The first surface (71) is the upper surface of the main body (7a), and the second surface (72) is the lower surface of the main body (7a). The upper surface (71) and the lower surface (72) are flat surfaces that extend across the gap or interface (8).

9. The stop length of the zipper according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, No gate marks are formed on the main body (7a).

10. A method for manufacturing a zipper, wherein: The injection molding of the side edge (3c) of the first zipper tape (3a) should be at least one first resin part (31) of the stop (7). The injection molding of the side edge (3d) of the second zipper tape (3b) should be at least one second resin part (32) of the remaining part of the stop (7). The first resin part (31) and the second resin part (32) are disposed in the mold cavity (105) of the mold (100) in such a way that a gap (8') is formed between the first resin part (31) and the second resin part (32). The mold (100) is heated so that the first resin portion (31) and the second resin portion (32) melt in their surface regions within the mold cavity (105) of the mold (100), and the gap (8') is partially filled by the molten resin. The mold (100) is cooled to form the stop (7) having a gap or interface (8) covered by at least one surface area (76, 77, 78, 79), the at least one surface area (76, 77, 78, 79) being composed of resin formed by the solidification of the molten resin. The gap or interface (8) is formed only between the opposing side edges (3c) and side edges (3d) of the first zipper tape (3a) and the second zipper tape (3b).

11. The method for manufacturing a zipper according to claim 10, characterized in that, The method of manufacturing the zipper further includes: before placing the first resin part (31) and the second resin part (32) in the mold cavity (105) of the mold (100), pre-assembling the first resin part (31) and the second resin part (32) based on the engagement of the female part (31c') of the first resin part (31) and the male part (32c') of the second resin part (32). The female portion (31c') has a female surface that extends to form a single concave portion, and the male portion (32c') has a male surface that extends to form a single convex portion, and the gap or interface (8) is formed between the female surface and the male surface.

12. The method for manufacturing a zipper according to claim 11, characterized in that, The arrangement of the first zipper teeth (4a) is injection molded on the side edge (3c) of the first zipper tape (3a). The arrangement of the second zipper teeth (4b) is injection molded on the side edge (3d) of the second zipper tape (3b). The method of manufacturing the zipper further includes: using a zipper head (5) prepared for engagement of the female part (31c') of the first resin part (31) and the male part (32c') of the second resin part (32) to engage the first zipper tooth (4a) and the second zipper tooth (4b) with each other.

13. The method for manufacturing a zipper according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that, The stop bar (7) without gate marks is formed by heating and cooling the mold (100).

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