Waterproof closure cord and waterproof closure

Abstract

A waterproof closure strand (2m, 2n) comprises: a closure band (3m, 3n) sewn from at least one weft thread (38) and a plurality of warp threads (39), a spiral-shaped dome link (4m, 4n) sewn to the closure band (3m, 3n) with a machine-sewn thread (5) such that it is positioned on a lower band surface (31) of the closure band (3m, 3n), and a waterproof layer (6m, 6n) layered on an upper band surface (32) of the closure band (3m, 3n). The machine-sewn thread (5) contains several floating sections (52). Each floating section (52) has two sinking ends (52a, 52b) which sink towards the underside of the closure band (31), being carried along by the sewing machine needle (8) which pierces the basic structure of the closure band (3m, 3n).The basic structure of the fastening strap (3m, 3n) comprises a twill weave designed to intersect a boundary (P1) between the dome-link fastening section (33) and the main strap section (34). The floating section (52) extends to intersect a rib (26) and / or a notch (27) between adjacent ribs (26) of the twill weave in the dome-link fastening section (33). A recess (7) may be formed between the floating sections (52) and corresponds to a needle entry point (8). The recess (7) may be positioned between adjacent ribs (26).

Description

[Technical area]

[0001] This disclosure relates to a waterproof (waterproof) sealing strand and a waterproof closure. [Background technology]

[0002] As disclosed in PTL 1, it was known to coat the base material of a closure tape with a waterproof layer using an adhesive, thus rendering the closure tape waterproof. In PTL 1, a polyurethane layer is used as the waterproof layer, and a water-based polyurethane adhesive is used as the adhesive. Similar to PTL 1, PTL 2 relates to a waterproof zipper and specifically discloses that a dome-link fastening section of the closure tape is made of a 1 / 1 twill weave for the purpose of reducing the sliding resistance associated with the opening and closing operations of the zipper. Section 0025 of PTL 2 describes how, in a situation where the dome-link fastening section is made of a twill weave, a defect can be caused in a tensioning thread for sewing a spiral dome link.Section 0053 of PTL 2 discloses that the dome-link fastening section and the main strap section are made of a twill weave. PTL 3 and 4 disclose a wide range of weaves for closure straps. [Reference list][Patent specifications] [PTL 1] International Publication No. 2014 / 010019 [PTL 2] Published Japanese patent application no. 2020-65919 [PTL 3] International Publication No. 2015 / 189918 [PTL 4] International Publication No. 2019 / 106857 [Summary][Technical Problem]

[0003] In a situation where a waterproof layer is applied to the opposite side of a spiral dome element on the base structure of a closure strap, to which the spiral dome element is sewn, the appearance of the waterproof closure strand can be degraded by gaps formed between the waterproof layer and the base structure. For example, the adhesive may incompletely fill the gaps, leaving air trapped and resulting in a whitish appearance. The inventors of the present invention have intensively analyzed the relationship between the base structure of the closure strap and a machine-sewn thread for the purpose of improving the appearance of such waterproof closure strands, until they arrived at the present invention described below.It should be noted that even if the amount of adhesive were simply increased, this could result in increased hardness and reduced softness of the waterproof sealing strand. [Problem solving]

[0004] A waterproof closure strand according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a closure band sewn from at least one weft thread and a plurality of warp threads, a spiral-shaped dome link sewn to the closure band with a machine-sewn thread such that it is positioned on a lower band surface of the closure band, and a waterproof layer layered on an upper band surface of the closure band on the opposite side of the spiral-shaped dome link. The closure band comprises: a dome link attachment section that overlaps with the spiral-shaped dome link in a thickness direction of the closure band, and a main band section corresponding to the remainder outside the dome link attachment section.The machine-sewn thread contains several floating portions, each positioned above the tape surface and extending from the base structure of the closure tape. Each floating portion has two drooping ends that descend towards the underside of the closure tape, being carried along by the sewing machine needle as it pierces the base structure. The base structure of the closure tape comprises a twill weave designed to intersect a boundary between the dome-link attachment portion and the main tape portion. The floating portion extends to intersect a rib and / or notch between adjacent ribs of the twill weave in the dome-link attachment portion. The waterproof closure strand has multiple cavities, each formed between the floating portions and corresponding to a needle entry point.The majority of cavities contain a cavity located between adjacent ribs or a majority of cavities, each located between adjacent ribs.

[0005] In some embodiments, the majority of the cavities are arranged linearly, and the ribs extend along straight diagonal lines with respect to the orientation of the floating sections. The angle between the orientation of the floating sections and the direction of extension of the ribs can be in a range between 10° and 30°. Alternatively, the angle can be in a range between 15° and 30° or between 20° and 30°.

[0006] In some embodiments, an image showing the unevenness of the upper band surface of the closure band reveals that each cavity of the plurality of cavities has an area of ​​0.2 mm. 2 or less.

[0007] In some embodiments, the average area of ​​the majority of cavities in an image showing the unevenness of the upper band surface of the closure band lies in a range between 0.1 mm 2 and 0.2 mm 2 .

[0008] In some embodiments, a median value of the area distribution of the majority of cavities in an image showing the unevenness of the upper band surface of the closure band lies in a range between 0.3 mm 2 and 0.6 mm 2 .

[0009] In some embodiments, the plurality of cavities includes at least one cavity surrounded by the floating sections and the ribs, the at least one cavity being visible in an image showing the unevenness of the upper band surface of the closure band.

[0010] In some embodiments, the twill weave is formed along the entire surface of the dome link fastening section.

[0011] In some embodiments, the twill weave is formed along the entire surface of the main strip section, except in a strip edge section of the main strip section, wherein the strip edge section is located on the opposite side of the dome member fastening section.

[0012] In some embodiments, the twill weave comprises several subzones with different rib extension directions.

[0013] In some embodiments, the machine-sewn thread is thicker than the width of the warp thread of the twill weave.

[0014] In some embodiments, conditions (a) and / or (b) are met: (a) the arrangement direction of the floating sections corresponds to or is parallel to the length direction of the waterproof closure strand and (b) a spiral dome link is sewn to the closure band with a double chain stitch and the machine-sewn thread is a needle thread of the double chain stitch.

[0015] In some embodiments, each cavity of the plurality of cavities is at least partially filled with an adhesive used to layer the waterproof layer onto the closure band.

[0016] A waterproof zipper according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a pair of waterproof closure strands, each corresponding to one of the waterproof closure strands described above, and a slider for coupling and uncoupling the pair of waterproof closure strands. [Advantageous effects of the invention]

[0017] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the waterproof sealing strand may have an improved appearance. [Brief description of the drawings] [ Fig. 1] Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic, partial top view of a waterproof closure according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [ Fig. 2] Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic, partial lower view of the waterproof closure. [ Fig. 3] Fig. 3 is an enlarged partial view of Fig. 2. [ Fig. 4] Fig. Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a coupled left and right waterproof closure strand and coupling heads of left and right spiral dome elements that interlock alternately in a forward-backward direction. [ Fig. 5] Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic side view of the waterproof closure strand, schematically showing a state in which the spiral dome link is sewn to the basic structure of the closure band with a machine-sewn thread. [ Fig. 6] Fig. Figure 6 is a diagram of the web structure of a closure tape. [ Fig. 7] Fig. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the insertion points of the sewing machine needle in a part of the dome link attachment section of the web structure. [ Fig. 8] Fig. Figure 8 is a photograph showing the surface of a waterproof chain, with an irregularity visible in accordance with floating sections of the machine-stitched thread on the left and right sides of the center line of the chain. [ Fig. 9] Fig. Figure 9 is an image of the upper tape surface of the zipper before layering of the waterproof layer, which was captured and created using a 3D form measuring machine, where the depth is indicated by a color difference (shading in a black and white image). [ Fig. 10] Fig. Figure 10 is a structural view of the web structure of the dome link fastening section of a closure band according to a comparative example. [ Fig. 11] Fig. Figure 11 is a photograph showing the surface of a waterproof warp according to a comparable example, showing an unevenness consistent with floating sections of the machine-stitched thread on the left and right sides of the warp's center line. [ Fig. 12] Fig. Figure 12 is an image of the upper band surface of the closure band before layering of the waterproof layer according to the comparison example, which was recorded and created with a 3D form measuring machine, in which the depth is characterized by a color difference (shading in a black and white image). [ Fig. 13] Fig. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing a manufacturing process for a waterproof closure tape. [ Fig. 14] Fig. Figure 14 is a schematic process diagram in which the waterproof layer is layered on top of the waterproof chain. [ Fig. 15] Fig. Figure 15 is a schematic process diagram in which the waterproof layer, which has been layered onto the waterproof chain, is cut by a cutting device. [Description of the embodiments]

[0018] Various embodiments and features are described below with reference to the drawing. A person skilled in the art would be able to combine the respective embodiments and / or features without requiring further description and would be able to appreciate the synergistic effects of such combinations. Overlapping descriptions between the embodiments are essentially omitted. Drawings referenced are primarily intended to describe the invention and are simplified for the purpose of facilitating the creation of the drawing. The respective features should be considered universal features suitable not only for the waterproof closure strand and the method for its manufacture shown here, but also for various other waterproof closure strands and methods for their manufacture not shown here.

[0019] In the present disclosure, a direction of movement of the slider 9 for opening and closing a waterproof zipper 1 is referred to as the forward-backward direction (see the double arrow FB in Fig. 1) A direction parallel to a width direction of the waterproof zipper 1 is referred to as the left-right direction (see the double arrow LR in Fig. 1) A direction parallel to a thickness direction of the waterproof zipper 1 is referred to as the top-bottom direction. It should be noted that the top-bottom direction is orthogonal to both the front-back and left-right directions. The top-bottom direction is not necessarily a vertical direction (direction of gravity). For example, if the waterproof zipper 1 is oriented such that its length direction coincides with the vertical direction, the top-bottom direction of the waterproof zipper 1 is contained in a horizontal direction (this is orthogonal to the vertical direction). Therefore, the directions referenced in this specification are irrelevant with respect to the vertical direction. It should be noted that, as described below, directions other than the front-back, left-right, and top-bottom directions may be used for reference.

[0020] The waterproof (zipper) fastener 1 is a flexible, elongated part with a fixed width in the left-right direction, extending elongately along the front-back direction, and comprising a pair of left and right waterproof closure strands 2m, 2n and a slider 9 for coupling and uncoupling the waterproof closure strands 2m, 2n. Similarly, the waterproof closure strands 2m, 2n are flexible, elongated parts with a constant width in the left-right direction, extending elongately along the front-back direction. When the slider 9 moves forward, the left and right waterproof sealing strands 2m, 2n (especially the spiral-shaped dome links 4m, 4n described below) are coupled and a waterproof seal is formed based on a firm contact between opposing side edges 65 of the waterproof layers 6m, 6n, which are described later (see Fig. 4). When the slide 9 moves backward, the left and right waterproof sealing strands 2m, 2n (especially the spiral-shaped dome members 4m, 4n described below) are decoupled, and the fixed contact between the opposing waterproof layers 6m, 6n is also released. It should be noted that the fixed contact between the waterproof layers 6m, 6n does not offer great resistance to water pressure, but a certain degree of water resistance is achievable. It might be possible to omit the fixed contact between the side edges 65 of the waterproof layers 6m, 6n, which in this case would result in reduced water resistance.

[0021] The waterproof closure strand 2m, 2n comprises a closure band 3m, 3n, a spiral-shaped dome element 4m, 4n sewn onto the closure band with a machine-sewn thread 5, so that it is positioned on a lower band surface 31 of the closure band 3m, 3n, and a waterproof layer 6m, 6n layered on an upper band surface 32 of the closure band 3m, 3n on the opposite side of the spiral-shaped dome element 4m, 4n. The waterproof closure strand 2m, 2n has a hardness and a softness according to the layering of the waterproof layers 6m, 6n and the closure band 3m, 3n. The waterproof layer 6m, 6n supports the closure band 3m, 3n, thus allowing the selection from a wide range of basic structures for the closure band 3m, 3n.In some cases, a web structure is selected that increases the softness of the closure tape 3m, 3n, whereby the increased softness of the closure tape 3m, 3n can be compensated by the hardness of the waterproof layer 6m, 6n.

[0022] The closure band 3m, 3n comprises a dome-link attachment section 33, to which the spiral dome link 4m, 4n is attached, and overlaps with the spiral dome link 4m, 4n in the thickness direction of the closure band 3m, 3n, and a main band section 34, which represents the remainder outside the dome-link attachment section 33. The dome-link attachment section 33 may be narrower than the main band section 34. The boundary P1 between the dome-link attachment section 33 and the main band section 34 can be defined in a plane that is parallel to the horizontal plane CP of the zipper 1 and is in contact with a rear section 44 of the spiral dome link 4m, 4n, as described below. The central plane CP of the zipper 1 contains an axial line that defines a movement path for the slider 9 and is orthogonal to the width direction (left-right direction) of the zipper 1.When the left and right spiral dome links 4m, 4n are coupled, a slit is formed between the opposite side edges 36 of the left and right closure bands 3m, 3n. This slit is completely or partially covered by the waterproof layers 6m, 6n, thus achieving a certain degree of water resistance.

[0023] The 3m, 3n closure tape is a woven fabric with a higher degree of softness, woven from at least one weft thread 38 and several warp threads 39. A loom can be used to weave the 3m, 3n closure tape. The weft thread 38 and the warp threads 39 are threads (e.g., monofilament or multifilament) with the desired properties (denier, color). The weft thread 38 and the warp threads 39 can be dyed before weaving the 3m, 3n closure tape, or the 3m, 3n closure tape can be dyed after weaving. The weft thread 38 can be interwoven with the warp threads 39 in such a way that for each bundle of two weft thread segments, these are drawn together in the weft direction; however, this aspect is not a limiting factor.It should be noted that the closure tape 3m, 3n, as described above, is a woven fabric woven from the weft thread 38 and the warp threads 39, so that the penetration and passage of water through the threads themselves and through the openings between the threads is possible.

[0024] In Fig. In Figure 4, the lower band surface 31 and the upper band surface 32 of the closure band 3m, 3n are depicted as planar surfaces, but in reality, they are non-planar surfaces. Each or all warp threads 39 contained in the closure band 3m, 3n pass repeatedly over the weft thread 38 (i.e., on the side of the upper band surface 32) and under the weft thread 38 (i.e., on the side of the lower band surface 31). The rising and falling of each warp thread 39 is distributed, as described above, along the width direction of the closure band 3m, 3n, allowing the lower band surface 31 and the upper band surface 32 to have a two-dimensionally distributed unevenness.

[0025] The spiral-shaped coupling element 4m, 4n typically consists of a coiled spiral monofilament and contains a series of units U1, each of which consists of an upper arm 41, a lower arm 42, a coupling head 43 and a return section 44 (see Fig. 3 to 5). The upper arm 41 and the lower arm 42 extend along the width direction of the closure band 3m, 3n and have outer and inner ends with respect to the closure band. The coupling head 43 extends in an up-down direction so that the outer ends of the upper and lower arms 41 and 42 are connected with respect to the closure band. The rear section 44 extends and curves so that the inner ends of the lower and upper arms 42 and 41 are connected between adjacent units U1. It should be noted that "outward with respect to the closure band" denotes a direction from a point located on the band surface to a point located outside the band surface and in some cases may cross the opposite side edge 36 (e.g., be orthogonal to it).It should be noted that "inward" with respect to the closure band, referring to a closure band, denotes a direction from a point located outside the band surface to a point located on the band surface and in some cases may cross the opposite side edge 36 (e.g., be orthogonal to it). The coupling head 43 has a coupling section (engagement section) that is formed by plastic deformation of the monofilament to have a greater width in the forward-backward direction, which allows the coupling of the left and right spiral-shaped coupling elements 4m, 4n.

[0026] The spiral dome link 4m, 4n can be sewn to the closure strap 3m, 3n in various ways using the machine-sewn thread 5. Typical situations include the illustrated example, where the spiral dome link 4m, 4n is sewn to the closure strap 3m, 3n by a double chain stitch or a double lockstitch, based on the operation of the sewing machine. The sewing machine needle moves back and forth in an up-down direction to penetrate the closure strap 3m, 3n, and a hook of the sewing machine moves along the forward-backward direction, so that a hook thread engages in a lower loop of the needle thread. Furthermore, a feed mechanism of the sewing machine continuously or intermittently feeds the closure strap 3m, 3n and the spiral dome link 4m, 4n forward-backward.In the case of a double chain stitch, preferably two sewing machine needles are used to form two stitch lines on the upper band surface 32, however the number of sewing machine needles can be changed as required.

[0027] When the sewing machine needle pierces the closure tape 3m, 3n, the basic structure of the closure tape 3m, 3n is deformed. For example, the weft thread 38 moves slightly (escapes) in the forward-backward direction (feed direction) and / or the warp thread 39 moves slightly (escapes) in the width direction of the tape (left-right direction). The feed speed of the sewing machine can be set to constant, and the sewing machine needle can pierce the closure tape 3m, 3n at defined points along its length. It should be noted that the points of entry of the sewing machine needle may vary slightly depending on the feeding precision of the sewing machine, slippage, the softness of the tape, and so on. It should be noted that in an exemplary example, the sewing machine needle pierces and exits a closure tape 3m, 3n, which remains stationary during transport.

[0028] In the case described above, the machine-sewn thread 5 contains at least two different threads, such as the needle thread 51 and the looper thread 56, and these threads are regularly interwoven so that the spiral-shaped dome link 4m, 4n is secured to the closure band 3m, 3n. The needle thread 51 contains a plurality of floating sections 52, each of which lies above the upper band surface 32 and extends from the basic structure of the closure band 3m, 3n (see Fig. 5) Each of the floating sections 52 has two descending ends 52a, 52b, which descend towards the lower band surface 31 of the closure band 3m, 3n and are thereby carried along by the sewing machine needle 8, which pierces the basic structure of the closure band 3m, 3n (see Fig. 5) Typically, the majority of floating sections 52 are arranged in a direction that corresponds to or is parallel to the length direction of the waterproof closure strand 2m, 2n (i.e., linear), but is not restricted to this. The waterproof closure strand 2m, 2n has a plurality of cavities 7, each located between the floating sections 52 and the corresponding insertion points of the sewing machine needle 8. A detailed description of a cavity 7 follows.

[0029] In addition to the floating sections 52 described above, the needle thread 51 includes a thread section 53 extending downwards, a thread section 54 connected to the looper thread 56, and a thread section 55 extending upwards to join the sinking ends 52a and 52b of adjacent floating sections 52. That is to say, the needle thread 51 is a coiled thread containing a series of alternating upper and lower loops, the upper loops containing the floating sections 52 and the lower loops containing the thread sections 54. It is shown that the thread section 53 and the thread section 54 are in direct contact with each other, but they are not restricted to this.Furthermore, the interlacing point 57, where the needle thread 51 and the gripper thread 56 are connected, is positioned closer to the lower arm 42 than to the upper arm 41 with respect to the top-bottom direction, but is not restricted in this respect.

[0030] The tension of the needle thread 51 can be adjusted by controlling the amount of needle thread 51 supplied for each up-and-down movement of the sewing machine needle 8, and this applies equally to the looper thread 56. In each case, the needle thread 51 and the looper thread 56 are connected such that they have a prescribed tension or a tension within a prescribed range. As a result, in addition to the insertion of the sewing machine needle 8, the basic structure of the closure band 3m, 3n can be deformed by the needle thread 51 itself (escaped from the sewing machine needle 8). For example, the weft thread 38 is forced to move in a forward-backward direction (typically slightly), or the warp thread 39 is forced to move in a left-right direction (typically slightly). These local movements of the threads facilitate the formation of the cavities 7 described below.It should be noted that it is not necessary to allow the needle thread 51 and the looper thread 56 to be joined by the sewing machine needle 8 moving downwards for each unit U1 of the spiral dome link. For example, the sewing machine needle 8 can move downwards for every 2 or 3 units U1 to allow the needle thread 51 and the looper thread 56 to join.

[0031] Typically, the waterproof layer 6m, 6n is a layer of specified thickness made of thermoplastic resin. For example, the thermoplastic resin can be selected from a group consisting of polyurethane, polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinyl alcohol. The waterproof layer 6m, 6n can be layered onto the closure tape 3m, 3n using an adhesive, or it can be applied to the closure tape 3m, 3n by surface melting, coating, or similar methods. That is to say, methods other than gluing can be used to layer the waterproof layer 6m, 6n onto the closure tape 3m, 3n. In a preferred example, the waterproof layer contains polyurethane, and the adhesive contains a water-based polyurethane adhesive as described in PTL 1 (this PTL is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

[0032] Regarding Fig. 6 The basic structure of the closure band 3m, 3n comprises a twill weave 35 designed to intersect the boundary P1 between the dome-link fastening section 33 and the main band section 34. Preferably, the twill weave 35 includes a plurality of ribs 26 extending across the boundary P1 between the dome-link fastening section 33 and the main band section 34. This, in conjunction with the coated environment between the basic structure and the waterproof layer 6m, 6n, reduces the appearance of the differences between the two sides of the boundary P1, thereby increasing the uniformity of the appearance and / or the degree of flatness of the surface of the waterproof closure strand 2m, 2n. The flatness of the surface can be determined by calculating the surface unevenness of the waterproof layer 6m, 6n.

[0033] In more detail, the twill weave 35 comprises a first zone 35a, which is formed to cross the boundary P1 between the dome-link attachment section 33 and the main band section 34, and a second zone 35b of the remainder. The first zone 35a contains a plurality of ribs 26 that extend to cross the boundary P1. The second zone 35b contains the band edge region 35r, which is located on the side of the dome-link attachment section 33 opposite the main band section 34, and a plurality of subzones 35p, 35q with different extension directions of the ribs 26 (e.g., opposite directions). The band edge region 35r consists of a basic weave, but other types of weaves can also be used. In subzone 35p, the ribs 26 extend diagonally to be away from the dome link attachment section 33, extending along the warp direction.In subzone 35q, the ribs 26 extend diagonally to be close to the dome-link attachment section 33, extending along the warp direction. Subzones 35p and 35q thus have ribs 26 that are mirror images of each other. Accordingly, the softness, etc., of the basic structure can be adjusted based on subzones with different rib 26 extension directions. It should be noted that the twill weave can be used as the basic structure to achieve consistent hardness while maintaining high softness.

[0034] In some cases, the entire surface of the dome-link fastening section 33 consists of the twill weave, but is not limited to this. Additionally or alternatively, the entire surface of the main band section 34, except for the band edge area 35r, consists of the twill weave, but is not limited to this. A larger area of ​​twill weave can ensure that the machine-sewn thread penetrates the twill weave more reliably and can simultaneously promote greater flatness of the surface of the waterproof closure strand 2m, 2n (and consequently an improved appearance thereof), as shown by a comparison between Fig. 8 and Fig. 11 can be recognized. The 3m, 3n closure strap, which is in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, its entire surface, except for the band edge area 35r, consists of twill weave. This is shown in Fig. The closure strap shown in section 11 has no twill weave in its main strap area and therefore, as in Fig. 11 shown, compared to the one in Fig. Figure 8 shows a noticeable unevenness in the surface of the waterproof sealing strand, and its flatness is reduced.

[0035] Fig. Figure 7 shows a web structure on the side of the upper band 32 of the closure band 3m, 3n. In the diagram of the web structure in Fig. The 7 grid cells are arranged two-dimensionally in the row and column directions. The column direction corresponds to the weft direction in which the weft thread extends, and the column direction corresponds to the warp direction in which the warp thread extends. Note that in cases where the warp thread crosses every two drawn-up sections of the weft thread in the width direction of the band, each grid cell contains the two weft thread sections. The number of warp threads contained in each grid cell can be 1, but is not limited to this. The hatched rectangular grid cells denote the floating sections 52 of the warp threads 39. The ribs 26 are formed by the floating sections 52 of the warp threads, which are arranged continuously in a diagonal direction with respect to the weft thread 38.The extension direction D1 of a rib 26 can be defined by connecting the centers of the respective floating sections 52 in the forward-backward direction with a straight line. Cutouts 27 can be formed between adjacent ribs 26 in the warp direction, extending diagonally, similar to the ribs 26.

[0036] In Fig. 7. Parallel dashed (double-dotted) lines represent the needle threads 51 of a prescribed thickness, and dotted circles represent the entry points of the sewing machine needle 8. The floating section 52 of the needle thread 51 is located between the dotted circles. The entry points of the sewing machine needle 8 are assumed to be within the dotted circles, although they may deviate slightly from them. In the view of the web structure in Fig. 7 The floating section 52 extends to cross the rib 26 (as well as the notch 27 between the ribs 26) of the twill weave in the coupling link fastening section 33. Furthermore, the insertion points of the sewing machine needle 8 are located between adjacent ribs 26 along the warp direction (see e.g. P1-P5 and so on in Fig. 7) and the cavities 7 would be located between adjacent ribs 26. A cavity 7 can have a reduced spatial extent (capacity) due to the bulging of the rib 26, and the cavity 7 can have a smaller area when viewed from above. In contrast, in cases where the dome link fastening section 33 consists of a ground weave, there is no separate rib. Accordingly, the cavity 7 would not be reduced in size by the rib and would not have a smaller area. In a case where the dome link fastening section 33 consists of a rib weave, the spatial extent of the cavity 7 would be increased because the weft thread moves slightly in the warp direction when tension is applied to the machine-sewn thread 5 for the purpose of securing the spiral dome link. Therefore, effects similar to those in the present embodiment would not be achievable.It should be noted that the cavities described above are visible as whitish-opaque areas when, as in . Fig. 8, viewed from the side of the upper surface of the waterproof chain.

[0037] In the present embodiment, the waterproof closure strand 2m, 2n has a plurality of cavities 7, each of which is formed between the floating sections 52 and the corresponding insertion point of the sewing machine needle 8. The plurality of cavities 7 includes one cavity 7 located between adjacent ribs 26, or two or more cavities 7, each located between adjacent ribs 26 (typically several cavities 7 located between adjacent ribs 26). In this respect, the cavity 7 can be configured to have a smaller extent and area between the floating sections 52 due to the ribs 26 on the base structure of the closure band 3m, 3n.Accordingly, regardless of whether adhesive is used or not, the formation of air in the cavity 7 can be prevented when the waterproof layer 6m, 6n is applied to the upper band surface 32 of the sealing band 3m, 3n, which would otherwise result in a deteriorated appearance of the waterproof sealing strand 2m, 2n (e.g., a whitish appearance at the site of the cavity). In this way, the yield rate can be prevented or suppressed from being reduced by an undesirable appearance of the waterproof sealing strand 2m, 2n, while simultaneously giving the waterproof sealing strand 2m, 2n a high-quality appearance. As an additional or alternative effect, the machine-stitched thread 5 extends along the rib 26 (i.e.,(does not extend far enough to be orthogonal to the rib 26), thus reducing to some extent the floating appearance of the machine-sewn thread 5 above the base structure. As an additional or alternative effect, as described above, the cavity 7 is designed to have a smaller area, which allows the use of a thicker machine-sewn thread 5 (i.e., with a higher denier value), which would otherwise result in the cavity 7 having a larger area. The use of a thicker machine-sewn thread 5 can increase the attachment strength of a spiral dome link or allow for the attachment of a larger spiral dome link. In some cases, the machine-sewn thread 5 is bulky compared to the width of the warp thread of the twill weave described above and is preferably an interlaced multifilament thread.Typically, the machine-sewn thread 5 is an interwoven multifilament thread with an essentially circular cross-section. It should be noted that the ribs 26, which contribute to a smaller extent and area of ​​the cavity 7, are positioned on both sides of the cavity 7 with respect to the width direction of the band (weft direction).

[0038] A further discussion about various effects related to the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 follows. Fig. Figure 8 is a photograph showing the top surface of the waterproof warp, with an unevenness visible corresponding to the floating sections of the machine thread on the left and right sides of the middle warp plane CP. Fig. Figure 9 is an image of the upper surface of the closure tape before the application of the waterproof layer. It was created and recorded using a 3D form measuring machine (One-Shot 3D Form Measuring Machine (VR-3200) manufactured by Keyence), in which depth is indicated by color difference (shading in a black and white image). For clarity, a comparative example is provided. In this example, a dome-link fastening section of the closure tape contains the weave structure made of Fig. 10 (i.e., it contains no twill weave). In the comparison example, the main band area also contains no twill weave. Fig. Figure 11 is a photograph showing the upper band surface of the waterproof chain according to the comparison example. Fig. Figure 12 is an image of the upper band surface before the application of the waterproof layer according to the comparative example, which was created and recorded using the 3D form measuring machine (the same as in the embodiment), where depth is indicated by color differences (shading in a black and white image). It should be noted that in both cases, the embodiment and the comparative example, the waterproof layer 6m, 6n is applied to the closure band 3m, 3n using an adhesive. Furthermore, the same materials are used in the embodiment and the comparative example, except for the different weave structure of the closure band, and they are produced using the same manufacturing process and observed under the same conditions and with the same equipment.It should be noted that in both cases, the execution example and the comparison example, machine-sewn threads are used (needle thread and looper thread), which are thicker than the weft thread and the warp thread.

[0039] In Fig. 8 and Fig. 11. On both sides of the central plane CP of the waterproof chain, elevations can be observed that correspond to the floating sections of the needle thread. In Fig. 11. Whitish-opaque areas form around a number of floating sections. In Fig. Eleven of these are even somewhat longer, whitish-opaque surfaces, not only at the points between the floating sections, each extending along a floating section. In contrast, there are in Fig. 8 slightly whitish-opaque areas at the points between the floating sections, but these are in comparison to those in Fig. The 11 shown are smaller in area. Furthermore, in Fig. 8 no slightly elongated whitish-opaque areas extending along a floating section are formed.

[0040] In Fig. 9 and Fig. In both cases, the cavities 7 formed between the floating sections 52 are visible. Fig. 9 and Fig. In Figure 12, dotted lines are drawn on the respective contours of the floating sections 52 that are adjacent along the warp direction, and a solid line is drawn on a contour of the cavity 7 between these floating sections 52. The dotted and solid lines are not drawn for every floating section and cavity, but could be imagined similarly. As from a comparison of Fig. 9 and Fig. 12 would emerge, is the area of ​​a in Fig. 9 visible hollows 7 smaller than the area of ​​one in Fig. 12 visible hollows 7. The average area can be used for area comparison.

[0041] In more detail, in each example, both the execution example and the comparison example, two stitch lines (L1, L2) (each consisting of a series of floating sections) are formed in each of the waterproof closure strands 2m, 2n. Fig. 9 is each cavity 7 formed between adjacent floating sections 52 of the respective stitch lines L1, L2. In Fig. In 12, a smaller number of cavities 7 are formed on the stitch line L1, and a larger number of larger cavities 7 are formed on the stitch line L2. Fig. 12. The number and area of ​​cavities on one side of the zipper line L1 may be reduced, while on the other side, a larger number of cavities with a larger area are formed on the zipper line L2, resulting in a deteriorated appearance of the entire waterproof closure strand. In the exemplary embodiment, the cavities 7, which have a small area, are formed on both zipper lines L1 and L2, resulting in an improved appearance of the waterproof closure strand. There is a significant practical advantage to the improved appearance of the waterproof closure strand, based on the modification of the zipper's weave structure, without changing the amount of adhesive. Using an increased amount of adhesive can potentially result in increased hardness of the waterproof closure strand.

[0042] Preferably, the rib 26 can extend along the diagonal lines of the floating sections (i.e., the direction of extension of the stitches), and the angle θ between the arrangement direction of the floating sections 52 and the direction of extension of the rib 26 (i.e., D1) can be any angle in a range between 10° and 30° (i.e., an angle of 10°, 30°, or intermediate values). It should be noted that the intermediate values ​​are not limited to natural numbers such as 11°, 12°, ..., 28°, 29°. In this case, the angular difference between the floating sections 52 and the rib 62 becomes smaller (i.e., both are aligned nearly parallel), and the flatness of the surface of the waterproof closure strand 2m, 2n can be increased, thus improving its appearance. A reduction in the angle of the rib 26 can lead to a corresponding reduction in the softness of the closure tape (i.e.,(The closure band may have increased hardness) and this can potentially lead to increased sliding resistance of the slider while it is in contact with the closure band. Therefore, the angle θ described above is preferably 15° or more or 20° or less. Advantageously, the angle θ between the arrangement direction of the floating sections 52 and the extension direction of the rib 26 lies in an angular range between 15° and 30° or in a range between 20° and 30°.

[0043] The number of warp threads per unit width (e.g., 4 mm) is set to match the angle of the rib 26 described above. In some cases, 10–20, preferably 14–18 warp threads per unit width of 4 mm can be used in the coupling link fastening section 33.

[0044] The following features can be seen in the image Fig. Figure 9, which was recorded with the 3D form measuring machine (in particular, the image shows the unevenness of the upper band surface 32 of the closure band 3m, 3n before the application of the waterproof layer 6m, 6n). Of course, a similar visual observation can be made even after the application of the waterproof layer 6m, 6n, after the waterproof layer 6m, 6n has been peeled off with a suitable solvent. Similar visual observations can also be made without peeling off the waterproof layer 6m, 6n, depending on the type and settings of the 3D form measuring machine. (a) Each individual (or all) of the majority of cavities is perceived as a cavity with an area of ​​0.2 mm. 2or less. This feature is a result of the reduced space of the cavity due to the swelling / bulging of the rib. This increases the possibility of filling the cavity with the adhesive without increasing the amount of adhesive that needs to be used, which will likely result in an improved appearance of the waterproof seal. (b) The average area of ​​the majority of cavities is in a range between 0.1 mm 2 and 0.2 mm 2 This allows for an efficient improvement in the appearance of the waterproof closure strand. (c) The median value of the area distribution of the majority of cavities is in a range between 0.3 mm 2 and 0.6 mm 2 This allows for a more efficient improvement in the appearance of the waterproof closure strand. (d) at least one cavity surrounded by the floating sections and the ribs is discernible. In Fig. 9 is the hollow, marked by the solid line and located on the stitch line L1, surrounded by the floating sections 52, which lie on the front and back along the warp direction, and the ribs 26, which lie on the left and right side along the weft direction. Fig. In Figure 12, no cavity is discernible due to the difference in the weave structure of the dome link attachment section, which, as noted above, is surrounded by floating sections and ribs. It should be noted that this feature is also present in images other than the one in Figure 12. Fig. 9 or is visible through a microscope.

[0045] Advantageously, each cavity 7 is at least partially filled with the adhesive used to bond the waterproof layer 6m, 6n to the closure strip 3m, 3n, but this is not the only possible application. It is to be expected that some of the numerous cavities 7 will not be filled with the adhesive at all. For example, there are situations where the waterproof closure strip, which is an intermediate product in the manufacture of the waterproof zipper 1, is partially removed for the purpose of attaching the slider 9. In such a removal section, the adhesive might not be applied or might be applied in a smaller quantity, resulting in a locally deteriorated appearance of the waterproof closure strip.

[0046] Finally, a manufacturing process for the waterproof sealing strand is briefly described. Fig. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the manufacturing process of the waterproof sealing strand. Fig. Figure 14 is a schematic process diagram in which the waterproof layer is stacked on top of the waterproof chain. Fig. Figure 15 is a schematic process diagram in which the waterproof layer stacked on the waterproof chain is cut by a cutting device.

[0047] First, the closure tape is woven from the weft and warp threads (S1). Advantageously, its entire structure, except for a band edge area of ​​the main tape section 34, consists of a twill weave. The twill weave can contain several zones, including ribs that extend in different directions, as described above. Next, the spiral dome link is sewn to the closure tape (S2). An industrial sewing machine can be used for this. The spiral dome link can be sewn to the closure tape with a double chain stitch, a double lockstitch, or a similar stitch. Next, the waterproof layer is applied to the closure tape (S3). The adhesive can be applied in layers to the upper surface of the closure tape before the layering. The ribs 26 allow for a larger number of cavities with a smaller area, which would be more likely to be adequately filled with the adhesive.The same effect can be achieved if the waterproof layer is melted to its surface for attachment.

[0048] As in Fig. 14 and Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the waterproof layer is stacked onto a closure chain in which the waterproof closure strands 2m, 2n are coupled together, after which the waterproof layer is cut with a cutting device 81 at a position above the slot between the left and right closure bands 3m, 3n.

[0049] Based on the above teaching, skilled persons may make various modifications to each embodiment and each feature. The reference numerals specified in the claims are for reference only and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of the claims. [Reference sign] 1 Waterproof (zipper) zipper 2m,2n Waterproof sealing cord 3m,3n closure tape 4m,4n Spiral-shaped dome element 5: Machine-sewn thread 6m,6n Waterproof Layer 7 Hollowing 8 sewing machine needles 9 sliders 26th rib 27 cut 31 Lower band surface 32 Upper band surface 33 Dome link fastening section 34 Main section 35 Twill weave 35p Subzone 35q Subzone 35r Band edge area 38 weft threads 39 warp threads 51 needle thread 52 Floating Section 52a Sinking End 52b Sinking End QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 2020-65919

[0002]

Claims

[1] Waterproof closure strand which has: a fastener tape (3m, 3n) woven from at least one weft thread (38) and several warp threads (39), a spiral coupling element (4m, 4n) which is sewn to the fastening tape (3m, 3n) with a machine-sewn thread (5) in such a way that it is placed on the lower tape surface (31) of the fastening tape and a waterproof layer (6m, 6n) coated on the upper surface (32) of the fastener tape (3m, 3n) on the side opposite the spiral-like coupling element (4m, 4n), wherein the closure tape (3m, 3n) comprises: a coupling element fixing portion (33) overlapping with the spiral coupling element (4m, 4n) in a thickness direction of the fastener tape (3m, 3n) and a main band portion (34) which represents the remainder outside the coupling element fastening portion (33), the machine-sewn thread (5) comprising a plurality of floating sections (52), each of which lies above the upper band surface (32) and extends from the basic structure of the fastener tape (3m, 3n), each floating section (52) having two sinking ends (52a, 52b) which sink towards the lower band surface (31) of the fastener tape (3m, 3n), which are carried along by the sewing machine needle (8) piercing the basic structure of the fastener tape (3m, 3n), the basic structure of the fastener tape (3n, 3m) comprises a twill weave which is designed to cross a boundary (P1) between the coupling element fastening portion (33) and the main tape portion (34), the floating portion (52) extends to cross a rib (26) and / or a notch (27) between adjacent ribs (26) of the twill weave in the coupling element attachment portion (33), the waterproof fastener strand (2m, 2n) has a plurality of cavities (7), each of which is formed between the floating portions (52) and corresponds to a piercing point of the sewing machine needle (8) and the plurality of cavities (7) includes a cavity (7) located between adjacent ribs (26) or a plurality of cavities (7) each located between adjacent ribs (26). [2] Waterproof fastener strand according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of cavities (7) are arranged linearly, the ribs (26) extend along straight diagonal lines with respect to the arrangement direction of the floating sections (52) and the angle between the arrangement direction of the floating sections (52) and the extension direction of the ribs (26) is in a range between 10° and 30°. [3] A waterproof fastener string according to claim 1 or 2, wherein in an image showing the unevenness of the upper band surface (32) of the fastener string (3m, 3n), it is seen that each concavity (7) of the plurality of concavities (7) has an area of 0.2 mm 2 or less. [4] A waterproof fastener strand according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the average area of the plurality of concave portions (7) in an image showing the unevenness of the upper band surface (32) of the fastener band (3m, 3n) is in a range between 0.1 mm 2 and 0.2 mm 2 lies. [5] A waterproof fastener strand according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a median value of the area distribution of the plurality of concave portions (7) in an image showing the unevenness of the upper band surface (32) of the fastener band (3m, 3n) is in a range between 0.3 mm 2 and 0.6 mm 2 lies. [6] The waterproof fastener string according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the plurality of concavities (7) includes at least one concavity (7) surrounded by the floating portions (52) and the ribs (26), the at least one concavity (7) being visible in an image showing the unevenness of the upper tape surface (32) of the fastener tape (3m, 3n). [7] A waterproof fastener string according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the twill weave is formed along the entire surface of the element attaching portion (33). [8] The waterproof fastener string according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the twill weave is formed along the entire surface of the main tape portion (34) except in a tape edge portion (35r) of the main tape portion (34), the tape edge portion (35r) being on the opposite side of the element attaching portion (33). [9] Waterproof fastener strand according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the twill weave comprises several subzones with different extension directions of the ribs (26). [10] A waterproof fastener strand according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the machine-sewn thread (5) is thicker than a width of the warp thread of the twill weave. [11] Waterproof closure strand according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein conditions (a) and / or (b) are met: (a) the arrangement direction of the floating portions (52) corresponds to or is parallel to the length direction of the waterproof sealing strand (2m, 2n) and (b) a spiral coupling element (4m, 4n) is sewn to the fastening tape (3m, 3n) with a double chain stitch and the machine-sewn thread (5) is a needle thread of the double chain stitch. [12] A waterproof fastener strand according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein each cavity (7) of the plurality of cavities (7) is at least partially filled with an adhesive used to laminate the waterproof layer (6m, 6n) onto the fastener tape (3m, 3n). [13] Waterproof closure that features: a pair of waterproof fastener strands (2m, 2n), each of which is a waterproof fastener strand (2m, 2n) according to any one of claims 1-12 and a slider (9) for coupling and uncoupling the pair of waterproof closure strands (2m, 2n).

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