Slide fastener and method of manufacturing slide fastener

Abstract

To provide a slide fastener which is excellent in concealability of an element row and can be provided with a stopper or a separable bottom end stop similarly to an ordinary type slide fastener, and to provide a method for manufacturing the slide fastener.SOLUTION: In the slide fastener (1), the one width-directional end part (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and the one width-directional end part (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) have a first region (A1) in which the one width-directional end part (20a) of the first fastener tape (10) and the one width-directional end part (A2a) of the second fastener tape (20) are respectively buckled in a mountain-like shape and closely attached to each other when the first and second element rows are engaged with each other, and a second region (A2b, LA) in which the one width-directional end part (LA) of the first fastener tape (10) and the one width-directional end part (LA) of the second fastener tape (20) are separated from each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a slide fastener and a method for manufacturing the slide fastener. [Background technology]

[0002] Generally, known types of slide fasteners include normal slide fasteners in which the element row is attached so that it is visible on the outside (front side) of the product, reverse-type slide fasteners in which the element row is attached to the inside (back side) of the product so that it is less visible (so-called reverse-type slide fasteners), and hidden-type slide fasteners in which the side edges of the left and right fastener tapes are folded back in a U-shape in the width direction and the element row is attached to the folded-back tape portion (so-called hidden slide fasteners).

[0003] Taking advantage of the advantage that the concealment property of the reverse slide fastener does not interfere with the design of the product, it is suitable for use in various products such as clothing, shoes, bags, and furniture, and in recent years has also been used in seat covers for various seats in automobiles, trains, aircraft, etc.

[0004] Furthermore, the reverse slide fastener described in Patent Document 1 discloses that when the left and right element rows are interlocked with each other, one end of one fastener tape in the width direction and one end of the other fastener tape in the width direction buckle in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other, eliminating any gaps between the pair of fastener tapes and providing excellent shielding for the element rows. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2023 / 243081 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Incidentally, in the slide fastener described in Patent Document 1, an upper stop is actually attached to one longitudinal side of the element row, and a lower stop or a separable bottom stop is attached to the other longitudinal side of the element row, but these are not specifically disclosed. In the fastener tape of such a slide fastener, one end in the width direction is formed long enough to buckle in an arched shape, which can block the gate during injection molding of the fastener, making it difficult for the resin to flow into the mold. Also, the core part, which includes the one end in the width direction of the fastener tape and the core string, becomes thick, making it difficult to insert into the insert pin or box pin of the separable end stop.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a slide fastener and a method for manufacturing a slide fastener which has excellent concealment properties for the element row and which can be provided with a stopper or a separable bottom end stop, similar to a normal type slide fastener. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is achieved by the following configuration. [1] a pair of first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) each having a long shape and a first main surface (11, 21) and a second main surface (13, 23) opposite to the first main surface (11, 21); a first element row (50) provided on the first main surface (11) of one widthwise end (10a) of the first fastener tape (10); a second element row (60) provided on the first main surface (21) of one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20); A slide fastener (1) comprising: one widthwise end portion (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) have a first region (A1) in which they buckle in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other when the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, and second regions (A2a, A2b) in which the one widthwise end portion (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) are spaced apart from each other. Slide fastener (1). [2] The slide fastener (1) according to [1], wherein a stopper (90) is attached to the second region (A2a, A2b). [3] The slide fastener (1) according to [2], wherein the stoppers (90) are also attached to the longitudinal ends (10e, 20e) of the first region (A1). [4] The second region comprises a region (A2a) on one longitudinal side to which the stopper is attached, and a region (A2b) on the other longitudinal side opposite the region on one longitudinal side of the first region, and a separable bottom stop (91) is attached to the region (A2b) on the other longitudinal side of the second region. [2] A slide fastener (1) according to [3]. [5] a pair of first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) each having a long shape and a first main surface (11, 21) and a second main surface (13, 23) opposite to the first main surface (11, 21); a first element row (50) provided on the first main surface (11) of one widthwise end (10a) of the first fastener tape (10); a second element row (60) provided on the first main surface (21) of one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20); A method for manufacturing a slide fastener (1) comprising: a space portion forming step of cutting out a part of the first and second element rows (50, 60) to form a spacer portion (101) in the fastener chain (100) which includes the pair of first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) and the first and second element rows (50, 60), and in which one end portion (10a) in the width direction of the first fastener tape (10) and one end portion (20a) in the width direction of the second fastener tape (20) are respectively buckled in an arched shape and closely adhere to each other while the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other; a tape cutting step of cutting one widthwise end portion (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) in the spacer portion so as to separate them from each other; a fastener stringer forming step of cutting the fastener chain (100) along the width direction at the spacer portion (101) to form fastener stringers (3, 5) having first regions (A1) in which one end (10a) in the width direction of the first fastener tape (10) and one end (20a) in the width direction of the second fastener tape (20) are respectively buckled in an arch shape and come into close contact with each other when the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, and second regions (A2a, A2b) in which one end (10a) in the width direction of the first fastener tape (10) and one end (20a) in the width direction of the second fastener tape (20) are spaced apart from each other; A method for manufacturing a slide fastener (1). [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the slide fastener and the manufacturing method of the slide fastener of the present invention, when the first and second element rows are interlocked with each other in the first region, one widthwise end of the first fastener tape and one widthwise end of the second fastener tape are each arched and buckled to come into close contact with each other, thereby eliminating gaps between the first and second fastener tapes, resulting in excellent concealment of the element rows and, ultimately, an excellent appearance. In addition, in the second region, one widthwise end of the first fastener tape and one widthwise end of the second fastener tape are spaced apart from each other, which prevents the gate from being blocked during injection molding of the stopper, making it difficult for the resin to flow into the mold, or prevents the core from becoming too thick and making it difficult to insert into the insert pin or box pin of the separable bottom end stop.Therefore, the stopper or separable bottom end stop can be provided in the same way as in a normal type slide fastener. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a surface view of a slide fastener according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the slide fastener shown in FIG. [Figure 3] 2 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the slide fastener shown in FIG. 1, showing a state in which the first and second element rows are engaged with each other. FIG. [Figure 4] 2 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the slide fastener shown in FIG. 1, showing a state in which the first and second element rows are separated. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a pair of left and right fastener stringers before the top stop and the separable bottom end stop are attached. [Figure 6] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the manufacturing process of a slide fastener. [Figure 7] 10 is a top view showing a state in which the fastener tape is placed on a mold for molding the top stop. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a slide fastener according to a modified example of the embodiment, showing a state in which the first and second element rows are engaged with each other. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A slide fastener and a method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to each embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification, the term "vertical direction" in relation to a slide fastener refers to the sliding direction of the slider, i.e., the longitudinal direction of the slide fastener. In particular, the direction in which the slider slides to interlock the left and right element rows is referred to as "upward," and the direction in which the slider slides to separate the left and right element rows is referred to as "downward." Furthermore, the "left-right direction" of a slide fastener refers to the direction in which a pair of element rows are arranged, a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction of the slider, and can also be referred to as the width direction of the slide fastener. Furthermore, the "front-back direction" of the slide fastener and top stop is a direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and the left-right direction, and can also be rephrased as the thickness direction of the fastener tape or the height direction of the element row.

[0012] (First embodiment) 1 to 4, the slide fastener 1 of this embodiment includes a pair of left and right fastener stringers 3, 5, a slider 40 that can open and close the pair of left and right fastener stringers 3, 5, top stops 90 attached to the upper ends of the pair of left and right fastener stringers 3, 5, and separable bottom end stoppers 91 attached to the lower ends of the pair of left and right fastener stringers 3, 5 and consisting of an insert pin, a box pin, and a box body. Note that a bottom stop may be attached instead of the separable bottom end stopper 91.

[0013] The pair of left and right fastener stringers 3, 5 are provided with a pair of left and right first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 that are long and have back surfaces 11, 21 (first main surfaces) and front surfaces 13, 23 (second main surfaces) opposite the back surfaces 11, 21, a first element row 50 provided on the back surface 11 of one widthwise end 10a (right end in FIG. 3) of the first fastener tape 10, and a second element row 60 provided on the back surface 21 of one widthwise end 20a (left end in FIG. 3) of the second fastener tape 20. Hereinafter, in the width direction of the first fastener tape 10 and the second fastener tape 20, the side on which the element row is provided is defined as the one widthwise end side, and the other side is defined as the other widthwise end side.

[0014] The first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are woven or knitted fabrics made of polyester yarn etc. and have excellent flexibility. The first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 may also be made of nonwoven fabric.

[0015] The slider 40 engages and separates the pair of left and right first and second element rows 50, 60. The slider 40 includes a body 41, a pull-tab attachment portion 42 provided on the surface of the body 41, and a pull tab 43 attached to the pull-tab attachment portion 42. By moving the slider 40 upward, the pair of left and right first and second element rows 50, 60 engage with each other as shown in Fig. 3, and by moving the slider 40 downward, the pair of left and right first and second element rows 50, 60 separate from each other as shown in Fig. 4.

[0016] The first and second element rows 50, 60 are coil-shaped fastener element rows formed by winding a synthetic resin monofilament in a fixed direction, and each row has a plurality of elements 31. The first and second element rows 50, 60 have a core cord 32 inserted through the interior of each of the plurality of elements 31, and are sewn to the back surface 11 of one widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the back surface 21 of one widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 by a sewing thread 33 that is double chain stitched. Examples of synthetic resin materials for the monofilament include polyester and nylon.

[0017] The element 31 includes an interlocking head 31a that interlocks with and separates from the mating element 31, a first leg 31b that extends from the front end of the interlocking head 31a toward the other end in the width direction and comes into contact with the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20, a second leg 31c that extends from the back end of the interlocking head 31a toward the other end in the width direction and does not come into contact with the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20, and a connecting portion 31d that connects the outer end of the first leg 31b in the width direction to the other end in the width direction of the second leg 31c of the adjacent element 31. Therefore, the first leg 31b and the second leg 31c are formed to protrude from the interlocking head 31a and extend parallel to each other.

[0018] 3 shows the meshing center O of the first and second element rows 50, 60. This meshing center O is the central position when the elements 31, 31 are meshed with each other, and coincides with the widthwise center of the slide fastener 1. In FIG. 4, O1 and O2 indicate positions that become the meshing center O when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are meshed with each other. Positions O1 and O2 are located closer to the other widthwise end than the meshing head 31a of the element 31.

[0019] As shown in Figure 4, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are separated, one widthwise end 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and one widthwise end 20a of the second fastener tape 20 are spaced apart from each other in the width direction.

[0020] 1 (the upper part of a first region A1 described later), one widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and one widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 are shown in a curved, buckled shape when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are separated, but this indicates that a tendency to buckle remains when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are separated after a certain period of time has passed in an interlocked state. When the first and second element rows 50, 60 are separated for a certain period of time, the tendency to buckle is eliminated, and the one widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and one widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 may each assume a substantially flat shape as shown in FIG.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 4, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are separated, one widthwise end 10a of the first fastener tape 10 extends toward the second fastener tape 20 (one widthwise end) from a position O1 which is the meshing center O of the first and second element rows 50, 60, and one widthwise end 20a of the second fastener tape 20 extends toward the first fastener tape 10 (one widthwise end) from a position O2 which is the meshing center O. That is, as shown in FIG. 3, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are meshed with each other, the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are designed to overlap the meshing center O. By arranging the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 and the first and second element rows 50, 60 in this manner, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are meshed with each other as described below, the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 can be buckled in an arched manner and brought into close contact with each other.

[0022] One widthwise end face 10b of the first fastener tape 10 may be arranged at a position overlapping at least a part of the interlocking heads 31a of the elements 31 in the width direction, or may be arranged on the same plane S1 as one widthwise end face 31e of the interlocking heads 31a (i.e., one widthwise end face of the first element row 50) in the width direction, or may be arranged closer to the second fastener tape 20 than the interlocking heads 31a. In the example of Fig. 3, one widthwise end face 10b of the first fastener tape 10 is arranged on the same plane S1 as one widthwise end face of the first element row 50 in the width direction.

[0023] One widthwise end face 20b of the second fastener tape 20 may be arranged at a position overlapping at least a part of the coupling head 31a of the element 31 in the width direction, or may be arranged on the same plane S2 as one widthwise end face 31f of the coupling head 31a (i.e., one widthwise end face of the second element row 60) in the width direction, or may be arranged closer to the first fastener tape 10 than the coupling head 31a. In the example of Fig. 3, one widthwise end face 20b of the second fastener tape 20 is arranged on the same plane S2 as one widthwise end face of the second element row 60 in the width direction.

[0024] In this manner, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are separated, one widthwise end face 10b of the first fastener tape 10 and one widthwise end face of the first element row 50 are arranged on the same plane S1, and one widthwise end face 20b of the second fastener tape 20 and one widthwise end face of the second element row 60 are arranged on the same plane S2. This makes it possible to more reliably buckle the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 in an arched shape and bring them into close contact with each other when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked as described below. This is because the one widthwise end faces 10a, 20a of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 do not interfere with the interlocking of the first and second element rows 50, 60, and this arrangement makes it difficult for the pressure bonding between the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 to be broken. Note that "arranged on the same plane" does not necessarily mean that the tapes are arranged exactly on the same plane, but also includes the case where the widthwise end faces 10b, 20b of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are arranged on approximately the same plane, in a range that coincides with the range from the start point of the taper of the interlocking head 31a to the end point of the taper, taking into account the taper of the interlocking head 31a.

[0025] When the slider 40 is moved upward from a state in which the first and second element rows 50, 60 are separated as shown in Fig. 4, the first and second element rows 50, 60 are brought into engagement with each other as shown in Fig. 3. At this time, one widthwise end 10a of the first fastener tape 10 extends toward the second fastener tape 20 (one widthwise end side) from position O1 which is the engagement center O of the first and second element rows 50, 60, and one widthwise end 20a of the second fastener tape 20 extends toward the first fastener tape 10 (one widthwise end side) from position O2 which is the engagement center O. Therefore, the one widthwise end 10a and the one widthwise end 20a press against each other in the width direction and deform, buckle into an arched shape that is convex toward the front side, and come into close contact with each other. At this time, as shown in Figure 3, the sewing thread 33 sewn to the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 and located on the widthwise end portion 10a, 20a side of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 may stretch slightly and rise up due to the buckling of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20.

[0026] In this way, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked with each other, the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 come into close contact with each other, and no gaps are formed between the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 as in conventional reverse-operated slide fasteners. Therefore, when a user views the slide fastener 1 from the front side, the first and second element rows 50, 60 are not visible, resulting in an excellent appearance. Such a slide fastener 1 is particularly suitable for articles where aesthetic appearance is important, such as car seats, bags, and furniture.

[0027] Furthermore, since the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 buckle in an arched manner and adhere to each other, even if a force (so-called lateral pulling) acts on the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 in a direction that moves them away from each other, the degree of buckling will only be slightly weakened to the extent that the interlocking gap between the elements 31, 31 is canceled out, and the adherence state between them will be maintained, so that the good appearance of the slide fastener 1 will be maintained.

[0028] A water repellent agent may be attached to the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20. By attaching a water repellent agent, water repellency can be imparted to the slide fastener 1. Examples of the water repellent agent that can be used include fluorine-based compounds, silicone-based compounds, acrylic-based water repellents, silicone composite-based water repellents, paraffin-based compounds, ethylene urea-based compounds, zirconium-based compounds, fatty acid amide-based compounds, methylol amide-based compounds, alkyl urea-based, and fatty acid amide-based water repellents.

[0029] Any process can be used to apply the water repellent agent to the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20. For example, the fastener stringers 3, 5 may be guided by being wound around the periphery of a guide roller (not shown) and then continuously passed through a container filled with the water repellent agent, thereby immersing the fastener stringers in the water repellent agent. In this process, the water repellent agent is efficiently applied to the entire surfaces of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20, the first and second element rows 50, 60, the core cord 32, and the sewing thread 33 that make up the fastener stringers 3, 5. Next, the fastener stringers 3, 5 are lifted out of the container and continuously passed through a drying chamber, whereby the water repellent agent applied to the entire surfaces of the fastener stringers 3, 5 is first dried. Thereafter, the fastener stringers 3, 5, from which the water repellent agent has been dried, are continuously passed through a heat treatment chamber, whereby the dried water repellent agent is heat-treated. This heat treatment fuses and bonds the water repellent agent to all of the base materials of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20, the first and second element rows 50, 60, the core string 32, and the sewing thread 33.

[0030] In this way, when the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are subjected to a water-repellent treatment, the slide fastener 1 can be used as a water-repellent fastener. In particular, in this embodiment, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked with each other, the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 buckle in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other, so that no gaps are formed between the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20, and liquid is prevented from entering through the gaps as in conventional technology.

[0031] 3, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked with each other, one widthwise end surface 10b and one widthwise end surface 20b of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 face the element 31 side (rear side) and abut against the first and second element rows 50, 60. Also, the surface 13 of one widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the surface 23 of one widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 are in close contact with each other on the interlocking center O. In this way, the surfaces 13, 23 of the one widthwise end portions 10a, 20a of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are in close contact with each other, so that the thickness of the slide fastener 1 can be reduced and the sliding resistance of the slider 40 can be reduced compared to when the back surfaces 11, 21 are in close contact with each other (when the one widthwise end portions 10a, 20a are buckled in the opposite direction to that of this embodiment). Furthermore, if the back surfaces 11, 21 are brought into close contact with each other, the widthwise end faces 10b, 20b of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 will face the front side, and the widthwise end portions 10a, 20a, which are the tape edges, will become convex toward the surface, thereby worsening the feel of the surface.

[0032] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked with each other, the back surfaces 11, 21 of the widthwise end faces 10b and 20b of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are spaced apart in the front-to-back direction from the first and second element rows 50, 60 (elements 31), and first and second spaces T1, T2 are defined between them, respectively.

[0033] Thus, by providing the first and second spaces T1, T2, the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 can be easily buckled when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are combined with the slider 40. Furthermore, the larger the first and second spaces T1, T2, the larger the crimping area between the surfaces 13, 23 of the widthwise end portions 10a and 20a of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20, which suppresses the occurrence of gaps between the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 and contributes to improving the appearance and water repellency and water resistance. Furthermore, the crimping between the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 is less likely to break, and the shape is more likely to be maintained.

[0034] Furthermore, as described above, the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are woven or knitted and have excellent flexibility, which can improve adhesion between the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked with each other. Furthermore, the buckled state of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 can be maintained. Therefore, the occurrence of gaps between the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 is suppressed, which contributes to improving the appearance and improving the water repellency and water resistance. However, if the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 were molded from resin or the like, it would be difficult to form and maintain the buckled shape.

[0035] 1, the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 have upper and lower portions extending upward and downward from the portions where the first and second element rows 50, 60 are attached in order to attach the top stop 90 and the separable bottom end stop 91. The widthwise ends 10a, 20a of these upper and lower portions are formed so as to be closer to the other widthwise end side than the widthwise ends 10a, 20a of the portions where the first and second element rows 50, 60 are attached.

[0036] Therefore, as shown in Figure 5, in the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 before the top stop 90 and the separable bottom stop 91 are attached, the widthwise end portions 10a, 20a of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 have a first region A1 in which they buckle in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked with each other, and second regions A2a, A2b in which the widthwise end portions 10a, 20a of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are spaced apart from each other.

[0037] In this embodiment, the top stop 90 is attached not only to the second region A2a on one longitudinal side of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 but also to the longitudinal end portions 10e, 20e of the first region A1 (see FIG. 7). As will be described later, the longitudinal end portions 10e, 20e of the first region A1 of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are caught in the lower end portion of the top stop 90 when the top stop 90 is injection molded, which prevents the longitudinal end portions from fluttering and provides a good appearance.

[0038] Furthermore, in the second region A2b on the other longitudinal side of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20, the widthwise end portions 10a, 20a are also spaced apart from each other, so that the core portion 96 (see FIG. 5) formed by ultrasonically welding the widthwise end portions 10a, 20a of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 to the core cord 32 does not become large, and can be easily inserted into an insert pin or box pin, allowing a regular separable end stop 91 to be attached. A reinforcing film 95 is attached to the second region A2b on the other longitudinal side of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 by ultrasonic welding. The portion of the reinforcing film 95 between the widthwise end portions 10a, 20a of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 is cut off by a punch (not shown).

[0039] In a manufacturing method of such a slide fastener 1, a fastener chain 100 is provided which includes first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 and first and second element rows 50, 60, and in which one widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and one widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 are buckled in an arched shape and closely adhere to each other with the first and second element rows 50, 60 interlocked with each other, and a space portion forming step is performed in which parts of the first and second element rows 50, 60 are removed to form spacer portions 101 in the fastener chain 100 (see FIG. 6(a)). After this space portion forming step, one widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and one widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 in the spacer portion 101 are buckled in an arched shape and closely adhere to each other with no gaps.

[0040] Next, a tape cutting process is performed in which one widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and one widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 in the spacer portion 101 are cut so as to be separated from each other (see FIG. 6(b)). In this process, one widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and one widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 in the spacer portion 101 are cut to a portion that forms an arched buckled shape in the first region A1, for example, on the other widthwise end side of positions O1 and O2 that are the meshing centers O of the first and second element rows 50 and 60 in FIG. 4, to a widthwise position that does not affect the sewing of the core cord 32 or the sewing thread 33. Therefore, in the spacer portion 101, a gap S is formed between one widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and one widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20.

[0041] Then, by cutting the fastener chain 100 in the width direction at the spacer portion 101, a fastener stringer forming process is performed in which fastener stringers 3, 5 are formed, as shown in Figure 5, having a first region A1 in which one widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and one widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 are respectively buckled in an arched shape and brought into close contact with each other when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked with each other, and second regions A2a, A2b in which one widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and one widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 are spaced apart from each other.

[0042] In addition, the top stop 90 is injection molded with the widthwise end portions 10a, 20a of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 sandwiched between the mold 110 shown in Figure 7 and an opposing mold not shown, with the ends spread apart in the widthwise direction. In this case, if the widthwise end portions 10a, 20a of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 also in the second region A2a have the same widthwise length as those in the first region A1, as shown by the dashed dotted line, they may block the gates 113, 114 connecting to the cavities 111, 112, which may affect the formability of the top stop 90. On the other hand, in this embodiment, as shown by the solid line, the widthwise end portions 10a, 20a of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are cut and formed in the second region A2a so as to be closer to the other widthwise end side than the first region A1, so that they do not block the gates 113, 114, and the top stop 90 can be reliably formed.

[0043] In this embodiment, the mold 110 is formed with other cavities 115, 116 that accommodate the ends of the first and second element rows 50, 60, so that the top stop 90 and the ends of the first and second element rows 50, 60 can be brought close to each other. Furthermore, the longitudinal ends 10e, 20e of the first region A1 are placed so as to overlap with the cavities 111, 112 that mold the top stop 90, so that the longitudinal ends 10e, 20e of the first region A1 of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 can be wrapped around the lower end of the top stop 90, as described above.

[0044] (Second embodiment) 8 is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of a slide fastener according to a second embodiment, showing the first and second element rows in an interlocked state. The slide fastener 1 according to the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that first and second waterstop films 70, 80 are provided on the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20. Since the other configurations of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment are used in the drawings to omit or simplify the description thereof.

[0045] 8, the slide fastener 1 of the second embodiment further includes a first water-stopping film 70 (first water-stopping layer) provided on the surface 13 of the first fastener tape 10, and a second water-stopping film 80 (second water-stopping layer) provided on the surface 23 of the second fastener tape 20. Therefore, the slide fastener 1 of this embodiment is a waterproof fastener having water-stopping properties.

[0046] The pair of left and right first and second waterstop films 70, 80 are each elongated like the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20, and have back surfaces 71, 81 (first main waterstop surfaces) and front surfaces 73, 83 (second main waterstop surfaces) opposite the back surfaces 71, 81. The first and second waterstop films 70, 80 are formed so as to cover the entire surfaces 13, 23 of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20. In this embodiment, the vertical dimensions and width dimensions of the first and second waterstop films 70, 80 and the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are approximately the same.

[0047] The first and second waterstop films 70, 80 are formed by joining a waterstop layer such as a thermosetting polyurethane film to the surfaces 13, 23 of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 to which the first and second element rows 50, 60 are sewn by adhesive, welding, etc. Here, the slide fastener 1 is in a state in which the common waterstop layer (first and second waterstop films 70, 80) is joined integrally to the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20.

[0048] Thereafter, a water repellent agent is applied to the slide fastener 1 in the same manner as described above in the first embodiment. For example, the fastener stringers 3, 5 may be guided by being wound around the periphery of a guide roller (not shown) and then continuously passed through a container filled with the water repellent agent, thereby immersing the fastener stringers in the water repellent agent. In this process, the water repellent agent is efficiently applied to the entire surfaces of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20, the first and second element rows 50, 60, the core cord 32, the sewing thread 33, and the waterstop layers (first and second waterstop films 70, 80) that constitute the fastener stringers 3, 5. Next, the fastener stringers 3, 5 are lifted out of the container and continuously passed through a drying chamber, whereby the water repellent agent applied to the entire surfaces of the fastener stringers 3, 5 is first dried. Thereafter, the fastener stringers 3, 5, from which the water repellent agent has been dried, are continuously passed through a heat treatment chamber, whereby the dried water repellent agent is subjected to a heat treatment. This heat treatment causes fusion and adhesion between all of the base materials of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20, the first and second element rows 50, 60, the core cord 32, the sewing thread 33, and the water-stopping layers (first and second water-stopping films 70, 80) and the water-repellent agent.

[0049] Next, the slide fastener 1 after the heat treatment is removed, and the single waterstop layer (first and second waterstop films 70, 80) connecting the pair of left and right fastener stringers 3, 5 is cut lengthwise along the interlocking portion where the first and second element rows 50, 60 interlock, dividing it into two, left and right pieces, using a cutting device such as a cutter. In this way, the pair of left and right first and second waterstop films 70, 80 is formed.

[0050] 8, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked, the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are designed to overlap the interlocking center O, and the first and second waterstop films 70, 80 are designed to overlap the interlocking center O. By arranging the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20, the first and second waterstop films 70, 80, and the first and second element rows 50, 60 in this manner, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked as described below, the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 and the first and second waterstop films 70, 80 can be buckled in an arched shape and brought into close contact with each other.

[0051] In this way, by arranging the widthwise end faces 10b, 70b of the first fastener tape 10 and the first waterstop film 70 and the widthwise end face of the first element row 50 on the same plane S1, and by arranging the widthwise end faces 20b, 80b of the second fastener tape 20 and the second waterstop film 80 and the widthwise end face of the second element row 60 on the same plane S2, the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 and the first and second waterstop films 70, 80 can be more reliably buckled in an arched shape and tightly adhered to each other when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked. This is because the widthwise end faces 10a, 20a of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 do not interfere with the interlocking of the first and second element rows 50, 60, and this arrangement makes it difficult for the crimping of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 to be broken. It should be noted that "arranged on the same plane" does not necessarily mean that the fasteners are arranged exactly on the same plane, but also includes arrangements on approximately the same plane in which one end face in the width direction of the fastener tape coincides with the range from the start point of the taper of the interlocking head 31a to the end point of the taper, taking into account the taper of the interlocking head 31a.

[0052] When the slider 40 is moved upward from a state in which the first and second element rows 50, 60 are separated, the pair of left and right first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked as shown in Fig. 8. At this time, one widthwise end portion 10a, 70a of the first fastener tape 10 and the first waterstop film 70 extends toward the second fastener tape 20 side (one widthwise end side) from position O1 which is the interlocking center O of the first and second element rows 50, 60, and one widthwise end portion 20a, 80a of the second fastener tape 20 and the second waterstop film 80 extends toward the first fastener tape 10 side (one widthwise end side) from position O2 which is the interlocking center O. Therefore, the one widthwise end portions 10a, 70a and the one widthwise end portions 20a, 80a press against each other in the width direction and deform, buckle into an arch shape that is convex toward the front side, and come into close contact with each other. At this time, as shown in Figure 8, the sewing thread 33 sewn to the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 and located on the widthwise end portion 10a, 20a side of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 may stretch slightly and rise up due to the buckling of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20.

[0053] In this way, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked with each other, the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 and the first and second waterstop films 70, 80 are tightly attached to each other, so that no gaps are formed between the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 and the first and second waterstop films 70, 80 as in conventional reverse-side slide fasteners. Therefore, when a user views the slide fastener 1 from the front side, the first and second element rows 50, 60 are not visible, resulting in an excellent appearance. Such a slide fastener 1 is particularly suitable for articles where aesthetic appearance is important, such as car seats, bags, and furniture.

[0054] When the first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked with each other, the first and second fastener tapes and the first and second water-stopping films 70, 80 buckle in an arched shape and adhere to each other, so that no gaps (intermediate partitions) are formed between the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 and the first and second water-stopping films 70, 80, and liquid is prevented from entering through the intermediate partitions as in conventional technology.

[0055] In addition, in the second embodiment, the first water-stopping film 70 provided on the surface 13 of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portions 70a, 80a of the second water-stopping film 80 provided on the surface 23 of the second fastener tape 20 have the first region A1 and the second regions A2a, A2b, similar to the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 in the first embodiment, thereby achieving the same effect as in the first embodiment.

[0056] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be modified as appropriate within the scope of the present invention.

[0057] As described above, the present specification discloses the following: (1) A pair of first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) each having a long shape and a first main surface (11, 21) and a second main surface (13, 23) opposite to the first main surface (11, 21); a first element row (50) provided on the first main surface (11) of one widthwise end (10a) of the first fastener tape (10); a second element row (60) provided on the first main surface (21) of one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20); A slide fastener (1) comprising: one widthwise end portion (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) have a first region (A1) in which they buckle in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other when the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, and second regions (A2a, A2b) in which the one widthwise end portion (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) are spaced apart from each other. Slide fastener (1). According to this configuration, in the first region, when the first and second element rows are interlocked with each other, one widthwise end of the first fastener tape and one widthwise end of the second fastener tape are each buckled in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other, thereby eliminating gaps between the first and second fastener tapes, resulting in excellent concealment of the element rows and ultimately an excellent appearance. In addition, in the second region, one widthwise end of the first fastener tape and one widthwise end of the second fastener tape are spaced apart from each other, which prevents the injection gate from being blocked during injection molding of the stopper, making it difficult for the resin to flow into the mold, or prevents the core shape from becoming too thick, making it difficult to insert into the insert pin or box pin of the separable bottom end stop.Therefore, the stopper or separable bottom end stop can be provided in the same way as in a normal type slide fastener.

[0058] (2) The slide fastener (1) according to (1), wherein a stopper (90) is attached to the second region (A2a, A2b). This configuration improves the moldability of the fastener.

[0059] (3) The slide fastener (1) according to (2), wherein the stoppers (90) are also attached to the longitudinal ends (10e, 20e) of the first region (A1). This configuration prevents the longitudinal ends of the first region (A1) from shaking, and provides a good appearance.

[0060] (4) A slide fastener (1) according to (2) or (3), wherein the second region comprises an area (A2a) on one longitudinal side to which the stop is attached, and an area (A2b) on the other longitudinal side opposite the area on one longitudinal side of the first region, and a separable bottom stop (91) is attached to the area (A2b) on the other longitudinal side of the second region. According to this configuration, the molded core portion can be easily inserted into the insert pin or box pin, and a normal separable bottom end stop can be used.

[0061] (5) A pair of first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) each having a long shape and a first main surface (11, 21) and a second main surface (13, 23) opposite to the first main surface (11, 21); a first element row (50) provided on the first main surface (11) of one widthwise end (10a) of the first fastener tape (10); a second element row (60) provided on the first main surface (21) of one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20); A method for manufacturing a slide fastener (1) comprising: a space portion forming step of cutting out a part of the first and second element rows (50, 60) to form a spacer portion (101) in the fastener chain (100) which includes the pair of first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) and the first and second element rows (50, 60), and in which one end portion (10a) in the width direction of the first fastener tape (10) and one end portion (20a) in the width direction of the second fastener tape (20) are respectively buckled in an arched shape and closely adhere to each other while the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other; a tape cutting step of cutting one widthwise end portion (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) in the spacer portion so as to separate them from each other; a fastener stringer forming step of cutting the fastener chain (100) along the width direction at the spacer portion (101) to form fastener stringers (3, 5) having first regions (A1) in which one end (10a) in the width direction of the first fastener tape (10) and one end (20a) in the width direction of the second fastener tape (20) are respectively buckled in an arch shape and come into close contact with each other when the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, and second regions (A2a, A2b) in which one end (10a) in the width direction of the first fastener tape (10) and one end (20a) in the width direction of the second fastener tape (20) are spaced apart from each other; A method for manufacturing a slide fastener (1). According to this configuration, in the first region, when the first and second element rows are interlocked with each other, one widthwise end of the first fastener tape and one widthwise end of the second fastener tape are each buckled in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other, thereby eliminating gaps between the first and second fastener tapes, resulting in excellent concealment of the element rows and ultimately an excellent appearance. In addition, in the second region, one widthwise end of the first fastener tape and one widthwise end of the second fastener tape are spaced apart from each other, which prevents the injection gate from being blocked during injection molding of the stopper, making it difficult for the resin to flow into the mold, or prevents the core from becoming too thick and making it difficult to insert into the insert pin or box pin of the separable bottom end stop.Therefore, the stopper or separable bottom end stop can be provided in the same way as in a normal type slide fastener. [Explanation of symbols]

[0062] 1 slide fastener 3,5 Zipper stringer 10 First zipper tape 10a One end in the width direction 10b One end face in the width direction 11 Back side (first main surface) 13 Surface (second main surface) 20 Second zipper tape 20a One end in the width direction 20b One end face in the width direction 21 Back side (first main surface) 23 Surface (second main surface) 31 Elements 31a Interlocking head 31b 1st leg 31c 2nd leg 31d Connecting part 31e One end in the width direction 31f One end face in the width direction 32 Core cord 33 Sewing thread 40 Slider 41 Torso 42 Pull attachment part 43 Pull handle 50 First Element Column 60 Second Element Column 70 First Water Stop Film 70a One end in the width direction 70b One end face in the width direction 71 Back side (first main waterproof surface) 73 Surface (second main waterproof surface) 80 Second waterproof film 80a One end in the width direction 80b One end in the width direction 81 Back side 83 Surface 90 Top stop (stop) 91 Separable end stop 100 Zipper Chain 101 Spacer part A1 1st area A2a,A2b 2nd area O meshing center O1,O2 position S1,S2 plane T1 1st space T2 2nd space

Claims

1. a pair of first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) each having a long shape and a first main surface (11, 21) and a second main surface (13, 23) opposite to the first main surface (11, 21); a first element row (50) provided on the first main surface (11) of one widthwise end (10a) of the first fastener tape (10); a second element row (60) provided on the first main surface (21) of one widthwise end (20a) of the second fastener tape (20); A slide fastener (1) comprising: The first and second element rows (50, 60) have a first region (A1) in which one widthwise end portion (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) are respectively buckled in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other when the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, and second regions (A2a, A2b) in which the one widthwise end portion (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) are spaced apart from each other. Slide fastener (1).

2. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 1, wherein a stopper (90) is attached to the second region (A2a, A2b).

3. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 2, wherein the stoppers (90) are also attached to the longitudinal ends (10e, 20e) of the first region (A1).

4. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the second region comprises an area (A2a) on one longitudinal side to which the stopper is attached, and an area (A2b) on the other longitudinal side opposite the area on one longitudinal side of the first region, and a separable bottom stop (91) is attached to the area (A2b) on the other longitudinal side of the second region.

5. a pair of first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) each having a long shape and a first main surface (11, 21) and a second main surface (13, 23) opposite to the first main surface (11, 21); a first element row (50) provided on the first main surface (11) of one widthwise end (10a) of the first fastener tape (10); a second element row (60) provided on the first main surface (21) of one widthwise end (20a) of the second fastener tape (20); A manufacturing method of a slide fastener (1) comprising: a space portion forming step of cutting out a part of the first and second element rows (50, 60) to form a spacer portion (101) in the fastener chain (100) which includes the pair of first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) and the first and second element rows (50, 60), and in which one end (10a) in the width direction of the first fastener tape (10) and one end (20a) in the width direction of the second fastener tape (20) are respectively buckled in an arched shape and closely adhere to each other while the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other; a tape cutting step of cutting one widthwise end portion (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) in the spacer portion so as to separate them from each other; a fastener stringer forming step of cutting the fastener chain (100) along the width direction at the spacer portion (101) to form fastener stringers (3, 5) having: first regions (A1) in which one end (10a) in the width direction of the first fastener tape (10) and one end (20a) in the width direction of the second fastener tape (20) are buckled in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other when the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other; and second regions (A2a, A2b) in which one end (10a) in the width direction of the first fastener tape (10) and one end (20a) in the width direction of the second fastener tape (20) are spaced apart from each other; A method for manufacturing a slide fastener (1).

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