Slide fastener

Abstract

A slide fastener (1) includes a pair of first and second tapes (10, 20), a first element row (50), and a second element row (60). When the first and second element rows (50, 60) are engaged with each other, one widthwise end (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) each buckle into peaked forms and come into close contact with each other.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a 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 suitably used in various products such as clothing, shoes, bags, furniture, etc. In recent years, it has also been used in seat covers for various seats in automobiles, trains, aircraft, etc. An example of such a reverse slide fastener is disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2009-56076 (Patent Document 1).

[0004] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the reverse slide fastener of Patent Document 1. As shown in Figure 8, the reverse slide fastener 100 disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a pair of left and right fastener stringers 102, 102 and a slider 101 that can open and close the pair of left and right fastener stringers 102, 102.

[0005] The slider 101 has a slider body 110 and a pull tab 120. The slider body 110 has an upper blade 111, a lower blade 112 arranged parallel to and spaced apart from the upper blade 111, a guide post (not shown in FIG. 8) connecting the front ends of the upper and lower blades 111, 112, a gate-shaped pull tab mounting post 114 formed integrally with the surface (top surface) of the upper blade 111, and left and right flanges 115 extending from the left and right edges of the rear side of the lower blade 112 toward the upper blade 111.

[0006] A pair of left and right fastener stringers 102, 102 are formed by inserting a core string 106 into a coil-shaped element row 103 and sewing the core string 106 to the opposing tape side edges of a pair of left and right fastener tapes 104, 104 with sewing thread 105. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-56076 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] Normally, a reverse slide fastener has a gap (a so-called partition) formed between a pair of left and right fastener tapes. In fact, even in the reverse slide fastener 100 of Patent Document 1 shown in Fig. 8, a gap S is formed between a pair of left and right fastener tapes 104, 104.

[0009] Therefore, when an external force (so-called lateral pulling) acts on the pair of left and right fastener tapes 104, 104 in a direction separating them from each other, when a user looks at the reverse-type slide fastener 100 from the front side (upper side in FIG. 8), the element row 103 can be seen through the gap S. Such a decrease in the concealment of the element row 103 is undesirable because it deteriorates the design of articles in which the reverse-type slide fastener 100 is used, particularly articles in which aesthetics are important, such as car seats, bags, and furniture.

[0010] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a slide fastener which is excellent in concealing the element row and which, in turn, has an excellent appearance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] 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 each having a long shape and a first main surface and a second main surface opposite to the first main surface; a first element row provided on the first main surface at one end in the width direction of the first fastener tape; A second element row provided on the first main surface at one end in the width direction of the second fastener tape; A slide fastener comprising: When the first and second element rows are engaged with each other, one end portion in the width direction of the first fastener tape and one end portion in the width direction of the second fastener tape are respectively buckled in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other. Slide fastener. [2] When the first and second element rows are engaged with each other, the second main surface of one end portion in the width direction of the first fastener tape and the second main surface of one end portion in the width direction of the second fastener tape are in close contact with each other. [1] The slide fastener described in [1]. [3] When the first and second element rows are engaged with each other, a first space is defined between the first main surface of one end of the first fastener tape in the width direction and the first element row, a second space is defined between the first main surface of one widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape and the second element row; [1] or [2]. A slide fastener according to the present invention. [4] The first and second fastener tapes are woven or knitted. A slide fastener according to any one of [1] to [3]. [5] One widthwise end of the first fastener tape extends toward the second fastener tape from the center of engagement of the first and second element rows, and one widthwise end of the second fastener tape extends toward the first fastener tape from the center of engagement, so that when the first and second element rows are engaged with each other, one widthwise end of the first fastener tape and one widthwise end of the second fastener tape buckle in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other. A slide fastener according to any one of [1] to [4]. [6] One widthwise end face of the first fastener tape and one widthwise end face of the first element row are arranged on the same plane, and one widthwise end face of the second fastener tape and one widthwise end face of the second element row are arranged on the same plane, so that when the first and second element rows are interlocked with each other, one widthwise end face of the first fastener tape and one widthwise end face of the second fastener tape buckle in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other. [5] A slide fastener as described in [5]. [7] A first water-stopping layer provided on the second main surface of the first fastener tape; A second water stopping layer provided on the second main surface of the second fastener tape; The slide fastener according to any one of [1] to [6], comprising: [8] When the first and second element rows are interlocked with each other, one end portion of the first water stopping layer in the width direction and one end portion of the second water stopping layer in the width direction buckle in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other. [7] A slide fastener according to the present invention. [9] The first and second waterstopping layers each have a first waterstopping main surface in contact with the second main surfaces of the first and second fastener tapes, and a second waterstopping main surface opposite to the first waterstopping main surface, when the first and second element rows are interlocked with each other, the second water stopping main surface at one end in the width direction of the first water stopping layer and the second water stopping main surface at one end in the width direction of the second water stopping layer are in close contact with each other; [8] A slide fastener according to the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the slide fastener of the present invention, 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 any gap (internal partition) between the first and second fastener tapes, resulting in excellent concealment of the element rows and, ultimately, an excellent appearance. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a front view of a first embodiment of a slide fastener according to the present invention. [Figure 2] 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 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 separated. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a slide fastener according to a modified example of the first embodiment, showing a state in which the first and second element rows are engaged with each other. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a slide fastener according to a second embodiment, showing a state in which the first and second element rows are engaged with each other. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of a slide fastener according to a second embodiment, showing a state in which the first and second element rows are separated. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of a slide fastener according to a modified example of the second embodiment, showing a state in which the first and second element rows are engaged with each other. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a reverse slide fastener of Patent Document 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Hereinafter, slide fasteners according to various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the 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.

[0015] (First embodiment) Fig. 1 is a surface view of a first embodiment of a slide fastener according to the present invention. Fig. 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. Fig. 3 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.

[0016] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the slide fastener 1 of this embodiment includes a pair of left and right fastener stringers 3, 5, and a slider 40 that can open and close the pair of left and right fastener stringers 3, 5.

[0017] 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. 2) 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. 2) 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.

[0018] The first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are woven or knitted fabrics made of polyester yarn or the like, and have excellent flexibility. The first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 may also be made of nonwoven fabric.

[0019] 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 as shown in FIG. 2, and by moving the slider 40 downward, the pair of left and right first and second element rows 50, 60 separate as shown in FIG. 3. The slide fastener 1 may also include an upper stop portion and a lower stop portion (not shown). Also, an opening device having a box pin and a box body may be provided instead of the lower stop portion.

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 2 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. 3, 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.

[0023] As shown in Figure 3, 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.

[0024] 1 shows that 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 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 while they are interlocked. When a certain period of time has passed with the first and second element rows 50, 60 separated, 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.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 3, 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, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are meshed with each other as shown in FIG. 2, 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.

[0026] More specifically, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are separated, one widthwise end face 10b of the first fastener tape 10 is positioned closer to the second fastener tape 20 (one widthwise end side) than position O1, which is the center of engagement O, and one widthwise end face 20b of the second fastener tape 20 is positioned closer to the first fastener tape 10 (one widthwise end side) than position O2, which is the center of engagement O.

[0027] 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. 2, 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.

[0028] 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. 2, 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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. 3, the first and second element rows 50, 60 are engaged with each other as shown in Fig. 2. 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, so 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 2, 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.

[0031] 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 gap (so-called partition) is 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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 gap (internal partition portion) is formed between the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20, and the intrusion of liquid through the internal partition portion as in the prior art is suppressed.

[0036] 2, 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.

[0037] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, 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.

[0038] 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, 20a of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20, which suppresses the occurrence of gaps (internal partition portions) between the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20, contributing to improved appearance and improved water repellency and water resistance. Furthermore, the crimping between the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 is less likely to break, making it easier to maintain the shape.

[0039] Furthermore, as described above, since the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are woven or knitted and have excellent flexibility, the adhesion between the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 can be improved 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 (internal partitions) between the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 is suppressed, contributing to improved appearance and improved 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.

[0040] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of a slide fastener according to a modified example of the first embodiment, showing the state in which the first and second element rows are interlocked. In the example of Fig. 3, the degree of buckling of one widthwise end 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and one widthwise end 20a of the second fastener tape 20 is strengthened compared to the example of Fig. 2, and the pressure-bonded area between the surface 13 of one widthwise end 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the surface 23 of one widthwise end 20a of the second fastener tape 20 is increased. In this way, by appropriately adjusting the pressure-bonded area, it is possible to meet the requirements for water repellency and water resistance.

[0041] (Second embodiment) Fig. 5 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. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of a slide fastener according to the second embodiment, showing the first and second element rows in a separated 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.

[0042] 5 and 6, 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.

[0043] The pair of left and right first and second waterstop films 70 are each long 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 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 and the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are approximately the same.

[0044] The first and second waterstop films 70 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 bonding, 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] As shown in Figure 6, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are separated, the widthwise end portions 10a, 70a of the first fastener tape 10 and the first water-stopping film 70 and the widthwise end portions 20a, 80a of the second fastener tape 20 and the second water-stopping film 80 are spaced apart from each other in the width direction.

[0048] As shown in Fig. 6, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are separated, 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 (one widthwise end side) from position O1 which is the meshing 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 (one widthwise end side) from position O2 which is the meshing center O. In other words, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are meshed together as shown in Fig. 4, the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 are designed to overlap the meshing center O, and the first and second waterstop films 70, 80 are designed to overlap the meshing 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 buckle in an arched shape and can be brought into close contact with each other.

[0049] More specifically, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are separated, the widthwise end faces 10b, 70b of the first fastener tape 10 and the first waterproof film 70 are positioned closer to the second fastener tape 20 (one widthwise end side) than the position O1 which is the center of engagement O, and the widthwise end faces 20b, 80b of the second fastener tape 20 and the second waterproof film 80 are positioned closer to the first fastener tape 10 (one widthwise end side) than the position O2 which is the center of engagement O.

[0050] The widthwise end faces 10b, 70b of the first fastener tape 10 and the first waterstop film 70 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 the 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. 6, the widthwise end faces 10b, 70b of the first fastener tape 10 and the first waterstop film 70 are arranged on the same plane S1 as the widthwise end face of the first element row 50 in the width direction.

[0051] The widthwise end faces 20b, 80b of the second fastener tape 20 and the second waterstop film 80 may be arranged at positions overlapping at least a part of the coupling heads 31a of the elements 31 in the width direction, may be arranged on the same plane S2 as the widthwise end face 31f of the coupling heads 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 heads 31a. In the example of Fig. 6, the widthwise end face 20b of the second fastener tape 20 is arranged on the same plane S2 as the widthwise end face of the second element row 60 in the width direction.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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. 6, the pair of left and right first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked as shown in Fig. 5. 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 2, 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.

[0054] 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 (so-called partitions) 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.

[0055] Furthermore, since the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 and the first and second water-stopping films 70, 80 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 to each other will be maintained, so that the good appearance of the slide fastener 1 will be maintained.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 5, when the first and second element rows 50, 60 are interlocked with each other, one widthwise end face 10b and one widthwise end face 20b of the first and second fastener tapes 10, 20 and one widthwise end face 70b and one widthwise end face 80b of the first and second waterstop films 70, 80 face the element 31 side (rear side). The one widthwise end face 70b and one widthwise end face 80b of the first and second waterstop films 70, 80 may abut against the first and second element rows 50, 60. Furthermore, a surface 73 of one widthwise end face 70a of the first waterstop film 70 and a surface 83 of one widthwise end face 80a of the second waterstop film 80 are in close contact with each other at the interlocking center O. This improves the liquid penetration suppression effect.

[0058] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of a slide fastener according to a modified example of the second embodiment, showing the first and second element rows in an engaged state. In the example of Fig. 7, the degree of buckling of the widthwise end portions 10a, 70a of the first fastener tape 10 and the first waterstop film 70 and the widthwise end portions 20a, 80a of the second fastener tape 20 and the second waterstop film 80 is strengthened compared to the example of Fig. 5, and the pressure-bonded area between the surface 73 of the widthwise end portion 70a of the first waterstop film 70 and the surface 83 of the widthwise end portion 80a of the second waterstop film 80 is increased. In this way, by appropriately adjusting the pressure-bonded area, it is possible to meet the requirements for water stoppage and water resistance.

[0059] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be modified as appropriate within the scope of the present invention.

[0060] As described above, the present specification discloses the following:

[0061] [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: When the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, 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. Slide fastener (1).

[0062] According to this configuration, when the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) are in close contact with each other. This prevents the formation of a gap (a so-called partition) between the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) as occurs with 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. This slide fastener (1) is particularly suitable for articles where aesthetics are important, such as car seats, bags, and furniture. Furthermore, because the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) are buckled in an arched manner to be in close contact with each other, even if a force acting in a direction separating the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) from each other (a so-called lateral pull) acts on the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20), the degree of buckling weakens slightly within the range where the interlocking gap between the elements (31, 31) is canceled, and the slide fastener (1) maintains a good appearance.

[0063] [2] When the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, the second main surface (13) of one widthwise end portion (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and the second main surface (23) of one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) are in close contact with each other. The slide fastener (1) described in [1].

[0064] According to this configuration, the second main surfaces (13, 23) of the widthwise ends (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 first main surfaces (11, 21) are in close contact with each other.

[0065] [3] When the first and second element rows (50, 60) are engaged with each other, a first space (T1) is defined between the first main surface (11) of the widthwise end (10a) of the first fastener tape and the first element row (50), A second space (T2) is defined between the first main surface (21) of one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) and the second element row (60). A slide fastener (1) according to [1] or [2].

[0066] According to this configuration, the provision of the first and second spaces (T1, T2) allows the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) to 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 first main surfaces (11, 21) of the widthwise end faces (10b) and widthwise end faces (20b) of the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) becomes, which suppresses the occurrence of gaps (internal partitions) between the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20), contributing to improved appearance and improved watertightness and water resistance. Furthermore, the crimping between the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) is less likely to break, making it easier to maintain the shape.

[0067] [4] The first and second fastener tapes (20) are woven or knitted. A slide fastener (1) according to any one of [1] to [3].

[0068] According to this configuration, the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) are woven or knitted and have excellent flexibility, so that when the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, the adhesion between the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) can be improved. Also, the buckled state of the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) can be maintained. Therefore, the occurrence of a gap (intermediate partition) between the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) is suppressed, which contributes to improving the appearance and improving the water stoppage and water resistance.

[0069] [5] One widthwise end (10a) of the first fastener tape extends toward the second fastener tape (20) from 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) from the meshing center (O), so that when the first and second element rows (50, 60) are meshed with each other, the one widthwise end (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and the one widthwise end (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) buckle in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other. A slide fastener (1) according to any one of [1] to [4].

[0070] According to this configuration, due to the arrangement relationship between the first and second element rows (50, 60) and the first and second fastener tapes (20), when the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, the first and second fastener tapes (20) buckle in an arched shape and can be brought into close contact with each other.

[0071] [6] One widthwise end face (10b) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end face (50b) 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 (60b) of the second element row (60) are arranged on the same plane (S2), so that when the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, one widthwise end face (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end face (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) buckle in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other. [5] The slide fastener (1) described in [5].

[0072] According to this configuration, the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) can be more reliably buckled in an arched shape to be tightly attached to each other. This is because the widthwise ends (10a, 20a) of the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) do not interfere with the meshing of the first and second element rows (50, 60) and the positional relationship makes it difficult for the pressure bonding between the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) to be broken.

[0073] [7] A first water stopping layer (70) provided on the second main surface (13) of the first fastener tape (10); a second water stopping layer (80) provided on the second main surface (23) of the second fastener tape (20); The slide fastener (1) according to any one of [1] to [6], comprising:

[0074] This configuration makes it possible to provide the slide fastener (1) with water-stopping properties.

[0075] [8] When the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, one end (70a) in the width direction of the first water stopping layer (70) and one end (80a) in the width direction of the second water stopping layer (80) are buckled in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other. [7] The slide fastener (1) described in [7].

[0076] According to this configuration, 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 in close contact with each other, so that no gaps (so-called partitions) are formed between the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) and the first and second waterstop films (70, 80) as in conventional reverse-use slide fasteners (1). 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.

[0077] [9] The first and second water stopping layers (70, 80) each have a first water stopping main surface (71, 81) in contact with the second main surfaces (13, 23) of the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20), and a second water stopping main surface (73, 83) opposite to the first water stopping main surface (71, 81), When the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, the second water-stopping main surface (73) at one widthwise end (70a) of the first water-stopping layer (70) and the second water-stopping main surface (83) at one widthwise end (80a) of the second water-stopping layer (80) are in close contact with each other. [8] The slide fastener (1) described in [8].

[0078] This configuration can improve the effect of suppressing liquid intrusion. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 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-stopping film (first water-stopping layer) 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 water-stopping film (second water-stopping layer) 80a One end in the width direction 80b One end in the width direction 81 Back side (first waterproof main surface) 83 Surface (second main waterproof surface) 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: When the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, one widthwise end (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) are buckled in a convex arch shape opposite to the first and second element rows (50, 60) and come into close contact with each other, the arches of the widthwise one end portions (10a, 20a) of the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) protrude toward the opposite side to the first and second element rows (50, 60) beyond the portions of the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) other than the widthwise one end portions (10a, 20a), Slide fastener (1).

2. When the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, the second main surface (13) of one widthwise end portion (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and the second main surface (23) of one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) are in close contact with each other. A slide fastener (1) according to claim 1.

3. When the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, a first space (T1) is defined between the first main surface (11) of one widthwise end (10a) of the first fastener tape and the first element row (50), A second space (T2) is defined between the first main surface (21) of one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) and the second element row (60). A slide fastener (1) according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The first and second fastener tapes (20) are woven or knitted. A slide fastener (1) according to claim 1 or 2.

5. One widthwise end (10a) of the first fastener tape extends toward the second fastener tape (20) from 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) from the meshing center (O), so that when the first and second element rows (50, 60) are meshed with each other, the one widthwise end (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and the one widthwise end (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) buckle in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other. A slide fastener (1) according to claim 1 or 2.

6. One widthwise end face (10b) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end face (50b) 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 (60b) of the second element row (60) are arranged on the same plane (S2), so that when the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, one widthwise end portion (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and one widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) buckle in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other. A slide fastener (1) according to claim 5.

7. One end surface (10b, 20b) in the width direction of the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) faces the first and second element rows (50, 60) and abuts against the first and second element rows (50, 60), A slide fastener (1) according to claim 1 or 2.

8. a first water stopping layer (70) provided on the second main surface (13) of the first fastener tape (10); a second water stopping layer (80) provided on the second main surface (23) of the second fastener tape (20); A slide fastener (1) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising:

9. When the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, one end (70a) in the width direction of the first water stopping layer (70) and one end (80a) in the width direction of the second water stopping layer (80) are buckled in an arched shape and come into close contact with each other. A slide fastener (1) according to claim 8.

10. The first and second water-stopping layers (70, 80) each include a first water-stopping main surface (71, 81) in contact with the second main surfaces (13, 23) of the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20), and a second water-stopping main surface (73, 83) opposite to the first water-stopping main surface (71, 81), A slide fastener (1) as described in claim 9, wherein when the first and second element rows (50, 60) are interlocked with each other, the second water-stopping main surface (73) of one widthwise end (70a) of the first water-stopping layer (70) and the second water-stopping main surface (83) of one widthwise end (80a) of the second water-stopping layer (80) are in close contact with each other.

11. One end surface (70b, 80b) in the width direction of the first and second water-stopping layers (70, 80) abuts against the first and second element rows (50, 60), A slide fastener (1) according to claim 9.

12. One end face (10b, 20b) in the width direction of the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) faces the first and second element rows (50, 60) and abuts against the first and second element rows (50, 60), one end surface (70b, 80b) in the width direction of the first and second water stopping layers (70, 80) abuts against the first and second element rows (50, 60); A slide fastener (1) according to claim 9.

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