Slide fastener

Abstract

A slide fastener (1) is provided with a first element row (2) and a second element row (3) that are configured so as to engage with and disengage from one another. The first and second element rows are provided with a plurality of first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b), and a plurality of first and second connecting members (5a, 5b). Each of the first and second connecting members is arranged between two first fastener elements. Each of the first and second connecting members is connected to two or more first and second fastener elements. Each of the first and second fastener elements is provided with a coupling portion (6). Each of the coupling portions of the first fastener elements is configured so as to engage and disengage between the coupling portions of two adjacent second fastener elements. Each of the coupling portions of the second fastener elements is configured so as to engage and disengage between the coupling portions of two adjacent first fastener elements.

Description

Slide fastener

[0001] The present invention relates to a slide fastener formed by a chain of a pair of connecting elements configured to be coupled and decoupled with each other.

[0002] A slide fastener typically comprises two independent columns of fastening elements connected to a tape, thereby defining corresponding stringers. Such a tape may be formed of fabric or other materials.

[0003] There are several types of slide fasteners commonly used in the fashion industry.

[0004] As a common type of well-known slide fastener, there is a coil fastener in which two monofilaments are shaped to form two columns of fastening elements that can be coupled and decoupled. The formed filaments are sewn onto their respective tapes. The slider is coupled to both columns to couple and decouple the fastening elements.

[0005] This type of slide fastener is relatively easy to implement, inexpensive, elastic, and lightweight compared to other well-known slide fasteners.

[0006] However, this slide fastener may exhibit several drawbacks. In particular, coil fasteners are susceptible to the influence of particles that can impair the proper functioning of the fastener. For example, sand particles can easily enter between the elements, preventing effective coupling between the elements.

[0007] Furthermore, in well-known coil fasteners, it is impossible to partially repair the elements.

[0008] Another type of well-known slide fastener comprises two separate columns of independent fastening elements and has a shape that can be coupled and decoupled with the fastening elements of the other column.

[0009] For example, the fastening elements are formed of plastic and are individually injected onto a cloth tape to form their respective columns.

[0010] There is another type of slide fastener whose elements are made of cut, forged metal.

[0011] In this case, the elements are individually secured to the tape by deforming or perforating the connection points of each element, and then fastened to the cloth tape.

[0012] This can cause well-known metal slide fasteners to become stiff. In fact, because the fastener elements are tightly and firmly attached to the tape, excessive tension is generated within the tape and / or between the fastener elements.

[0013] As a result, this type of slide fastener may have unsuitable flexibility depending on the application.

[0014] Furthermore, during the engagement process of a well-known metal slide fastener (i.e., when opening and closing a metal slide fastener), the fastener elements need to be finely adjusted relative to each other so that each tape element is in the correct relative position to the elements of the other row. As a result, the elements of one tape can correctly receive and stably connect with the elements of the other tape.

[0015] Because the fastener elements are firmly fixed to the tape, users need to apply some force to the fastener elements to make fine adjustments, and there is a possibility that the elements may get caught.

[0016] This creates rigidity, making it difficult and impractical to open and close the slide fastener.

[0017] These drawbacks become even more problematic when the well-known slide fasteners need to operate on one or more corners, for example, when they are applied to a rectangular suitcase.

[0018] Furthermore, because the metal fastener elements are individually (i.e., not continuously) fixed to the tape, more force is required when pulling the slider along the tape to go around the corners, which makes the closing operation more difficult.

[0019] In light of the above, there is a need for slide fasteners that offer high flexibility and smooth operation.

[0020] Furthermore, there is a need for slide fasteners that enable smooth and comfortable operation at one or more corners.

[0021] In view of the above, the object of the present invention is to provide a slide fastener that can overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0022] In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide a slide fastener that has greater flexibility and smoothness during operation.

[0023] A further object of the present invention is to provide a slide fastener that allows for treatment or coating of the elements in order to create a visually appealing product.

[0024] This is achieved by the slide fastener described in claim 1.

[0025] According to the present invention, the slide fastener comprises a first row of elements and a second row of elements configured to connect and disconnect from each other, wherein the first row of elements comprises a plurality of first fastener elements and a plurality of first connecting members, each of which is positioned between two first fastener elements, and each of which is connected to two or more first fastener elements, and the second row of elements comprises a plurality of second fastener elements and a plurality of second connecting members, each of which is connected to a second connecting member Each of the first and second fastener elements is positioned between two second fastener elements, and each of the second connecting members is connected to two or more second fastener elements, and each of the first and second fastener elements has a coupling portion, each coupling portion of the first fastener element is configured to connect and disconnect between the coupling portions of two adjacent second fastener elements, and each coupling portion of the second fastener element is configured to connect and disconnect between the coupling portions of two adjacent first fastener elements.

[0026] In the slide fastener according to the present invention, each row of elements is realized by a series of elements that interlock with one another. More specifically, each row is formed by fastener elements that are connected to one another by a connecting member. In other words, each row defines a chain configured to be coupled with a similar chain that constitutes the other row of elements.

[0027] Since the fastener elements are connected by a chain, they do not necessarily need to be fixed to the tape to hold the elements together. The elements can be attached to the tape, allowing the slide fastener to be attached to items such as jackets, bags, and suitcases.

[0028] Therefore, the fastener elements can be connected to each other in a way that allows them to move more freely without being fixed to the tape in each row.

[0029] For this reason, the tension between the tape and / or fastener elements is considerably lower. As a result, the slide fastener is more flexible and can be bent more easily.

[0030] Furthermore, the fastener elements are connected to each other to form a chain, allowing for greater freedom of movement, so the user needs to apply significantly less force to operate the slide fastener. In particular, when closing the slide fastener, the user needs less force to make the necessary fine adjustments to effectively align elements in different rows.

[0031] This makes the operation of the slide fastener smoother and more comfortable, and helps avoid unwanted or unpleasant snagging.

[0032] Furthermore, for the same reason, the slide fastener of the present invention significantly reduces the operating force required to move the slider around corners.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, each coupling portion comprises a convex coupling portion on one side of each of the first and second fastener elements and a concave coupling portion on the other side of each of the first and second fastener elements, wherein the convex coupling portion of the first fastener element is configured to connect to and disconnect from the concave coupling portion of the second fastener element, and the concave coupling portion of the first fastener element is configured to connect to and disconnect from the convex coupling portion of the second fastener element.

[0034] This configuration enables stable, easy, and reliable connection of the two rows of fastener elements, and allows for smooth operation when the two rows of fastener elements are joined and unjoined.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, each of the first and second fastener elements may have one or more openings for accommodating the first and second connecting members.

[0036] This feature makes it possible to connect the fastener elements in each row to form a chain of fastener elements. Furthermore, one or more openings allow fastener elements and connecting members to be easily and quickly connected during manufacturing.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, each of the first and second connecting members may include a base and one or more legs protruding from the base and accommodating the opening of the corresponding first or second fastener element.

[0038] This feature allows the fastener elements in each row to be easily connected to form a corresponding chain, while maintaining good flexibility between the fastener elements.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, each of the first and second connecting members may be provided with a hook member positioned at the end of each of one or more legs to prevent each of the first and second connecting members from separating from the corresponding first and second fastener elements.

[0040] This stabilizes the connection between the fastener element and the connecting member, improving reliability. In fact, the hook member prevents the connecting member from unintentionally separating from the fastener element.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, each of the first and second fastener elements may have at least one bulging portion defining the joint.

[0042] The expanded portion defines the connection point that enables each fastener element to connect with an adjacent fastener element.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, each of the first and second fastener elements may have three bulging portions defining three corresponding joint portions.

[0044] This configuration allows fastener elements in one column to be easily connected to fastener elements in another column, regardless of the direction in which the fastener elements are oriented around their axis.

[0045] Furthermore, an element having three expansion parts is easy to manufacture. In fact, it is more difficult to manufacture an element having four or more expansion parts.

[0046] Furthermore, during the operation of the slide fastener, the expansion parts (and the corresponding cavities) facilitate the coupling of the two rows of elements. However, a slight rotation may occur between the elements to be coupled, which may cause the alignment to be lost, resulting in difficult coupling or reduced smoothness.

[0047] A further advantage of having three expansion parts is that the tolerance for alignment and engagement becomes larger.

[0048] An element having four or more expansion parts is considered to have smaller expansion parts itself, and thus more accurate alignment is required.

[0049] Therefore, an element having three expansion parts can achieve both good flexibility and stability of the chain.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment, the expansion parts may be arranged approximately 120° apart from each other with respect to the centers of the first and second fastener elements.

[0051] This feature enables the expansion of the space on each of the expansion parts where engagement is possible. Therefore, it is not strictly necessary for the two rows of elements to be perfectly aligned for effective engagement.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment, each of the first and second fastener elements may be substantially circular in a plan view.

[0053] The absence of corners in the shape of the fastener element can avoid the possibility of incompatibility between the fastener elements during their coupling.

[0054] Furthermore, manufacturing circular elements is easier than other shapes. In particular, the tools required to manufacture other shapes are more complex and difficult to use.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, each of the first and second fastener elements may include a base and a lateral wall protruding from the base.

[0056] This feature allows the fastener element to maintain its lightness while having sufficient resistance to deformation.

[0057] Furthermore, the lateral walls prevent any part of the product to which the slide fastener is applied from unintentionally reaching the gaps between the row of elements and interfering with the joining of the elements.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, each of the first and second connecting members may have three legs that protrude from the base at 120° angles to each other.

[0059] This configuration allows for greater stability to the element row while maintaining appropriate flexibility, thereby making the row easier to bend.

[0060] More specifically, connecting members with fewer than three legs may compromise the stability of the row. Conversely, connecting members with four or more legs reduce the flexibility required for the slide fastener.

[0061] Furthermore, in connecting members with four or more legs, the narrower width of the legs makes them structurally weaker and more susceptible to deformation or breakage. Moreover, they can be more difficult to manufacture.

[0062] Furthermore, as clearly stated below, the tape may be folded around the legs to create a stringer. In this case, the tape can be wrapped evenly and regularly around the connecting member having three legs, so that the tape does not interfere with the operation of the slider.

[0063] According to a preferred embodiment, the legs may branch out so that they move further apart from each other as they move from the base towards their respective ends.

[0064] This provides stability through the connection of the connecting member to the fastener element. In fact, the branching of the leg prevents the connecting member from being disconnected from the fastener element.

[0065] Furthermore, the branching of the legs prevents them from coming into contact with other legs of other connecting members.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, each of the first and second fastener elements and / or each of the first and second connecting members may be formed from metal.

[0067] This feature provides a chain with high resistance. Furthermore, the metal can be treated in various ways to achieve special aesthetic effects.

[0068] Furthermore, because metals are easily deformable, the manufacturing process for the elements can be simplified.

[0069] In a preferred embodiment, the slide fastener may further comprise a first tape connected to a first row of elements and a second tape connected to a second row of elements.

[0070] This allows the slide fastener to be easily attached to products such as jackets, bags, or suitcases.

[0071] Furthermore, if the fastener elements of the element row are connected to a tape, the tape can also maintain the correct pitch and orientation between the fastener elements. This allows for easy and smooth coupling and uncoupling of elements.

[0072] In a preferred embodiment, each of the first and second tapes may have a plurality of loops, each loop of the first tape may be wrapped around the first row of elements, and each loop of the second tape may be wrapped around the second row of elements.

[0073] According to a preferred embodiment, two chains formed by the rods of the fastener element can be effectively connected to the tape in an easy manner.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the loop may be wrapped around the legs of the first and second connecting members.

[0075] This configuration allows for sufficient flexibility in the rows. In fact, because the loop is wrapped around the legs of the connecting member, the fastener element has greater mobility relative to the other, resulting in improved flexibility.

[0076] According to a preferred embodiment, each tape may have a portion having a plurality of slits, which are folded over themselves to define loops between the slits.

[0077] This feature makes loop implementation simple and rapid, improving the manufacturing process.

[0078] The present invention provides a method for connecting a tape to a row of elements of a slide fastener, the row of elements comprising a plurality of fastener elements and a plurality of connecting members, each connecting member positioned between two fastener elements and each connecting member connected to two or more fastener elements, the method comprising the steps of providing a tape, creating a plurality of loops on the tape, wrapping each loop around the row of elements and securing the loops to the tape.

[0079] This configuration allows the rows of fastener elements to be easily and quickly assembled onto the tape, thus improving the manufacturing process in terms of efficiency.

[0080] According to a preferred embodiment, the step of creating a plurality of loops on the tape may include the step of creating a plurality of slits aligned with a portion of the tape, the loops being defined between the slits.

[0081] This makes tape manufacturing and subsequent connection to rows easier and faster, improving manufacturing efficiency.

[0082] According to a preferred embodiment, the step of winding each loop around the element row may include the step of inserting the fastener element into the slit and folding the tape in the portion to wind the loop around the connecting member.

[0083] This feature makes it easy to connect fastener elements to the tape, saving time and improving the efficiency of the manufacturing process.

[0084] The present invention will be further described here with reference to preferred embodiments.

[0085] Figure 1 is a plan view of a slide fastener according to the present invention. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a detail of the slide fastener in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a plan view of a fastener element, which is part of the slide fastener in Figure 1. Figure 4 is another plan view of the fastener element in Figure 3. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the fastener element in Figure 3. Figure 6 is a plan view of a connecting member, which is part of the slide fastener in Figure 1. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member in Figure 6. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the slide fastener in Figure 1. Figure 9 is a perspective view of a detail of the slide fastener shown in Figure 8.

[0086] In the attached drawings, the slide fastener according to the present invention is indicated by reference number 1.

[0087] The slide fastener 1 according to the present invention comprises two rows of elements 2 and 3 configured to be joined and unjoined.

[0088] Each of the element rows 2 and 3 comprises a plurality of fastener elements 4a and 4b, and a plurality of connecting members 5a and 5b positioned between two fastener elements 4a and 4b.

[0089] Each connecting member 5a, 5b of each element row 2, 3 is connected to two or more fastener elements 4a, 4b of the same element row 2, 3.

[0090] Each fastener element 4a, 4b in each element row 2, 3 is configured to be connected to and disconnected from two adjacent fastener elements 4a, 4b in the other element row 2, 3.

[0091] In particular, the slide fastener 1 comprises a first row 2 and a second row 3. Preferably, the first row 2 and the second row 3 have the same configuration.

[0092] In detail, the first element row 2 comprises a plurality of first fastener elements 4a and a plurality of first connecting members 5a positioned between two first fastener elements 4a.

[0093] Each first connecting member 5a is connected to two or more first fastener elements 4a, as will become clear below.

[0094] In other words, the first fastener element 4a and the first connecting member 5a are arranged alternately to form the first element row 2.

[0095] More specifically, the first fastener element 4a and the first connecting member 5a are alternately connected to each other to form a chain. In other words, the first row of elements 2 defines the chain.

[0096] Similarly, the second element row 3 comprises a plurality of second fastener elements 4b and a plurality of second connecting members 5b positioned between two second fastener elements 4b.

[0097] Each second connecting member 5b is connected to two or more second fastener elements 4b, as will become clear below.

[0098] In other words, the second fastener element 4b and the second connecting member 5b are arranged alternately to form the second element row 3.

[0099] More specifically, the second fastener element 4b and the second connecting member 5b are alternately connected to each other to form a chain. In other words, the second row of elements 3 defines the chain.

[0100] Each first fastener element 4a of the first element row 2 is configured to connect to and disconnect from two adjacent second fastener elements 4b of the second element row 3. Similarly, each second fastener element 4b of the second element row 3 is configured to connect to and disconnect from two adjacent first fastener elements 4a of the first element row 2.

[0101] Therefore, each of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b is provided with a connecting portion 6.

[0102] More specifically, each coupling portion 6 of the first fastener element 4a is configured to be coupled and uncoupled between the coupling portions 6 of two adjacent second fastener elements 4b.

[0103] Similarly, each coupling portion 6 of the second fastener element 4b is configured to connect and disconnect between the coupling portions 6 of two adjacent first fastener elements 4a.

[0104] According to the embodiment, each connecting portion 6 may have a convex connecting portion 6a on one side of each of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b, and a concave connecting portion 6b on the other side of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b. In this case, "one side" refers to one direction in the direction in which each of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b is arranged. The connecting portion 6b is concave on the side opposite to the side on which the convex connecting portion 6a is provided in the direction in which each of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b is arranged.

[0105] Furthermore, preferably, the convex coupling portion 6a of the first fastener element 4a is configured to connect to and disconnect from the concave coupling portion 6b of the second fastener element 4b, and the concave coupling portion 6b of the first fastener element 4a is configured to connect to and disconnect from the convex coupling portion 6a of the second fastener element 4b.

[0106] In detail, the concave coupling portion 6b of the first fastener element 4a may define a space that can stably and securely accommodate the corresponding convex coupling portions 6a of the second fastener element 4b when coupled together.

[0107] Therefore, each of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b may have at least one bulging portion 11 that defines the coupling portion 6. In particular, the bulging portion 11 may be defined by a convex coupling portion 6a and a concave coupling portion 6b.

[0108] Preferably, each of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b may have a plurality of expansion portions 11. Preferably, the expansion portions 11 are arranged at the same angular distance from each other with respect to the centers of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b.

[0109] For example, according to the embodiment shown in the figure, each of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b may have three bulging portions 11 that define three corresponding coupling portions 6. Each coupling portion 6 comprises a convex coupling portion 6a and a concave coupling portion 6b.

[0110] In this case, preferably the three expansion portions 11 may be arranged approximately 120° apart from each other with respect to the centers of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b (see, for example, Figure 4). In other words, the three expansion portions 11 may be formed at equal intervals with respect to the circumferential direction with respect to the centers of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b.

[0111] In a further embodiment (not shown), each of the first and second fastener elements 4a, 4b may have four expansion portions 11 that are spaced approximately 90° apart from each other with respect to the centers of the first and second fastener elements 4a, 4b.

[0112] In another embodiment (not shown), each of the first and second fastener elements 4a, 4b may have five bulging portions 11 that are spaced approximately 72° apart from each other with respect to the centers of the first and second fastener elements 4a, 4b.

[0113] For example, with respect to the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b, they may be approximately circular in plan view.

[0114] In yet another embodiment (not shown), the plan view shapes of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b may be different from circular shapes. For example, the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b may be square, rectangular, elliptical, or polygonal.

[0115] According to the embodiment shown in the drawings, each of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b may include a base 12 and a lateral wall 13 protruding from the base 12. In the illustrated example, the lateral wall 13 extends from the outer peripheral edge of the base 12 in the direction in which each of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b is arranged.

[0116] It should be noted that the expanded portion 11 is defined by the deformed portion of the base 12 and the lateral wall 13.

[0117] Referring particularly to Figure 5, the concave joint portion 6b (which defines the space for accommodating the convex joint portion 6a) is defined by both the base portion 12 and the lateral wall 13.

[0118] Preferably, each of the first and second fastener elements 4a, 4b may have one or more openings 7 for accommodating the first or second connecting members 5a, 5b.

[0119] Therefore, each of the first and second connecting members 5a and 5b may be provided with a base 8 and one or more leg portions 9 that protrude from the base 8 to their respective ends 9a.

[0120] One or more leg portions 9 may be accommodated accordingly in one or more openings 7 of the corresponding first and second fastener elements 4a, 4b. This allows the first and second fastener elements 4a, 4b to be alternately connected with the first and second connecting members 5a, 5b.

[0121] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the first and second connecting members 5a and 5b each have three legs 9 protruding from the base 8.

[0122] Accordingly, each of the first and second fastener elements 4a, 4b may have three openings 7 for accommodating the three corresponding legs 9 of the first and second connecting members 5a, 5b.

[0123] Referring particularly to Figure 6, the three legs 9 are positioned 120° apart from each other with respect to the respective centers of the first and second connecting members 5a and 5b. In other words, the three legs 9 may be formed at equal intervals with respect to the circumferential direction with respect to the centers of the first and second connecting members 5a and 5b.

[0124] Similarly, the openings 7 may be positioned approximately 120° apart from each other with respect to the centers of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b (see, for example, Figure 4). In other words, the three openings 7 may be formed at equal intervals with respect to the circumferential direction with respect to the centers of the first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b.

[0125] As shown in Figure 7, the bases 8 of the first and second connecting members 5a and 5b are preferably flat. The multiple legs 9 may branch out so that they move further apart from each other as they move from the base 8 towards their respective ends 9a. The legs are preferably flat and straight.

[0126] For example, the angle formed between the leg portion 9 and the longitudinal axis perpendicular to the base portion 8 may be between 5° and 15°.

[0127] Preferably, each of the first and second connecting members 5a, 5b may be provided with a hook member 10 positioned at each end 9a of one or more leg portions 9. This prevents each of the first and second connecting members 5a, 5b from unintentionally separating from the corresponding first and second fastener elements 4a, 4b.

[0128] In particular, as shown in Figure 2, it is preferable that each of the first and second connecting members 5a and 5b is connected to two subsequent first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b.

[0129] In detail, the legs 9 of the first and second connecting members 5a and 5b are inserted into the openings 7 of the two subsequent first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b. Therefore, the legs 9 may preferably have sufficient length to be accommodated within the openings 7 of the two subsequent first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b.

[0130] It should be noted that the end portion 9a of the leg portion 9 extends beyond the opening 7 of the second of the two consecutive first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b, as viewed from the base 8 of the leg portion 9. As a result, the hook member 10 extends beyond the opening 7 of the second of the two consecutive first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b, as viewed from the base 8 of the leg portion 9. In other words, the leg portion 9 may penetrate the opening 7 of the two adjacent first fastener elements 4a, and may penetrate the opening 7 of the two adjacent second fastener elements 4b.

[0131] In this way, the hook member 10 can stably connect each of the first and second connecting members 5a and 5b to two subsequent first and second fastener elements 4a and 4b, thereby realizing two chains that define the first element row 2 and the second element row 3.

[0132] Preferably, each of the first and second fastener elements 4a, 4b and / or each of the first and second connecting members 5a, 5b may be made of metal. For example, each of the first and second fastener elements 4a, 4b and / or each of the first and second connecting members 5a, 5b may be made of brass, bronze, silver, gold, or steel.

[0133] However, other materials can also be used. For example, each of the first and second fastener elements 4a, 4b and / or each of the first and second connecting members 5a, 5b may be made of plastic.

[0134] Preferably, the slide fastener 1 further comprises a slider (not shown) that engages with both the first row of elements 2 and the second row of elements 3 to connect and disconnect them.

[0135] For example, the slider structure and mechanism may generally be the same as those of conventional slide fasteners. Thus, the slider may have a Y-shape internally, with two openings in the closing direction and one opening in the opening direction. The branching point of the channel is called a diamond block.

[0136] When closing, both rows of elements interlock as the slider moves. When opening, the diamond block separates the interlocked elements as the slider moves.

[0137] Preferably, the slide fastener 1 may further include a first tape 14a connected to a first element row 2 and a second tape 14b connected to a second element row 3, forming their respective stringers.

[0138] In particular, each of the first tape 14a and the second tape 14b is configured to be attached (for example, by sewing) to an item such as a jacket, bag, or suitcase.

[0139] For example, tapes 14a and 14b may be made of cloth. For example, the cloth may be made of knitted or woven yarn. Alternatively, the cloth may be nonwoven fabric.

[0140] Each tape 14a, 14b may preferably have a plurality of loops 16 connecting each tape 14a, 14b to the first and second element rows 2, 3 (Figures 8 and 9).

[0141] More specifically, each loop 16 of the first tape 14a is wrapped around the first row 2, and each loop 16 of the second tape 14b is wrapped around the second row 3.

[0142] In detail, the loop 16 is preferably wrapped around the legs 9 of the first and second connecting members 5a and 5b to connect the tapes 14a and 14b to the first and second element rows 2 and 3.

[0143] Loop 16 may be defined by strip-shaped bands formed on tapes 14a and 14b. The bands may be folded over and wrapped around the first and second element rows 2 and 3. For example, the bands may be made of the same material as tapes 14a and 14b. Preferably, the bands may be integrated with tapes 14a and 14b.

[0144] In the illustrated preferred embodiment, the band is defined by a plurality of slits 17 on tapes 14a and 14b.

[0145] More specifically, each tape 14a, 14b may have a portion having a plurality of slits 17 parallel to each other. Preferably, the slits 17 have the same length.

[0146] This portion is folded over itself, defining a loop 16 between the slits 17, and is connected to the rest of tapes 14a and 14b, for example, by sewing.

[0147] The present invention also relates to a method for connecting one of the tapes 14a and 14b to one of the element rows 2 and 3 of a slide fastener 1 as previously disclosed.

[0148] This method includes the step of supplying tapes 14a and 14b to form a plurality of loops 16 on the tapes 14a and 14b.

[0149] Next, each loop 16 is wrapped around the element rows 2 and 3. Preferably, each loop 16 is wrapped around the corresponding connecting members 5a and 5b. More preferably, each loop 16 is wrapped around the legs 9 of the corresponding connecting members 5a and 5b.

[0150] Preferably, the loop 16 is realized by forming a plurality of slits 17 in a portion of the tapes 14a and 14b that are aligned parallel to each other. For example, the slits are realized by cutting the tapes 14a and 14b (see Figure 9).

[0151] Preferably, the portion in question is the inner portion 15a of tapes 14a and 14b that is contained between the two parallel edges of tapes 14a and 14b.

[0152] Preferably, the inner portion 15a is contained between the narrow edge 15b and the wide edge 15c. The width of the narrow edge 15b is smaller than the width of the wide edge 15c.

[0153] Next, multiple bands are defined between the slits 17.

[0154] The inner portion 15a, and by extension the band, is folded over itself so that the band defines the loop 16.

[0155] More specifically, this step may be performed by folding the narrow edge 15b onto the wider edge 15c.

[0156] Loop 16 is inserted between two adjacent fastener elements 4a and 4b of element rows 2 and 3, and reaches the legs 9 of the corresponding connecting members 5a and 5b positioned between them. In other words, when connecting tapes 14a and 14b to element rows 2 and 3, fastener elements 4a and 4b are inserted into the slit 17, so that loop 16 can reach the legs 9 of the connecting members 5a and 5b.

[0157] The loop 16 is then fixed to tapes 14a and 14b and connected to element rows 2 and 3 that form each stringer.

[0158] More specifically, this step may include fixing the narrow edges 15b of the tapes 14a and 14b to the wider edges 15c.

[0159] For example, the narrow edges 15b of tapes 14a and 14b are fixed onto the wider edges 15c by sewing them in place.

[0160] Naturally, the descriptions of embodiments and examples set forth herein are merely examples of the application of the principles recognized by the inventors and should not be understood as limiting the scope of the invention as claimed herein. Accordingly, although detailed embodiments and examples are provided, they are for the purpose of enhancing the understanding of the invention as defined by the independent claims and should not be interpreted as limiting the invention.

[0161] This application is based on Italian Patent Application No. 102024000021308, filed on 25 September 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0162] As described above, the following matters are disclosed in this specification: [1] A slide fastener (1) comprising a first row of elements (2) and a second row of elements (3) configured to connect and disconnect from each other, wherein the first row of elements (2) comprises a plurality of first fastener elements (4a) and a plurality of first connecting members (5a), each of which is positioned between two first fastener elements (4a) and each of which is connected to two or more first fastener elements (4a), wherein the second row of elements (3) comprises a plurality of second fastener elements (4b) and a plurality of second connecting members (5b), each of which is positioned between two second fastener elements (4b) and each of which is connected to two or more second fastener elements (4b), Slide fastener (1), each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) is provided with a coupling portion (6), and each coupling portion (6) of the first fastener element (4a) is configured to connect and disconnect between the coupling portions (6) of two adjacent second fastener elements (4b), and each coupling portion (6) of the second fastener element (4b) is configured to connect and disconnect between the coupling portions (6) of two adjacent first fastener elements (4a).

[0163] [2] Each connecting portion (6) comprises a convex connecting portion (6a) on one side of each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) and a concave connecting portion (6b) on the other side of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b), wherein the convex connecting portion (6a) of the first fastener element (4a) is configured to connect to and disconnect from the concave connecting portion (6b) of the second fastener element (4b), and the concave connecting portion (6b) of the first fastener element (4a) is configured to connect to and disconnect from the convex connecting portion (6a) of the second fastener element (4b), as described in [1].

[0164] [3] The slide fastener (1) according to [1] or [2], wherein each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) has one or more openings (7) for accommodating the first or second connecting member (5a, 5b).

[0165] [4] The slide fastener (1) according to [3], wherein each of the first and second connecting members (5a, 5b) comprises a base (8) and one or more legs (9) protruding from the base (8) and being accommodated in the opening (7) of the corresponding first or second fastener element (4a, 4b).

[0166] [5] The slide fastener (1) according to [4], wherein each of the first and second connecting members (5a, 5b) is provided with a hook member (10) positioned at each end (9a) of the one or more leg portions (9) to prevent each of the first and second connecting members (5a, 5b) from separating from the corresponding first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b).

[0167] [6] The slide fastener (1) according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) has at least one expanding portion (11) defining the connecting portion (6).

[0168] [7] The slide fastener (1) according to [6], wherein each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) has three expansion portions (11) defining three corresponding connecting portions (6).

[0169] [8] The expansion portion (11) is arranged at approximately 120° relative to the centers of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) as described in [7], the slide fastener (1).

[0170] [9] A slide fastener (1) as described in any one of [1] to [8], wherein each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) is approximately circular in plan view.

[0171]

[10] A slide fastener (1) according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) comprises a base (12) and a lateral wall (13) protruding from the base (12).

[0172]

[11] The slide fastener (1) according to [4] or [5], wherein each of the first and second connecting members (5a, 5b) has three legs (9) that protrude from the base (8) at 120° to each other.

[0173]

[12] The slide fastener (1) according to

[11] , wherein the leg portion (9) branches out so that they move further apart from each other as they move from the base portion (8) toward their respective ends (9a).

[0174]

[13] A slide fastener (1) according to any one of [1] to

[12] , wherein each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) and / or each of the first and second connecting members (5a, 5b) is made of metal.

[0175]

[14] The slide fastener (1) according to any one of [1] to

[13] , further comprising a first tape (14a) connected to the first element row (2) and a second tape (14b) connected to the second element row (3).

[0176]

[15] The slide fastener (1) according to

[14] , wherein each of the first and second tapes (14a, 14b) has a plurality of loops (16), each loop (16) of the first tape (14a) is wrapped around the first row of elements (2), and each loop (16) of the second tape (14b) is wrapped around the second row of elements (3).

[0177]

[16] The slide fastener (1) according to [4] or [5], further comprising a first tape (14a) connected to the first row of elements (2) and a second tape (14b) connected to the second row of elements (3), wherein each of the first and second tapes (14a, 14b) has a plurality of loops (16), each loop (16) of the first tape (14a) is wrapped around the first row of elements (2), each loop (16) of the second tape (14b) is wrapped around the second row of elements (3), and the loops (16) are wrapped around the legs (9) of the first and second connecting members (5a, 5b).

[0178]

[17] The slide fastener (1) according to

[15] or

[16] , wherein each of the tapes (14a, 14b) comprises a portion having a plurality of slits (17), the portion being folded over itself to define the loop (16) between the slits (17).

[0179] 1 Slide fastener 2 First row of elements 3 Second row of elements 4a First fastener element 4b Second fastener element 5a First connecting member 5b Second connecting member 6 Joint portion 6a Convex joint portion 6b Concave joint portion 7 Opening 8 Base 9 Leg portion 9a End portion 10 Hook member 11 Expanding portion 12 Base 13 Lateral wall 14a First tape 14b Second tape 15a Inner portion 15b Narrow edge portion 15c Wide edge portion 16 Loop 17 Slit

Claims

1. A slide fastener (1) comprising a first row of elements (2) and a second row of elements (3) configured to connect and disconnect from each other, wherein the first row of elements (2) comprises a plurality of first fastener elements (4a) and a plurality of first connecting members (5a), each of which is positioned between two first fastener elements (4a) and each of which is connected to two or more first fastener elements (4a), wherein the second row of elements (3) comprises a plurality of second fastener elements (4b) and a plurality of second connecting members (5b), each of which is positioned between two second fastener elements (4b) and each of which is connected to two or more second fastener elements (4b), Slide fastener (1), each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) is provided with a coupling portion (6), and each coupling portion (6) of the first fastener element (4a) is configured to connect and disconnect between the coupling portions (6) of two adjacent second fastener elements (4b), and each coupling portion (6) of the second fastener element (4b) is configured to connect and disconnect between the coupling portions (6) of two adjacent first fastener elements (4a).

2. Each connecting portion (6) comprises a convex connecting portion (6a) on one side of each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) and a concave connecting portion (6b) on the other side of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b), wherein the convex connecting portion (6a) of the first fastener element (4a) is configured to connect to and disconnect from the concave connecting portion (6b) of the second fastener element (4b), and the concave connecting portion (6b) of the first fastener element (4a) is configured to connect to and disconnect from the convex connecting portion (6a) of the second fastener element (4b), the slide fastener (1) according to claim 1.

3. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) has one or more openings (7) for accommodating the first or second connecting member (5a, 5b).

4. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 3, wherein each of the first and second connecting members (5a, 5b) comprises a base (8) and one or more legs (9) protruding from the base (8) and being accommodated in the opening (7) of the corresponding first or second fastener element (4a, 4b).

5. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 4, wherein each of the first and second connecting members (5a, 5b) is provided with a hook member (10) positioned at each end (9a) of the one or more leg portions (9) to prevent each of the first and second connecting members (5a, 5b) from separating from the corresponding first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b).

6. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) has at least one expanding portion (11) defining the connecting portion (6).

7. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 6, wherein each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) has three expansion portions (11) defining three corresponding connecting portions (6).

8. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 7, wherein the expanding portion (11) is arranged at approximately 120° relative to the centers of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b).

9. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) is substantially circular in plan view.

10. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 1, wherein each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) comprises a base (12) and a lateral wall (13) protruding from the base (12).

11. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 4, wherein each of the first and second connecting members (5a, 5b) has three legs (9) that protrude from the base (8) at a 120° angle to each other.

12. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 11, wherein the leg portion (9) branches out so that they move further apart from each other as they move from the base portion (8) toward their respective ends (9a).

13. The slide fastener (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein each of the first and second fastener elements (4a, 4b) and / or each of the first and second connecting members (5a, 5b) is made of metal.

14. The slide fastener (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a first tape (14a) connected to the first element row (2) and a second tape (14b) connected to the second element row (3).

15. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 14, wherein each of the first and second tapes (14a, 14b) has a plurality of loops (16), each loop (16) of the first tape (14a) is wrapped around the first element row (2), and each loop (16) of the second tape (14b) is wrapped around the second element row (3).

16. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 4, further comprising a first tape (14a) connected to the first element row (2) and a second tape (14b) connected to the second element row (3), wherein each of the first and second tapes (14a, 14b) has a plurality of loops (16), each loop (16) of the first tape (14a) is wrapped around the first element row (2), each loop (16) of the second tape (14b) is wrapped around the second element row (3), and the loops (16) are wrapped around the legs (9) of the first and second connecting members (5a, 5b).

17. The slide fastener (1) according to claim 15, wherein each of the tapes (14a, 14b) comprises a portion having a plurality of slits (17), the portion being folded over itself to define the loop (16) between the slits (17).

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