EP3886640B1 - Sealed press-stud - Google Patents

Description

Technical area

The present invention relates to a press stud.

Prior art

Nowadays, press studs are used in many applications, especially as a clothing closure system. It is known that a press-stud is made up of four parts generally called "cap part", "housing", "ball" and "ball eyelet" which are assembled two by two on carrier strips to form so-called " female" and "male" capable of engaging one another by pressure. One carrier strip can for example be a first garment part and another carrier strip can for example be a second garment part.

A shortcoming of a traditional snap is that it is not waterproof. However, in the context of certain military, sporting and/or maritime applications, it is necessary to have trim elements which are watertight.

More or less watertight press studs have therefore been developed in the past.

In particular, the European patent publication number EP0401574B1 discloses a waterproof press stud provided with first sealing elements composed of sealing agent in the cap, in an eyelet of the cap, in a ball of suitable shape, as well as a disc of elastic material arranged in each female and male parts, when they are assembled on a carrier strip.

A shortcoming of this snap is its structural complexity and the need to use different models of pre-made discs which correspond to different models of parts used. Another defect of this press-stud is that it creates leaks at the level of the press-stud: it is not waterproof.

Summary of the invention

An object of the invention is to provide a press-stud which is particularly tight and structurally simple to manufacture.

• une partie femelle comprenant :
  • une partie de rivetage supérieure comprenant :
    • une tige de rivetage ;
    • une collerette prolongeant et entourant une extrémité supérieure de la tige de rivetage ;
    • une calotte couvrant la collerette et l'extrémité supérieure de la tige de rivetage ;
  • un boîtier, et comprenant :
    • une ouverture supérieure pour accueillir au moins une partie de la tige de rivetage ;
    • une ouverture inférieure ;
    • des éléments de fermeture;
• une partie mâle comprenant :
  • une partie de rivetage inférieure comprenant :
    • un clou de rivetage en forme de tige, et comprenant une extrémité supérieure ;
    • une base en forme de collerette prolongeant et entourant une extrémité inférieure du clou de rivetage ;
  • une pièce d'emboîtement par pression, et comprenant :
    • une excroissance dimensionnée pour s'engager dans l'ouverture inférieure et coopérer avec les éléments de fermeture ;
    • un emplacement de positionnement pour accueillir l'extrémité supérieure du clou de rivetage ;

caractérisé en ce que le bouton-pression comprend en outre un premier élément d'étanchéité recouvrant au moins partiellement une surface inférieure de la collerette et une surface extérieure de l'extrémité supérieure de la tige de rivetage et un deuxième élément d'étanchéité situé au moins partiellement dans un renfoncement inférieur de la base qui entoure l'extrémité inférieure du clou de rivetage.To this end, the invention proposes a press-stud comprising:

• a female part comprising:
  • an upper riveting part comprising:
    • a riveting rod;
    • a flange extending and surrounding an upper end of the riveting rod;
    • a cap covering the collar and the upper end of the riveting rod;
  • a housing, and comprising:
    • an upper opening to receive at least a part of the riveting rod;
    • a lower opening;
    • closing elements;
• a male part comprising:
  • a lower riveting part comprising:
    • a rod-shaped rivet nail, and comprising an upper end;
    • a flange-shaped base extending and surrounding a lower end of the riveting nail;
  • a snap fit piece, and comprising:
    • a protrusion dimensioned to engage in the lower opening and cooperate with the closing elements;
    • a positioning location to receive the upper end of the rivet nail;

characterized in that the press-stud further comprises a first sealing element at least partially covering a lower surface of the collar and an outer surface of the upper end of the riveting rod and a second sealing element located at the less partially in a lower recess of the base which surrounds the lower end of the riveting nail.

The press-stud according to the invention makes it possible to provide a particularly good seal when used to attach two carrying strips, for example two parts of clothing. In fact, the flexibility of the sealing elements allows the press-stud to closely fit the carrier strips at the level of the periphery of the perforation points. This adjusted contact forms a barrier for a liquid which would penetrate through the periphery of the base or of the cap and would slide along the bands, for example, by capillary action.

In addition, the arrangement of the sealing elements with respect to the other elements of the press-stud, in particular the covering of the lower surface of the flange and of the outer surface of the upper end of the rod by the first element of sealing and the presence of the second sealing in a hollow of the base, makes it possible to avoid infiltrations between the sealing elements and the other elements of the press-stud.

Thus, the lower riveting part advantageously differs from known similar parts which comprise an annular base without an adequate location for depositing sealing material thereon. In this case, contrary to the invention, it is not possible to deposit a sealing material which suitably matches the shape of the base, hence the use in the patent cited in the prior art of a disk of elastic material.

Furthermore, the press stud according to the present invention is structurally simple to manufacture since it is simply necessary to providing a lower riveting part provided with the lower recess at its base, and then depositing sealing material forming the sealing elements in this lower recess and at the level of the upper riveting part. In particular, it follows that the second sealing element is preferably (arranged) completely in the lower recess.

It follows that the press-stud according to the invention is simpler, faster and less expensive to manufacture.

• une « partie calotte » consistant en la partie de rivetage supérieure,
• un « boîtier » consistant en le boîtier,
• une « boule » consistant en la pièce d'emboîtement par pression, et
• un « œillet de boule » consistant en la partie de rivetage inférieure.

The snap button described above includes the parts of a traditional snap button, namely:

• a "cap part" consisting of the upper riveting part,
• a "housing" consisting of the housing,
• a "ball" consisting of the push fit piece, and
• a "ball eyelet" consisting of the lower riveting part.

In the context of this document, the term "parts" of a press stud preferably refers to these four elements. Each of these parts can be made of different materials, preferably metal. A cap of a non-metallic material would not, however, depart from the scope of the invention.

The present invention is in no way limited to a press-stud in assembled or unassembled form on carrier strips. A set of the aforesaid parts to form a press-stud falls within the scope of the invention, as does this set of parts fixed to carrier strips.

The housing and snap fit piece are preferably unmodified standard pieces conventionally used for a snap. Since the heart of the present invention preferably does not rest on these parts, they will be little commented on in this document. The cooperation of the protrusion with the closure elements are known in particular and makes it possible to maintain the protrusion in the housing after pressure has been exerted on the male part to engage it in the female part. The fulfillment of this commitment is typically marked by a “click”. The closure elements of the case preferably comprise at least one spring to implement this technical effect.

In the context of this document, the term "riveting" preferably refers to an assembly using a rivet part comprising a cylindrical rod, preferably metallic, likely to be solid or hollow, provided with a head of 'a transverse section wider than that of the stem. In the context of the invention, the press-stud comprises two such parts, namely the upper and lower riveting parts, the heads of which are respectively the collar capped with the cap, and the base.

The rod and the riveting nail are preferably cylindrical and hollow. Preferably, the riveting rod extends along an axis perpendicular to the collar, and the riveting nail extends along an axis perpendicular to the base. The collar as such preferably extends over an entire lower concave face of the cap. A collar located in the extension of the riveting rod would not, however, depart from the scope of the invention. In particular, in this case, and more generally in the case where the collar does not essentially extend over the aforesaid lower concave face of the cap, the first sealing element also extends radially beyond the collar, on this concave face.

In the context of this document, a "sealing element" is a flexible and waterproof element. It is preferably designed to closely match the surfaces of the elements of the press-stud on which it is fixed. It is made of sealing material. The first and the second sealing elements are preferably made of same sealing material. Preferably, the sealing material is hydrophobic.

In the context of this document, the riveting rod comprises a lower end and an upper end. It further comprises an upper section part which adjoins its upper end.

In the context of this document, the riveting nail comprises a lower end and an upper end. It further comprises a lower section part which adjoins its lower end.

Preferably, the first sealing element in the vicinity of the junction between the flange and the riveting rod, that is to say, at the level of the upper end of the riveting rod, has the shape of a conical annular portion surrounding the upper section part of the riveting rod, widening towards its upper end, so as to obtain a greater thickness of the first sealing element around a point of perforation of a carrier strip by the riveting rod, when the female part is assembled on this carrier strip. This form of conical annular portion is visible on the figure 1 , 2 and 5 .

The use, in this document, of the verb “to understand”, of the verb “to include”, of their variants, as well as their conjugations, can in no way exclude the presence of elements other than those mentioned. Similarly, the use in this document of an indefinite article "un", "une", or of a definite article "le", "la" or "l'", to introduce an element n' does not exclude the presence of a plurality of these elements.

• la base comprend un anneau ayant une surface essentiellement plane, et ayant un bord intérieur circulaire se prolongeant radialement de façon à former le renfoncement inférieur; et
• le renfoncement inférieur se prolonge en l'extrémité inférieure du clou de rivetage.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention,

• the base comprises a ring having a substantially planar surface, and having a radially extending circular inner edge so as to form the lower recess; and
• the lower recess extends into the lower end of the riveting nail.

In one embodiment of the invention, the inner circular edge of the ring is the direct radial continuation of the lower recess. Thanks to this, the base is particularly simple to manufacture and precisely locates the lower recess in the direct vicinity of the lower end of the riveting nail, the latter being opposite the upper end, along a direction of extension riveting nail. The base essentially consists of a (flat) ring in which the lower recess is formed, the latter being arranged around a lower section of the riveting nail. The curvature of the base preferably changes abruptly at the inner circular edge, between the ring and the lower recess. As illustrated in the figures introduced below and numerically in the detailed description, a radial extension of the ring (measured perpendicular to an axis of revolution of the base) is preferably greater than or equal to half of a radial extension of the lower recess (measured perpendicular to the axis of revolution), more preferably at 89% of this extension, more preferably still equal to 90% of this extension. Optionally, the radial extension of the ring is greater than or equal to the radial extension of the lower recess. Preferably, a depth of the recess, measured parallel to the axis of revolution of the base, is greater than or equal to one half of the radial extension of the lower recess, more preferably to 89% of this extension, more preferably still equal to 90% of this expansion.

The lower recess and the lower section of the riveting nail preferably border a space in the form of an annular bowl filled, at least partially, with sealing material. This bowl shape is well defined for the proposed use. Especially, constitutes a geometrical singularity compared to the total geometry of the base. The cup preferably extends radially for less than 55% of the radial extension of the base, and is thus located around the lower end of the rivet nail (i.e., only where it is really necessary to introduce the second sealing element). The depth of the recess corresponding to the depth of the bowl is large enough that the bowl is of sufficient volume to accommodate enough sealant (preferably in a liquid form which hardens over time) to make up the second sealing element according to the invention which makes it possible to obtain sufficient sealing at the point of perforation by the riveting nail.

Advantageously, the shape of the recess is adapted to serve as a basin receiving a quantity of sealing material which is, preferably, deposited in fluid form and capable of hardening, which allows the second sealing element to be particularly well adapted. to the shape of the lower riveting part. The shape of a bowl makes it possible to deposit a sufficient and predetermined quantity of sealing material. Thus, according to this preferred embodiment, the lower section of the riveting nail is completely surrounded by the second thick sealing element of sealing material. This makes it possible to obtain a particularly good sealing of the press-stud at the level of a point of perforation of a carrier strip on which the male part is fixed.

According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the base comprises an upper protrusion, preferably annular, located radially between the lower recess and the ring. Preferably, it surrounds and radially extends the lower recess.

Advantageously, this particular embodiment is suitable for a snap-fit part whose protrusion is annular in shape, the latter preferably overcoming the protuberance when the male part is assembled on a carrier strip, so that 'She is compressed between the protuberance and the excrescence. In the case where the interlocking part comprises hollow protrusions, the carrier strip is compressed below by the protrusion in the protrusion, this forming a kind of compressed material barrier surrounding the assembly of the riveting nail with the part of interlocking by pressure, in particular, around a point of perforation of the carrier strip by the riveting nail. This barrier therefore contributes to preventing fluidic infiltration through this point of perforation.

Preferably, the base consists of the ring, the lower recess, and, if the base includes one (according to this particular embodiment of the invention), the upper protuberance.

A press-stud comprising a base provided with this upper protrusion, without lower recess, nor any deposit of sealing material is of course possible and inexpensive. However, the aforesaid barrier formed by compression of the material of the carrier strip alone is not sufficient to obtain an excellent seal. Such a press-stud therefore departs from the scope of the invention, but can easily be envisaged for less demanding applications from a sealing point of view.

Preferably, this particular embodiment of the invention is combined with the aforesaid preferred embodiment, the base comprises a ring extending in an essentially planar manner, and of which a circular inner edge extends radially into the upper protuberance, which itself surrounds and extends radially into the lower recess, which itself extends into a lower section of the riveting nail which extends into the lower end. This combination of embodiments is illustrated in figure 6 and 7 .

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cap comprises a rim, preferably open, circumferentially bordering the collar.

By the term “open” when speaking of the rim, it should preferably be understood that the rim is not closed on itself or on the cap, and that it comprises a curved, preferably circular, free end. Such a rim preferably has a section profile in the shape of a "C" as illustrated for example in figure 1 , 2 and 5 . This rim therefore forms a hollow making it possible to receive an outer radial end of the first sealing element.

Advantageously, such a rim, preferably open, makes it possible to avoid a flow of the sealing material, when it is deposited in a liquid form, out of the upper riveting part, since it is retained in such a way circumferential by the open rim.

• recouvre, partiellement ou totalement, la face inférieure de la collerette,
• est bordé de façon circonférentielle par le rebord, et
• s'étend dans une cavité du rebord,

cette cavité étant de préférence bordée par un espace intérieur d'une forme en « C » d'un profil de section du rebord.Preferably, the first sealing element:

• covers, partially or totally, the underside of the flange,
• is bordered circumferentially by the flange, and
• extends into a recess in the rim,

this cavity being preferably bordered by an interior space of a "C" shape of a section profile of the rim.

Thus, and advantageously, the first sealing element covers the entire underside of the flange in contact with a carrier strip when the female part is assembled, and preferably any space between the top of the cap and the carrier strip, so as to prevent any fluidic infiltration under the shell and to guarantee the tightness of the female part of the press-stud.

According to one embodiment of the snap-fit part, the protrusion is of an annular shape. This type of part is known to a person skilled in the art and represents approximately 80% of the “ball” profiles commonly used to manufacture press studs.

• l'emplacement de positionnement consiste en un orifice de la pièce entouré et surmonté par l'excroissance ; et
• l'extrémité supérieure est fermée.

In this case, preferably:

• the positioning location consists of an orifice of the part surrounded and surmounted by the protrusion; and
• the upper end is closed.

By a “closed” end, it is preferably meant an end of a form of cylindrical hollow rod whose walls close on themselves at their end, and this preferably in a smooth manner. Such an upper termination is illustrated for example in figures 3 to 8 introduced later in this document.

The closure of the upper end is advantageous with a view to better sealing of the press-stud because it is positioned in the positioning location of the fitting part which consists of an orifice. The closure helps prevent fluid seepage into the rivet stud or the spigot.

Preferably, the orifice is formed in a central platform of a disk shape of the press-fitting part, this central platform being surrounded and extended radially by the outgrowth of an annular shape. Preferably, an annular rim surrounds and extends radially from the protrusion. In this case, the central platform extends over a first plane and the annular border extends over a second plane. Preferably, according to a preferred embodiment, these first and second planes are identical. This preferred embodiment is represented in particular by figure 8 introduced below. An advantage of this preferred embodiment is that the press stud is then all the more tight because the central platform and the annular border both rest flat on a carrier strip when the male part is fixed thereon. . This preferred embodiment is however in no way limiting the case where the first and second planes are not coincident. The figures 3 to 7 introduced below illustrate the case where the central platform and the annular border do not agree along the same plane.

In a non-claimed embodiment, according to the embodiment of the push fit part where the protrusion is of an annular shape, the orifice of the press-fitting part is of a section essentially equal to a cross-section of the riveting nail, which makes it possible to close off any possible passage for a fluid between the riveting nail and the fitting part of so as to further contribute to the tightness of the press stud.

According to another embodiment of the snap-fit part, the protrusion is of a spherical shape. This type of part is known to a person skilled in the art. This "ball" profile is commonly used to make snaps.

• l'emplacement de positionnement consiste en un orifice de la pièce s'engageant inférieurement dans l'excroissance ; et
• l'extrémité supérieure est ouverte.

In this case, preferably:

• the positioning location consists of an orifice of the part engaging below in the excrescence; and
• the upper end is open.

In the context of this document, by an end and/or an "open" end, it is preferably understood an end and/or a circular end of a form of cylindrical hollow rod which does not close on itself, unlike in the case of one end and/or closed end.

The protrusion is preferably aligned axially with the riveting nail. The upper end is housed below in the excrescence, when the male part is fixed on a carrier strip, this end preferably being completely covered by the excrescence. The upper end can therefore be open, which is preferable in order to more easily perforate the aforesaid carrier strip and be housed in the orifice of the press-fitting part.

In one embodiment of the invention, the first and/or second sealing element comprises a polymer material, for example a silicone.

In one embodiment of the invention, the first and/or second sealing element is made of a material having a modulus of Young less than 1000 MPA, preferably less than 100 MPA. This allows the sealing element to marry the other elements of the press-stud and the band particularly well.

In one embodiment of the invention, the first and/or second sealing element is made of a material which can be placed in the press-stud in liquid form.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the sealing material is a liquid material at a temperature of 20° C. and, preferably, capable of hardening in less than twenty minutes, more preferably in less than ten minutes.

Advantageously, the sealing material can be deposited at the aforesaid appropriate locations of the upper riveting part and in the lower recess, so that it takes on the shape of these parts particularly well and dries gradually to form the first sealing element. and the second sealing element. More preferably, the sealant comprises an addition curing two component silicone.

More preferably, the sealing material consists of Plastiform ^® containing vinyl, silicic acid and aggregation materials.

Advantageously, this material is known, simple and safe to use. The polymerization of this silicone is carried out simply in an injector, without heating, or smell, without the need for oxygen or heat. The setting time of this material at room temperature of 20°C is between 30 and 90 seconds, and the hardening time at this temperature is between 7 and 9 minutes, which allows a simple and quick use to produce a button - pressure according to the invention, without the need for installation or special device. In addition, this sealing material is that it is biocompatible, non-polluting and non-toxic. It is resistant to inorganic chemicals and UV rays, and marries the surfaces on which it is applied, to the nearest micron. For all these reasons, this sealing material is advantageously suitable for being deposited on a press-stud according to the invention.

According to one embodiment of the housing, the latter comprises an upper face and a lower face parallel to each other and assembled by a side wall, the upper opening being included in the upper face and the lower opening being included in the lower face . Such boxes are known to a person skilled in the art, advantageously simple and inexpensive to use among the parts of the press-stud.

• la partie femelle est fixée sur la première bande de support, de sorte que :
  • d'une part, la calotte et la collerette, et d'autre part, le boîtier, s'appuient respectivement de part et d'autre de la première bande de support,
  • la tige de rivetage traverse l'ouverture supérieure du boîtier et un point de perforation de la première bande de support,
  • une extrémité inférieure de la tige de rivetage est immobilisée par rivetage dans le boîtier ;
• la partie mâle est fixée sur la deuxième bande de support, de sorte que :
  • la base et la pièce s'appuient respectivement de part et d'autre de la deuxième bande de support,
  • le clou de rivetage traverse un point de perforation de la deuxième bande de support ;
  • l'extrémité supérieure du clou de rivetage est immobilisée dans l'emplacement de positionnement.

The present invention also proposes an element of clothing comprising a press-stud according to the invention, a first and a second support strip, and characterized in that:

• the female part is fixed on the first support strip, so that:
  • on the one hand, the cap and the collar, and on the other hand, the casing, rest respectively on either side of the first support strip,
  • the riveting rod passes through the upper opening of the casing and a perforation point of the first support strip,
  • a lower end of the riveting rod is immobilized by riveting in the housing;
• the male part is fixed on the second support strip, so that:
  • the base and the piece rest respectively on either side of the second support strip,
  • the riveting nail passes through a perforation point of the second support strip;
  • the upper end of the riveting nail is fixed in the positioning location.

The term “clothing item” preferably refers to any item used for human clothing. Examples of a clothing item are clothes, shoes, bags, hats, etc. In particular, the present invention also provides a waterproof garment as such an item of clothing. More preferably this waterproof garment is a military garment.

All of the embodiments and all of the advantages of the press-stud according to the present invention transpose mutatis mutandis to the present item of clothing, and in particular, to the present waterproof garment.

The press stud of the item of clothing is assembled and fixed on this item of clothing. The aforementioned features of the attachment of the female and male parts to the bearing strips follow from riveting the rod and the riveting nail through the first and second bearing strips respectively, as illustrated, for example, in figures 1 to 4 .

• une étape de fabrication du premier élément d'étanchéité consistant en une étape de dépôt d'une quantité du matériau d'étanchéité sous forme fluidique sur la face inférieure de la collerette,
• une étape de fabrication de le deuxième élément d'étanchéité consistant en une étape de dépôt d'une autre quantité du matériau d'étanchéité sous forme fluidique dans le renfoncement inférieur de la base,
• une étape de durcissement du matériau d'étanchéité.

The present invention also proposes a method of manufacturing a press stud the invention comprising:

• a step of manufacturing the first sealing element consisting of a step of depositing a quantity of sealing material in fluid form on the underside of the flange,
• a step of manufacturing the second sealing element consisting of a step of depositing another quantity of sealing material in fluid form in the lower recess of the base,
• a step of curing the sealing material.

The method of manufacture further comprises steps of manufacturing the upper riveting part, the casing, the lower riveting part and the press fit part.

The various preferred sub-embodiments and advantages of the press-stud according to the aforementioned highly preferred embodiment of the invention transpose mutatis mutandis to the present method of manufacture.

In particular, and preferentially, this sealing material consists of a two-component addition-vulcanizing silicone, more preferentially of ^Plastiform® .

A major advantage of this manufacturing method is that it makes it possible to obtain a first sealing element and a second sealing element which adapts extremely well to the geometry of the lower recess, the lower face of the flange and of the outer surface of the upper section of the rivet rod, because the sealing material is deposited in a fluid form which hardens in a short time. In this way, when assembling the press stud on carrier strips, the first sealing element and the second sealing element completely cover the circumference of the perforation points of the rod and the riveting nail through these carrying strips, whatever the possible defects in the shape of the base, the collar or the riveting rod resulting from their manufacture.

Preferably, the steps of this manufacturing method are automated. The sealing material forming the first sealing element and the second sealing element is preferably deposited by a robotic unit. This is preferably calibrated to deposit exactly the quantity and the other quantity at their respective location depending on the model and the size of the press-stud to be manufactured.

The present invention also proposes a use of a two-component addition-vulcanizing silicone, preferably Plastiform ^® , to manufacture a press-stud.

Brief description of figures

• la figure 1 illustre une vue schématique d'une partie femelle non assemblée d'un bouton-pression selon un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention ;
• la figure 2 illustre une vue de la partie femelle illustrée en figure 1 assemblée ;
• la figure 3 illustre une vue schématique d'une partie mâle non assemblée d'un bouton-pression selon un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention ;
• la figure 4 illustre une vue de la partie mâle illustrée en figure 3 assemblée ;
• la figure 5 illustre une vue schématique d'un engagement de la partie mâle illustrée en figure 4, dans la partie femelle illustrée en figure 2 ;
• la figure 6 illustre une vue schématique d'une partie mâle non assemblée d'un bouton-pression selon une combinaison d'un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention avec un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention ;
• la figure 7 illustre une vue de la partie mâle illustrée en figure 6 assemblée ;
• la figure 8 illustre une vue schématique d'une partie mâle non assemblée d'un bouton-pression selon une forme de réalisation préféré de l'invention.

Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows for the understanding of which reference will be made to the appended figures, among which:

• the figure 1 illustrates a schematic view of an unassembled female part of a press stud according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;
• the figure 2 illustrates a view of the female part illustrated in figure 1 Assembly ;
• the picture 3 illustrates a schematic view of an unassembled male part of a press stud according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;
• the figure 4 illustrates a view of the male part shown in picture 3 Assembly ;
• the figure 5 illustrates a schematic view of an engagement of the male part illustrated in figure 4 , in the female part illustrated in picture 2 ;
• the figure 6 illustrates a schematic view of an unassembled male part of a press stud according to a combination of a particular embodiment of the invention with a preferred embodiment of the invention;
• the figure 7 illustrates a view of the male part shown in figure 6 Assembly ;
• the figure 8 illustrates a schematic view of an unassembled male part of a snap fastener according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

Figure drawings are not to scale. Generally, like elements are denoted by like references in the figures. In the context of this document, the elements identical or similar may bear the same references. Furthermore, the presence of reference numbers or letters in the drawings cannot be considered as limiting, including when these numbers or letters are indicated in the claims.

Detailed description of particular embodiments of the invention

In the context of this document, preferably, the terms "upper" and "lower" are used similarly to the terms "first" and "second" to distinguish two similar elements, and/or more preferably, to indicate a general position. of one element relative to another when the male and/or female parts and/or the entire press stud are assembled along a fictitious axis. In this case, the term "upper" refers to a situation along the axis, and the term "lower" refers to an opposite situation along this axis. More specifically in the context of the figures shown, the fictitious axis, not shown, is vertical, oriented from bottom to top, the “upper” elements, located above, surmounting the “lower” elements, located below. These terms and these representations are in no way limiting of a rigid arrangement of the snap fastener parts relative to each other. In particular, a press-stud according to the invention can be presented both in the form of separate parts and in the form assembled on a trim element without departing from the scope of the invention.

More generally, the invention is not limited to the particular embodiments described in this document, nor limited by the figures. The drawings and/or figures described are only schematic and are not limiting. In particular, the figures show sectional views of parts of the press-stud along a plane containing the commented fictitious axis. These parts preferably essentially have rotational symmetry around the fictitious axis. Although it is not clearly visible in the figures, these parts generally locally have a profile of revolution around this fictitious axis, typically ellipsoidal, cylindrical or annular.

The figure 3 , 4 and 5 commented on below illustrate a press-fitting part whose protrusion is annular in shape. Another snap-fit piece, for example, the protrusion of which would be spherical in shape, would not, however, depart from the invention, as described in the summary of the invention.

• une partie de rivetage supérieure 21 comprenant :
  • une tige de rivetage 3 de forme essentiellement cylindrique s'étendant autour d'un axe fictif, comprenant deux extrémités ci-après nommées extrémités supérieure 31 et inférieure 32, cette dernière étant libre et ouverte ;
  • une collerette 33 qui entoure une extrémité supérieure 31 de la tige de rivetage 3, et qui la prolonge par propagation autour d'un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe fictif ;
  • une calotte 4 dont une face concave inférieure coiffe la collerette 33 et l'extrémité supérieure 31 de la tige de rivetage 3, et dont un rebord 41 annulaire de section en forme de « C » borde de façon circonférentielle la collerette 33 ;
  • un premier élément d'étanchéité 35 de forme annulaire composé d'un matériau d'étanchéité 11 recouvrant une face inférieure de la collerette 33 opposée à la calotte 4 en s'étendant radialement de la tige de rivetage 3 jusque dans une cavité du rebord 41 de la calotte 4, le premier élément d'étanchéité recouvrant également une partie de la surface extérieure d'un tronçon supérieur 34 de la tige de rivetage 3;
• un boîtier 5 partiellement creux de forme annulaire, et comprenant :
  • une face supérieure 54 et une face inférieure 55 essentiellement planes, parallèles et assemblées par l'intermédiaire d'une paroi latérale 56 localement cylindrique ;
  • une ouverture supérieure 51 dans la face supérieure 54, cette ouverture supérieure 51 ayant une forme de disque et étant dimensionnée pour accueillir la tige de rivetage 3 ;
  • une ouverture inférieure 52 dans la face inférieure 55 et cette ouverture inférieure 52 ayant une forme de disque et étant dimensionnée pour accueillir une excroissance annulaire(décrite ci-dessous);
  • des éléments de fermeture 53 comprenant des ressorts agencés de façon annulaire à l'intérieure du boîtier 5, adjacents à l'ouverture inférieure 52, et aptes à coopérer avec l'excroissance ;

alignés de part et d'autre d'une bande porteuse 20 sur laquelle la partie femelle 2 est destinée à être fixée.The figure 1 illustrates an unassembled female part 2 of a press-stud according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. The female part 2 includes:

• an upper riveting part 21 comprising:
  • a riveting rod 3 of essentially cylindrical shape extending around a fictitious axis, comprising two ends hereinafter called upper 31 and lower 32 ends, the latter being free and open;
  • a flange 33 which surrounds an upper end 31 of the riveting rod 3, and which extends it by propagation around a plane perpendicular to the fictitious axis;
  • a cap 4, a lower concave face of which caps the flange 33 and the upper end 31 of the riveting rod 3, and of which an annular flange 41 of section in the shape of a “C” circumferentially borders the flange 33;
  • a first sealing element 35 of annular shape composed of a sealing material 11 covering an underside of the flange 33 opposite the cap 4 extending radially from the riveting rod 3 into a cavity of the flange 41 of the cap 4, the first sealing element also covering part of the outer surface of an upper section 34 of the riveting rod 3;
• a partially hollow casing 5 of annular shape, and comprising:
  • an upper face 54 and a lower face 55 which are essentially planar, parallel and assembled via a locally cylindrical side wall 56;
  • an upper opening 51 in the upper face 54, this upper opening 51 having the shape of a disc and being sized to accommodate the riveting rod 3;
  • a lower opening 52 in the lower face 55 and this lower opening 52 having a disc shape and being dimensioned to accommodate an annular protrusion (described below);
  • closing elements 53 comprising springs arranged in an annular fashion inside the casing 5, adjacent to the lower opening 52, and capable of cooperating with the protrusion;

aligned on either side of a carrier strip 20 on which the female part 2 is intended to be fixed.

The picture 2 illustrates the female part 2 illustrated in figure 1 after the assembly of the upper riveting part 21 and of the casing 5 on the carrier strip 20. On the one hand, the cap 4 and the collar 33, and on the other hand, the casing 5, more precisely, its upper face 54, rest respectively on either side of the support strip 20, the riveting rod 3 passing through the support strip 20 by a point of perforation 20 'of the latter, so that a lower section of the riveting rod 3 enters the housing 5 through the upper opening 51. This configuration of the female part 2 is obtained by alignment along the fictitious axis of the riveting rod 3, and of the openings 51 and 52, on either side of the carrier strip 20. The upper riveting part 21 and the casing 5 are then framed by a tool which presses them along the fictitious axis, on either side of the carrier strip 20, so that the riveting rod 3 pierces the carrier strip 20 at the perforation point 20', and partially enters through the upper opening 51 of the casing 5, its lower end 32 thus undergoing a compression deforming it and rolling it in the casing 5, so that it is immobilized therein.

• une partie de rivetage inférieure 61 comprenant :
  • un clou de rivetage 7 de corps de forme cylindrique s'étendant autour de l'axe fictif, d'une forme de tige cylindrique, comprenant, d'une part, une extrémité supérieure 71 fermée, libre, de forme légèrement pointue et arrondie en son extrémité, et d'autre part, un tronçon inférieure 73 cylindrique qui est bordée inférieurement par une extrémité inférieure 72 circulaire ;
  • une base 8 en forme de collerette entourant l'extrémité inférieure 72 du clou de rivetage 7, et la prolongeant par propagation autour d'un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe fictif, cette base 8 étant d'une forme particulière car elle comprend un anneau 83 s'étendant essentiellement de façon plane sur le plan, dont un bord intérieur circulaire est prolongé radialement par un renfoncement inférieur 81, qui lui-même entoure et se prolonge par l'extrémité inférieure 72 du clou de rivetage 7, de sorte qu'il existe un espace en forme de cuvette annulaire bordé par une surface externe de la tronçon inférieur 73 et par le renfoncement inférieur 81 ;
  • un deuxième élément d'étanchéité 82 du matériau d'étanchéité 11 déposée dans le renfoncement inférieur 81, et comblant au moins partiellement un espace en forme de cuvette annulaire ;
• une pièce 9 d'emboîtement par pression, appelée « boule », ayant une forme de révolution et une ouverture inférieure, et comprenant :
  • une excroissance 91 de forme annulaire dimensionnée pour s'engager dans l'ouverture inférieure 52 et pour coopérer avec les éléments de fermeture 53 ;
  • une bordure annulaire 93 entourant et se prolongeant de façon radiale à partir de l'excroissance 91, en s'étendant selon un plan perpendiculaire à l'axe fictif ;
  • une plateforme centrale 94 d'une forme de disque, entouré et prolongé radialement par l'excroissance 91 ;
  • un emplacement de positionnement 92 consistant en un orifice en forme de disque pratiqué dans la plateforme centrale 94 et dimensionné pour accueillir l'extrémité supérieure 71 du clou de rivetage 7, et d'un même diamètre de section que le clou de rivetage 7, cet orifice étant surmonté de façon circonférentielle par l'excroissance 91 ;

alignés de part et d'autre d'une bande porteuse 60 sur laquelle la partie mâle 3 est destinée à être fixée.The picture 3 illustrates a male part 3 being unassembled of a press stud according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. The male part 3 includes:

• a lower riveting part 61 comprising:
  • a riveting nail 7 with a body of cylindrical shape extending around the fictitious axis, of the shape of a cylindrical rod, comprising, on the one hand, an upper end 71 closed, free, of slightly pointed and rounded shape in its end, and on the other hand, a cylindrical lower section 73 which is bordered below by a circular lower end 72;
  • a base 8 in the form of a collar surrounding the lower end 72 of the riveting nail 7, and extending it by propagation around a plane perpendicular to the fictitious axis, this base 8 being of a particular shape because it comprises a ring 83 extending essentially flat on the plane, a circular inner edge of which is extended radially by a lower recess 81, which itself surrounds and is extended by the lower end 72 of the riveting nail 7, so that there is a space in the form of an annular bowl bordered by an outer surface of the lower section 73 and by the lower recess 81;
  • a second sealing element 82 of sealing material 11 deposited in the lower recess 81, and at least partially filling a space in the form of an annular bowl;
• a part 9 for interlocking by pressure, called "ball", having a shape of revolution and a lower opening, and comprising:
  • a protrusion 91 of annular shape dimensioned to engage in the lower opening 52 and to cooperate with the closing elements 53;
  • an annular border 93 surrounding and extending radially from the protuberance 91, extending along a plane perpendicular to the fictitious axis;
  • a central platform 94 in the shape of a disc, surrounded and extended radially by the protrusion 91;
  • a positioning location 92 consisting of a disc-shaped orifice made in the central platform 94 and sized to accommodate the upper end 71 of the riveting nail 7, and of the same section diameter as the riveting nail 7, this orifice being surmounted circumferentially by the protrusion 91;

aligned on either side of a carrier strip 60 on which the male part 3 is intended to be fixed.

• une longueur du clou de rivetage 7, mesurée le long de l'axe fictif, comprise entre 5,6 et 6 mm, préférentiellement de 5,8 mm ;
• un diamètre D de section du clou de rivetage 7, mesuré selon une droite perpendiculaire à l'axe fictif, compris entre 2,1 et 2,5 mm, de façon préférée de 2,3 mm ;
• une « profondeur maximale de l'espace en forme de cuvette » (correspondant de façon équivalente à une dite « profondeur P du renfoncement inférieur 81 »), mesurée le long de l'axe fictif, au niveau de la surface du clou de rivetage 7, compris entre 1,5 et 1,8 mm, préférentiellement de 1,65 mm ;
• un « rayon d'extension annulaire » du renfoncement inférieur 81 (ou, appelé de façon équivalente dans le cadre de ce document, «extension radiale» r du renfoncement inférieur 81), mesuré perpendiculairement à l'axe fictif, compris entre 1,7 et 1,9 mm, de façon préférée, de 1,85 mm ;
• un diamètre maximal d'extension circulaire du renfoncement inférieur 81, mesuré perpendiculairement à l'axe fictif, compris entre 5,8 et 6,2 mm, de façon préférée, de 6 mm ;
• un « rayon d'extension annulaire » de l'anneau 83 (ou, appelé de façon équivalente dans le cadre de ce document, « extension radiale » R de l'anneau 83), mesuré de façon perpendiculaire à l'axe fictif, compris entre 1,5 et 1,8 mm, de façon préférée, de 1,65 mm ;
• un diamètre maximal d'extension circulaire de l'anneau 83, mesuré perpendiculairement à l'axe fictif, compris entre 9 et 9,6 mm, de façon préférée, de 9 mm.

Ces valeurs illustrent des dimensions particulières de la partie de rivetage inférieure 61, et ne sont aucunement limitative de la portée de l'invention. La mention de ces valeurs est réputée divulguer toute proportion entre elles. Optionnellement, le diamètre maximal d'extension circulaire de l'anneau 83 est plus grand que 9,6 mm.As expressed above, the base 8 (and the lower riveting part) has rotational symmetry around the fictitious axis. Equivalently, the fictitious axis corresponds to an axis of revolution of the base 8, denoted by Z on the picture 3 . An example of a particular embodiment of the lower riveting part 61 proposes:

• a length of the riveting nail 7, measured along the fictitious axis, of between 5.6 and 6 mm, preferably 5.8 mm;
• a section diameter D of the riveting nail 7, measured along a straight line perpendicular to the fictitious axis, of between 2.1 and 2.5 mm, preferably 2.3 mm;
• a "maximum depth of the bowl-shaped space" (equivalently corresponding to a so-called "depth P of the lower recess 81"), measured along the fictitious axis, at the level the surface of the riveting nail 7, between 1.5 and 1.8 mm, preferably 1.65 mm;
• an "annular extension radius" of the lower recess 81 (or, equivalently called in the context of this document, "radial extension" r of the lower recess 81), measured perpendicular to the fictitious axis, comprised between 1.7 and 1.9 mm, preferably 1.85 mm;
• a maximum diameter of circular extension of the lower recess 81, measured perpendicular to the fictitious axis, comprised between 5.8 and 6.2 mm, preferably 6 mm;
• an "annular extension radius" of the ring 83 (or, equivalently called in the context of this document, "radial extension" R of the ring 83), measured perpendicular to the fictitious axis, including between 1.5 and 1.8 mm, preferably 1.65 mm;
• a maximum diameter of circular extension of the ring 83, measured perpendicular to the fictitious axis, comprised between 9 and 9.6 mm, preferably 9 mm.

These values illustrate particular dimensions of the lower riveting part 61, and in no way limit the scope of the invention. Mention of these values is deemed to disclose any proportion between them. Optionally, the maximum circular extension diameter of the ring 83 is greater than 9.6 mm.

As it is visible on the picture 3 , a section of the base 8 along a plane comprising the fictitious axis has, on either side of the fictitious axis, a straight profile at the level of the ring 83, extending continuously and regularly in a sigmoidal function graph profile at the level of the bowl defined by the lower recess 81, itself extending continuously and regularly into the lower end 72 of the riveting nail 7. In particular, the edge of the section of the basin according to this plane presents, on either side of the fictitious axis, a graph profile of symmetric sigmoidal function around a point of inflection. In particular, it has a change in concavity, allowing the bowl shape to be defined appropriately.

The figure 4 illustrates the male part shown in picture 3 after the assembly of the snap-fit part 9 and the lower riveting part 61 on the carrier strip 60. On the one hand, the base 8, more precisely, the ring 83 and an upper surface of the second element sealing 82, and on the other hand, the part 9 of interlocking by pressure, more precisely the annular edge 93, rest respectively on either side of the support strip 60, the riveting nail 7 crossing the carrier strip 60 by a point of perforation 60 'of the latter, so that the upper end 71 penetrates below into the piece 9 of interlocking by pressure, and crosses the latter, to come out through the orifice of the positioning location 92 and be immobilized there. In this case, the ring 83 and the annular border 93 press the carrier strip 60 in parallel. This assembly can be obtained by pressing techniques similar to those used for the assembly of the female part 2.

The figure 5 illustrates the press-stud 1 consisting of the female part 2 and the male part 6 assembled as shown in figure 2 and 4 respectively. The male part 6 is engaged by pressure in the female part 2 thanks to a cooperation of the protrusion 91 with the springs of the closing elements 53. Thanks to the first sealing element 35 and to the second sealing element 82, the points perforations 20' and 60' are lined with sealing material 11, preventing any fluidic infiltration through these points 20' and 60' which could, for example, be due to rain running down the outer face of the carrier strip 20 and the cap 4.

The figure 6 illustrates a male part 3 being unassembled of a press stud according to a combination of a particular embodiment of the invention with a preferred embodiment of the invention, as described in the summary of the invention.

The figure 7 illustrates the male part shown in figure 6 after the assembly of the snap-fit part 9 and the lower riveting part 61 on the carrier strip 60.

The figure 6 and 7 are distinguished from figure 3 and 4 respectively in that the base 8 comprises an upper annular protrusion 84 surrounded and extended radially by the ring 83, and surrounding and radially extending the lower recess 81. The upper annular protrusion 84 allows, when assembling the part male 6 on the carrier strip 60 ', to compress the latter along the fictitious axis, in the protrusion 91 of the piece 9 of fitting by pressure, so as to contribute to the sealing of the press stud. In this case, as seen in the figure 6 , a section of the bowl shape along a plane comprising the fictitious axis has, on either side of the fictitious axis, a "U" profile, one branch of which belongs to the lower cylindrical section 73 and the another branch extends continuously and regularly at the level of the upper protrusion 84.

The figure 8 illustrates an unassembled male part 3 of a press stud according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, as described in the summary of the invention.

The figure 8 stands out from the picture 3 in that the central platform 94 extends in the same plane as the annular edge 93, which allows advantageous simultaneous support of the central platform 94 and of the annular edge 93 when the male part 3 is assembled on a carrier strip 60 This support allows a better overall sealing of the assembled press-stud.

In summary, the present invention relates to a press-stud 1 comprising a male part 6 engage in the female part 2 by pressure, the press-stud 1 being sealed by a deposit of a material sealing 11, on the one hand on a flange 33 and at the foot of a riveting rod 3 capped by a cap 4 of the female part 2, and on the other hand, in a lower recess 81 of a base 8 extending and surrounding a riveting nail 7 of the male part 6.

The present invention has been described in relation to specific embodiments, which are purely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting. In general, it will appear obvious to a person skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the examples illustrated and/or described above. The invention comprises each of the new features as well as all their combinations, as defined by the claims.

Claims (15)

1. Press-stud (1) comprising:

   - a female part (2) comprising:

   - an upper riveting part (21) comprising:

   - a riveting shank (3);

   - a flange (33) extending and surrounding an upper end (31) of the riveting shank (3);

   - a cap (4) covering the flange (33) and the upper end (31) of the riveting shank (3);

   - a casing (5), and comprising:

   - an upper opening (51) to house at least one part of the riveting shank (3);

   - a lower opening (52);

   - closing elements (53);

   - a male part (6) comprising:

   - a lower riveting part (61) comprising:

   - a riveting spike (7) in shank shape, and comprising an upper end (71);

   - a base (8) in flange shape extending and surrounding a lower end (72) of the riveting spike (7);

   - a pressure-interlocking part (9), and comprising:

   - an excrescence (91) sized to be engaged in the lower opening (52) and engage with the closing elements (53);

   - a positioning placement (92) to house the upper end (71) of the riveting spike (7);

   characterised in that the press-stud further comprises a first sealing element (35) covering at least partially a lower surface of the flange (33) and an outer surface of the upper end (31) of the riveting shank (3) and a second sealing element (82) located at least partially in a lower recess (81) of the base (8) which surrounds the lower end (72) of the riveting spike (7).
2. Press-stud (1) according to the preceding claim, characterised in that:

   - the base (8) comprises a ring (83) having a mainly flat surface, and having a circular inner edge extending radially so as to form the lower recess (81); and in that

   - the lower recess (81) extends into the lower end (72) of the riveting spike (7).
3. Press-stud (1) according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the base (8) comprises an upper protuberance (84) located radially between the lower recess (81) and the ring (83).
4. Press-stud (1) according to claim 2 or 3, characterised in that the base (8) consists of the ring (83), the lower recess (81), and, if the base (8) comprises it, the upper protuberance (84).
5. Press-stud (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterised in that a radial extension (R) of the ring (83), is greater than or equal to half of a radial extension (r) of the lower recess (81), and in that a depth (P) of the lower recess (81), measured parallel to an axis of revolution (Z) of the base (8), is greater than or equal to half of the radial extension (r) of the lower recess (81).
6. Press-stud (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the second sealing element (82) is completely in the lower recess (81).
7. Press-stud (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the cap (4) comprises an open edge (41) circumferentially bordering the flange (33).
8. Press-stud (1) according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the first sealing element (35):

   - covers, partially or totally, the lower face of the flange (33),

   - is circumferentially bordered by the edge (41), and

   - extends into a cavity of the edge (41).
9. Press-stud (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that:

   - the excrescence (91) of an annular shape; in that

   - the positioning placement (92) consists of an orifice of the pressure-interlocking part (9) surrounded and surmounted by the excrescence (91); and in that

   - the upper end (71) is closed.
10. Press-stud (1) according to claim 9, characterised in that the positioning placement (92) is made in a central platform (94) of a disc shape, surrounded and extended radially by the excrescence (91), this central platform (94) extending over one same plane that an annular edge (93) of the pressure-interlocking part (9), this annular edge (93) radially surrounding and extending the excrescence (91).
11. Press-stud (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that:

    - the excrescence (91) is of a spherical shape; in that

    - the positioning placement (92) consists of an orifice of the pressure-interlocking part (9) engaged from the underneath in the excrescence (91); and in that

    - the upper end (71) is open.
12. Press-stud (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first (35) and/or second (82) sealing element is made of a material which could be implemented in the press-stud in liquid form.
13. Clothing element comprising a press-stud (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that it comprises a first (20) and a second (60) support strips, and in that:

    - the female part (2) is fixed on the first support strip (20), such that:

    - on the one hand, the cap (4) and the flange (33), and on the other hand, the casing (5), respectively born on either side of the first support strip (20),

    - the riveting shank (3) passes through the upper opening (51) of the casing (5) and a perforation point (20') of the first support strip (20),

    - a lower end (32) of the riveting shank (3) is immobilised by riveting in the casing (5);

    - the male part (6) is fixed on the second support strip (60), such that:

    - the base (8) and the pressure-interlocking part (9) respectively bear on either side of the second support strip (60),

    - the riveting spike (7) passes through a perforation point (60') of the second support strip (60);

    - the upper end (71) of the riveting spike (7) is immobilised in the positioning placement (92).
14. Method for manufacturing a press-stud (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising:

    - a step of manufacturing the first sealing element (35) comprising a step of depositing sealing material (11) in liquid form on the lower face of the flange (33),

    - a step of manufacturing the second sealing element (82) consisting of a step of depositing sealing material (11) in liquid form in the lower recess (81) of the base (8),

    - a step of hardening the material (11).
15. Use of a two-component addition-vulcanising silicone for manufacturing a press-stud (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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