GB2595658A - Fastener - Google Patents

Abstract

A slide fastener 2 comprising a first stringer 4a and a second stringer 4b, the first stringer having a first fastener tape 6a and a first plurality of coupling elements 8a disposed along a first longitudinal edge 10a of the first fastener tape, and the second stringer having a second fastener tape 6b and a second plurality of coupling elements 8b disposed along the longitudinal edge. The fastener further comprises a first end piece 12a located adjacent to an end of the coupling elements, comprising a body having a first portion 28a connected to a second portion 30a; the first portion being mounted on the first fastener tape and the second portion being mounted on the second fastener tape. The body further comprising a first side 32a which faces the first end of the fastener and a second side 34a which faces the coupling elements. The first end piece comprises a region of reduced strength between the first portion and second portion of the body. The region of reduced strength may be provided by a recess, which preferably has a V shaped profile.

Description

FASTENER

Field of Invention

The present invention relates to a fastener. In particular, the fastener may be a readily separable fastener. The invention also relates to an article including such a fastener.

Background

Conventional slide fasteners comprise a pair of stringers and an opening and closing means commonly referred to as a slider. Each stringer comprises a tape and a plurality of coupling elements. The coupling elements extend along an edge of each tape and when the slider of the slide fastener is moved, relative to the coupling elements, in a first sliding direction, to a closed position, corresponding coupling elements of the stringers interdigitate, or interlock. When each tape of the slide fastener is attached to separate portions of an article, the separate portions of the article may be releasably joined by closing the slide fastener by moving the slider to the closed position, and thereby bringing the coupling elements into said interdigitating relationship. Similarly, the separate portions of the article may be separated by opening the slide fastener by moving the slider, relative to the coupling elements, in a second sliding direction, opposite the first sliding direction, to an open position, and thereby uncoupling the coupling elements.

The plurality of coupling elements may take the form of separate, discrete elements also referred to as teeth. Alternatively the plurality of coupling elements may take the form of a continuous coil.

The tape is usually woven or knitted and may be formed from, for example, polyester. The coupling elements may be attached to the tape by, for example, crimping or moulding the coupling elements onto a reinforced edge of the tape, which may be referred to as a cord. In the case in which the coupling elements are formed as a continuous coil, the coils of each stringer are most commonly stitched to a surface of the tape at the edge of the tape or, alternatively, are woven or knitted into the tape.

Some fasteners, similar to slide fasteners, which do not need to be repeatably opened and closed may not include a slider. For example, a particular type of fastener may comprise a pair of stringers where each stringer comprises a tape and a plurality of coupling elements. The coupling elements extend along an edge of each tape and in a normal condition of the fastener coupling elements of the first stringer are interdigitated, or interlocked with corresponding coupling elements of the second stringer. Again, when each tape of the fastener is attached to separate portions of an article, the separate portions of the article are releasably joined by the fastener in its normal condition. The separate portions of the article may be separated when required by opening the fastener by unpeeling or uncoupling the interdigitated coupling elements of the first and second stringers. Opening of the fastener may be effected by applying a force to the coupling elements via the tapes to which the coupling elements are mounted which urges the interdigitated coupling elements to decouple.

Some fasteners of the type discussed above need to be reliably and easily uncoupled such that the separate portions of the article can also be reliably and easily separated, particularly in an emergency situation.

In addition, in some applications of fastener of the type discussed above, the fastener may need to be fluid-tight. In such situations it is desirable to provide a fastener which is easy to manufacture and operate.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an alternative fastener and/or a fastener which at least partially addresses one or more problems associated with existing fasteners, whether identified herein or otherwise.

Summary of Invention

In a first aspect of the invention there is provided a fastener comprising a first fastener stringer. The first fastener stringer having a first fastener tape and a first plurality of coupling elements disposed along a first longitudinal edge of the first fastener tape.

The fastener further comprising a second fastener stringer. The second fastener stringer having a second fastener tape and a second plurality of coupling elements disposed along a first longitudinal edge of the second fastener tape. The fastener further comprising a first end piece located adjacent to an end of the first plurality of coupling elements and to an end of the second plurality of coupling elements. The first end piece comprising a body, the body comprising a first portion and a second portion, the first portion connected to the second portion. The first portion being mounted on the first fastener tape and the second portion being mounted on the second fastener tape. The body of the first end piece further comprising a first side which faces the first end of the fastener and a second side which faces the coupling elements. The first plurality of coupling elements are engagable with the second plurality of coupling elements such that the first plurality of coupling elements interdigitate along a fastener axis with corresponding coupling elements of the second plurality of coupling elements to secure the first stringer to the second stringer. The first end piece comprises a region of reduced strength between the first portion and second portion of the body.

Region of reduced strength is intended to mean that the force required to separate the first end piece into multiple pieces (e.g. one piece including the first portion and another piece including the second portion) in that region is reduced in comparison to the force required for other regions of the first end piece.

The end piece of the fastener defines a point at which the first and second plurality of coupling elements terminate. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, one or more whole or partial coupling elements can be encased by the first end piece.

The first portion of the body of the first end piece may be directly or indirectly coupled to the second portion of the body of the first end piece.

In some embodiments, the first plurality of coupling elements and the second plurality of coupling elements may be terminated by the first end piece. In some embodiments, the first end piece may be spaced apart from the end of the first plurality of coupling elements and from the end of the second plurality of coupling elements. The location of the end of the first plurality of coupling elements may generally correspond with the location of the end of the second plurality of coupling elements.

Since the first end piece comprises a region of reduced strength located between the first and second portion of the body of the first end piece, the fastener is readily unpeelable or separable, if required. In normal use of the fastener the first end piece remains intact and the first plurality of coupling elements remain engaged with the second plurality of coupling elements. The first end piece will remain intact until a user of the fastener applies a force to the first end piece to manually separate the first end piece (via the region of reduced strength) such that the first portion is no longer connected to the second portion. Once the user has separated the first end piece, the user can then unpeel the fastener by pulling the first fastener stringer away from the second fastener stringer, thereby disengaging the first plurality of coupling elements from the second plurality of coupling elements.

The region of reduced strength may extend from the first side of the first end piece towards the second side of the first end piece.

Since the region of reduced strength extends from the first side of the first end piece, separation of the first end piece is encouraged if the separation is initiated at the first side of the first end piece. In this case, it may be said that the region of reduced strength extends from the point of initiation of separation.

At least part of the region of reduced strength may face the first side.

Since the at least part of the region of reduced strength faces the first side of the first end piece, separation of the first end piece is encouraged if the separation is initiated at the first side of the first end piece. In this case, it may be said that the region of reduced strength faces the point of initiation of separation.

The first side of the first end piece may comprise a recess which extends towards the second side of the first end piece, thereby providing the first end piece with the region of reduced strength.

Since the first side of the first end piece comprises a recess which extends towards the second side of the first end piece, there is provided a material void (at the first side of the first end piece) which provides a region of reduced cross-sectional area (perpendicular to the fastener axis) extending from an apex of the recess towards the second side of the first end piece. A reduction of cross-sectional area results in a reduction of the force required to separate the first portion of the first end piece from the second portion compared to if the cross-sectional area of the first end piece was constant. Separation of the first end piece into first and second portions is promoted at the recess.

The recess and the body of the first end piece may each define a respective length. The ratio of the length of the recess to the length of the body may be greater than 0.5.

The length of the recess can be defined by a distance from the first side of the body of the first end piece to an apex of the recess in a direction parallel to the fastener axis. The length of the body can be defined by a distance from the first side to the second side of the body in a direction parallel to the fastener axis. The ratio of the length of the recess to the length of the body can be greater than two thirds.

The distance from the apex of the recess to the second side of the body of the first end piece can be less than a length of a coupling element of the first and second pluralities of coupling elements. The length of the coupling elements being defined by the greatest dimension of the coupling elements in the direction of the fastener axis.

Advantageously, the ratio of the length of the recess to the length of the body being within this range reduces the force required to separate the first portion from the second portion, while reducing the likelihood that the first portion is inadvertently separated from the second portion.

The recess may have a V-shaped profile.

Advantageously, a V-shaped profile or cross-section results in a stress concentration at the apex of the V shape when a force is applied to the first end piece in order to separate it. Therefore, separation of the first end piece can be initiated upon application of a lower force compared to, for example, a recess which is semi-circular in cross-section.

The first end piece may further comprise a protrusion that protrudes from the second side of the body.

Advantageously, the protrusion prevents inadvertent separation of the first part of the body from the second part of the body.

The first fastener tape and second fastener tape may comprise first and second extended tape portions respectively. The first and second extended tape portions may extend beyond the first end piece in a direction parallel to the fastener axis.

The fastener tape extensions act as handles (grip portions or levers) allowing the user to more easily apply a force to the first end piece (and, in particular, to the first side of the first end piece). In addition, the force applied to the fastener tapes, and therefore to the first end piece, can be applied in a direction transverse to the fastener axis. Applying a force transverse to the fastener axis reduces the force required to be exerted in order to separate the first end piece compared to if, the force were to be applied in a direction which is not transverse to the fastener axis.

The body of the first end piece may further comprise third and fourth opposed sides which face away from a plane containing the first and second fastener tapes. At least one of the third and fourth sides may comprise a notch thereby defining the region of reduced strength.

The third and fourth opposed sides may face away from the plane containing the first and second fastener tapes in generally opposing directions.

The provision of a notch reduces the thickness, i.e. the distance between the third side and the fourth side On a direction perpendicular to the plane containing the first and second fastener tapes), of the first end piece in the region where the notch is provided. The reduction of thickness reduces the cross-sectional area (perpendicular to the fastener axis) of the first end piece in that region. A reduction of cross-sectional area reduces the force required to separate the first end piece.

The notch may extend from the first side of the first end piece.

The notch may extend along the full axial length of the first end piece.

The first and second plurality of coupling elements may each comprise an end coupling element. The first end of the body of the first end piece may be offset from the end coupling elements The end coupling elements of the first and second pluralities of coupling elements may be the coupling element that is located closest to the first end piece.

Advantageously, this allows a user of the fastener to apply a stable force to the first end piece to separate the first portion from the second portion because the obstruction of separation by the end coupling elements is reduced.

The first end piece may comprise a central portion which extends between the first portion and the second portion of the first end piece. The central portion may constitute the region of reduced strength. The central portion may be made of a material of lower tensile strength than the first portion and the second portion of the first end piece.

Advantageously, the central portion being made of a material of lower tensile strength provides the region of reduced strength.

The first end piece may be made of the same material as the surface of the fastener tapes.

Making the first end piece of the same material as the fastener tapes advantageously helps to prevent the fastener tapes from tearing when the first end piece is being separated. In particular, it helps to prevent the tapes tearing where the first end piece joins the tapes.

The first end piece may be made of a different material to the surface of the fastener tapes.

The coupling elements may be made of the same material as the first end piece.

The coupling elements may be made of a different material as the first end piece.

Making the coupling elements of the same material as the fastener tapes advantageously prevents the fastener tapes tearing when the first end piece is being separated. In particular, it helps to prevent the tapes tearing where the coupling elements join the tapes.

The first fastener tape and/or the second fastener tape may be fluid tight. The first fastener tape and/or the second fastener tape may comprise a woven or knitted fabric that is coated by a resin layer.

Fluid fight may be taken to mean that the fastener tapes are able to prevent the ingress of fluid, which may be a liquid or a gas, from one side of the fastener tape to the other.

The coupling elements may be fluid-tight such that when the first and second plurality of coupling elements are coupled fluid is substantially prevented from passing between the first and second plurality of coupling elements.

Each of the first and second plurality of coupling elements may comprise first and second opposed portions which are located on opposed sides of their respective fastener tape. Each of the first and second opposed portions may extend beyond the longitudinal edge of the respective fastener tape. The first end second opposed portions may define a channel therebetween. The longitudinal edge of the respective fastener tape may be located at the end surface of the channel.

Since the coupling elements each comprise a channel, the longitudinal edge of the respective fastener tape being located at the base of each channel, when the first plurality of coupling elements are engaged with the second plurality of coupling elements, the first longitudinal edge of the first fastener tape sealingly engages the second longitudinal edge of the second fastener tape. This sealing engagement provides a fluid tight seal between the first fastener tape and the second fastener tape.

The region of reduced strength may extend parallel to the direction of the fastener axis.

Providing the region of reduced strength such that it extends parallel to the direction of the fastener axis helps separation of the first end piece because separation will propagate through the first end piece in a direction parallel to the fastener axis.

The region of reduced strength may be coaxial with the fastener axis.

The region of reduced strength may extend along the full axial length of the first end piece.

The fastener may further comprise a second end piece. The second end piece may comprise a body, the body comprising a first portion and a second portion. The first portion may be connected to the second portion. The first portion may be mounted on the first fastener tape and the second portion may be mounted on the second fastener tape. The body may further comprise a first side which faces a second end of the fastener and a second side which faces the coupling elements.

It will be appreciated that any of the optional features described in relation to the first end piece may also apply to the second end piece.

The fastener may further comprise a slider. The slider may be slidable along the fastener axis in a first direction such that the slider urges the first plurality of coupling elements into engagement with the second plurality of coupling elements and in a second direction opposite to the first direction such that the slider urges the first plurality of coupling elements out of engagement from the second plurality of coupling elements.

Since the fastener is also provided with a slider, the fastener can be opened and closed using the slider during normal use and the fastener can be unpeeled through separation of the first end piece in a different mode of operation, for example, if the slider becomes jammed.

The first direction can be a direction moving away from the first end of the fastener.

The second direction can be a direction moving towards the first end of the fastener.

That is to say, the first direction may be a direction moving away from the first end piece and the second direction may be a direction moving towards the first end piece.

At least part of the first portion of the first end piece may be formed on or integral with at least part of a first end coupling element.

First end coupling element is intended to refer to a final coupling element of the first plurality of coupling elements. The final coupling element may be the coupling element of the first plurality of coupling elements which is closest to the first end of the fastener.

At least part of the second part of the first end piece may be formed on or integral with at least part of a second end coupling element.

Second end coupling element is intended to refer to a final coupling element of the second plurality of coupling elements. The final coupling element may be the coupling element of the second plurality of coupling elements which is closest to the first end of the fastener.

An article comprising a slide fastener according to any preceding claim.

Any features relating to one aspect of the invention discussed above may be applied, where appropriate, to another of the aspect of the invention discussed above.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 shows a fastener of indeterminate length according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2a shows a detail view of an end portion of the fastener of Figure 1; Figure 2b shows a cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 1, through the section line C-C of figure 2a Figure 3 shows a perspective view of an end portion of the fastener of Figure 1; Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 1, through the section line A-A of Figure 3; Figure 5a shows a detail view of an end portion of a fastener according to a modified embodiment of the invention; Figure 5b shows a cross-sectional view of the end portion of the fastener of Figure 5a through the section line B-B of Figure 5a; Figure 6 shows a detail view of an end portion of a fastener according to a modified embodiment of the invention; Figure 7a shows a detail view of an end portion of a fastener according to a modified embodiment of the invention; Figure 7b shows a cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 7a through the section line D-D of Figure 7a; Figure 8 shows a detail view of an end portion of a fastener according to a modified embodiment of the invention; Figure 9a shows a fastener according to an embodiment of the invention, in a normal configuration, before separation; Figure 9b shows the fastener of Figure 8a after separation; Figure 10 shows a fastener according to a modified embodiment of the invention, Figure 11a shows a detail view of a fastener according to a modified embodiment of the invention; Figure 11 b shows a cross-sectional view of the fastener of Figure 11a through the section line E-E of Figure 11 a Figure 12 shows a tent that incorporates a fastener according to the present invention; Figure 13 shows a wetsuit which incorporates a fastener according to the present invention; 20 25 30 Figure 14 shows a bag that incorporates a fastener according to the present invention; and Figure 15 shows an end piece of a fastener according to a modified embodiment of the invention.

Detailed Description

Embodiments of the invention will be described, by way of example only, with reference to the drawings. In the following description as with the drawings, features given the same reference number are equivalent to one another. The invention is not limited to the embodiments described below, but is defined by the scope of the claims.

Figure 1 shows a fastener 2 according to an embodiment of the invention, the fastener comprises a fastener axis 3. The fastener has a first end 5 and a second end 7. As shown in Figure 1, the fastener 2 comprises a first stringer 4a and a second stringer 4b. In the depicted embodiment, the first stringer 4a is located on the left hand side and the second stringer 4b is located on the right hand side. The first fastener stringer 4a comprises a first fastener tape 6a and a first plurality of coupling elements 8a that are disposed along a first longitudinal edge 10a of the first fastener tape. The first fastener tape 6a also comprises a second longitudinal edge 11a. The second longitudinal edge lla of the first fastener tape 6a may be secured to a first portion of a garment or other article to which the first stringer 4a is to be attached. In the depicted embodiment, the first longitudinal edge 10a of the first fastener tape 6a defines an inner edge of the first fastener tape and the second longitudinal edge 11 a of the first fastener tape defines an outer edge of the first fastener tape. Referring to Figure 4, the first fastener tape 6a comprises a first surface 7a and a second surface 9a. The first surface 7a and the second surface 9a extend between the first longitudinal edge 10a and the second longitudinal edge (not visible in Figure 4) of the first fastener tape 6a. The first surface 7a is generally opposed to the second surface 9a.

Referring to Figure 1, the second stringer 4b comprises a second fastener tape 6b and a second plurality of coupling elements 8b that are disposed along a first longitudinal edge 10b of the second fastener tape. The second fastener tape 6b also comprises a second longitudinal edge 11 b may be secured to a second portion of a garment or other article to which the second stringer 4b is to be attached. In the depicted embodiment, the first longitudinal edge 10b of the second fastener tape 6b defines an inner edge of the second fastener tape and the second longitudinal edge 11 b of the second fastener tape defines an outer edge of the second fastener tape. Referring to Figure 4, the second fastener tape 6b comprises a first surface 7b and a second surface 9b. The first surface 7b and the second surface 9b extend between the first longitudinal edge 10b and the second longitudinal edge (not visible in Figure 4) of the second fastener tape 6b. The first surface 7b is generally opposed to the second surface 9b.

Referring again to Figure 1, in a closed configuration, as depicted, the first longitudinal edge 10a of the first fastener tape 6a abuts the first longitudinal edge 10b of the second fastener tape 6b. This is achieved by the first plurality of coupling elements 8a being interdigitated with or coupled with the second plurality of coupling elements 8b. The fastener axis 3 extends along the first longitudinal edges 10a, 10b of the first and second fastener tapes 6a, 6b.

The fastener 2 further comprises a first end piece 12a. As can be seen in Figure 1, the first end piece 12a defines the point at which the first and second plurality of coupling elements 8a, 8b terminate. That is to say, the first and second plurality of coupling elements do not extend beyond the first end piece in a given direction. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, one or more whole or partial coupling elements 8a, 8b can be encased by the first end piece 12a.

Each of the fastener tapes 6a, 6b may be made of any suitable material or materials. The particular material or materials used are dependent upon the intended garment or article to which the fastener 2 is to be connected. For example, the fastener 2 may be required to provide a fluid tight seal. By fluid tight seal, it is meant that the fastener tapes 6a, 6b are substantially impermeable to fluid, which may be a liquid or a gas, to thereby substantially prevent ingress of said fluid from one side of the fastener 2 to the other. In addition, the seam or seal formed by the engagement of the first longitudinal edges 10a, 10b of the fastener tapes 6a, 6b (by the coupled coupling elements 8a, 8b) can also prevent the ingress of fluid from one side of the fastener 2 to the other. This will be discussed in more detail below. If the fastener tapes 6a, 6b are required to provide a fluid tight seal, the fastener tapes 6a, 6b may be made of a polymeric material, for example polyurethane. The fastener tapes 6a, 6b may be provided with an internal woven or knitted fabric structure which is coated with the polymeric material. In which case, the polymeric material is provided as a coating and the surface of the fastener tapes is made of the polymeric material. The internal woven or knitted structure may be provided to increase the strength of the fastener tapes 6a, 6b, and/or to limit the elasticity of the fastener tapes. In general, the material of the woven or knitted fabric is made of polymeric material but other material may be used. It will be appreciated that this tape composition can also be used in other applications that do not require the fastener 2 to provide a fluid tight seal. If the fastener 2 is simply provided to bring two parts of a garment or article together, without providing a fluid fight seal, the fastener tapes 6a, 6b may be made of a woven or knitted fabric material. Where the fastener 2 does not provide a fluid tight seal, the fastener tapes 6a, 6b may optionally be coated with a suitable material.

The coupling elements 8a, 8b may be attached to their respective fastener tape 6a, 6b by any appropriate method, for example, crimping or moulding the coupling elements onto the respective first longitudinal edge 10a, 10b of each fastener tape 6a, 6b.

Alternatively, although not the case in the present embodiment, the coupling elements may be formed as a continuous coil. In such a case, the coupling elements may be woven or knitted into the tape or alternatively stitched to a surface of the tape at the first edge 10a, 10b of the respective fastener tape 6a, 6b. The coupling elements 8a, 8b may be made of any suitable material. For example, the coupling elements may be made of polyacetal.

The first plurality of coupling elements 8a are engagable with corresponding coupling elements of the second plurality of coupling elements 8b. When the first plurality of coupling elements 8a are engaged (or coupled) with the second plurality of coupling elements 8b, the coupling elements interdigitate along the fastener axis 3. Each coupling element 8a, 8b comprises a head 14, a neck and a base 18. The head 14 of each coupling element 8a, 8b is generally ovular. The width of the head 14 extends parallel to the fastener axis 3, The maximum width of the head 14 is greater than the width of the neck 16 of each coupling element 8a, 8b. The neck 16 of each coupling element 8a, 8b extends between the head 14 and the base 18. The width of the neck in the direction of the fastener axis 3 is less than the width of the base 18 in the direction of the fastener axis 3. The head 14 of each coupling element 8a, 8b defines two overhangs 20a, 20b. Each overhang 20 is located on opposing sides of each coupling element 8a, 8b. The overhangs 20a 20b are defined by the portion of the coupling elements 8a, 8b that extend between the neck 16 and the maximum width of the head 14. When the first plurality of coupling elements 8a are engaged with the second plurality of coupling elements 8b, the overhangs 20a of the first plurality of coupling elements engage with corresponding overhangs 20b of the second plurality of coupling elements. Similarly, the overhangs 20b of the second plurality of coupling elements 8b engage with corresponding overhangs 20a of the first plurality of coupling elements 8a.

It will be appreciated that other types of coupling elements are also compatible with the fastener 2 described in this document.

Referring now to Figure 2b, a cross-sectional view through a coupling element 8a of the first stringer 4a is shown, the cross-sectional view has been taken through line C-C of Figure 2a. It will be appreciated that the following description of the coupling element 8a applies to the coupling elements 8b of the second stringer 4b. The coupling element 8a is formed of a first portion 22a, and a second portion 23a. As depicted, the first portion 22a of the coupling element 8a is an upper portion of coupling element and the second portion 23a is a lower portion of the coupling elements. The first portion 22a and the second portion 23a of the coupling element 8a are formed on opposed sides of the first fastener tape 6a.Each of the first portion 22a, b and the second portion comprise a head 14a, b, a neck 16a, b and a base 18a, b, as described above with reference to Figure 1. The first portion 22a and the second portion 23a extend beyond the first longitudinal edge 10a of the respective fastener tape 6a. Therefore, a channel 24a is defined between the first portion 22a and the second portion 23a of the coupling element 8a.

The channel 24a defines an end surface 25a. The first longitudinal edge 10a of the first fastener tape 6a protrudes into the channel 24a from the end surface 25a. The coupling element 8a can be formed such that the neck 16a, the base 18a and at least part of the overhang 20a (which is visible in Figure 2a) of the coupling element are set back from the first longitudinal edge 10a of the first fastener tape 6a. The remainder of the head 14a, which includes the remainder of overhang 20a, of the coupling element extends beyond the first longitudinal edge 10a of the first fastener tape. Therefore, when the coupling elements 8a, 8b are engaged, the first longitudinal edges 10a, 10b of the first and second fastener tapes 6a, 6b abut one another. The first fastener tape 6a or the second fastener tape 6b or both of the first and second fastener tapes can provide a fluid fight seal. Where the first fastener tape 6a or the second fastener tape 6b or both of the first and second fastener tapes provide a fluid tight seal, the fastener tapes 6a, 6b are made of an appropriate material. For example, the first fastener tape 6a or the second fastener tape 6b or both of the first and second fastener tapes can comprise an internal material structure. The internal material structure can be woven or knitted. The internal material structure is coated with a resin layer. The resin layer may be polyurethane. The resin layer therefore forms the surface of the fastener tapes.

Therefore, engagement of the fastener tapes 6a, 6b can provide a fluid tight seal. Fluid tight seal can be understood to mean that the seam or seal formed between the fastener tapes 6a, 6b can prevent the ingress of fluid from one side of the fastener 2 to the other.

Although Figure 1 shows the fastener 2 comprising the first end piece 12a and a second end piece 12b, in some embodiments only a single end piece 12a, 12b may be provided. The second end piece 12b may be identical to the first end piece 12a, albeit orientated in the opposite direction to the first end piece. Alternatively, the second end piece 12b may differ from the first end piece 12a. The second end piece may comprise any of the features described herein in relation to the first end piece 12a.

With reference to Figure 2a, the first end piece 12a comprises a body 26a. The body 26a comprises a first portion 28a and a second portion 30a. Referring to Figure 4, the first portion 28a comprises a first part 29a and a second part 31a. The second portion 30a comprises a first part 29b and a second part 31b. The first part 29a of the first portion 28a is located adjacent to the first side 7a of the first fastener tape 6a. The second part 31a of the first portion 28a is located adjacent to the second side 9a of the first fastener tape 6a. The first part 29b of the second portion 30a is located adjacent to the first side 7b of the second fastener tape 6b. The second part 31b of the second porfion 30a is located adjacent to the second side 9b of the second fastener tape 6b. In other, non-depicted embodiments, the first portion 28a and the second portion 30a do not include the second parts 31a, 31b. That is to say, the first portion 28a is only located adjacent to the first side 7a of the first fastener tape 6a, and the second portion 30a is only located adjacent to the first side 7b of the second fastener tape 6b.

Further in an embodiment not shown in the drawings, through holes may be formed in the tapes 6a, 6b to allow the first part 29a of the first portion 28a to connect to the second part 31a of the first portion, and the first part 29b of the second portion 30a to connect to second part 31b. Such connections may be formed in one or both of the first or second portions 28a, 30a.

Referring back to Figure 2a, the body 26a defines a first side 32a, a second side 34a, a thirdside 36a and a fourth side 37a (not visible in Figure 2a). As depicted, the third side 36a defines an upper surface of the body 26a and the fourth side 37a defines a lower surface of the body 26a. The first side 32a of the body 26a faces the first end 5 of the fastener. The second side 34a of the body 26a faces the coupling elements 8a, 8b.

Referring now to Figure 4, the third side 36a and the fourth side 37a are generally opposed surfaces. The third side 36a and the fourth side 37a each face away from the fastener tapes 6a, 6b. Therefore, the body 26a of the first end piece 12a extends beyond the first surfaces 7a, 7b of the first and second fastener tapes 6a, 6b and beyond the second surfaces 9a, 9b of the first and second fastener tapes 6a, 6b.

The first portion 28a is connected to the second portion 30a. The first portion 28a may be connected to the second portion 30a by any suitable method. For example, the first portion 28a may be integrally formed with the second portion 30a. This may be achieved, for example, during the manufacture of the first end piece 12a. Alternatively, the first portion 28a may be adhered to the second portion 30a using a suitable adhesive or bonding material. The first portion 28a is formed on (or mounted to) the first fastener tape 6a and the second portion 30a is formed on (or mounted to) the second fastener tape 6b. The first end piece 12a may be made of any suitable material. For example, the first end piece 12a may be made of nylon, polyamide or polyoxymethylene. The material connecting the first portion 28a and the second portion 30a may enclose or partially enclose one or more elements of either or both of the pluralities of elements. Alternatively, no elements may be enclosed.

The first end piece 12a may be attached to the fastener tapes 6a, 6b by any appropriate method. For example, the first end piece 12a may be injection moulded on to the fastener tapes 6a, 6b or crimped on to the fastener tapes.

Referring now to Figure 2a, the first end piece 12a comprises a first recess 38a. The first recess 38a extends from the first side 32a towards the second side 34a of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a. The first recess 38a defines an apex 48a. The apex 48a defines the point of the first recess that is located furthest away from the first side 32a of the first end piece 12a. Therefore, respective surfaces of the first recess 38a adjoin respective surfaces of the first side 32a of the first end piece 12a. The space defined by the first recess 38a exposes the longitudinal edges 10a, 10b of the tape. The first recess 38a extends from the third side 36a towards the fourth side 37a of the body 26a. The first recess 38a extends from the third side 36a to the fourth side 37a of the body 26a. In a non-depicted embodiment, the first recess 38a extends only partially between the third side 36a and the fourth side 37a. The first recess 38a has a V-shaped profile. In particular, the first recess 38a, when viewed from the third face, has a V-shaped profile. That is to say, a gap between the first portion 28a and the second portion 30a formed by the first recess 38a narrows as it extends towards the second side 34a. The gap between the first portion 28a and the second portion 30a narrows until the apex 48a of first recess 38a. In some embodiments, the recess surfaces may come into contact at the apex 48a. In other embodiments, the recess surfaces may not come into contact at the apex, but instead be separated by an additional recess surface. In other, non-depicted, embodiments, the profile of the first recess 38a can be any other suitable shape. For example, the profile of the first recess 38a can be semi-circular.

The first recess 38a defines an inclusive angle. Where the first recess 38a has a V-shaped profile, the inclusive angle is defined between the facing angled surfaces of the respective first portion 28a and second portion 30a which define the V-shaped profile. It is preferable that the inclusive angle is an acute angle. That is to say, the angle can be less than 90 degrees. In the depicted embodiment, the inclusive angle of the first recess 38a is 70°. In other, non-depicted embodiments, the inclusive angle of the first recess 38a may be between 50° and 80°.

The width (perpendicular to the fastener axis, in the plane of the fastener) of the first recess 38a at its widest point is less than the width of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a. In a non-depicted embodiment, the width of the first recess 38a at its widest point is the same as the width of the body 26a. In the depicted embodiment, the first recess 38a is aligned with the fastener axis 3. That is to say, the fastener axis 3 extends through the apex 48a of the first recess 38a. In other words, the apex 48a of the first recess 38a is directly adjacent to the first longitudinal edges 10a, 10b of the first and second fastener tapes 6a, 6b. In non-depicted embodiments, the first recess 38a may be offset from the fastener axis 3. That is to say, the fastener axis 3 does not extend through the apex 48a of the first recess 38a. The fastener axis 3 may extend through at least part of the first recess 38a. As will be discussed in more detail below, the first end piece 12a need not be provided with a first recess 38a.

The first end piece 12a further comprises a second recess 40a, which is best seen in Figure 1. The second recess 40a extends from the second side 34a towards the first side 32a of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a. The second recess 40a defines an end section 50a. The end section 50a is the portion of the second recess 40a that is located furthest away from the second side 34a of the first end piece 12a. The second recess 40a extends all the way from the third side 36a to the fourth side 37a ( visible in Figure 4) of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a. It will be appreciated that although the first and second fastener tapes 6a, 6b are located between the first part 29a and the second part 31a of the first portion 28a and between the first part 29b and the second part 31b of the second portion 30a of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a, the second recess 40a can still be considered to extend from the third side 36a to the fourth side 37a of the body of the first end piece. In a non-depicted embodiment, the second recess 40a extends only partially between the third side 36a and the fourth side 37a. The second recess 40a when viewed from the third surface is defined by a first profile 42a and a second profile 44a. The first profile 42a is formed on the first portion 28a of the body 12a of the first end piece. The second profile 44a is formed on the second portion 30a of the body 12a. The first profile 42a and the second profile 44a are arc-shaped. The radius of the arc of the first profile 42a is less than the radius of the arc of the second profile 44a. In other, non-depicted embodiments, the radius of the arc of the first profile 42a is equal to the radius of the arc of the second profile 44a. In further alternative embodiments, the first profile 42a and the second profile 44a define a V-shape or any other suitable shape. One of the purposes of the second recess 40a is that it prevents leakage of material when die casting the first end piece 12a. In other embodiments, the second recess 40a may not be provided.

Referring now to Figure 3, the first end piece 12a further comprises a first notch 46a and a second notch 47a (visible in Figure 4). The notches 46a extend parallel to the fastener axis 3. However, the notches 46a need not extend parallel to the fastener axis 3. The notches 46a are located centrally on the respective surface of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a. In the depicted embodiment, the first notch 46a and the second notch 47a extend from the apex 48a of the first recess 38a to the end section 50a of the second recess 40a. In other words, the first notch 46a extends entirely along the available axial length of the third side 36a of body 26a of the first end piece 12a in the direction of the fastener axis 3. Similarly, the second notch extends entirely along the available axial length of the fourth side 37a of body 26a of the first end piece 12a in the direction of the fastener axis 3. It is preferable that the first notch 46a and the second notch 47a align with the border between the first longitudinal edges 10a, 10b of each fastener tape 4a, 4b.ln other, non-depicted embodiments, either the first notch 46a or the second notch, or both, do not extend along the full available axial length of the third side 36a and fourth side 37a. In other, non-depicted embodiments, the first notch 46a and the second notch 37a are not centrally located on their respective surface of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a. In other non depicted embodiments, the length of the first notch is different from the length of the second notch.

Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the first end piece 12a taken along section line A-A of Figure 3. As can be seen, the first notch 46a extends from the third side 36a of the body 26 of the first end piece 12a towards the fourth side 37a. Similarly, the second notch 47a extends from the fourth side 37a towards the third side 36a. In the depicted embodiment, the notches 46a, 47a have a V-shaped profile. That is to say, a gap formed by the first notch 46a between the first portion 28a and the second portion 30a of the first end piece 12a narrows as it extends toward the fourth side 37a. Similarly, a gap between the first portion 28a and the second portion 30a formed by the second notch 47a narrows as it extends towards the third side 36a.

In other, non-depicted embodiments, the profile of the first notch 46a and the second notch 47a can be any other suitable shape. For example, the notches 46a, 47a can have a semi-circular profile. The first notch 46a and the second notch 47a each define a respective inclusive angle. Each such inclusive angle is defined between the surfaces of the respective notches 46a, 47a. Where the first notch 46a and the second notch 47a have a generally V-shaped profile, the inclusive angle of each notch is defined between the angled surfaces that define the V-shaped profile. The inclusive angle may be an acute angle. That is to say, an angle less than 90 degrees.

In the depicted embodiment, the inclusive angle of the first notch 46a and the second notch 47a is 60°. In other, non-depicted embodiments, the inclusive angle of the first notch 46a and the second notch may be between 30° and 70°. In addition, the inclusive angle of the first notch 46a may be different to the inclusive angle of the second notch 47a. These ranges of angles advantageously aid manufacture. If the first end piece 12a is manufactured via injection moulding, these ranges of angles aid removal of the moulded components from the mould used to form them.

The notches 46a, 47a each define a depth that extends perpendicular to the respective one of the third side 36a and the fourth side 37a of the first end piece 12a. The notches 46a, 47a can be any suitable depth. In some embodiments, the depth of the notches 46a, 47a can be less than or equal to half of the distance from the surface 7a, 7b, 9a, 9b of the respective fastener tape to the respective one of the third side 36a and the fourth side 37a of the first end piece 12a.

Referring now to Figures 5a and 5b another embodiment of the first end piece 12a' is shown. The first end piece 12a' comprises a central portion 52a'. The central portion 52a' extends between the first portion 28a' and the second portion 30a' of the first end piece 12a'. The central portion 52a' is connected to the first portion 28a' and to the second portion 30a' of the first end piece 12a'. The central portion 52a' extends from the first side 32a' to the second side 34a' of the first end piece 12a'. In the depicted embodiment, the central portion 52a' is made of a material that is different from the material than the remainder of the first end piece 12a', i.e. the first portion 28a' and the second portion 30a'. The material of the central portion 52a' may have a lower tensile strength than the material of the first portion 28a' and the second portion 30a'. For example, if the first portion 28a' and the second portion 30a' are made of one of the materials discussed above, the central portion 52a' may be made of polyurethane, PrimalloyTM or other suitable elastomer. The central portion 52a' may therefore be referred to as a weak portion 54a' or a portion of reduced strength. In a non-depicted embodiment, the weak portion 54a' does not extend along the full length of the first end piece 12a' in the direction of the fastener axis. For example, the weak portion 54a' may extend from the first side 32a' of the body 26a' along part of the length of the body in the direction of the fastener axis towards the second side 34a' of the body. Alternatively, the weak portion 54a' may extend from the second side 34a' of the body 26a' along part of the length in the direction of the fastener axis of the body 26a' towards the first side 32a' of the body. Alternatively, the weak portion 54a' may start between the first side 32a' and the second side 34a' and finish between the first side 32a' and the second side 34a'.

Figure 5b shows the cross-sectional view along section line B-B shown in Figure 5a. As can be seen in Figure 5b, the weak portion 54a' is comprised of a first section 56a' and a second section 58a'. The first section 56a' extends from the third side 36a' of the body 26a' of the first end piece 12a' towards the fastener tapes 6a', 6b'. The second section 58a' extends from the fourth side 37a' of the body 26a' of the first end piece 12a' towards the fastener tapes 6a', 6b'. The first section 56a' and second section 58a' extend to the fastener tapes 6a', 6b'. However, in other embodiments, the first section 56a' and/or the second section 58a may only extend part-way to the fastener tapes 6a', 6b'. A portion of the weak portion 54a' may also extend between the fastener tapes along the longitudinal axis 3 so that the first section 56a' and the second section 58a of the weak portion are connected between the tapes. That is to say, a portion of the weak portion 54a' may abut the longitudinal edges 10a', 10b' of the first fastener tape 6a' and the second fastener tape 6b'.

Referring now to Figure 15, a further embodiment of a first end piece 12a" is shown. The first end piece 12a-comprises a first recess 38a"-. The first recess 38a"-is offset from the first side 32a-of the first end piece 12a". The first end piece 12a" comprises a base bridge portion 92 located at the first side 32a-of the first end piece 12a""'. Any of the first end pieces 12a, 12', 12a, 12a"', 12a"" described above and below can optionally be provided with a base bridge portion 92. In other embodiments, the base bridge portion 92 can be offset from the first side 32a"-of the first end piece 12a""'. Where the base bridge portion 92 is offset from the first side 32a-of the first end piece 12a""', the distance from the first side to the base bridge portion can be less than 25% off the axial length of the first end piece. The axial length of the first end piece 12a-being the distance, in the direction of the fastener axis 3-, from the first side 32a-to the second side 34a-of the first end piece.

The base bridge portion 92 extends between the first portion 28a-and the second portion 30a" of the body 26a"-of the first end piece 12a". The base bridge portion 92 extends in a direction generally perpendicular to the fastener axis 3-. The point at which the base bridge portion 92 adjoins the first portion 28a-of the first end piece 12a" can be offset axially from the point at which the base bridge portion adjoins the second portion 30a" of the first end piece. The cross-sectional area of the base bridge portion 92 (in a plane the normal to which is contained within the fastener plane and extends perpendicular to the fastener axis 3") is sized such that the base bridge portion is readily breakable by a user. The force required to break the base bridge portion can be less than 120N.

In the embodiments described in this document where a base bridge portion 92 is not provided, the first side 32a of the first end piece 12a can be described as open. The first side 32a of the first end piece 12a can be described as open because a gap is provided at the first side between the first portion 28a and the second portion 30a of the first end piece. In embodiment depicted in Figure 15, and in any embodiment where a base bridge portion 92 is provided, the first side 32a-of the first end piece 12a" can be described as closed. This is because the base bridge portion extends from the first portion to the second portion of the first end piece, at the first end of the first end piece. In either open or closed embodiments the first end piece can be said to comprise a region of reduced strength between the first portion and second portion of the first end piece. The region of reduced strength extends from the first side of the first end piece towards the second side of the first end piece. In closed embodiments the region of reduced strength includes the base bridge portion.

The first end piece 12a may be provided with any combination of a first recess 38a, a second recess 40a, a first notch 46a, a second notch, a base bridge portion and/or a weak portion 54a. Further variations may envisage either of the recesses being located within the periphery of the first end piece. These features may be referred to as "weakening features". For example, although not depicted, the first end piece 12a shown in Figures 1 to 3 may be provided with a weak portion 54a. In addition, the weakening features may form part of a region of reduced strength of the first end piece. The region of reduced strength extends between the first side of the first end piece and the second side of the first end piece.

Further example configurations of fastener according to the present invention are shown in Figures 6, 7a and 7b. Figure 6 shows the fastener 2" comprising a first end piece 12a" which comprises a first recess 38a". The embodiment depicted in Figure 6 does not include a second recess 40a, notches 46a or a weak portion 54a.

Figures 7a and 7b show the fastener 2" comprising a first end piece 12a-which comprises a first notch 46a-and a second notch 47a-. The embodiment of Figure 7 does not include a first recess, a second recess or a weak portion.

Referring now to Figures ha and 11 b, a further embodiment of the first end piece 12a" is depicted. The second side 34a-of the first portion 28a" of the first end piece 12a" comprises a protrusion 84. The protrusion 84 protrudes from, that is to say it extends from, the second side 34a-of the first end piece 12a-. The protrusion 84 extends from the first part 29a-of the first portion 28a-of the body 26a-of the first end piece 12a". The protrusion 84 does not extend from any other part 29b-, 31a", 31b"" of the first portion 28a" or the second portion 30a" of the body 26a-of the first end piece 12a". In other, non-depicted embodiments, the protrusion does extend from any combination of the first and second parts of the first portion and the first and second parts of the second portion of the first end piece. The protrusion 84 protrudes towards the second end (not visible in Figures 11 a and 11 b) of the fastener 2-. The protrusion 84 extends adjacent to the first surface 7a-of the first fastener tape 6a-. The protrusion 84 acts to prevent unintended separation of the first part 28a-from the second part 30a" of the body 26a-of the first end piece. The protrusion 84 defines a length that extends from the second side 34a-to a distal surface 86 of the protrusion.

The distal surface 86 of the protrusion 84 being the surface of the protrusion that is located furthest away from the second side 34a-of the body 26a-of the first end piece 12a". Preferably the length is equal to or less than one half of the length of a coupling element.

The first end piece 12a" comprises a first recess 38a-. The first recess 38a" extends into the first side 32a-of the body 26a-of the first end piece 12a". The recess 38a-is generally V-shaped. The internal angle of the recess 38a-is 40 degrees. It will be appreciated that the internal angle of the recess 38a" can be any suitable angle. The internal angle of the recess 38a-may be an acute angle, i.e., less than 90 degrees. The recess 38a-defines a length that extends from the first side 32a-to the apex 48a-of the recess in a direction parallel to the fastener axis 3-. The body 26a-of the first end piece 12a-also defines a length that extends from the first side 32a-to the second side 34a-in a direction parallel to the fastener axis 3-. The length of the recess 38a-can be between 50% and 90% of the length of the body 26a". In particular, the length of the recess 38a-can be between 70% and 80% of the length of the body 26a-. The ratio of the length of the recess 38a-to the length of the body 26a-can be any value that is greater than 0.5. The ratio of the length of the recess 38a-to the length of the body 26a-can be any value greater than two thirds. The distance from the apex 48a-to the second side 34a-can be less than a length of a coupling element 8a", 8b"". The length of the coupling element 8a-, 8b-being defined by the greatest dimension of the coupling element in the direction of the fastener axis 3-.

The first end piece 12a-further comprises a first notch 46a-and a second notch 47a-. The internal angle of the notches 46a-, 47a-is 60 degrees. It will be appreciated that other angles are also suitable. The internal angle of the notches 46a-, 47a-can be less than 90 degrees. Each notch 46a-47a-defines a depth that extends from a respective one of the third side 36a"" and the fourth side 37a-to a respective apex 88, 90 in a direction perpendicular to the fastener axis 3. The depth of the notches 46a-, 48a-may be less than or equal to the length of the protrusion 84:: The result of the depth of the notches 46a-, 48a-divided by the length of the protrusion 84 can be less than 0.5.

The first end piece 12a"" of the embodiment depicted in Figures 11a and lib is not formed on the end coupling elements 64-, 66-. That is to say, the first end piece 12a" is spaced apart from the end coupling elements 64-, 66-. This helps a user of the fastener 2-to apply a consistent force to the fastener 2-when separating the first portion 28a-from the second portion 30a" of the body 26a". This is because there are no obstructions to inhibit the application of the force by the user. This applies to other embodiments where the first end piece is spaced apart from the end coupling elements.

It will also be appreciated that other combinations of weakening features are possible. For example, in a non-depicted embodiment, the first end piece may be provided with a first recess and a weak portion. Alternatively, in a further non-depicted embodiment, the first end piece may be provided with a second recess adjacent the elements, a first notch and a second notch. Further alternatively, the first end piece may be provided with a single notch on one of the third side or the fourth side of the body.

In other, non-depicted, embodiments, instead of being continuous, recesses, notches and weak portions may be separated into a series of a respective recess, notch or weak portion, such that the respective recess, notch or weak portion may comprise two, three or more components of similar construction. In still further embodiments profiles of recesses, notches or weak portions may comprise protrusions or indentations or be otherwise irregular of shape or surface.

The first end pieces 12, 12', 12", 12", 12", 12" described herein can each form part of a fastener in accordance with the present invention.

It will be appreciated that other combinations of weakening features are conceivable. In addition, the second end piece need not have the same configuration as the first end piece.

The weakening features are provided to provide the first end piece 12a with a region of reduced strength. The region of reduced strength allows a user of the fastener 2 to separate the body 26a into multiple pieces easily. In particular, the user is able to separate the body 26a into the first portion 28a and the second portion 30a, such that the first portion is no longer connected to the second portion. The location of the region of reduced strength will be determined by the location of the weakening features. In any case, the region of reduced strength is located between the first portion 28a and the second portion 30a of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a. The region of reduced strength can contact either the first portion 28a or the second portion 30a or both portions 28a, 30a of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a. It will be appreciated that part of the region of reduced strength can form part of the first portion 28a or the second portion 30a or both portions 28a, 30a of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a. In the embodiments in which the first longitudinal edges 10a, 10b of the first and second fastener tapes 6a, 6b abut, the region of reduced strength is located coaxially with the axis of abutment (i.e. the axis defined by the region of abutment of the first longitudinal edges of the first and second fastener tape).

In other embodiments, the first longitudinal edges 10a, 10b of the first and second fastener tapes 6a, 6b may not abut, in which case the region of reduced strength can be optionally located between the first longitudinal edges 10a, 10b of the tapes. It will be appreciated that where the first longitudinal edges 10a, 10b of the first and second fastener tapes 6a, 6b do not abut, the region of reduced strength may optionally not be located between the first longitudinal edges 10a, 10b of the tapes. It will be appreciated that where the first longitudinal edges 10a, 10b of the first and second fastener tapes 6a, 6b do not abut, at least part of the region of reduced strength may optionally be located between the first longitudinal edges 10a, 10b of the tapes and at least part of the region of reduced strength may optionally not be located between the first longitudinal edges 10a, 10b of the tapes.

The region of reduced strength extends from the first side 32a towards the second side 34a of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a. The region of reduced strength may extend from the first side 32a to the second side 34a of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a. "Region of reduced strength" is intended to mean that the force required to separate the first end piece into multiple pieces in that region is reduced in comparison to the force required for other unspecified regions of the first end piece to be separated from each other.

The first recess 38a, the second recess 40a and the notches 46a, 47a provide the region of reduced strength by reducing the cross-sectional area (in a plane perpendicular to the fastener axis) of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a compared to the cross-sectional area of the body if the particular weakening feature, or combination of weakening features were not provided and the material used for the end piece was contiguously provided. Providing a reduction of cross-sectional area reduces the force required to separate the first portion 28a from the second portion 30a compared to the force required if the particular weakening feature, or combination of weakening features, were not provided.

The weak region 52a provides the region of reduced strength by reducing the tensile strength of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a in the region where the weak region is provided. Providing a region of lower tensile strength reduces the force required to separate the first portion 28a from the second portion 30a compared to the force required if the body was formed of a single material with a consistent profile.

Referring again to Figure 2a, the first plurality of coupling elements 8a comprises an end coupling element 64. The second plurality of coupling elements 8b comprises an end coupling element 66. The end coupling element 64, 66 are the last coupling elements of the respective plurality of coupling elements 8a, 8b. That is to say, the end coupling elements 64, 66 define an end of their respective plurality of coupling elements 8a, 8b. The first end piece 12a is formed on the end coupling elements 64, 66 (or, alternatively, integrally with the end coupling elements). The first end piece 12a is formed on the end coupling elements 64, 66 such that at least part of each of the end coupling elements are covered by the first end piece. The first end piece 12a being formed on the end coupling elements 64, 66 can be understood to mean that the end coupling elements are separately formed from, or integrally formed with, the first end piece. In particular, the first end piece 12a is formed such that the first portion 28a and the second portion 30a of the first end piece cover all except an upper half portion of the head 14, an upper portion of the base 18 that is adjacent to the fastener axis 3 and an upper half portion of the neck 16 of the end coupling element 66. In other, non-depicted, embodiments the first end piece 12a can be formed such that it covers only an upper half portion of the head 14 of the end coupling element 66. The first end piece 12a is formed such that the first portion 28a of the first end piece covers the lower half portion of the base 18 of the end coupling element 64. The remainder of the end coupling element 64 is not covered by the first end piece 12a. In an alternative, non-depicted embodiment, the end coupling element 64 may be entirely covered by the first end piece 12a. Here, 'lower portion' is intended to refer to the portion of the end coupling elements 64, 66 which is adjacent to a respective end 5, 7 of the fastener 2 and 'upper portion' is intended to refer to the portion of the end coupling elements 64, 66 which is adjacent to the plurality of coupling elements 8a, 8b. This configuration, which is applicable to all embodiments described herein, aids unpeeling (or decoupling) of the coupling elements of the fastener 2 once the user has separated the first portion 28a from the second portion 30a of the first end piece 12a. Since the end coupling elements 64, 66 are connected to a respective one of the first portion 28a and the second portion 30a of the first end piece 12a, separation of the first end piece such that the first end piece is no longer connected to the second end piece will also initiate unpeeling of the plurality of coupling elements 8a, 8b by disengaging the end coupling element 66 from the end coupling element 64. Therefore, separation of the first end piece 12a initiates unpeeling of the first plurality of coupling elements 8a from the second plurality of coupling elements 8b. Such unpeeling or decoupling of the first plurality of coupling elements 8a from the second plurality of coupling elements 8b occurs when a force is applied to the fastener 2 which urges the first plurality of coupling elements 8a away from the second plurality of coupling elements 8b. It may be a force which is perpendicular to the fastener axis 3 and generally in the fastener plane. Alternatively, it may be a force which is generally perpendicular to the plane of the fastener 2. Such a force may be likened to the force applied to a flat sheet of paper On which the plane of the paper is equivalent to the fastener plane) when tearing the paper by moving one part of the paper above the plane of the paper and holding the other part steady.

The first end piece 12a can be made of the same material as the fastener tapes 6a, 6b. In the situation where the tapes are formed as an internal woven or knitted fabric structure which is coated with polymeric material, the first end piece may be made from the polymeric coating material. Advantageously, this prevents the fastener tapes 6a, 6b from ripping or tearing when the first end piece 12a is being separated and when the coupling elements 8a, 8b are being unpeeled. This is because, it has been found that when the end piece is formed of a different material to the fastener tapes, the border of transition between the first material of the first end piece and the second material of the tapes creates a failure point at which ripping or tearing can be initiated. Similarly, the coupling elements 8a, 8b can be made of the same material as the first end piece 12a. Example materials for the first end piece 12a include polyurethane and nylon. It will be appreciated that the force required to separate the body 26a of the first end piece 12a into multiple pieces is a function of the strength of the material from which the first end piece is made.

Referring to Figure 3, the first fastener tape 6a may comprise a first extended tape portion 68a. The second fastener tape 6b may comprise a second extended tape portion 68b. Each of the extended tape portions 68a, 68b extend beyond the first end piece 12a (in a direction opposite to that in which the coupling elements extend away from the first end piece). The extended tape portions 68a, 68b may extend beyond the first end piece 12a by any suitable distance such that they can be gripped by the user. For example, the extended tape portions 68a, 68b may extend beyond the first end piece 12a by a distance (measured along the fastener axis) of at least about 2cm, at least about 5cm or at least about 10cm. The extended tape portions 68a, 68b advantageously allow the user to more easily apply a force (via the extended tape portions) to the first end piece 12a such that the first end piece 12a is separated. The user can simply grip the extended tape portions 68a, 68b and pull them away from the fastener axis 3 in different directions from each other, thereby applying a force to the first end piece 12a which acts to separate the first portion 28a from the second portion 30a. This allows the force to be easily applied in a direction which is perpendicular or transverse to the fastener axis 3. Applying the force transverse to the fastener axis 3 (as compared to in another direction) may reduce the force required to be applied to the fastener tapes in order to separate the first portion 28a from the second portion 30a (and to subsequently separate the first and second pluralities of coupling elements) compared to if the force is applied in a direction which is not transverse to the fastener axis. The extended tape portions 68a, 68b may act to provide a mechanical advantage when the user applies a force to the fastener tapes in order to separate the first end piece and the coupling elements.

Figure 8 shows an embodiment of the fastener 2 comprising a slider 70. The slider 70 is slidable along the fastener axis 3. The slider 70 can slide in a first direction 72 such that the slider 70 urges the first plurality of coupling elements 8a into engagement with the second plurality of coupling elements 8b. The slider 70 can also slide in a second direction 74 such that the slider 70 urges the first plurality of coupling elements 8a out of engagement with the second plurality of coupling elements 8b. The second direction 74 is opposite to the first direction 72. It follows that the present invention, relating to a separable end piece to enable separation of coupled coupling elements, may also be applied to a slide fastener including a slider.

A common mode of separating or uncoupling of the fastener 2 will now be described with unpeeling initiating at the first end piece 12a of Figures 1 to 3. The following description is an exemplary mode of unpeeling, and so will be appreciated that unpeeling can have other modes and unpeeling can also initiate at the second end piece 12b and the process of separating the second end piece 12b is the same as that for the first end piece 12a (albeit that subsequent uncoupling of the coupling elements 8a, 8b after separating the first end piece will occur along the fastener axis 3 in the opposite direction as compared to that of subsequent uncoupling of the coupling elements after separating the second end piece). Figure 9a shows the fastener 2 before separation of the first portion 28a from the second portion 30a of the first end piece 12a. To separate the first portion 28a from the second portion 30a, forces need to be applied by the user which acts to draw the first portion 28a and/or the second portion 30a away one from the other. The force may be less than 120N. The force may be between 30N and 80N. In particular, the force may be between 40N and 70N.. In particular the force may be approximately 50N. The force may be applied either directly to the first end piece 12a, or via the extended tape portions 68a, 68b, as already discussed. The application of the force will result in stress applied to the first end piece 12a. Once the applied stress is greater than the ultimate tensile strength of the material from which the first end piece 12a is made a crack (or tear) will initiate in the first end piece. The crack will initiate at the region of reduced strength, for example adjacent to the first side 32a of the body 26a of the first end piece 12a. The exact location of initiation of the crack will be determined by the configuration of the weakening features. If a first recess 38a is provided, as depicted, the crack will initiate from the apex 48a of the first recess. If a first recess 38a is not provided, the crack will initiate from a point on the first side 32a of the first end piece 12a which will be determined by the configuration of the weakening features. Once the crack has initiated, it will propagate through the body 26a of the first end piece 12a. In particular, given the particular configuration of the weakening features in this embodiment, the crack will initiate approximately along the fastener axis 3. The crack will continue to propagate until it reaches the second side 34a of the body 26a. At this point the first and second portions of the first end piece will have completely separated. Once the crack has propagated through the body 26a of the first end piece 12a, continued application of the force will disengage the first plurality of coupling elements 8a from the second plurality of coupling elements 8b. The coupling elements 8a, 8b will then unpeel. Provided a force urging the coupling elements apart continues to be applied to the fastener, unpeeling of the coupling elements 8a, 8b will then progress along the fastener axis 3 until the opposing end piece is reached (if present) or all of the coupling elements of the first stringer have been separated from the coupling elements of the second stringer. In the case where a second end piece with weakening features is present, if the opposing end piece is also readily separable, it can also be separated as described above (however, such separation will initiate from the second side of the second end piece, as compared to the first side of the end piece, as discussed above). Figure 9b shows the fastener 2 after unpeeling.

In some embodiments, the opposing end piece, if present, is not intended to be separable. Figure 10 shows a fastener 2 which comprises a first end piece 12a which is intended to be separable and an opposing end piece 76 which is not intended to be separated. In such embodiments, the fastener will unpeel up to the opposing end piece 76 and no further. An embodiment with a second end piece 12b intended to be separable and an opposing end piece which is not intended be separated is not shown in the Figures.

The fasteners 2, 2', 2", 2-, 2-, 2-described herein is suited for a range of applications. Figure 12 shows a tent 78 in which the fastener 2 is incorporated into the tent material. The fastener 2 may advantageously provide an emergency exit. For instance, the fastener 2 can be unpeeled allowing evacuation in an emergency. In such an embodiment the fastener may advantageously be fluid tight to prevent or minimise rain, snow, moisture or the like from outside the tent passing into the tent via the fastener. Figure 13 shows a wetsuit 80 in which the fastener 2 is incorporated. Use of the fastener 2 in a wetsuit allows the wetsuit to be easily removed in the case of injury. Figure 14 shows a bag 82 in which the fastener 2 is incorporated. The fastener 2 of this embodiment includes a slider 70. Therefore, in normal use, the slider 70 can be used to open and close the fastener 2. The fastener 2 can be unpeeled if the slider 70 becomes jammed or stuck. This may be particularly advantageous if, for example, the bag 82 contains medical supplies which need to be accessed in an emergency situation.

The exemplar uses of the fastener provided in Figures 12, 13, and 14 may beneficially comprise any of the embodiments disclosed in Fig 1 to 11 b and 15. The fastener can be provided without a slider or with a slider. Using a slider enables the fastener to be opened in the typical manner for normal use, but also allows an end piece of the fastener to be separated in the manner disclosed herein.

The described and illustrated embodiments are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only a preferred embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the scope of the inventions as defined in the claims are desired to be protected. In relation to the claims, it is intended that when words such as "a," "an," "at least one," or "at least one portion" are used to preface a feature there is no intention to limit the claim to only one such feature unless specifically stated to the contrary in the claim. When the language "at least a portion" and/or "a portion" is used the item can include a portion and/or the entire item unless specifically stated to the contrary.

Optional and/or preferred features as set out herein may be used either individually or in combination with each other where appropriate and particularly in the combinations as set out in the accompanying claims.

Claims (25)

1. CLAIMS: 1. A fastener (2) comprising: a first fastener stringer (4a) having a first fastener tape (6a) and a first plurality of coupling elements (8a) disposed along a first longitudinal edge (10a) of the first fastener tape (10a); a second fastener stringer (4b) having a second fastener tape (6b) and a second plurality of coupling elements(8b) disposed along a first longitudinal edge of the second fastener tape (10b); and a first end piece (12a) located adjacent to an end of the first plurality of coupling elements and to an end of the second plurality of coupling elements, the first end piece (12a) comprising a body (26a), the body (26a) comprising a first portion (28a) and a second portion (30a), the first portion (28a) connected to the second portion (30a), the first portion (28a) being mounted on the first fastener tape (6a) and the second portion (30a) being mounted on the second fastener tape (6b), the body (26a) further comprising a first side (32a) which faces the first end of the fastener and a second side (34a) which faces the coupling elements (8a,8b); wherein the first plurality of coupling elements (8a) are engagable with the second plurality of coupling elements (8b) such that the first plurality of coupling elements (8a) interdigitate along a fastener axis (3) with corresponding coupling elements of the second plurality of coupling elements (8b) to secure the first stringer (4a) to the second stringer (4b); and wherein the first end piece (12a) comprises a region of reduced strength between the first portion and second portion of the body (28a, 30a).
2. 2. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the region of reduced strength extends from the first side of the first end piece towards the second side of the first end piece.
3. 3. The fastener of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein at least part of the region of reduced strength faces the first side (32a).
4. 4. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein the first side (32a) of the first end piece (12a) comprises a recess (38a, 40a) which extends towards the second side (34a) of the first end piece (12a), thereby providing the first end piece (12a) with the region of reduced strength.
5. 5. The fastener of claim 4, wherein the recess and the body of the first end piece each define a respective length, and wherein the ratio of the length of the recess to the length of the body is greater than 0.5.
6. 6. The fastener of claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the recess has a V-shaped profile.
7. 7. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein the first end piece further comprises a protrusion that protrudes from the second side of the body.
8. 8. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein the first fastener tape (6a) and second fastener tape (6b) comprise first and second extended tape portions (68a,68b) respectively which extend beyond the first end piece (12a) in a direction parallel to the fastener axis (3).
9. 9. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein the body of the first end piece (12a) further comprises third and fourth opposed sides which face away from a plane containing the first and second fastener tapes, at least one of the third and fourth sides (36a, 60a) comprising a notch (46a, 62a) thereby defining the region of reduced strength.
10. 10. The fastener of claim 9, wherein the notch (36a,60a) extends from the first side of the first end piece.
11. 11. The fastener of claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the notch extends along the full axial length of the first end piece.
12. 12. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein the first and second plurality of coupling elements each comprise an end coupling element, and wherein the first end of the body of the first end piece is offset from the end coupling elements.
13. 13. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein the first end piece (12a) comprises a central portion which extends between the first portion (28a) and the second portion (30a) of the first end piece, the central portion (52a) constituting the region of reduced strength and being made of a material of lower tensile strength than the first portion and the second portion of the first end piece.
14. 14. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein the first end piece (12a) is made of the same material as the surface of the fastener tapes.
15. 15. The fastener of any of claims 1 to 13, wherein the first end piece is made of a different material to the surface of the fastener tapes.
16. 16. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein the coupling elements (8a,8b) are made of the same material as the first end piece. 10
17. 17. The fastener of any preceding, wherein each of the first and second plurality of coupling elements (8a, 8b) comprises first and second opposed portions (22a, 22b, 23a, 23b) which are located on opposed sides of their respective fastener tape (6a, 6b), each of the first and second opposed portions extending beyond the longitudinal edge of the respective fastener tape and defining a channel therebetween, and wherein the longitudinal edge of the respective fastener tape is located at the end surface of the channel.
18. 18. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein the region of reduced strength extends parallel to the direction of the fastener axis (3).
19. 19. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein the region of reduced strength is coaxial with the fastener axis (3).
20. 20. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein the region of reduced strength extends along the full axial length of the first end piece (12a).
21. 21. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein the fastener further comprises a second end piece (12b), the second end piece (12b) comprising a body, the body comprising a first portion and a second portion, the first portion connected to the second portion, the first portion being mounted on the first fastener tape (6a) and the second portion being mounted on the second fastener tape (6b), the body further comprising a first side which faces a second end of the fastener and a second side which faces the coupling elements (8a, 8b).
22. 22. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein the fastener further comprises a slider (70), the slider being slidable along the fastener axis (3) in a first direction (72) such that the slider urges the first plurality of coupling elements (8a) into engagement with the second plurality of coupling elements and in a second direction (74) opposite to the first direction (72) such that the slider urges the first plurality of coupling elements (8a) out of engagement from the second plurality of coupling elements (8b).
23. 23. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein at least part of the first portion of the first end piece is formed on or integral with at least part of a first end coupling element.
24. 24. The fastener of any preceding claim, wherein at least part of the second part of the first end piece is formed on or integral with at least part of a second end coupling element.
25. 25. An article comprising a slide fastener according to any preceding claim.