GB2619343A

GB2619343A - Method of manufacturing a slide fastener

Info

Publication number: GB2619343A
Application number: GB2208128.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Rawstron Matthew
Original assignee: YKK Europe Ltd
Current assignee: YKK Europe Ltd
Priority date: 2022-06-01
Filing date: 2022-06-01
Publication date: 2023-12-06
Also published as: GB202208128D0

Abstract

A joint element 14 for a slide fastener (1, fig.11), comprising a bridge portion (39, fig.3a) for engaging a side 17 of a fastener tape 16, and a plurality of coupling elements 31 extending from the bridge portion with a channel (84, fig.4) extending through each coupling element along a central axis (54, fig.3a, 78, fig.3b), wherein the channel is configured to receive a cord (8, fig.1) of the fastener tape such that at least part of the cord is exposed between adjacent coupling elements when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape. The bridge portion may have an extension portion (94, fig.8) that extends beyond a first and/or second end coupling element 33, 35. The joint element may include first and second joined portions (36, 38, fig.4) for engaging first and second fastener tape sides, which define an opening for receiving the fastener tape. The joint element may be used to receive and join first and second stringer portions 12a, 12b longitudinally, which may have an overlapped region 30 at the joint.

Description

Joint element for a slide fastener

Field of Invention

The present invention relates to a joint element for a slide fastener. The present invention also relates to methods of forming a slide fastener stringer, and a method of joining two fastener stringer portions.

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.

Some slide fasteners may have lengths in excess of 500m. Such fasteners may be used, for example, to hold two sections of netting together. Due to the length of these slide fasteners, problems with packaging and transporting the fasteners arise. These problems may occur when moving such fasteners within a production process, when shipping and transporting the fasteners to the site at which the fastener will be used, or both. To address these problems, the fastener can be made in smaller sections that can be connected on site (i.e., the location where the fastener will be put to use) by joining the smaller sections together.

The present invention seeks to provide alternative devices and methods for joining sections of a fastener together which addresses one or more problems associated with existing devices and methods, whether identified herein or otherwise.

Summary

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a joint element for a slide fastener. The joint element comprises a first bridge portion for engaging a first side of a fastener tape of the slide fastener when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape. The joint element further comprises a plurality of coupling elements that each extend from the first bridge portion, and a channel that extends through each of the coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements along a central axis. The channel is configured such that, when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape, the channel receives a cord of the fastener tape such that at least part of the cord is exposed between adjacent coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements.

Each coupling element of the plurality of coupling elements may comprise a head, a neck and shoulders.

The coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements extending from the first bridge portion may be interpreted as meaning that at least part of each coupling element of the plurality of coupling elements extends from the first bridge portion.

Since the channel is configured such that at least part of the cord is exposed between adjacent coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements, the flexibility of the fastener tape onto which the joint element can be mounted (and whence of the stringer of which the joint element is mounted) is improved relative to a joint element that does not expose at least part of the cord of the fastener tape between adjacent coupling elements. Improving the flexibility of the fastener tape (and hence stringer) advantageously reduces the force required to interdigitate the coupling elements of the joint element with coupling elements of an opposing stringer of the slide fastener.

The plurality of coupling elements may comprise a first end coupling element and a second end coupling element. The first bridge portion may comprise at least one extension portion that extends in the direction of the central axis beyond the first or the second end coupling element or both.

Where the first bridge portion comprises at least one extension portion, the precision with which the joint element can be located on the fastener tape is increased relative to where the first bridge portion does not include an extension portion. The at least one extension portion acts as a guide for the user such that the position of the joint element with respect to an adjacent coupling element, or adjacent coupling elements, of the fastener tape can be readily determined.

In addition, where the first bridge portion comprises at least one extension portion, the contact area between the bridge portion and the fastener tape to which the joint element is mounted is increased relative to a bridge portion that does not have any extension portions. Increased surface area advantageously provides a stronger connection between the joint element and the tape to which is mounted by providing a greater area of the joint element that can be adhered and/or welded to the tape.

A distance in the direction of the central axis between an end surface of the first end coupling element and a first distal end of one of said at least one extension portion may be equal to or greater than 0.45 of the pitch of the plurality coupling elements and/or equal to or less than 0.55 of the pitch of the plurality coupling elements.

The pitch of the coupling elements may be defined as the distance between corresponding points of adjacent coupling elements. The pitch may be referred to as the pitch distance.

The first bridge portion may comprise two extension portions. A first extension portion may extend (e.g. axially) beyond the first end coupling element. A second extension portion may extend (e.g. axially) beyond the second end coupling element. A distance in the direction of the central axis between an end surface of the second end coupling element and a second distal end extension portion may be equal to or greater than 0.45 of the pitch of the plurality coupling elements and/or equal to or less than 0.55 of the pitch of the plurality coupling elements.

When the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape of a stringer of a slide fastener the slider can be passed over the joint element to engage and disengage the coupling elements of the slide fastener. As the slider passes over the joint element, the joint element is urged in the direction of travel of the slider. The extension portion extending beyond the end surface of the first end coupling element by a distance in the specified range allows the extension portion to abut a coupling element adjacent the joint element that is secured to the fastener tape to which the joint element is mounted.

Advantageously, the abutment between the extension portion and the adjacent coupling element of the fastener tape, the likelihood of the joint element shifting in the direction of the central axis when the slider passes over the joint element is reduced.

The first distal end of at least one of said at least one extension portion may be configured to, when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape, abut an adjacent coupling element mounted separately to the fastener tape.

The first bridge portion may not extend beyond the first end coupling element and the second coupling element in the direction of the central axis.

Where the first bridge portion does not extend beyond the first and/or second coupling element in the direction of the central axis, the slider of the slide fastener is able to travel over the joint element smoothly. This is because the shape of the region of the joint element that first enters the slider generally corresponds with the shape of the coupling elements of the of the slide fastener. Therefore, travel of the slider over the joint element is smoother as compared to if the first bridge portion extended beyond the first end coupling element and/or second end coupling element in the direction of the central axis.

The joint element may be formed of a first portion. The first portion may include the first bridge portion. The first bridge portion may be configured to, when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape, engage a first side of a fastener tape of the fastener stringer. The joint element may be further formed of a second portion. The second portion may be configured to, when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape, engage a second side of the fastener tape of the fastener stringer. The second portion may be integrally formed with the first portion.

The second portion being integrally formed with the first portion may be understood as meaning that the first portion and second portion form a part of a unitary body. The second portion may include a second bridge portion.

The first portion being integrally formed with the second portion makes the first portion and the second portion easier to handle as compared with where the first portion is separately formed from the second portion. Therefore, the first portion being integrally formed with the second portion makes mounting of the joint element onto the slide fastener more user friendly, compared to where the first portion is separately formed from the second portion.

The first portion may adjoin the second portion at at least one of a head, a neck and at least one shoulder of at least one coupling element of the plurality of coupling elements.

The first portion may adjoin the second portion at all of the head, the neck and the shoulders of the at least one coupling element of the plurality of coupling elements.

In an open state, at least part of the first portion and at least part of the second portion may define an opening. The opening may adjoin the channel. In the open state, the opening may be configured to receive at least part of the fastener tape of the slide fastener. In a closed state, at least part of each of the first portion and the second portion may be configured to engage a respective side of the fastener tape of the slide fastener.

The joint element may be formed of a malleable material. The joint element may be configured to be deformed between the open state and the closed state. The joint element may be deformable between the mounted state and the unmounted state. The open state may instead be referred to as an umounted state. The closed state may instead be referred to as a mounted state. Since the cord is a part of the fastener tape, the first portion and/or the second portion engaging a respective side of the fastener tape can include the first portion and/or the second portion engaging the cord of the fastener tape.

In the open state, the cord may be received in the channel and the portion of the fastener tape adjacent the cord may be received in the opening. The portion of the fastener tape received in the opening may be adjacent to the cord in a direction generally perpendicular to the central axis. In the closed state, the first bridge portion may engage the portion of the fastener tape that is adjacent the cord.

Where the joint element has an open state and a closed state, and the first portion is integrally formed with the second portion, the joint element can be mounted onto the slide fastener more easily. This is compared to a joint element formed of separately formed portions. A user of the joint element can easily hold the joint element in one hand to position the joint element for mounting onto the fastener tape.

Instead of the second portion being integrally formed with the first portion, the second portion may be separately formed from the first portion.

The first portion may include at least part of each coupling element of the plurality of coupling elements. The second portion may include at least part of each coupling element of the plurality of coupling elements.

The first bridge portion may comprise a tape engaging surface. The tape engaging surface may comprise a grip arrangement. The grip arrangement may be for, when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape, securing the position of the joint element on the fastener tape in the direction of the central axis.

The grip arrangement may penetrate the fastener tape when the joint element is mounted to a fastener tape. Where the grip arrangement penetrates the fastener tape, the grip arrangement may penetrate one or more holes in the fastener tape. Where the grip arrangement penetrates the fastener tape, the grip arrangement may itself form one or more holes in the fastener tape. The grip arrangement may not penetrate the fastener tape when the joint element is mounted to a fastener tape.

As the slider of the slide fastener passes over the joint element, the joint element is urged in the direction of travel of the slider. The grip arrangement advantageously reduces the likelihood that the joint element moves in the direction of the central axis as a result of this urging. This holds the joint element in the correct position, which allows the coupling elements of the joint element to properly engage with the coupling elements of the opposing stringer.

The grip arrangement of the tape engaging surface of the first bridge portion may comprise a surface irregularity. The grip arrangement of the tape engaging surface of the first bridge portion may comprise one or more protrusions. The grip arrangement of the tape engaging surface of the first bridge portion may comprise one or more teeth. The grip arrangement of the tape engaging surface of the first bridge portion may comprise indentations. The indentations may be knurling. The protrusions may protrude from the tape engaging surface of the first bridge portion. The protrusions may be teeth.

The channel may be configured such that, when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape, at least a portion of the cord is exposed between adjacent coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements.

The channel may be configured such that, when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape, the cord is the only part of the fastener tape that is exposed between adjacent coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements. The joint element may comprise a second bridge portion for engaging a second side of a fastener tape of the slide fastener when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape. The plurality of coupling elements may, alternative to or in addition to extending from the first bridge portion, extend from the second bridge portion. The second bridge portion may comprise any of the features of the first bridge portion. For example, the second bridge portion may comprise at least one extension portion that extends in the direction of the central axis beyond the first end coupling element and/or the second end coupling element. A distance in the direction of the central axis between an end surface of the first end coupling element and a first distal end of one of said at least one extension portions may be equal to or greater than 0.45 of the pitch of the plurality coupling elements and/or equal to or less than 0.55 of the pitch of the plurality coupling elements. The second bridge portion may comprise two extension portions. A third extension portion may extend beyond the first end coupling element. A fourth extension portion may extend beyond the second end coupling element. A distance in the direction of the central axis between an end surface of the second end coupling element and a second distal end extension portion may be equal to or greater than 0.45 of the pitch of the plurality coupling elements and/or equal to or less than 0.55 of the pitch of the plurality coupling elements.

The second bridge portion may not extend (e.g. axially) beyond the first end coupling element and/or the second end coupling element. The second bridge portion may form part of the second portion of the joint element. The second bridge portion may comprise a tape engaging surface. The tape engaging surface of the second bridge portion may comprise a grip arrangement for, when the joint element is mounted on the fastener tape, securing the position of the joint element on the fastener tape in the direction of the central axis.

The grip arrangement of the tape engaging surface of the second bridge portion may comprise a surface irregularity. The grip arrangement of the tape engaging surface of the second bridge portion may comprise one or more protrusions. The grip arrangement of the tape engaging surface of the second bridge portion may comprise one or more teeth. The grip arrangement of the tape engaging surface of the second bridge portion may comprise indentations. The indentations may be knurling. The grip arrangement of the tape engaging surface of the second bridge portion may comprise one or more protrusions that protrude from the tape engaging surface of the second bridge portion. Where the tape engaging surfaces of both the first and second bridge portions comprise a grip arrangement, the position of the grip arrangement of the tape engaging surface of the first bridge portion may be offset from the position of the grip arrangement of the tape engaging surface of the second bridge portion. The number of protrusions and/or indentations and/or teeth of the tape engaging surface of the first bridge portion may different to the number of protrusions and/or indentations and/or teeth of the tape engaging surface of the second bridge portion.

The first portion may comprise an attachment portion. The second portion may comprise an attachment portion. The attachment portions of the first and second portions may be complementary to one another. The attachment portion of the first portion may be a male attachment portion. The attachment portion of the second portion may be female. The male attachment portion may be blunt.

In a second aspect of the invention there is provided a slide fastener. The slide fastener comprises a first stringer. The first stringer comprises a first fastener tape, a first cord of the first fastener tape, a first plurality of coupling elements disposed along a longitudinal edge of the first fastener tape, a second fastener tape, a second cord of the second fastener tape, and a second plurality of coupling elements disposed along a longitudinal edge of the second fastener tape. The longitudinal edge of the first and second fastener tapes extends along a longitudinal axis. A joint element of the first aspect of the invention is mounted to the first and second fastener tapes of the first stringer, such that the channel of the joint element receives the first cord or the second cord or both.

Where "a joint element" is referred to, it will be appreciated that this may mean the slide fastener has a single joint element or the slide fastener has more than one joint element (for example two or more joint elements).

The slide fastener may further comprise a second stringer. The second stringer may comprise a fastener tape. The fastener tape may comprise a longitudinal edge. The second stringer may further comprise a plurality of coupling elements disposed along the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape.

The first plurality of coupling elements of the first fastener tape of the first stringer and the second plurality of coupling elements of the second fastener tape of the first stringer may be engageable with the plurality of coupling elements of the second stringer. Interdigitation of the first plurality of coupling elements of the first fastener tape of the first stringer and the second plurality of coupling elements of the second fastener tape of the first stringer with the plurality of coupling elements of the second stringer may be such that the plurality of coupling elements of the first stringer can couple in an interdigitated manner along a fastener axis with corresponding coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements of the second stringer to secure the first stringer to the second stringer The slide 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 of the first fastener tape of the first stringer and the second plurality of coupling elements of the second fastener tape of the first stringer to couple in an interdigitated manner with the plurality of coupling elements of the second stringer. The slider may also be slidable in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, such that the slider urges the first plurality of coupling elements of the first fastener tape of the first stringer and the second plurality of coupling elements of the second fastener tape of the first stringer to uncouple from the plurality of coupling elements of the second stringer.

The joint element may not extend transversely beyond the first plurality of coupling elements in a rearward direction. A rearmost point in a transverse direction of the joint element may be generally in line with a rearmost point, in the transverse direction, of the first plurality of coupling elements. The transverse direction may be defined by a transverse axis. The transverse axis may be generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A rearmost point of the first bridge portion may not extend transversely beyond the first plurality of coupling elements in a rearward direction. A rearmost point of the first bridge portion may be generally in line with a rearmost point, in the transverse direction, of the first plurality of coupling elements. Advantageously, this arrangement allows smooth operation of a slider of the slider fastener. The slider is configured to run over the first plurality of coupling elements. Because the joint element, does not extend beyond, and/or is in line with, the first plurality of coupling elements, the joint element does not interfere with the motion of the slider. This applies mutatis mutandis to the first bridge portion.

It will be appreciated that the advantages discussed with respect to the first aspect of the invention apply to this aspect mutatis mutandis.

The first plurality of coupling elements, the second plurality of coupling elements and the plurality of coupling elements of the joint element may each be spaced apart along the longitudinal axis such that each pair of adjacent elements define a pitch distance along the longitudinal axis. The pitch distances of the first plurality of coupling elements, of the second plurality of coupling elements and of the plurality of coupling elements of the joint element may be equal. Additionally or alternatively, the size and shape of the coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements of the joint element are identical to the size and shape of the first plurality of coupling elements and of the second plurality of coupling elements or both.

Coupling elements of known joint elements are spaced apart by two or more pitch distances.

Where the pitch distance of the coupling elements of the joint element is equal to the pitch distance of the coupling elements of the first plurality of coupling elements and the second plurality of coupling elements, the slider passes over the coupling elements of the joint element, the first plurality of coupling elements and the second plurality of coupling elements in a uniform manner. This provides smooth operation of the slider of the slide fastener when it passes over the joint element.

The first fastener tape may at least partially overlap the second fastener tape.

The slide fastener may comprise a second stringer. The second stringer may comprise a third plurality of coupling elements. In use, the third plurality of coupling elements may be couplable with the first plurality of coupling elements, second plurality of coupling elements and the plurality of coupling elements of the joint element to couple the first stringer and the second stringer together.

The second stringer may comprise: a third fastener tape, a third cord of the third fastener tape, a fourth fastener tape, a fourth cord of the fourth fastener tape. A second joint element as defined by the first aspect of the invention may be mounted to the third and fourth fastener tapes of the second stringer, such that the channel of the second joint element receives the third cord and/or the fourth cord.

In a third aspect of the invention there is provided a method of forming a slide fastener stringer. The method comprising providing a first stringer portion. The first stringer portion comprising a first fastener tape, a first cord and a first plurality of coupling elements disposed along a longitudinal edge of the first fastener tape. The method further comprising providing a second stringer portion. The second stringer portion comprising a second fastener tape, a second cord and a second plurality of coupling elements disposed along a longitudinal edge of the second fastener tape. The method further comprising joining the first fastener tape to the second fastener tape thereby forming a joint, and mounting a joint element according to the first aspect of the invention at the joint such that at least a portion of the first cord or at least a portion of the second cord or at least a portion of both cords is exposed between adjacent coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements of the joint element.

The first cord and the second cord may form a single cord portion at the joint.

Alternatively, the first cord portion may abut the second cord portion.

Joining the first fastener tape to the second fastener tape may comprise overlapping at least part of the first fastener tape with at least part of the second fastener tape. Overlapping at least part of the first fastener tape with at least part of the second fastener tape may result in the joint forming an overlapped region.

Overlapping at least part of the first fastener tape with at least part of the second fastener tape advantageously provides an improved joint between the first and second fastener tapes. By overlapping the first and second fastener tapes, the joint element may be mounted to the overlapped region. Mounting the joint element to the overlapped region may improve the strength of the joint between the joint element and the first and second fastener tapes.

In a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a method of joining two fastener stringer portions. The method comprises providing a first stringer portion. The first stringer portion comprises a first fastener tape, a first cord and a first plurality of coupling elements disposed along a longitudinal edge of the first fastener tape. The method further comprises providing a second stringer portion, the second stringer portion comprising second a fastener tape, a second cord and a second plurality of coupling elements disposed along a longitudinal edge of the second fastener tape. The method further comprises joining the first fastener tape to the second fastener tape by overlapping and joining at least part of the first fastener tape with at least a part of the second fastener tape thereby forming an overlapped region, and mounting a joint element to the first and second fastener tapes at the overlapped region.

Joining the first fastener tape to the second fastener tape may comprise bonding the first fastener tape to the second fastener tape. The thickness of the overlapped region may be generally equal to or less than the thickness of each of the first fastener tape and of the second fastener tape.

Since at least part of the first fastener tape is overlapped with at least part of the second fastener tape, the joint between the first fastener tape and the second fastener tape at the contact area between the first fastener tape and the second fastener tape is increased as compared to fastener tapes that are joined via an abutting region.

Increasing the contact area advantageously makes the connection/joint between the first fastener tape and the second fastener tape more robust.

In addition, since the joint element is mounted to the first and second fastener tapes at the overlapped region, the first fastener tape and the second fastener tape may be sandwiched between the joint element and the joint element may contact both the first fastener tape and the second fastener tape. Therefore, the total thickness of material to which the joint element is bonded is increased relative to a joint element that only sandwiches a single fastener tape (or un-overlapped fastener tapes). This advantageously enhances the strength of the bonding of the joint element to the fastener tapes.

The method may comprise, before joining the first fastener tape to the second fastener tape, removing at least one end coupling element from the first fastener tape or the second fastener tape or both.

The at least one end coupling element which is removed from the first fastener tape and/or second fastener tape may be at a location which is at the overlapped region when at least a part of the first fastener tape and at least a part of the second fastener tape are overlapped and joined.

The method may further comprise trimming the region of the first fastener tape and/or second fastener tape from which the at least one end coupling element has been removed to a predetermined length.

The joint element is may be a joint element according to the first aspect of the invention.

The joint element may be mounted to the first and second fastener tapes such that at least a portion of the first cord or at least a portion of the second cord or both are exposed between adjacent coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements of the joint element.

The channel may be configured such that, when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape, the cord of the only part of the fastener tape that is exposed between adjacent coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements.

The method of one or both of the third and fourth aspects of the invention may further comprise securing the joint element to the first and second fastener tapes using two or more of (i) an adhesive, (ii) welding, and (iii) a mechanical connection. For example, the securing may use (i) and (ii), (i) and (iii), (ii) and (iii), or (i), (ii) and (hi).

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a stringer of a slide fastener; Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a portion of a stringer of a slide fastener with a joint element according to an embodiment of the present invention mounted thereon; Figure 3a shows a first portion of the joint element of Figure 2; Figure 3b shows a second portion of the joint element of Figure 2; Figure 4 shows a cross sectional view of the joint element of Figure 2; Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a first stringer portion and a second stringer portion of the portion of the stringer of Figure 2; Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the portion of the stringer of Figure 2 prior to mounting of the joint element; Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the portion of the stringer of Figure 2 with the joint element exploded therefrom; Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a stringer of a slide fastener with a joint element according to a modified embodiment of the present invention mounted thereon; Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a stringer of a slide fastener with a joint element according to a further modified embodiment of the present invention exploded therefrom; Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a stringer of a slide fastener with a joint element according to a further modified embodiment of the present invention mounted thereon; Figure 11 shows a schematic view of a known slide fastener; Figure 12 shows a plan view of the portion of the stringer of Figure 2; Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a joint element according to a further modified embodiment of the present invention; Figure 14 shows a side view of the joint element of Figure 13; Figure 15 shows a further side view of the joint element of Figure 13; Figure 16 shows a side view of the joint element of Figure 13 during the process of mounting the joint element onto a stringer of a slide fastener; and Figure 17 shows a side view of the joint element of Figure 13 mounted onto a stringer of a slide fastener.

Detailed Description

Figure 11 shows a slide fastener 1. The slide fastener comprises a slider 3 and a pair of stringers 2a, 2b. Each stringer 2a, 2b comprises a plurality of coupling elements 10a, 10b (also referred to as teeth) which are attached to a respective longitudinal edge 6a, 6b of a respective tape 4a, 4b. The tapes may be woven or knitted.

The two stringers 2a, 2b when brought together (as shown in the bottom portion of Figure 11), are such that the coupling elements 10a, 10b of each stringer 2a, 2b can attach to one another, by interdigitating, to form a chain 5. The chain 5 is generally planar, and the chain (and the coupling elements 10a, 10b, which form part of the chain) extends along a longitudinal axis L of the chain.

As discussed in more detail below, each of the coupling elements 10a, 10b include head and neck portions. When the coupling elements 10a, 10b are brought together such that they interdigitate, the head and neck portions of the coupling elements 10a of the first stringer 2a co-operate with the head and neck portions of the coupling elements 10b of the second stringer 2b to prevent lateral separation in a direction generally parallel to a lateral axis T of the coupling elements.

The slider 3 is mounted to the chain 5 such that it can move along the chain between the two stringers 2a, 2b. Movement of the slider 3 along the chain 5 in a first sliding direction E causes the coupling elements 10a of the first stringer 2a to attach to the coupling elements 2b of the second stringer 2b. Whereas movement of the slider along the chain in a second sliding direction D, opposite to the first sliding direction E, causes the coupling elements 10a of the first stringer 2a to detach from the coupling elements 10b of the second stringer 2b.

Figure 1 shows a stringer 2 for a slide fastener. The stringer 2 may be either of the stringers 2a, 2b of the slide fastener of Figure 11. The stringer 2 comprises a fastener tape 7. The fastener tape 7 defines a longitudinal edge 6. The longitudinal edge 6 of the fastener tape 7 comprises a cord 8. The cord 8 is woven, knitted or otherwise incorporated at the longitudinal edge 6 of the tape 7. Therefore, the longitudinal edge 6 is reinforced. For example, the cord may be formed as a portion which has a greater thickness than the remaining portion of the fastener tape. The longitudinal edge 6 may therefore be referred to as a reinforced longitudinal edge. Disposed along the longitudinal edge 6 of the fastener tape 7 are a plurality of coupling elements 10 (only one of which is labelled in Figure 1). The coupling elements 10 of stringers 2 for slide fasteners define a pitch distance. The pitch distance is the distance between corresponding points of adjacent coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements 10.

The stringer 2 comprises a first end 11 and a second end 13. The first end 11 is opposed to the second end 13 (that is, the first end 11 and second end 13 are spaced from one another along a longitudinal axis of the stringer which corresponds to a sliding axis of a slide fastener of which the stringer may form part). The plurality of coupling elements 10 comprise a first group of end coupling elements 15 and a second group of end coupling elements 17. The first group of end coupling elements 15 is located adjacent to the first end 11 of the stringer 2. The second group of end coupling elements 17 is located adjacent to the second end 13 of the stringer 2. Each of the first group of end coupling elements 15 and the second group of end coupling elements 17 comprises three coupling elements. However, each of the first group of end coupling elements 15 and the second group of end coupling elements 17 can comprise any number of coupling elements, greater than or equal to one. In addition, the number of coupling elements in the first group of end coupling elements 15 may differ from the number of coupling elements in the second group of end coupling elements 17.

The coupling elements 10 may be attached to the fastener tape 7 by any appropriate method, for example, by use of adhesive or by crimping or moulding the coupling elements onto the longitudinal edge 6 of the fastener tape 7. The coupling elements 10 may be made of any suitable material. For example, the coupling elements 10 may be made of a plastic, a plastic resin, a metal, an alloy or a thermoplastic, such as polyacetal. The coupling elements 10 are engageable with a corresponding plurality of coupling elements of another stringer (not shown), thereby forming a chain of a slide fastener.

The stringer 2 can be used with another, generally identical, stringer (not shown) and a slider (not shown) to form a slide fastener, as is well known in the art. The slide fastener may be used in a variety of applications. For example, the slide fastener may be used to hold two parts of netting together releasably. The netting may be used, for example, in fishing or agriculture. Such netting is large and so requires the slide fastener to be of lengths that may be in excess of 500 metres (although the present invention may be applied to any length of slide fastener). The stringers of such slide fasteners may include many hundreds or thousands of coupling elements. Slide fasteners of such lengths are difficult to package and transport, this applies both to within a production process, and when transporting the slide fasteners to the site where the fasteners will be used. It is therefore desirable to be able to be able to manufacture shorter lengths of fastener stringers to be joined together to form a longer fastener stringer on site using a joint element.

Figure 2 shows a portion of a stringer 12 to which a joint element 14 according to the present invention is mounted. The stringer 12 comprises a first portion 12a and a second portion 12b. The first portion 12a and the second portion 12b may be formed from stringers described with reference to Figure 1, as will be discussed in more detail below. The first portion 12a of the stringer 12 comprises a first fastener tape 16. The second portion 12b of the stringer 12 comprises a second fastener tape 18. The first fastener tape 16 and the second fastener tape 18 may be separately formed, or the first fastener tape and the second fastener tape may each form a part of a loop of fastener tape. The first fastener tape 16 comprises a first cord 19. The first fastener tape 16 comprises a first longitudinal edge 20. The first fastener tape 16 comprises a first side 17. The first fastener tape 16 comprises a second side (not visible in Figure 2). The second side is opposed to the first side 17. It may be said that the first side 17 is a first or upper face of the first fastener tape, and the second side is a second or lower face of the first fastener tape. The first portion 12a comprises a first plurality of coupling elements 22 (only one of which is labelled in Figure 2). The first plurality of coupling elements 22 are disposed along the first longitudinal edge 20 of the first fastener tape 16. The second fastener tape 18 comprises a second cord 24. The second fastener tape 18 comprises a second longitudinal edge 26. The second fastener tape 18 comprises a first side 21. The second fastener tape 18 comprises a second side (not visible in Figure 2). The second side is opposed to the first side 21. It may be said that the first side 21 is a first or upper face of the second fastener tape, and the second side is a second or lower face of the second fastener tape. The second portion 12b comprises a second plurality of coupling elements 28 (only one of which is labelled in Figure 2). The second plurality of coupling elements 28 are disposed along the second longitudinal edge 26 of the second fastener tape 18. The first longitudinal edge 20 and the second longitudinal edge 26 are collinear and define a longitudinal axis 27 of the stringer 12.

The first fastener tape 16 of the first portion 12a of the stringer 12 comprises a first end portion 32. Where the first fastener tape 16 and the second fastener tape are separately formed, the first fastener tape 16 comprises a further end portion that is located as an opposite end of the first fastener tape to the first end portion 32. The first end portion 32 can also be referred to as a first tape extension portion. The first plurality of coupling elements 22 terminate where the first end portion 32 begins. That is to say, the first end portion 32 does not comprise any coupling elements of the first plurality of coupling elements 22. The second fastener tape 18 comprises a second end portion (not visible in Figure 2 -it is beneath the first end portion 32). Where the first fastener tape 16 and the second fastener tape are separately formed, the second fastener tape 18 may comprise a further end portion that is located at an opposite end of the second fastener tape 18 to the second end portion. The second end portion can also be referred to as a second tape extension portion. The second plurality of coupling elements 26 terminate where the second end portion begins. That is to say, the second end portion does not comprise any coupling elements of the second plurality of coupling elements 28. The first end portion 32 and the second end portion are overlapped to form an overlapped region 30. The overlapped region 30 comprises a first side 34. The overlapped region 30 comprises a second side (not visible in Figure 2 -it is on the underside of the stringer). The second side is opposed to the first side. The first side 34 of the overlapped region 30 may be the first side 17 of the first fastener tape or the first side 21 of the second fastener tape 18. The second side of the overlapped region 30 may be the second side of the first fastener tape 16 or the second side of the second fastener tape 18. In the present example, the first side 34 of the overlapped region 30 is the first side 17 of the first fastener tape, and the second side of the overlapped region 30 is the second side of the second fastener tape. The pitch distance of the first plurality of coupling elements 22 is generally equal to the pitch distance of the second plurality of coupling elements 28. As already discussed, the pitch distance of a plurality of coupling elements is the distance (parallel to the longitudinal axis) between a particular point on a first coupling element and the same point on a second coupling element, the second coupling element being adjacent to the first coupling element.

The joint element 14 is mounted to the stringer 12 at the overlapped region 30. The joint element 14 comprises a plurality of coupling elements 31 (only one of which is labelled in Figure 2). The plurality of coupling elements 31 define a pitch distance. The pitch distance of the plurality of coupling elements 31 of the joint element 14 is generally equal to the pitch distance of the first plurality of coupling elements 22 of the first portion 12a of the stringer 12 and of the second plurality of coupling elements 28 of the second portion 12b of the stringer 12. Advantageously, this provides smooth operation of a slider (not shown) of a slide fastener of which the stringer forms part.

The joint element 14 is formed of a first portion 36, shown in Figure 3a, and a second portion 38, shown in Figure 3b. The first portion 36 is separately formed from the second portion 38. The joint element 14 may be made of any suitable material, such as a plastic, a plastic resin, a thermoplastic, such as polyacetal, or a metal or an alloy.

Referring now to Figure 3a, in which the first portion 36 of the joint element is shown. The first portion 36 extends along a central axis 54. The central axis 54 is a central axis of the first portion 36 of the joint element. Once the joint element has been attached to a stringer of a fastener, the central axis will be generally collinear with the longitudinal axis of that stringer. The plurality of coupling elements 31 of the joint element 14 comprise a first end coupling element 33 and a second end coupling element 35. The first end coupling element 33 is located at an opposite end (in the direction of the central axis 54) of the joint element to the second end coupling element 35. The first portion 36 comprises a first side 37. The first portion 36 comprises a second side (not visible in Figure 3a -as it is the underside). The second side is opposed to the first side 37. The first portion 36 comprises a first bridge portion 39. The first bridge portion 39 comprises a first tape engaging surface 40. The first tape engaging surface 40 forms part of the first side 37 of the first portion 36. In use, the first tape engaging surface 40 can engage either of the first side or the second side of the overlapped region of the stringer (not shown in Figure 3a).

Extending from the first bridge portion 39 are a first plurality of coupling element portions 42 (only one of which is labelled in Figure 3a). The coupling element portions of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 are spaced apart along the first bridge portion 39 (in the direction of the central axis, when the joint element is mounted to the tapes of the stringer). That is to say, adjacent coupling element portions of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 do not directly contact one another. Therefore, a space 56 (only one of which is labelled in Figure 3a) is provided between adjacent coupling element portions of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42. In the depicted embodiment, the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 comprises three coupling element portions (and hence two spaces between adjacent coupling element portions). In other, non-depicted embodiments, the plurality of coupling element portions may comprise any suitable number of coupling element portions. For example, the plurality of coupling element portions may comprise equal to or greater than two coupling element portions and/or may comprise equal to or less than five coupling element portions. It will be appreciated that there will be one less space between adjacent coupling element portions than the number of coupling element portions. The coupling element portions of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 each comprise a body 44, a head 46, a neck 48 and shoulders 50 (only one of which is labelled in Figure 3a). The shoulders 50 adjoin the body 44. The neck 48 adjoins (and is intermediate) the head 46 and the shoulders 50. The coupling element portions of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 each define a respective connection surface 45 (only one of which is labelled in Figure 3a). The connection surfaces 45 form a part of the first side 37 of the first portion 36.

The first plurality of coupling element portions 42 comprises a first end coupling element portion 57 and a second end coupling element portion 59. The first end coupling element portion 57 is located at an opposite end (in the direction of the central axis 54) of the first bridge portion 39 to the second end coupling element portion 57. The first end coupling element portion 57 defines a first end surface 61 in the direction of the central axis 54.

The first end surface 61 is defined by the body 44 of the first end coupling element portion 57. The first end surface 61 of the first end coupling element portion 57 is the outwardly facing (i.e. facing away from the second end coupling element portion in the direction of the central axis 54) surface of the first end coupling element portion 57. When the first portion 36 is mounted onto the stringer, the first end surface 61 faces the second plurality of coupling elements of the second stringer portion (not shown in Figure 3a). The first end surface 61 of the first end coupling element portion defines an outermost surface in the direction of the central axis (which includes an outermost point in the direction of the central axis 54) of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42.

The second end coupling element portion 59 defines a second end surface (not visible in Figure 3a) in the direction of the central axis 54. The second end surface is defined by the body 44 of the second end coupling element portion 59. The second end surface of the second end coupling element portion 59 is the outwardly facing (i.e. facing away from the first end coupling element portion in the direction of the central axis 54) surface of the second end coupling element portion 59. The second end surface faces a direction that is generally opposite to the direction that the first end surface 61 of the first end coupling element portion 57 faces. When the first portion 36 is mounted onto the stringer, the second end surface faces the first plurality of coupling elements of the first stringer portion (not shown in Figure 3a). The second end surface of the second end coupling element portion defines an outermost surface in the direction of the central axis (which includes an outermost point in the direction of the central axis 54) of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42.

The first portion 36 of the joint element comprises a groove 52. In use, the groove 52 cooperates with a corresponding groove of the second portion 38 to form a channel or cord receiving portion, as will be discussed in more detail below. The groove 52 adjoins the first tape engaging surface 40 of the first bridge portion 39. The groove 52 extends along the central axis 54. The groove 52 extends into the first side 37 of the first portion 36. The groove 52 extends into (or along in the direction of the central axis 54) the body 44 of each of the coupling element portions of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42. Therefore, each coupling element portion of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 comprises a respective groove portion 52a, 52b, 52c of the groove 52. In the depicted embodiment, the groove portions 52a, 52b, 52c do not physically adjoin one another. This is because the coupling element portions of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 are spaced apart along the first bridge portion 39, and because the groove portions 52a, 52b, 52c extend into the body 44 of a respective coupling element portion. In other, non-depicted, embodiments, the groove portions may physically adjoin one another. That is to say, the groove portions 52a, 52b, 52c are spaced apart along the central axis 54. The spaces between the groove portions each form a part of a respective space of the spaces 56 that are disposed between each coupling element portion.

The groove portions 52a, 52b, 52c are generally identical to one another and each extend along the central axis 54. The groove portions 52a, 52b, 52c are arc-shaped in cross-section (perpendicular to the central axis). The angle subtended by the ends of the arc (either side of the central axis) of each groove portion 52a, 52b, 52c is 180 degrees or less. In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the groove portions may be generally semi-circular in cross-section. Other shapes for the groove portions 52a, 52b, 52c will be apparent to a person skilled in the art.

The first bridge portion 39 extends so that at a first end it is generally level, in the direction of the central axis 54, with the first end surface 61 of the first end coupling element portion 57; and extends so that at a second end it is generally level with the second end surface 61 of the second end coupling element portion 59 of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42. In other words, the first bridge portion 39 does not extend (in a direction parallel to the central axis) beyond the first end coupling element portion 57 or the second end coupling element portion 59.

The first portion 36 further comprises a plurality of bores 58 (only one of which is labelled in Figure 3a). Each bore of the plurality of bores 58 extends into the first side 37 of the first portion 36. In particular, the bores of the plurality of bores 58 each extend into the connection surface 45 of a respective coupling element portion of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42. The bores of the plurality of bores 58 extend generally perpendicular to the first side 37. The bores of the plurality of bores 58 are generally cylindrical. In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the bores of the plurality of bores may be frustoconical, or any other suitable shape. The bores of the plurality of bores 58 are blind bores. The bores of the plurality of bores 58 do not extend all the way through the first portion 36. The bores of the plurality of bores 58 each extend into a respective coupling element portion of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42. Each bore of the plurality of bores 58 extends into its respective coupling element portion at a midpoint in the direction of the central axis 54 of the coupling element portion. The plurality of bores 58 form an attachment portion of the first portion 36. The plurality of bores 58 may be referred to as a female attachment portion of the joint element. The plurality of bores 58 may be referred to as a first attachment portion of the joint element.

In the depicted embodiment, the number of bores of the plurality of bores 58 corresponds with the number of coupling element portions of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42. In some, non-depicted embodiments, the number of bores of the plurality of bores may be less than the number of coupling element portions of the first plurality of coupling element portions.

Figure 3b depicts the second portion 38 of the joint element. The second portion 38 extends along a central axis 78. The central axis 78 is a central axis of the second portion 38 of the joint element. Once the joint element has been attached to a stringer of a fastener, the central axis will be generally collinear with the longitudinal axis of that stringer. The second portion 38 comprises a first side 60. The second portion 38 comprises a second side (not visible in Figure 3b -as it is the underside as depicted therein). The second side is opposed to the first side 60. The second portion 38 comprises a second bridge portion 62. The second bridge portion 62 comprises a second tape engaging surface 64. The second tape engaging surface 64 forms part of the first side 60 of the second portion 38. In use, the second tape engaging surface 64 engages the side of the overlapped region of the fastener tape that is opposed to the side of the overlapped region that that the first tape engaging surface 40 of the first portion 36 engages.

Extending from the second bridge portion 62 are a second plurality of coupling element portions 66 (only one of which is labelled in Figure 3b). The coupling element portions of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66 are spaced apart along the second bridge portion 62 (in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the stringer, when the joint element is mounted to the tapes of the stringer). That is to say, adjacent coupling element portions of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66 do not directly contact one another. Therefore, a space 80 (only one of which is labelled in Figure 3b) is provided between adjacent coupling element portions of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66. In the depicted embodiment, the second plurality of coupling element portions 66 comprises three coupling element portions (and hence two spaces between adjacent coupling element portions). In other, non-depicted embodiments, the plurality of coupling element portions may comprise any suitable number of coupling element portions. For example, the plurality of coupling element portions may comprise equal to or greater than two coupling element portions and/or may comprise equal to or less than five coupling element portions. The second plurality of coupling element portions 66 of the second portion 38 preferably comprises the same number of coupling element portions as the plurality of coupling element portions of the first portion of the joint element. It will be appreciated that there will be one less space between adjacent coupling element portions than the number of coupling element portions. The coupling element portions of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66 each comprise a body 68, a head 70, a neck 72 and shoulders 74. The shoulders 74 adjoin the body 68. The neck 72 adjoins (and is intermediate) the head 70 and the shoulders 74. Each coupling element portion of the plurality of coupling element portions defines a connection surface (only one of which is labelled in Figure 3b). The connection surfaces 75 each form a part of the first side 60 of the second portion 38.

The plurality of second coupling element portions 66 comprise a first end coupling element portion 77 and a second end coupling element portion 79. The first end coupling element portion 77 is located at an opposite end (in the direction of the central axis 78) of the second bridge portion 62 to the second end coupling element portion 79. The first end coupling element portion 77 defines a first end surface (not visible in Figure 3b) in the direction of the central axis 78. The first end surface is defined by the body 68 of the first end coupling element portion 77. The first end surface of the first end coupling element portion 77 is the outwardly facing (i.e. facing away from the second end coupling element portion in the direction of the central axis 78) surface of the first end coupling element portion. When the second portion 38 is mounted onto the stringer, the first end surface faces the second plurality of coupling elements of the second stringer portion (not shown in Figure 3b). The first end surface of the first end coupling element portion defines an outermost surface in the direction of the central axis 78 (which includes an outermost point in the direction of the central axis 78) of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66.

The second end coupling element portion 79 defines a second end surface 81 in the direction of the central axis 78. The second end surface 81 is defined by the body 68 of the second end coupling element portion 79. The second end surface 81 of the second end coupling element portion 79 is the outwardly facing (i.e. facing away from the first end coupling element portion in the direction of the central axis 78) surface of the second end coupling element portion. The second end surface 81 faces a direction that is generally opposite to the direction that the first end surface of the first end coupling element portion 77 faces. When the second portion 38 is mounted onto the stringer, the second end surface 81 faces the first plurality of coupling elements of the first stringer portion (not shown in Figure 3b). The second end surface of the second end coupling element portion defines the outermost surface in the direction of the central axis (which includes an outermost point in the direction of the central axis) of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66.

The second portion 38 of the joint element comprises a groove 76. The groove 76 adjoins the second tape engaging surface 64 of the second bridge portion 62. The groove 76 extends along the central axis 78. The groove 76 extends into the first side 60 of the second portion 38. The groove 76 extends into (or along in the direction of the central axis 78) the body 68 of each of the coupling element portions of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66. Therefore, each coupling element portion of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66 comprises a respective groove portion 76a, 76b, 76c of the groove 76. In the depicted embodiment, the groove portions 76a, 76b, 76c do not physically adjoin one another. This is because the coupling element portions of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66 are spaced apart along the second bridge portion 62, and because the groove portions 76a, 76b, 76c extend into the body 68 of a respective coupling element portion. In other, non-depicted, embodiments, the groove portions may physically adjoin one another. That is to say, the groove portions 76a, 76b, 76c are spaced apart along the central axis 78. The spaces between the groove portions each form a part of a respective space of the spaces 80 that are disposed between each coupling element portion.

The groove portions 76a, 76b, 76c are generally identical to one another and each extend along the central axis 78. The groove portions 76a, 76b, 76c are arc-shaped in cross-section (perpendicular to the central axis). The angle subtended by the ends of the arc (either side of the central axis) of each groove portion 76a, 76b, 76c is 180 degrees or less. In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the groove portions may be generally semi-circular in cross-section. Other shapes of the groove portions 76a, 76b, 76c will be apparent to a person skilled in the art. In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the shape of the groove portions of the first portion of the joint element may be different from that of the groove portions of the second portion of the joint element.

The second bridge portion 62 extends so that at a first end it is generally level, in the direction of the central axis 78, with the first end surface of first end coupling element portion 77; and extends so that at a second end it is generally level with the second end surface of the second end coupling element portion 79 of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66. In other words, the second bridge portion 62 does not extend (in a direction parallel to the central axis) beyond the first end coupling element portion 77 or the second end coupling element portion 79.

The second portion 38 further comprises a plurality of projections 82 (only one of which is labelled in Figure 3b). Each projection of the plurality of projections 82 extends from the first side 60 of the second portion 38. In particular, the projections of the plurality of projections 82 each extend from the connection surface 75 of a respective coupling element portion of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66. The projections of the plurality of projections 82 extend generally perpendicular to the first side 60. The projections of the plurality of projections 82 are generally frustoconical. However, in some, non-depicted, the projections of the plurality of projections may be generally cylindrical or any other suitable shape. The shape of the projections 82 is preferably complementary to the shape of the bores of the first portion (not shown in Figure 3b). The projections of the plurality of projections 82 each extend from a respective coupling element portion of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66. The position of each projection of the plurality of projections 82 corresponds with a respective bore of the plurality of bores of the first portion (not shown in Figure 3a). The shape of the projections of the plurality of projections 82 generally corresponds with the shape of the bores of the plurality of bores of the first portion. The plurality of projections 82 form an attachment portion of the second portion 38. The plurality of projections 82 may be referred to as a male attachment portion of the joint element. The plurality of projections 82 may be referred to as a second attachment portion of the joint element. In the depicted embodiment, the number of projections of the plurality of projections 82 corresponds with the number of coupling element portions of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66. In some, non-depicted embodiments, the number of projections of the plurality of projections may be less than the number of coupling element portions of the second plurality of coupling element portions. In addition, in some, non-depicted, embodiments, the number of projections of the plurality of projections may be less than or equal to the number of bores of the plurality of bores of the first portion. The number of projections and bores provided may be dependent upon the required strength of bonding between the first portion 36 and the second portion 38.

Figure 4 depicts a cross-sectional view taken through the mid-point in the direction of the central axis (of either or both of the first portion 36 or of the second portion 38)of one of the coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements of the joint element 14 when the joint element is in an assembled state. Although Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view through one of the coupling elements of the joint element, the following description can be applied to all of the coupling elements of the joint element. The assembled state refers to the state that the joint element is in when mounted onto a stringer (not shown in Figure 4) of a slide fastener. As can be seen, in the assembled state, the plurality of bores 58 of the first portion 36 each receive a respective projection of the plurality of projections 82 of the second portion 38.

The first tape engaging surface 40 of the first portion 36 is offset from the connection surface 45 of the coupling element portion of the first portion -that is to say the tape engaging surface 40 and the connection surface 45 are not co-planar. The offset between the first tape engaging surface 40 of the first portion 36 and the connection surface 45 of the first coupling element 36 portion is approximately equal to half of the thickness of the fastener tape (not shown) onto which the joint element 14 is to be mounted. In other, non-depicted, embodiments, the offset may be any other suitable distance. The second tape engaging surface 64 of the second portion 38 is offset from the connection surface 75 of the coupling element portion of the second portion -that is to say the tape engaging surface 64 and the connection surface 75 are not co-planar. The offset between the second tape engaging surface 64 of the second portion 38 and the connection surface 75 of the coupling element portion of the second portion 38 is approximately equal to half of the thickness of the fastener tape (not shown) onto which the joint element 14 is to be mounted. In other, non-depicted, embodiments, the offset may be any other suitable distance. In the assembled state, the first portion 36 and the second portion 38 form a channel 84. The channel 84 extends along a central axis 87. When the joint element 14 is mounted onto a stringer (not shown) of a slide fastener, the channel receives the cord of the stringer. The channel 84 is defined by the grooves 52, 76 of the first portion 36 and of the second portion 38 respectively.

The method of forming the stringer 12 of Figure 2 using the joint element 14 will now be discussed. First, the first portion 12a of the stringer 12 and second portion 12b of the stringer are provided. At this stage, the first portion 12a and second portion 12b are each stringers as described with reference to Figure 1. At this stage, the first portion 12a is not connected to the second portion 12b.

Next, the first group of end coupling elements 15 is removed from the first portion 12a of the stringer 12 and the second group of end coupling elements 17 is removed from the second portion 12b of the stringer. It will be appreciated that it is alternatively possible that the second group of end coupling elements is removed from the first portion 12a and the first group of end coupling elements is removed from the second portion 12b.

Figure 5 shows the first portion 12a of the stringer 12 after the first group of end coupling elements has been removed. As can be seen from Figure 5, the first fastener tape 16 of the first portion 12a now comprises the first end portion 32. The first end portion 32 is identical to the remainder of the first fastener tape 16 except that it does not comprise any coupling elements. The first end portion 32 comprises a first cord end portion 92.

Figure 5 also shows the second portion 12b of the stringer 12 after the second group of end coupling elements 17 has been removed. As can be seen from Figure 5, the second fastener tape 18 of the second portion 12b now comprises the second end portion 90. The second end portion 90 is identical to the remainder of the second fastener tape 18 except that it does not comprise any coupling elements. The second end portion 90 comprises a second cord end portion 93. In some embodiments, the first portion 12a and the second portion 12b of the stringer 12 are manufactured without the first group of end coupling elements 15 and the second group of end coupling elements 17 respectively. In these embodiments, the above steps of removing the first group of end coupling elements and the second group of end coupling elements are not required.

Next, the first end portion 32 of the fastener tape 16 of the first portion 12a of the stringer 12 is joined with the second end portion 90 of the second fastener tape 18 of the second portion 12b of the stringer 12. To do this, the first end portion 32 is overlapped with the second end portion 90 to form the overlapped region 30. The first end portion 32 and the second end portion 90 are overlapped such that a cord of the first end portion and a cord of the second end portion adjoin one another. The first end portion 32 and the second end portion 90 are then connected to one another. The first end portion 32 and the second end portion 90 can be connected to one another using any suitable means. For example, the first end portion 32 and the second end portion 90 can be connected to one another using at least one of welding, such as ultrasonic welding, thermal welding or both, an adhesive, or by a mechanical connection such as stitching. Two or more of such connection methods may be used to connect the first end portion 32 to the second end portion 90. In some examples, all three connection methods may be used. Figure 6 shows the stringer 12 once the first end portion 32 has been connected to the second end portion (not visible in Figure 6 -it is on the underside of the stringer) at the overlapped region 30. In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the first end portion 32 has been joined with the second end portion using ultrasonic welding. As can be seen from Figure 6, the ultrasonic welding has resulted in the combined thickness of the first fastener tape 16 and the second fastener tape (not visible at the overlapped region in Figure 6 -it is on the underside of the first fastener tape) at the overlapped region 30 being generally equal to (but slightly greater than) the thickness of the remainder of each of the first fastener tape of the first portion 12a of the stringer 12 and the second fastener tape 18 of the second portion 12b of the stringer. Similarly, the size of the cord 8 at the overlapped region 30 is generally equal to (but slightly greater than) the size of the cord of each of the first fastener tape 16 of the first portion 12a of the stringer 12 and the second fastener tape 18 of the second portion 12b of the stringer. This is as a result of the first end portion 32, the second end portion 90 and the cord 8 being melted during the ultrasonic welding process. It will be appreciated that this can also apply to other connection methods, such as thermal welding.

The first plurality of coupling elements 22 comprises an end coupling element 23. The end coupling element 23 is positioned adjacent the overlapped region 20. The second plurality of coupling elements 28 comprises an end coupling element 25. The end coupling element 25 is positioned adjacent the overlapped region 30. A distance, G, from a point on the end coupling element 23 of the first plurality of coupling elements 22 to a corresponding point on the end coupling element 25 of the second plurality of coupling elements 28 is calculated using the equation G = P*(N+1), where P is the pitch distance and N is the number of coupling elements of the joint element (not present in Figure 6).

With reference to Figure 7, the joint element 14 is then mounted onto the stringer 12. To do this, the first tape engaging surface (not visible in Figure 7 -it is on the underside of the first portion 36) of the first bridge portion 39 of the first portion 36 and the second tape engaging surface 64 of the second bridge portion 62 of the second portion 38 are brought into contact with a respective one of the first side 34 and the second side (not visible in Figure 7 -it is on the underside of the overlapped region) of the overlapped region 30 of the stringer 12. The first portion 36 is positioned such that the groove (not visible in Figure 7 --it is on the underside of the first portion 36) of the first portion receives at least part of the cord 8 of the stringer 12. The second portion 38 is positioned such that the groove 78 of the second portion receives at least part of the cord 8 of the stringer 12. Therefore, once the joint element 14 is mounted onto the stringer 12, the cord 8 is received by the channel 84 of the joint element, formed, as discussed above, by the co-operation of the grooves of the first and second portions.

The first portion 36 and the second portion 38 are positioned such that the plurality of bores (not visible in Figure 7 -they are on the underside of the first portion 36) of the first portion each receive a respective projection of the plurality of projections 82 of the second portion. When the first portion 36 and the second portion 38 are mounted onto the stringer 12, the connection surfaces (not visible in Figure 7 -they are on the underside of the first portion 36) of the coupling element portions of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 of the first portion each engage a respective connection surface 75 of the coupling element portions of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66 of the second portion such that the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 of the first portion 36 and the second plurality of coupling element portions 66 of the second portion 38 together form the plurality of coupling elements 31.

With reference to Figure 2, the joint element 14 is mounted onto overlapped region 30 such that the spacing (parallel to the longitudinal axis) between a point on the first end coupling element 33 of the joint element and an equivalent point on an adjacent coupling element of the first plurality of coupling elements 22 of the first portion 12a of the stringer 12 is generally equal to the pitch distance of the first plurality of coupling elements. In addition, the joint element 14 is mounted onto overlapped region 30 such that the spacing (parallel to the longitudinal axis) between a point on the second end coupling element 35 and an equivalent point on an adjacent coupling element of the second plurality of coupling elements 28 of the second portion 12b of the stringer is generally equal to the pitch distance of the second plurality of coupling elements. To achieve this, the first end portion 32 of the first fastener tape 16 or the second end portion (not visible in Figure 2) or both of the second fastener tape 18 may be trimmed with a cutting tool to an appropriate length prior to the joining together of the first end portion with the second end portion and after removal of the first group of end coupling elements 15 from the first fastener tape and of the second group of end coupling elements 17 from the second fastener tape. The pitch distance of the first and second plurality of coupling elements is the same.

Once the joint element 14 is mounted onto the fastener, the first end surface 61 of the first end coupling element portion 57 of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 of the first portion 36 and the first end surface of the first end coupling element portion 77 of the second coupling element portions 66 of the second portion 38 together define a first end surface of the first end coupling element 33, which is adjacent the second plurality of coupling elements of the stringer. Once the joint element 14 is mounted onto the fastener, the second end surface of the second end coupling element portion 59 of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 of the first portion 36 and the second end surface 81 of the second end coupling element portion 79 of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66 of the second portion 38 together define a second end surface of the second end coupling element 35, which is adjacent the first plurality of coupling elements of the stringer. It will be appreciated that a degree of tolerance may be provided in that depending on the skill of the person attaching the joint element, or other reason, the resulting end surface of either the first coupling element or the second coupling element may not be flush.

The first bridge portion 39 of the first portion 36 of the joint element 14 and the second bridge portion 62 of the second portion 38 of the joint element, in particular the first tape engaging surface 40 of the first bridge portion and the second tape engaging surface 64 of the second bridge portion, are then connected to the overlapped region 30. This may be achieved by any suitable connection method. For example, the first bridge portion 39 and second bridge portion 62 may be connected to the overlapped region using an adhesive, a welding method such as ultrasonic welding or thermal welding, or a mechanical connection method such as sewing or stapling. It will be appreciated that where the first bridge portion 39 and the second bridge portion 62 are connected to the overlapped region using sewing, the first bridge portion and second bridge portion may be provided with apertures for receiving thread. The first bridge portion 39 and the second bridge portion 62 may be connected to the overlapped region using any combination of two or more of these connection methods.

The connection surfaces 45 (visible in Figure 3a) of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 of the first portion 36 are each connected to a respective connection surface (visible in Figure 3b) of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66 of the second portion 38. When the connection surfaces 45 of the coupling element portions of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 and the connection surfaces 75 of the coupling element portions of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66are connected to one another, the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 of the first portion 36 and the second plurality of coupling element portions 66 of the second portion 38 together form the plurality of coupling elements 31 of the joint element 14 (as shown in Figure 2). The connection surfaces of the coupling element portions may be connected to one another by any suitable connection method. For example, the connection surfaces 45, 75 may be connected to one another using an adhesive, a welding method such as ultrasonic welding or thermal welding, or a mechanical connection method. The connection surfaces 45, 75 may be connected to one another using any combination of two or more of these connection methods.

Figure 2 shows a portion of the stringer 12 once the process of mounting the joint element 14 to the first and second stringer portions is complete. As can be seen, the cord 8 of the stringer 12 is exposed between adjacent coupling elements 31. This is because, as discussed above, spaces 56, 80 are provided between adjacent coupling element portions of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42 of the first portion 36 and between adjacent coupling element portions of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66 of the second portion 38, and because the grooves 52, 76, which define the channel that receives the cord 8, extend into the coupling element portions. That is to say, the grooves 52,76 do not extend into the spaces 56, 80 that are disposed between respective coupling element portions 42, 66 of the respective one of the first portion 34 and the second portion 36 of the joint element 14. In addition, because the grooves 52, 76 adjoin a respective one of the first bridge portion 39 and the second bridge portion 62 (and because the cord is located at the very edge of the longitudinal edge of the tapes of the first and second stringer portions), the cord 8 is the only part of the stringer 12 that is exposed between adjacent coupling elements 31. In other, non-depicted, embodiments, at least part of the first fastener tape, the second fastener tape or both is exposed between adjacent coupling elements. Spaces 95, 97 are also provided between each end of the joint element 14 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 27 and a respective adjacent coupling element of the respective one of the first plurality of coupling elements 22 and the second plurality of coupling elements 28. The spaces 56, 80, 95, 97 provide flexibility to the stringer 12 in the region of the joint element 14.

With reference to Figure 12, the joint element 14 defines a rearmost point 83 in the direction of the transverse axis T. The transverse axis T is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 27. The rearmost point 83 is the point on the joint element 14 which is spaced furthest, in the direction of the transverse axis T, from the longitudinal axis 27 (or the longitudinal edge 6) of the stringer. Once the joint element 14 is mounted onto the first portion 12a of the stringer 12 and second portion 12b of the stringer 12, the rearmost point 83 of joint element 14 does not extend transversely (i.e., in the direction of the transverse axis T), in a rearward direction (i.e. away from the edge 6 of the stringer), beyond the first plurality of coupling elements 22 of the first portion 12a. In the depicted embodiment, the rearmost point 83 of the joint element 14 is in line with the rearmost points 85a, 85b of the pluralities of coupling elements 22, 28 of the first portion 12a and of the second portion 12b of the stringer 12 in the direction parallel to the transverse axis T. In the depicted embodiment, the first bridge portion 39 and the second bridge portion (not visible -it is on the underside) do not extend transversely beyond the plane of the first plurality of coupling elements 22 of the first portion 12a nor the plane of second plurality of coupling elements 28 of the second portion 12b of the stringer 12 in the rearward direction. A rearmost part 89 of the first bridge portion 39 and a rearmost part of the second bridge portion (not visible in Figure 12) are in line with the rearmost points 85a, 85b of the pluralities of coupling elements 22, 28 of the first portion 12a and the second portion 12b of the stringer 12 in the transverse direction. Advantageously, this arrangement allows smooth operation of the slider (not shown) of the slider fastener. The slider is configured to run over the coupling elements of the pluralities of coupling elements 22, 28. Because the joint element 14, in particular the bridge portions of the joint element, do not extend beyond, and/or are in line with, the coupling elements of the pluralities of coupling elements 22, 28, the joint element does not interfere with the motion of the slider.

It will be appreciated that, although in the present embodiment the rearmost point 83 of the joint element 14 is in line with the rearmost points 85a, 85b of the coupling elements of the pluralities of coupling elements 22, 28 of the first portion 12a and of the second portion 12b of the stringer 12 in the direction parallel to the transverse axis T. In other embodiments the rearmost point 83 of the joint element 14 may be spaced (in the direction parallel to the transverse axis T) closer to the longitudinal edge of the stringer than the rearmost points 85a, 85b of the coupling elements of the pluralities of coupling elements 22, 28. Likewise, the rearmost part 89 of the first bridge portion 39 and a rearmost part 91 of the second bridge portion may be spaced (in the direction parallel to the transverse axis T) I closer to the longitudinal edge of the stringer than the rearmost points 85a, 85b of the coupling elements of the pluralities of coupling elements 22, 28 in the transverse direction.

With reference to Figure 2, when the joint element 14 is mounted onto the first portion 12a of the stringer 12 and the second portion 12b of the stringer, the joint element defines a first height and a second height. The first height of the joint element 14 is measured from the first side 32 of the overlapped region 30 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 27 and to the transverse axis (not shown in Figure 2). The second height of the joint element is measured from the second side of the overlapped region 30 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 27 and to the transverse axis. The coupling elements of the first plurality of coupling elements 22 define a first height and a second height. The first height of the coupling elements of the first plurality of coupling elements 22 is measured from the first side 17 of the first fastener tape 16 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 27 and to the transverse axis. The second height of the coupling elements of the first plurality of coupling elements 22 is measured from the second side (not visible in Figure 2) of the first fastener tape 16 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 27 and to the transverse axis. The coupling elements of the second plurality of coupling elements 28 define a first height and a second height. The first height of the coupling elements of the second plurality of coupling elements 28 is measured from the first side 21 of the second fastener tape 18 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 27 and to the transverse axis. The second height of the coupling elements of the second plurality of coupling elements 28 is measured from the second side (not visible in Figure 2) of the second fastener tape 18 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 27 and to the transverse axis. The first height of the joint element 14 is generally equal to the first height of the first plurality of coupling elements 22 and of the second plurality of coupling elements 28. The second height of the joint element 14 is generally equal to the second height of the first plurality of coupling elements 22 and of the second plurality of coupling elements 28. In some embodiments, the first height of the joint element 14 may be less than the first height of the first plurality of coupling elements 22 or of the second plurality of coupling elements 28 or of both. In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the second height of the joint element 14 may be less than the second height of the first plurality of coupling elements or of the second plurality of coupling elements or both. Therefore, the first height of the joint element 14 is less than or equal to the first height of the coupling elements of the first plurality of coupling elements 22 and of the second plurality of coupling elements 28. The second height of the joint element 14 is less than or equal to the second height of the coupling elements of the first plurality of coupling elements 22 and of the second plurality of coupling elements 28. In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the first and/or second heights of the coupling elements of the first and second pluralities of coupling elements may vary. In this case, the greatest height amongst a respective plurality of coupling elements may be considered to be the first height and the second height. In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the first height of the joint element may be more than one or both of the first height of the coupling elements of the first plurality of coupling elements and the first height of the coupling elements of the second plurality of coupling elements. In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the second height of the joint element may be more than one or both of the second height of the coupling elements of the first plurality of coupling elements and the second height of the coupling elements of the second plurality of coupling elements. The slider of the fastener that includes the joint element may be sized to accommodate the height of the joint element.

Figure 8 shows a modified embodiment of a joint element 14'. The first bridge portion 39' comprises a first extension portion 94'. The first extension portion 94' extends away from the first bridge portion 39' in the direction of the central axis (not depicted in Figure 8) of the first portion 34'. The first extension portion 94' comprises a first end surface (not visible in Figure 8 -it is facing away). The first end surface may be referred to as a first distal end of the first extension portion 94'. The first end surface defines the absolute end surface of the first extension portion 94' in the direction of the longitudinal axis 27'.

The first bridge portion 39' comprises a second extension portion 98'. The second extension portion 98' extends away from the first bridge portion 39' in the direction of the central axis (not depicted in Figure 8) of the first portion 34', but in a direction that is opposed to the direction that the first extension portion 94' extends. The second extension portion 98' comprises a second end surface 96'. The second end surface 96' defines the absolute end of the second extension portion 98' in the direction of the longitudinal axis 27'. The second end surface 96' may be referred to as a second distal end of the second extension portion 98'.

The first extension portion 94' and the second extension portion 98' are located at opposite ends of the first bridge portion 39' with respect to the central axis (not depicted in Figure 8) of the first portion 34'. The distance from the end surface (not visible in Figure 8) of the first end coupling element 33' to the first end surface of the first extension portion 94' in the direction of the central axis of the first portion 34' is equal to or greater than or equal to 0.45 of the pitch of the plurality coupling elements 31' of the joint element 14' and/or equal to or less than 0.55 of the pitch of the plurality coupling elements 31'. The distance from the end surface 100' of the second end coupling element 35' to the second end surface 96' of the second extension portion 98' in the direction of the central axis (not depicted in Figure 8) of the second portion 36' is equal to or greater than or equal to 0.45 of the pitch of the plurality coupling elements 31' of the joint element 14' and/or equal to or less than 0.55 of the pitch of the plurality coupling elements 31'. This allows the first extension portion 94' and the second end portion 98' to abut an adjacent coupling element of the first plurality of coupling elements 22' and of the second plurality of coupling elements 28' respectively. This advantageously limits movement of the joint element 14' in the direction of the longitudinal axis 27', which may occur as the slider (not shown) of the slide fastener passes over the joint element, during use.

Figure 9 shows the joint element 14' in an exploded view. The first bridge portion 39' comprises a first plurality of protrusions (not visible -they are on the underside). The first plurality of protrusions extend from the first tape engaging surface (not visible -it is on the underside) of the first bridge portion. The first plurality of protrusions extend generally perpendicular to the first tape engaging surface. The first plurality of protrusions are generally conical, but may be any other suitable shape. The first plurality of protrusions may be referred to as a first grip arrangement. In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the first grip arrangement may take the form of any suitable surface irregularity. For example, the first grip arrangement may comprise indentations, such as knurling, and/or teeth, and/or any other suitable surface configuration. The second bridge portion 62' comprises a second plurality of protrusions (one of which is indicated by 104').

The second plurality of protrusions extend from the second tape engaging surface 64' of the second bridge portion 62'. The second plurality of protrusions 104' extend generally perpendicular to the second tape engaging surface 64'. The second plurality of protrusions 104' are generally conical, but may be any other suitable shape. The second plurality of protrusions 104' may be referred to as a second grip arrangement. In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the second grip arrangement may take the form of any suitable surface irregularity. For example, the second grip arrangement may comprise indentations, such as knurling, and/or teeth, and/or any other suitable surface configuration. This arrangement further reduces the likelihood of the joint element 14' sliding along the longitudinal axis 27' during use. In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the first plurality of protrusions and/or second plurality of protrusions need not be provided.

The positions of the protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions do not correspond with the positions of the protrusions of the second plurality of protrusions 104'. In other words, the protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions are offset (in the present example along the longitudinal axis, but in other examples the offset may be in another direction) from the protrusions of the second plurality of protrusions 104'. This advantageously reduces the likelihood of interference between the first plurality of protrusions and the second plurality of protrusions 104' when the first and second portions of the joint element are connected together upon mounting the joint element 14' on the stringer portions.

The protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions and of the second plurality of protrusions 104' are sized (and shaped) such that, when the joint element 14' is mounted onto the stringer (not shown), the protrusions engage the fastener tape of the stringer.

In other words, the protrusions do not extend through the fastener tape. It may be said the protrusions frictionally engage the fastener tape by deforming the fastener tape. However, the protrusions can be sized (and shaped) such that, when the joint element 14' is mounted onto the stringer, the protrusions pierce the fastener tape of the stringer. Alternatively or additionally, the fastener tape of the stringer may be provided with apertures for the protrusions to extend through.

The second bridge portion (not visible in Figure 8 -it is on the underside) also comprises a third extension portion and a fourth extension portion. The third extension portion and the fourth extension portion are generally the same as the first extension portion and the second extension portion respectively and so the above description of the first extension portion 94' and second extension portion 98' applies mutatis mutandis to the third extension portion and the fourth extension portion. In some embodiments, only one of the first bridge portion 39' and the second bridge portion is provided with extension portions. In other embodiments only one extension portion may be provided on one or more of the bridge portions.

Figure 10 shows an exploded view of a further modified embodiment of the joint element 14". The first bridge portion 39" and the second bridge portion 62" of the joint element 14" of this embodiment do not comprise extension portions. The first bridge portion 39" of the first portion 36" of the joint element 14" comprises a first plurality of protrusions 102" (only one of which is labelled in Figure 10). The first plurality of protrusions 102" extend from the first tape engaging surface 40" of the first bridge portion 39". The first plurality of protrusions 102" extend generally perpendicular from the first tape engaging surface 40". The first plurality of protrusions 102" are generally conical, but may be any other suitable shape. The first plurality of protrusions 102" may be referred to as a first grip arrangement. The second bridge portion 62" of the second portion 38" of the joint element 14" comprises a second plurality of protrusions 104" (only one of which is labelled in Figure 9). The second plurality of protrusions 104" extend from the second tape engaging surface 64" of the second bridge portion 62". The second plurality of protrusions 104" extend generally perpendicular from the second tape engaging surface 64". The second plurality of protrusions 104" are generally conical, but may be any other suitable shape. The second plurality of protrusions 104" may be referred to as a second grip arrangement. When the joint element 14" is mounted onto a stringer (not shown), the first plurality of protrusions 102" and the second plurality of protrusions 104" engage the fastener tape of the stringer. This reduces the likelihood of the joint element 14" moving, particularly in the direction of the longitudinal axis (not shown in Figure 9) as the slider (not shown in Figure 9) passes over the joint element.

The positions of the protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions 102" do not correspond with the positions of the protrusions of the second plurality of protrusions 104". In other words, the protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions 102" are offset (in the present example along the longitudinal axis, but in other examples the offset may be in another direction) from the protrusions of the second plurality of protrusions 104". This advantageously reduces the likelihood of interference between the first plurality of protrusions 102" and the second plurality of protrusions 104" when the first and second portions of the joint element are connected together upon mounting the joint element on the stringer portions.

The protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions 102" and of the second plurality of protrusions 104" are sized (and shaped) such that, when the joint element 14" is mounted onto the stringer (not shown), the protrusions engage the fastener tape of the stringer. In other words, the protrusions do not extend through the fastener tape. It may be said the protrusions frictionally engage the fastener tape by deforming the fastener tape. However, the protrusions can be sized (and shaped) such that, when the joint element 14" is mounted onto the stringer, the protrusions pierce the fastener tape of the stringer. Alternatively or additionally, the fastener tape of the stringer may be provided with apertures for the protrusions to extend through.

Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a further modified embodiment of the joint element 14"'. In the depicted modified embodiment, the joint element 14"' is formed as a single, integrally formed body. The first portion 36-and the second portion 38-are integrally formed with one another. The joint element 14"' is moveable between an open state and a closed state, as will be discussed in more detail below. The joint element 14-may be deformable between the open state and the closed state. The joint element 14"' is preferably made of a deformable material. The joint element 14"' is preferably made of a malleable material. The joint element 14-is preferably made of a metallic material.

Referring to Figure 14, the head 46-, the neck 48-and the shoulders 50-(only one of the shoulders is visible in Figure 14 -the other is located on the other side of the depicted coupling element portion) of the coupling element portion (only one of which is visible in Figure 14 -the other is behind the visible coupling element portion) of the first plurality of coupling element portions 42-of the first portion 36-each adjoin respective ones of the head 70"', the neck 72-and the shoulders 74-(only one of the shoulders is visible in Figure 14 -the other is located on the other side of the second coupling element portion) of the coupling element portion (only one of which is visible in Figure 14 -the other behind the visible coupling element portion) of the second plurality of coupling element portions 66-of the second portion 38". However, in other, non-depicted, embodiments, only one or more of each of the head, the neck and at least one of the shoulders of the coupling element portions of the first portion adjoin respective ones of the head, the neck and the shoulders of the second plurality of coupling element portions of the second portion.

Figures 13 and 14 depict the joint element 14-in the open state. In the open state, the first portion 36-and the second portion 38-define an opening 106"'. The opening 106"' adjoins the channel 84". At least a portion of the opening 106"' is defined between the first bridge portion 39-and the second bridge portion 62". In particular, at least a portion of the opening 106"' is defined between the first tape engaging surface 40"' of the first bridge portion 39-and the second tape engaging surface 64-of the second bridge portion 62". In the open state, the opening 106"' is configured to receive the fastener tape (not depicted in Figure 14) of the stringer (not depicted in Figure 14). In the open state, the first bridge portion 39-is spaced apart from the second bridge portion 62". In the open state, the spacing between the first tape engaging surface 40"' and the second tape engaging surface 64-is greater than the spacing between the first tape engaging surface 40"' and the second tape engaging surface 64-in the closed state (discussed in more detail below in relation to Figure 15). In the open state, the spacing between at least a portion of the surface of the groove 52" of the first portion 36" and at least a portion of the surface of the groove 76" of the second portion 38" is greater than the spacing between said at least a portion of the surface of the groove 52-of the first portion 36" and said at least a portion of the surface of the groove 76-of the second portion 38" in the closed state.

Figure 15 depicts the joint element 14"' in the closed state. As discussed above, the joint element 14"' is moveable, preferably deformable, between the open state and the closed state. In the closed state, the surface of the channel 84" is generally arc-shaped. The angle subtended by the arc of the surface of the channel 84" may vary, but is preferably equal to or greater than 340 degrees and less than 360 degrees. The first tape engaging surface 40"' of the first bridge portion 39"' of the first portion 36" of the joint element 14"' remains spaced apart from the second tape engaging surface 64" of the second bridge portion 62" of the second portion 38-of the joint element. In the closed state, the spacing between the first tape engaging surface 40"' and the second tape engaging surface 64" is equal to or less than the thickness of the fastener tapes (not depicted in Figure 15) of the overlapped region. The joint element 14"' may compress the fastener tapes of the overlapped region, and so the thickness of the portion of the overlapped region that is received by the joint element may be less than the thickness of an uncompressed portion of the overlapped region.

To mount the joint element 14"' onto a stringer, the steps discussed in relation to Figures 5 and 6 are carried out in a similar manner as discussed above in relation to the joint element 14 of the first embodiment. Next, with reference to Figure 16, which shows a side view of the joint element 14"' during mounting of the joint element onto the overlapped region 30"', the overlapped region 30" of the stringer 12"' is inserted into the opening 106". The overlapped region 30"' of the stringer 12"' is inserted into the opening 106"' such that the cord 8-is received by the channel 84". The overlapped region 30"' of the stringer 12" is inserted into the opening 106"' such that at least part of each of the first fastener tape 16"' and the second fastener tape 18" of the overlapped region 30"' are disposed between the first bridge portion 39" and the second bridge portion 64". In particular, the overlapped region 30"' of the stringer 12"' is inserted into the opening 106"' such that at least part of each of the first fastener tape 16"' and the second fastener tape 18"' of the overlapped region 30"' are disposed between the first tape engaging surface 40-of the first bridge portion 39"' and the second tape engaging surface 64-of the second bridge portion 64".

Next, the joint element 14"' is moved into the closed state. Figure 17 depicts the joint element 14-in the closed state. In particular, the joint element 14-is deformed into the closed state. The joint element 14"' may be moved or deformed from the open state to the closed state by any suitable means. For example, the joint element 14"' may be moved or deformed into the closed state by use of a suitable tool, such as pliers. In the closed state, the first portion 36-and the second portion 38-each engage a respective one of the first side 34-and the second side 110"' of the overlapped region 30"' of the stringer 12". The surfaces of the groove 52-of the first portion 36" each engage a respective portion of the cord 8". The surfaces of the groove 76-of the second portion 38-each engage a respective portion of the cord 8". The first bridge portion 39"' engages the first side 34-of the overlapped region 30"'. The first tape engaging surface 40"' engages the first side 34-of the overlapped region 30"'. The second bridge portion 62-engages the second side 110"' of the overlapped region 30"'. The second tape engaging surface 64-engages the second side of the overlapped region 30"'. Therefore, in the closed state, at least part of each of the first portion 36-and the second portion 38-are configured to engage a respective side of the fastener tape of the stringer.

The principles discussed above regarding the position of the joint element 14 of the first embodiment equally apply to the joint element 14"'. In addition, the joint element 14"' may be provided with one or more extension portions, as discussed above. In addition, the joint element 14"' may be provided with a first grip arrangement or a second grip arrangement or both.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the joint element may comprise only one of the first extension portion and the second extension portion.

In some, non-depicted embodiments, the first stringer portion or the second stringer portion or both may be provided with a tape extension portion that extends beyond the respective plurality of coupling elements. This eliminates the need to remove the first group of end coupling elements and/or the second group of end coupling elements.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the joint element is provided with only one of the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion. In these embodiments, the first plurality of coupling element portions may be integrally formed, via a flexible joint, with the second plurality of coupling element portions. Alternatively, the first plurality of coupling element portions and second plurality of coupling element portions can be separately formed and attached together via one or more of: i) a welding method, such as ultrasonic welding and/or thermal welding, ii) using an adhesive and iii) mechanical connection methods.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, where the joint element is provided with only one of the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion, the joint element may comprise one or more traverse extension portions. Each of the traverse extension portions may extend from a respective coupling element portion in the direction of the traverse axis. The one or more traverse extension portions may be provided in place of the first bridge portion or the second bridge portion.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the joint element is provided with a bridge portion that extends, in the direction of the transverse axis T, beyond a rearmost point of the pluralities of coupling elements of the stringer portions. In such a case, the bridge portion will comprise a channel designed to accommodate the movement of the slider along the longitudinal axis.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the joint element does not comprise the first attachment portion or the second attachment portion.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the first attachment portion comprises a mixture of male attachment portions and female attachment portions and the second attachment portion comprises a mixture of male attachment portions and female attachment portions. The attachment portions of the first attachment portion corresponding with the attachment portions of the second attachment portion.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the male attachment portions and female attachment portions can be provided with corresponding interlock arrangements such that, when the female attachment portions receive the male attachment portions, the female attachment portions and male attachment portions interlock with one another.

In some, non-depicted, embodiments, the method of forming the stringer does not include overlapping the tapes. Instead, the fastener tapes of the first stringer portion and of the second stringer portion are arranged to abut one another to form a joint. The joint element is mounted onto the stringer at the joint.

While specific embodiments of the invention have been described above, it will be appreciated that the invention may be practiced otherwise than as described. The descriptions above are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Thus, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that modifications may be made to the invention as described without departing from the scope of the claims set out below.

Claims

CLAIMS: 1. A joint element for a slide fastener, the joint element comprising: a first bridge portion for engaging a first side of a fastener tape of the slide fastener when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape; a plurality of coupling elements that each extend from the first bridge portion; and a channel that extends through each of the coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements along a central axis; wherein the channel is configured such that, when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape, the channel receives a cord of the fastener tape such that at least part of the cord is exposed between adjacent coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements.
2. The joint element of claim 1, wherein the plurality of coupling elements comprises a first end coupling element and a second end coupling element, and wherein the first bridge portion comprises at least one extension portion that extends in the direction of the central axis beyond the first or the second end coupling element or both.
3. The joint element of claim 2, wherein a distance in the direction of the central axis between an end surface of the first end coupling element and a first distal end of one of said at least one extension portion is equal to or greater than 0.45 of the pitch of the plurality coupling elements and/or equal to or less than 0.55 of the pitch of the plurality coupling elements.
4. The joint element of claim 1, wherein the first bridge portion does not extend beyond the first end coupling element and the second coupling element in the direction of the central axis.
5. The joint element of any preceding claim, wherein the joint element is formed of a first portion, which includes the first bridge portion, configured to, when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape, engage a first side of a fastener tape of the fastener stringer and a second portion, configured to, when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape, engage a second side of the fastener tape of the fastener stringer, the second portion being integrally formed with the first portion.
6. The joint element of claim 5, wherein the first portion adjoins the second portion at at least one of a head, a neck and at least one shoulder of at least one coupling element of the plurality of coupling elements.
7. The joint element of claim 5 or claim 6, wherein in an open state, at least part of the first portion and at least part of the second portion define an opening, the opening adjoining the channel and being configured to receive at least part of the fastener tape of the slide fastener, and in a closed state, at least part of each of the first portion and the second portion are configured to engage a respective side of the fastener tape of the slide fastener.
8. The joint element of any preceding claim, wherein the channel is configured such that, when the joint element is mounted to the fastener tape, at least a portion of the cord is exposed between adjacent coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements. 15
9. A slide fastener comprising: a first stringer, the first stringer comprising: a first fastener tape, a first cord of the first fastener tape, a first plurality of coupling elements disposed along a longitudinal edge of the first fastener tape, a second fastener tape, a second cord of the second fastener tape, and a second plurality of coupling elements disposed along a longitudinal edge of the second fastener tape; wherein the longitudinal edge of the first and second fastener tapes extends along a longitudinal axis; wherein a joint element as defined in any preceding claim is mounted to the first and second fastener tapes of the first stringer, such that the channel of the joint element receives the first cord or the second cord or both.
10. The slide fastener of claim 9, wherein the first plurality of coupling elements, the second plurality of coupling elements and the plurality of coupling elements of the joint element are each spaced apart along the longitudinal axis such that each pair of adjacent elements define a pitch distance along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the pitch distances of the first plurality of coupling elements, of the second plurality of coupling elements and of the plurality of coupling elements of the joint element are equal; additionally or alternatively the size and shape of the coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements of the joint element are identical to the size and shape of the first plurality of coupling elements and of the second plurality of coupling elements or both.
11. A method of forming a slide fastener stringer, the method comprising: providing a first stringer portion, the first stringer portion comprising a first fastener tape, a first cord and a first plurality of coupling elements disposed along a longitudinal edge of the first fastener tape; providing a second stringer portion, the second stringer portion comprising a second fastener tape, a second cord and a second plurality of coupling elements disposed along a longitudinal edge of the second fastener tape; joining the first fastener tape to the second fastener tape thereby forming a joint; and mounting a joint element according to any of claims 1 to 8 at the joint such that at least a portion of the first cord or at least a portion of the second cord or at least a portion of both cords is exposed between adjacent coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements of the joint element.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein joining the first fastener tape to the second fastener tape comprises overlapping at least part of the first fastener tape with at least part of the second fastener tape such that the joint forms an overlapped region.
13. A method of joining two fastener stringer portions, the method comprising: providing a first stringer portion, the first stringer portion comprising a first fastener tape, a first cord and a first plurality of coupling elements disposed along a longitudinal edge of the first fastener tape; providing a second stringer portion, the second stringer portion comprising second a fastener tape, a second cord and a second plurality of coupling elements disposed along a longitudinal edge of the second fastener tape; joining the first fastener tape to the second fastener tape by overlapping and joining at least part of the first fastener tape with at least a part of the second fastener tape thereby forming an overlapped region; and mounting a joint element to the first and second fastener tapes at the overlapped region.
14. The method of any of claims 11 to 13, wherein the method comprises, before joining the first fastener tape to the second fastener tape, removing at least one end coupling element from the first fastener tape or the second fastener tape or both.
15. The method of any of claims 11 to 14, wherein the joint element is according to any of claims 1 to 8 and wherein the joint element is mounted to the first and second fastener tapes such that at least a portion of the first cord or at least a portion of the second cord or both are exposed between adjacent coupling elements of the plurality of coupling elements of the joint element.