JP2009028131A - Slide fastener and seat for vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a slide fastener in which left and right element arrays can be quickly and reliably separated when they receive pressure force equal to or larger than a prescribed strength, such as expansion pressure of an airbag, and which has a meshing strength within a desired range where the element arrays do not separate even when they receive pressure or twist with a fingertip or the like from an external surface side. <P>SOLUTION: Slide fasteners (1) has, in their element arrays (5), an open area (17) for separating with a predetermined force without relying upon a slider (6). The element array (5) has a normal meshing portion (7) in which left and right elements (4) are regularly meshed with each other in a predetermined form, and a plurality of branch start points (8, 8') formed of a non-meshing portion (9) not meshing with counter fastener elements (4) or a weak meshing portion (10) weakly meshing with the counter fastener elements (4) relative to the normal meshing portion (7) in the open area (17) wherein the normal meshing portion (7) and the branch start points (8, 8') are arranged alternately in the open area (17). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a slide fastener and a vehicle seat, and in particular, a slide fastener having an open area in which right and left fastener elements in mesh can be separated with a predetermined force without depending on a slider when necessary, and the slide The present invention relates to a vehicle seat constructed by attaching a fastener to an opening of a seat cover.

  In general, a side airbag device mounted on an automobile or the like has an inflator that generates inflation gas and an airbag that is inflated and deployed by supplying gas from the inflator, and the side airbag device does not normally operate. In the state, the airbag is stored in the seat back side portion of the vehicle seat in a state where the airbag is folded in a predetermined procedure.

  The side airbag device senses an impact when the vehicle collides and receives a large impact, generates a high-pressure gas from the inflator, introduces it into the airbag, and instantly inflates the airbag. As a result, the airbag is inflated from the opening provided on the side of the seat, deployed to the side of the occupant, and cushioned to support the occupant's head, chest, waist, etc. Since the impact force is greatly reduced, the safety of passengers is ensured.

  Usually, a vehicle seat that houses a side airbag device is covered with a seat cover. The seat cover has an opening for inflating the airbag of the side airbag device, and a slide fastener for closing the opening, and the left and right element rows of the slide fastener are inflated with the airbag. It is configured to be separable when subjected to pressure.

  When a vehicle seat is covered with a seat cover having such a slide fastener, the position of the slide fastener attached to the seat cover is matched with the position of the airbag inflation opening provided on the side of the vehicle seat. . As a result, the seat opening can be hidden from view by the closed slide fastener. In addition, when the side airbag device is activated, the element array of the slide fastener receives the inflation pressure of the airbag and is separated and opened to the left and right, so that the airbag can be inflated from the opening to the side of the occupant. it can.

An example of the slide fastener attached to the seat opening of such a vehicle seat is disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-298641 (Patent Document 1) and Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2006-15158 (Patent Document 2).
As shown in FIG. 17A, the slide fastener 100 described in Patent Document 1 includes a plurality of fastener elements 104 (hereinafter simply abbreviated as elements) at opposite side edges of a pair of left and right fastener tapes 102. ) Is attached.

  More specifically, the plurality of elements 104 are arranged at predetermined intervals in a first region 106 and a second region 107 provided separately from each other in the length direction of the fastener tape 102. Thus, an element row 105 is formed. The element row 105 is formed so as to be engaged and separated by sliding a slider (not shown). Further, in Patent Document 1, each element 104 is configured as a single element that is attached to the fastener tape 102 individually.

  On the other hand, a gap 110 is provided between the first region 106 and the second region 107 as a region where the element 104 is not disposed. The gap 110 is disposed at the center of the element array 105 of the slide fastener in the tape length direction. At the center of the gap 110, a synthetic resin connecting link as shown in FIG. 115 is disposed.

  The connecting link 115 connects the left and right fastener tapes 102 at the center of the gap 110 in order to prevent the left and right element rows 105 in an engaged state from being unintentionally separated. Further, the connecting link 115 has a shape in which the central portion in the left-right direction is constricted, and the constricted central portion is cut and separated into left and right when receiving a predetermined force. For example, after connecting the two link halves constituting the linking link 115 to the tape side edge of the fastener tape, the connecting links 115 are connected to each other by connecting the end faces facing each other by an ultrasonic welding method. Can be formed.

  Thus, the slide fastener 100 of Patent Document 1 in which the gap 110 is formed at the center of the element row 105 and the connecting link 115 is disposed at the center of the gap 110 is formed on the seat cover of the vehicle seat. Further, the seat cover is put on the vehicle seat in which the side airbag device is accommodated in alignment. As a result, during normal times when the side airbag device does not operate, the airbag inflation opening provided in the vehicle seat is hidden by the closed slide fastener 100 of Patent Document 1 so that it is difficult to see from the outside.

  When the side airbag device is activated, the central constricted portion of the connecting link 115 is broken by the inflation pressure of the airbag, and then the meshed left and right element rows 105 arranged in the first region 106 and the second region 107 are used. Open sequentially from the end on the gap 110 side. Thereby, the airbag can be inflated and deployed through the opening of the slide fastener.

  As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the slide fastener described in Patent Document 2 is provided with a core string portion 129 at each opposing tape side edge of a pair of left and right fastener tapes 128. These elements are arranged on the side edge portion of the fastener tape 128 so as to sandwich the core string portion 129 as a single element. The left and right element rows formed on the side edges of the tape are configured to mesh and separate by sliding a slider (not shown).

  In this Patent Document 2, the left and right element rows have four first elements 130 having different shapes on the front and back sides and a general second element 150 having a symmetrical shape on the front and back sides (see FIG. 20). As shown in FIG. 18A, the first element 130 is provided on the tape surface portion side with a leg portion 132 fixed to the fastener tape 128 and extending in the tape width direction so as to be confined from the leg portion 132. It has a neck part 136 and a head part 138 formed in an oval shape on the tip side of the neck part 136.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 18B, the first element 130 has a leg 132 formed on the front side of the tape, a leg 140 formed on the front and back sides, and a leg 140 as shown in FIG. A neck portion 142 extending in the tape width direction so as to be widened, a narrow nose portion 144 linearly formed on the distal end side of the neck portion 142, and a flat shoulder extending from the neck portion 142 in the tape length direction Part 146. In this case, the width dimension (the dimension in the tape length direction) of the nose part 144 formed on the tape back surface side is such that it does not interfere with the shoulder part 146 of the counterpart element 130 when the left and right element rows are engaged. The size is set.

  The second element 150 has the same shape as an element generally used conventionally. Specifically, the head that meshes with the other element, the neck part of the constricted shape, the leg part fixed to the fastener tape, the shoulder part protruding in the tape width direction from the leg part, and the other element And a groove formed on the front end surface of the head so that the shoulder can be inserted.

  And in the slide fastener of patent document 2, the four 1st elements 130 which have the above shapes are attached adjacently so that it may mutually mesh with 2 element rows on either side. Further, the plurality of second elements 150 are arranged in a required length so as to sandwich the four first elements 130 in the tape length direction.

  In the case of such a slide fastener of Patent Document 2, for example, when the element row receives a force from the tape rear surface side to the front surface side, the four first elements 130 have nose portions provided on the rear surface side. When 144 passes between the shoulder portions 146 of the first element 130 of the mating counterpart, as shown in FIG. 20, it rotates to the tape surface side around the leg portions 132 and 140, and the left and right first elements 130 are meshed. Comes off. Further, since these first elements 130 are arranged in the middle part of the left and right element rows, the separation of the left and right element rows can be promoted in the tape length direction starting from the first element 130 that has been disengaged. .

  On the other hand, when the element row receives a force from the tape front side toward the back side, the head portion 138 formed on the front side of each first element 130 is a shoulder portion formed on the element 130 of the mating counterpart. 146, respectively. Thereby, since each 1st element 130 is prevented from rotating to the tape back surface side centering | focusing on the leg parts 132 and 140, the meshing state of the 1st element 130 on either side can be maintained.

  Therefore, when the slide fastener of Patent Document 2 is sewn in, for example, an opening provided in the seat cover, and this seat cover is covered with a vehicle seat, the left and right element rows can be received even if pressure is applied from the seat surface side. Separation is prevented. Further, when the side airbag device accommodated in the vehicle seat is operated, the left and right element rows of the slide fastener receive the inflation pressure of the airbag from the back side of the seat. As a result, the left and right first elements 130 are rotated as shown in FIG. 20 to disengage them, so that the element rows are sequentially separated and opened from that point, and the airbags are appropriately connected through the openings. Can be inflated and deployed.

  Further, as in Patent Documents 1 and 2, a slide fastener capable of separating a meshed element row with a predetermined force without depending on a slider is disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 56-2842 (Patent Document 3). ). The slide fastener described in Patent Document 3 is used for, for example, an opening / closing part such as a tent or a curtain, or an emergency exit, and the like. Has an opening. The emergency opening portion is configured by, for example, missing a plurality of right and left elements that mesh with each other or reducing the meshing strength of the left and right elements.

  If it is the slide fastener of the said patent document 3 which has such an emergency open part, when emergency situations, such as a fire, occur, for example, the emergency open part in the element row | line | column in a meshing state will be strongly pressed with a fingertip, and it will curve By doing so, it is possible to separate the left and right element rows from the emergency opening portion and accurately open the slide fastener without performing the sliding operation of the slider.

Further, in the slide fastener of Patent Document 3, a reinforcing body having rigidity that reinforces the emergency opening portion formed in the element row is provided on the left and right sides of the emergency opening portion in the tape length direction from the emergency opening portion. It is long. Thereby, for example, even when a lateral pulling force acts on the emergency opening portion via the adherend during normal times other than in an emergency, it is possible to prevent the emergency opening portion from being bent or opened by the reinforcing body. is there. For this reason, even if the emergency opening part is formed in the element row as described above, it is possible to ensure the closing function of the slide fastener.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-298641 JP 2006-15158 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 56-2842

  The slide fastener attached to the seat cover of the vehicle seat that houses the side airbag device is used as a slider when the airbag is inflated as described above in order to smoothly inflate and deploy the airbag. Regardless of this, there is a demand for reliably separating the left and right element rows. For this reason, the slide fastener used for the vehicle seat is formed by deliberately reducing the meshing strength of the element (for example, by setting the meshing strength to 300 N or less) as compared with a general slide fastener that is generally used. Is required.

  On the other hand, since the seat cover is tensioned when covering the vehicle seat having cushioning properties, the slide fastener attached to the seat cover always receives a certain amount of lateral pulling force. Yes. Further, when the occupant is seated on the vehicle seat, the occupant (particularly a child) may inadvertently press or twist the slide fastener from the outer surface with a fingertip or the like.

  For this reason, the slide fastener attached to the vehicle seat is laterally moved by the tension as described above in order to stably maintain the meshing state when the left and right element rows are meshed during normal times when the airbag apparatus is not activated. Even when receiving an attractive force, or when receiving a pressing force or twisting from a fingertip or the like, it has a meshing strength (for example, a meshing strength of 100 N or more) so that the left and right element rows do not separate. It is required to do.

  That is, the slide fastener used for the vehicle seat cover can maintain the meshing state of the element row in a normal state and can have a desired meshing strength so that it can be reliably separated when subjected to the inflation pressure of the airbag. It is required to have a special property that is not so much required in the conventional general slide fastener, that is, control within the range.

  Further, for such a slide fastener, in order to further increase the safety of the occupant, the element row is quickly and reliably separated when the airbag is inflated, and the airbag is inflated instantaneously, There is also a demand for the elements not to detach from the fastener tape and scatter toward the passenger when the element rows are separated. Further, in order to improve the appearance quality of the vehicle seat, it is desirable that a so-called hidden slide fastener that can hide the slide fastener itself from the seat surface side is attached to the vehicle seat cover.

  On the other hand, for example, in the slide fastener 100 (see FIG. 17) described in Patent Document 1, the gap 110 in which the element 104 is not arranged at the center in the tape length direction of the element row 105 as described above. Is formed. Therefore, the slide fastener 100 can easily separate the element row 105 from the gap 110 by breaking the connecting link 115 by the inflation pressure of the airbag when the side airbag device is operated.

  However, the slide fastener 100 is disposed in the first region 106 and the second region 107 when, for example, the slide fastener is pressed or twisted from the outer surface side with a fingertip or the like at the normal time when the airbag does not operate. There is a drawback that the element row 105 is easily separated. Further, in the slide fastener 100, since the single element 104 is arranged in the fastener tape 102 to form the element row 105, the element 104 itself is cracked when the element row 105 is separated by the inflation pressure of the airbag. There was a risk of scattering.

  Furthermore, in the slide fastener 100 of Patent Document 1, after the connecting link 115 disposed in the gap 110 is broken, the element rows 105 disposed in the first and second regions 106 and 107 are sequentially separated from the gap 110 side and opened. To do. However, when the element rows 105 are sequentially separated from the gap 110 in this way, a slight time lag may occur between the expansion of the airbag and the separation of the element rows. Accordingly, since the inflation and deployment of the airbag may be disturbed by the element row 105 that is not completely separated, the deployment behavior of the airbag may be affected. Therefore, it has been desired to more quickly separate the element row 105 serving as the opening for use.

  As described above, the slide fastener described in Patent Document 2 (see FIGS. 18 to 20) can easily separate the element rows by the inflation pressure of the airbag when the side airbag device is operated. It is. In addition, since the first elements 130 arranged in the left and right element rows are formed in different shapes on the front and back sides, even if the slide fastener is pressed from the outer surface side, the separation of the element rows is effectively prevented. Can do.

  On the other hand, in the slide fastener of Patent Document 2, since the element row is separated only from the first element 130 when subjected to the inflation pressure of the airbag, the first portion is disposed in the area where the second element is arranged. After the elements are separated, the elements are sequentially separated from the end on the first element side.

  Thus, when the element row is separated stepwise at the first element and the second element, a time lag is generated between the expansion of the airbag and the separation of the element row, similar to the slide fastener 100 of Patent Document 1. As a result, the airbag deployment time and deployment behavior may be affected. Furthermore, in the slide fastener of Patent Document 2, since the single elements are arranged in a row on the fastener tape, when the element rows are separated by the inflation pressure of the airbag, the elements may be broken and scattered.

  Although the slide fastener of Patent Document 3 is not described to be used for a vehicle seat cover in the first place, when receiving a predetermined pressing force, the left and right element rows are separated from the emergency opening portions formed in the element rows. Is possible. However, in the slide fastener of Patent Document 3, since the element row is separated in order from the emergency opening portion, for example, when the slide fastener is applied to a vehicle seat cover, It is desirable to separate the columns more quickly.

  Further, the slide fastener disclosed in Patent Document 3 has an emergency opening portion formed by, for example, deleting a plurality of mutually engaged left and right elements, and reinforcing bodies are disposed on the left and right sides of the emergency opening portion. ing. Thereby, when the slide fastener is provided with a closing function with respect to the lateral pulling force from the adherend as described above, for example, the emergency opening portion is pressed or twisted from the outer surface side with a fingertip or the like. The element row is easily separated from the emergency opening portion. For this reason, when the slide fastener of patent document 3 is used as a slide fastener for seat covers, there is a drawback that the closing performance of the element row is inferior.

  Further, since none of the slide fasteners of Patent Documents 1 to 3 is formed as a hidden slide fastener, the slide fastener itself can be seen from the surface of the seat cover and looks good when sewn to the seat cover. There was also the fault of getting worse.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described conventional problems, and its specific purpose is that the left and right element rows in a predetermined area have a pressing force equal to or greater than a predetermined size such as an inflation pressure of an airbag. The slide has a desired range of meshing strength that can be quickly and reliably separated when it is received, and can prevent separation of the element rows even when subjected to pressing force or twisting with a fingertip or the like from the outer surface side An object of the present invention is to provide a slide fastener that can be suitably used for a fastener, in particular, a seat cover of a vehicle seat that houses a side airbag device, and to provide a vehicle seat including the slide fastener.

  In order to achieve the above object, a slide fastener provided by the present invention has, as a basic structure, a plurality of fastener elements having a head and a leg at the tape side edge of a pair of left and right fastener tapes. A pair of left and right fastener stringers attached along the vertical direction to form an element row; and a slider for engaging and disengaging the left and right element rows, wherein the element row is engaged with the left and right fastener elements A slide fastener having at least a part of an open area that can be separated by a predetermined force without depending on the slider, wherein at least one of the element rows includes a predetermined number of left and right fastener elements in the open area. A normal meshing portion that meshes regularly and alternately in a form, and at least one or more In the element row area where the fastener element can be arranged, it is formed by a non-meshing portion that does not mesh with the mating fastener element, or a weak meshing portion that meshes weakly with the mating fastener element and the normal meshing portion. And a plurality of separation starting points, and the normal meshing part and the separation starting point are alternately arranged in the open area.

In the slide fastener according to the present invention, it is preferable that the separation starting point portions are arranged at a predetermined pitch in the element row.
The element row is formed by attaching a continuous fastener element made of synthetic resin formed by stamping, or the element row is provided with a single fastener element integrally formed on a fastener tape. It is preferable to be formed.

  It is preferable that the non-engagement portion is configured by excluding the head portion of the fastener element, and the weak engagement portion is configured by excluding a part of the head portion of the fastener element. Is preferred. Further, the non-meshing portion may be configured such that the fastener element itself is excluded from the tape side edge portion.

In the slide fastener of the present invention, it is preferable that the separation starting point portion is formed only in the element row of one of the fastener stringers.
The separation starting point portion is preferably formed in the element row for every 10 or less fastener elements.

Furthermore, it is preferable that the average transverse pulling strength in the open area is controlled to 100N to 300N, particularly 150N to 200N.
Furthermore, in the present invention, the slide fastener is formed by folding a side edge portion of the fastener tape into a U shape and projecting the head of the fastener element outward from the U shape folded portion. It is preferable that the element row is a hidden slide fastener configured to be invisible from the tape surface side.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the seat for which the seat cover which attached the slide fastener which has the above structures to the opening part was coat | covered, and the side airbag apparatus is installed internally can be provided.

  The element row of the slide fastener according to the present invention has an open area formed so as to be separable with a predetermined force, and in this open area, a normal meshing portion that regularly meshes and a non-meshing portion or a weak meshing A plurality of separation starting point portions formed by the portions are alternately arranged. Thereby, the slide fastener of the present invention, by arbitrarily setting the number, position, size (length), etc. of the separation starting point portion formed in the element row according to the use of the slide fastener, It becomes possible to control the average meshing strength in the open area to a predetermined magnitude.

  Therefore, the slide fastener of the present invention can reliably separate the element rows in mesh when subjected to a pressing force or lateral pulling force of a predetermined size or more, such as an inflation pressure of an airbag, Even if the separation starting point portion receives a pressing force or torsion from the outer surface side of the fastener with a fingertip or the like, the separation starting point portion can be easily configured to have a desired meshing strength so that the element row does not separate at each separation starting point portion.

  In addition, the slide fastener of the present invention is provided with a plurality of separation starting points in the open area. For this reason, when a pressing force or lateral pulling force of a predetermined size or more is applied over the entire open area, the element rows are separated from the respective separation starting points, so that the element rows in the open area can be securely and It can be separated quickly. For this reason, when the slide fastener of the present invention is attached so as to close the opening of the airbag device, for example, when the airbag is inflated and deployed, the influence on the deployment time and deployment behavior of the airbag is extremely reduced. be able to.

  In the present invention, the open area is an area in which the element rows are separable with a predetermined force, and specifically, constitutes a separation starting point portion arranged on the most front end side in the fastener meshing direction. Between an element or an element separated from the separation starting point by a predetermined pitch on the front side and an element constituting the separation starting point arranged on the rearmost end side or an element separated from the separation starting point by a predetermined pitch on the rear side Refers to the sandwiched area.

  The open area only needs to be formed in at least a part of the element row in the slide fastener, and the length thereof is not particularly limited. That is, the open area in the present invention can be formed only in a partial region of the element row depending on the use of the slide fastener, or can be formed over the entire length of the element row of the slide fastener. It is.

  For example, in general, in the hidden slide fastener, if the engagement strength of the entire slide fastener is weak, the element row is easily visible from the tape surface side, and the concealability is poor. Therefore, for example, when the slide fastener of the present invention is configured as a hidden slide fastener, the mesh strength in the open area is set to a desired size by the separation starting point portion, and the entire slide fastener is obtained in order to obtain a desired concealing property. Since it is required to ensure a high meshing strength, the open area is preferably formed only in a partial region of the element row.

  In this case, since the separation starting point portions are arranged at a predetermined pitch in the element row, the meshing strength in the open area can be accurately and stably controlled. Further, if the separation starting points are arranged at a predetermined pitch, the lengths of the normal meshing parts arranged in the open area are also equal, so that the element rows can be separated more quickly and smoothly. Become.

  Further, in the slide fastener of the present invention, if the element rows are formed of continuous fastener elements, adjacent elements are connected to each other even if, for example, some elements are broken when the element rows are separated. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the elements from scattering from the slide fastener.

  On the other hand, if the element row is formed by a single fastener element integrally formed with the fastener tape, it is easy to attach each fastener element to the fastener tape, and the non-engagement portion or the weak engagement portion is opened. It can be easily and reliably formed at a predetermined position.

  In the present invention, the non-meshing portion can be configured by removing the head portion of the fastener element. Moreover, the said weak meshing part can be comprised by removing a part of said head part of a fastener element. Further, the non-meshing portion can be configured by removing the fastener element itself from the side edge portion of the tape. By forming the non-meshing portion or the weak meshing portion by such means, a plurality of separation starting points can be easily arranged in the open area. Further, when the open area receives a force of a predetermined magnitude or more, the element rows can be reliably separated.

  In the present invention, each separation starting point portion arranged in the open area may be configured by forming a non-engagement portion or a weak engagement portion in a region where one fastener element can be arranged, or You may comprise by forming a non-meshing part or a weak meshing part in the area | region which can arrange | position two or more continuous fastener elements.

  Further, in the slide fastener of the present invention, if the separation starting point portion is formed only in the element row of one fastener stringer, the separation starting point portion can be easily and accurately formed at the time of manufacturing the slide fastener. Furthermore, it is easy to control the interval (the pitch of the non-meshing portion or the weak meshing portion) that forms the separation starting point portion.

  In particular, the slide fastener of the present invention is suitably used for a seat cover of a vehicle seat that houses a side airbag device because the average lateral pulling strength in the open area is controlled to be 100N or more and 300N or less. be able to. That is, if the average transverse pulling strength in the open area is 100 N or more, particularly 150 N or more, for example, even if the separation starting part in the open area is subjected to pressing force or torsion from the outer surface side of the fastener with a fingertip or the like, Thus, the element rows are not easily separated, and the meshing state of the left and right element rows can be stably maintained. Further, when the average lateral pulling strength in the open area is 300 N or less, particularly 200 N or less, for example, when the airbag of the side airbag device is inflated, the element row is reliably separated from each separation starting portion by the inflation pressure of the airbag. Can be separated.

  In this case, although it depends on the shape and size of each fastener element, it is preferable that the separation starting portion is formed for every 10 or less fastener elements. As a result, it is possible to control the average lateral pulling strength in the open area of the element row within a range suitable for the seat cover (for example, 100N to 300N, particularly 150N to 200N).

  Further, if the slide fastener of the present invention is formed as a hidden slide fastener, the slide fastener itself can be made invisible from the seat surface side when the hidden slide fastener is sewn to the seat cover. Thereby, the appearance of the vehicle seat can be improved.

  Further, if the vehicle seat is provided with a seat cover in which the slide fastener according to the present invention as described above is attached to the opening and the side airbag device is installed, the engagement strength in the open area of the slide fastener is high. For example, even if the occupant presses or twists the slide fastener with a fingertip during normal times when the side airbag device does not operate, the element row can be prevented from being separated unexpectedly. The meshing state of the element row can be stably maintained.

  In addition, when the side airbag device is activated, the slide fastener receives the inflation pressure of the airbag, thereby causing the element rows to be separated almost simultaneously from the plurality of separation starting points arranged in the open area of the element row. Can do. Thereby, the element row | line | column in an open area can be isolate | separated reliably and rapidly. Therefore, the airbag can be inflated and deployed instantaneously and smoothly, and the influence of the slide fastener on the deployment time and deployment behavior of the airbag can be extremely reduced.

  Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below, and various modifications are possible as long as they have substantially the same configuration as the present invention and have similar operational effects. Is possible.

  For example, in the slide fasteners according to the first to fourth embodiments, the case where the separation starting portion is formed only in one element row in the open area has been described. It is possible to arrange the separation starting point portions in both the left and right element rows.

(First embodiment)
First, the slide fastener which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention is demonstrated. Here, FIG. 1 is a schematic rear view showing the slide fastener according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a main portion schematically showing a separation starting point portion of the slide fastener partially enlarged, and FIG. 3 is a state of the separation starting portion when the left and right elements of the slide fastener are engaged with each other. It is sectional drawing which shows this typically.

  In FIG. 2, FIG. 3, etc., in order to facilitate understanding of the features of the present invention, wefts and various warps are shown relatively thin, and the weaving structure (woven structure) is shown roughly. However, in actuality, in consideration of the function as a slide fastener, various wefts and warps are made of yarns having a required thickness, and the woven structure is also densely configured.

  The slide fastener 1 shown in FIG. 1 is formed as a hidden woven slide fastener configured so that the element row 5 cannot be seen from the seat surface side when attached to a vehicle seat cover. This slide fastener 1 meshes a pair of left and right fastener stringers 2 in which coiled fastener elements 4 are woven along the length of the tape, and left and right element rows 5 on woven left and right fastener tapes 3, respectively. And a slider 6 to be detached. At this time, as the slider 6, the same slider as a general slider used in a conventional hidden slide fastener can be used.

  The fastener tape 3 has a tape main part 3a and an element attachment part 3b formed on a side edge of the tape main part 3a and into which the element row 5 is woven. The woven structure of the fastener tape 3 is formed by reciprocating the carrier bar into the warp opening to insert the weft yarn into the weft. The tape main portion 3a has the weft yarn 11 and the ground warp yarn 12 made of double yarn. And is woven.

  Further, the element attachment portion 3b of the fastener tape 3 travels in the warp direction on the upper fixing warp 13 that travels in the warp direction on the upper surface side of the upper leg portion of each element 4 and on the lower surface side of the lower leg portion of each element 4. The position of the lower fixing warp 14, the tightening warp 15 traveling in the warp direction so as to intersect between the upper and lower leg portions 22, 23 of the element 4, and the position of the upper and lower fixing warps 13, 14 in the weft direction are regulated. Is composed of positioning warp 16 and ground weft 11 inserted from the tape main body 3a.

  In the first embodiment, each single yarn of the weft 11 and the various warps 12 to 16 disposed on the tape main portion 3a and the element mounting portion 3b of the fastener tape 3 has a polyester processing having a thickness of 330 dtex. Yarn is used. In the present invention, the woven structure of the fastener tape 3 and the thickness and material of the weft and warp are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately changed according to the use of the slide fastener, the size of the fastener element, and the like.

  The element row 5 is a coil-shaped continuous element formed by pressing a synthetic resin monofilament such as polyamide or polyester at predetermined intervals by stamping to form a meshing head, and then winding it in a coil shape. 4 is used. The coil-like continuous element 4 is formed by processing the element 4 at a predetermined location into a non-engagement portion 9 described later after being attached to the element attachment portion 3b of the fastener tape 3.

  A part of the element row 5 is provided with an open area 17 that allows the left and right elements 4 in meshing state to be separated without sliding the slider 6 when receiving a force larger than a predetermined force. ing. The open area 17 is provided with a predetermined length along the tape length direction of the element row 5. Further, the position of the open area 17 is arranged so as to correspond to the position of the airbag inflation opening when the slide fastener 1 is attached to the seat cover of the vehicle seat on which the side airbag device is mounted. ing.

  For example, in the case of the first embodiment, the total length of the slide fastener 1 is set to 60 to 80 cm, and the open area 17 is an element row region of 30 to 40 cm along the tape length direction of the slide fastener 1. Is provided. Furthermore, the arrangement position of the open area 17 is set to a position facing the side airbag device 92 when the vehicle seat 91 of FIG.

  Further, in the open area 17 of the element row 5, a normal meshing portion 7 in which the left and right elements 4 mesh alternately and regularly, and a separation starting point formed as a non-meshing portion 9 by cutting the head of the element 4. The portions 8 are alternately arranged in the right element row 5. As shown in FIG. 2, the normal meshing portion 7 includes a meshing head 21, upper and lower leg portions 22 and 23 extending from the meshing head 21, and extended end portions of the upper and lower leg portions 22 and 23. It is comprised by the some element 4 which has the connection part 24 connected with either of the upper-lower leg parts 22 and 23 of the element 4 adjacent before and behind the tape longitudinal direction.

  On the other hand, the separation starting point portion 8 is configured by a non-meshing portion 9 formed by cutting away the meshing head 21 of the element 4 that forms the normal meshing portion 7 described above, and the element that becomes the non-meshing portion 9 A cut end face 25 is formed at the tip of the upper and lower leg portions 22, 23. As a result, when the left and right element rows 5 of the slide fastener 1 are closed, the elements 4 constituting each separation starting point 8 do not mesh with the meshing head 21 of the counterpart element 4, so that the meshing strength of the element rows 5 is increased. Can be reduced. In addition, the element row 5 on the left side in the open area 17 does not have a separation starting point portion, and is formed only by the elements 4 constituting the normal meshing portion 7.

  In the first embodiment, the separation starting point portion 8 formed by the non-meshing portion 9 is provided only for the right element row 5 so that the average meshing strength in the open area 17 of the element row 5 is 150 N or more and 200 N or less. Are arranged for every 10 elements. In the present invention, the number of pitches of the separation starting point portions 8 formed in the element row 5 is not particularly limited, and is arbitrarily set according to the size of each element and the required mesh strength. be able to. Further, the separation starting point portions 8 do not have to be arranged at a predetermined pitch, and can be randomly arranged in the open area 17 if necessary.

  On the other hand, each element forming the element row 5 other than the open area 17 has the same shape as the element 4 constituting the normal meshing portion 7, so that the left and right elements 4 mesh alternately and regularly. Is formed. For this reason, the average mesh strength in the element row 5 other than the open area 17 is higher than in the open area 17.

  Such a hidden slide fastener 1 according to the first embodiment can be easily manufactured by using the following method. That is, first, the coil-shaped continuous element formed by stamping is woven and attached to the element mounting portion 3b at the same time as the weaving of the fastener tape 3 with the meshing head 21 facing the inside of the fastener tape 3, and the fastener is attached. The tape 3 is woven.

  After weaving the fastener tape 3, the element mounting portion 3b side is folded back in a U shape, and heat setting is performed in a state where the meshing head 21 of the element row 5 protrudes outward from the U-shaped folded portion. Thereby, the fastener stringer 2 for hidden slide fasteners in which the element row 5 cannot be seen from the tape surface side is obtained.

  Next, the meshing heads 21 of the elements 4 arranged in the open area 17 of the right element row 5 are cut at predetermined pitches to form the non-meshing parts 9 that become the separation starting point parts 8, and then obtained. The hidden slide fastener 1 is obtained by inserting the slider 6 through the left and right element rows 5 of the fastener stringer 2 thus obtained.

  By manufacturing the hidden slide fastener 1 in this manner, the hidden slide fastener can be obtained only by adding a step of cutting the meshing head 21 of the element 4 without improving the existing manufacturing equipment for the hidden slide fastener. 1 can be easily obtained. For this reason, the significant cost increase in manufacture of the hidden slide fastener 1 which concerns on 1st Embodiment is suppressed.

  In the hidden slide fastener 1 according to the first embodiment having the above-described configuration, the non-engagement portion 9 formed by cutting off the meshing head 21 of the element 4 as described above is a predetermined separation start point 8. By being arranged at a pitch, the average mesh strength in the open area 17 is controlled within a range of 100N to 300N, particularly 150N to 200N.

  Accordingly, the hidden slide fastener 1 according to the first embodiment can be suitably used for the seat cover opening of the vehicle seat 91 in which the side airbag device 92 as shown in FIG. 4 is mounted. . The vehicle seat 91 shown in FIG. 4 has a seat cushion (seat portion) 93 and a seat back (backrest portion) 94. Each of the seat cushion 93 and the seat back 94 includes a cushion member (not shown) obtained by molding a foamable synthetic resin into a predetermined shape, and seat covers 93a and 94a that cover the surface of the cushion member. In particular, the vehicle seat cover 94a covers the cushion member of the seat back 94 in a good manner by covering the seat back 94 and then sliding the slider 6 to close the hidden slide fastener 1 of the present embodiment. .

  In this case, in the hidden slide fastener 1 of the present embodiment, the total length of the element row 5 is set to 60 to 80 cm as described above, and the open area 17 is provided in the side airbag device 92 in the element row 5. It is provided in a region having a length of 30 to 40 cm facing each other. Furthermore, the average meshing strength in the open area 17 is 100 N or more, and each separation starting point 8 is formed by one non-meshing portion 9 so that, for example, the occupant's fingertips do not enter.

  For this reason, for example, even if an occupant presses or twists the element row 5 engaged with the hidden slide fastener 1 with the fingertip from the cover surface side, the left and right element rows 5 are prevented from being unexpectedly separated. The meshing state of the element row 5 can be stably maintained.

  The hidden slide fastener 1 has an average meshing strength of 300 N or less in the open area 17 of the element row 5, and a plurality of separation starting points 8 are provided in the open area 17 of the element row 5. For this reason, when the side airbag device 92 is actuated and the airbag is inflated and deployed, the entire open area 17 provided in a part of the element row 5 is pressed by the inflation pressure of the airbag. The separation of the element row 5 from the separation starting point 8 occurs simultaneously.

  Thereby, the element row | line | column 5 in the open area 17 can be isolate | separated promptly and reliably, and an airbag can be inflate-deployed instantaneously and smoothly. Therefore, the influence of the slide fastener 1 on the deployment time and deployment behavior of the airbag can be extremely reduced. In this case, portions other than the open area 17 of the element row 5 can be separated in order from the end on the open area 17 side as necessary by separating the open area 17.

  Furthermore, in the hidden slide fastener 1 according to the present embodiment, for example, when the left and right element rows 5 are separated due to the inflation pressure of the airbag, even if some elements 4 are subjected to an impact due to the separation and cracked, Since the element row 5 is composed of continuous elements, it is possible to prevent the fragments of the elements from scattering. Therefore, when the airbag is inflated and deployed, broken pieces of the element are not scattered toward the occupant, so that the safety of the occupant can be ensured more reliably.

  In addition, the hidden slide fastener 1 according to the first embodiment has a shielding property and a concealment characteristic unique to the hidden slide fastener, in which the element row 5 is invisible and protected from the tape surface side when being sewn to the seat cover 94a. As a result, the appearance and durability of the vehicle seat can be improved. In particular, in the hidden slide fastener 1 of the first embodiment, the separation starting point portions 8 including one non-meshing portion 9 are arranged at a predetermined pitch in the open area 17 of the element row 5. Therefore, the element row 5 can be stably hidden and protected without the local deterioration of the property and the concealing property.

  In addition, in the said description, the case where the hidden slide fastener 1 which concerns on 1st Embodiment is used for the seat cover 94a of the vehicle seat 91 is demonstrated. However, the use of the slide fastener according to the present invention is not limited to such a vehicle seat cover, and can be used for various articles. In particular, the slide fastener has a specific engagement strength. It is suitably used for the required article.

  For example, in automobiles, members called roof linings are arranged on both the left and right sides of the ceiling from the front windshield to the rear windshield. An air bag device for protecting the head is mounted. The slide fastener according to the present invention is a tubular airbag cover that retains the shape of an airbag that is regularly folded in a predetermined procedure in the airbag device for protecting a head mounted in such a roof lining. Etc. are also preferably used.

  Accordingly, since the slide fastener of the present invention attached to the airbag cover is normally closed with a predetermined meshing strength, the folded shape of the airbag is appropriately held by the airbag cover. Further, at the time of a side collision of the vehicle, the slide fastener of the present invention receives the inflation pressure of the airbag and quickly opens as described above, so that the airbag can be inflated and deployed instantaneously.

  In addition, the slide fastener of the present invention is also suitably used for a gas inflatable life jacket (life jacket) in which a confidential bag (floating bag) is inflated by carbon dioxide gas or the like. That is, a general gas expansion type life jacket contains a small cylinder that generates gas and a confidential bag that expands with the gas generated from the small cylinder.

  Therefore, if the slide fastener of the present invention is attached to the part of the life jacket in which the confidential bag is accommodated, when the gas is generated from the small cylinder, the slide fastener receives the inflation pressure of the confidential bag and quickly The secret bag can be inflated smoothly. Furthermore, the life jacket to which the slide fastener of the present invention is attached can also provide an advantage that the operation of replacing the confidential bag or the small cylinder can be easily performed.

  Subsequently, a hidden slide fastener according to a modification of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. Here, FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a main part partially showing a separation starting point portion of the hidden slide fastener according to the modified example, and FIG. 6 is a diagram when the left and right element rows of the slide fastener are engaged with each other. It is a principal part enlarged view which shows the state of a separation starting part typically.

  In addition, in the modification of 1st Embodiment shown below, the description in 2nd-4th Embodiment, and those reference drawings, the structure similar to the member demonstrated in the slide fastener of the said 1st Embodiment is shown. About the member which has, it represents using the same code | symbol and suppose that description of the member is abbreviate | omitted.

  In the hidden slide fastener 1 ′ that is the modification shown in FIG. 5, the separation starting point portion 8 ′ disposed in the open area of the element row 5 has a part of the meshing head from the element 4 constituting the normal meshing portion 7. It is comprised by the weak meshing part 10 formed by removing. That is, in this modification, the weakly engaging portion 10 constituting the separation starting point portion 8 ′ is formed at the tip of the engaging head 21 of the element 4 without the protruding portion 26 protruding forward and backward in the tape length direction. ing.

  When such a weakly engaging portion 10 is formed in place of the non-engaging portion 9 disposed in the slide fastener 1 of the first embodiment described above, when the left and right element rows 5 are engaged, FIG. As shown, although the elements 4 constituting each separation starting point 8 ′ enter and mesh between the meshing heads 21 of the adjacent adjacent element 4, the meshing head 21 of the element 4 has a protrusion 26. Therefore, the meshing strength of the left and right element rows 5 can be weakened. For this reason, the element row 5 can be easily separated from the separation starting point 8 'when a pressing force of a predetermined magnitude or more, such as an inflation pressure of an airbag, is received.

  Further, since the separation starting point 8 ′ formed by such a weakly meshing portion 10 enters between the meshing heads 21 of the mating elements 4 as described above, the separation starting point 8 ′ is Even in the provided portion, the meshing form of the element row 5 can be stabilized similarly to the meshing form of the normal meshing portion 7. Thereby, when the slider 6 is slid, the sliding operation of the slider 6 can be smoothly performed without feeling uncomfortable feeling that the slider 6 is caught by the element row 5 in the open area.

  If the separation starting point 8 ′ by the weakly engaging portion 10 as described above is the hidden slide fastener 1 ′ arranged in the open area, for example, by changing the pitch number of the separation starting point 8 ′, the average in the open area The meshing strength can be controlled. Therefore, the hidden slide fastener 1 'according to this modification is formed such that the average meshing strength in the open area is controlled within the range of 100N or more and 300N or less, so that the slide according to the first embodiment described above is formed. The effect similar to the fastener 1 can be acquired, and it can use suitably for the seat cover opening part of the vehicle seat in which the side airbag apparatus was installed.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a slide fastener according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Here, FIG. 7 is a schematic front view showing a normal type slide fastener according to the second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a main part longitudinal cross-sectional view schematically showing the state of the separation starting point when the left and right elements of the slide fastener are engaged with each other.

  The normal type slide fastener 31 shown in FIG. 7 has coil-like fastener elements 34 along the tape length direction at the tape side edges of the left and right fastener tapes 33 woven by ground weft and ground warp. A pair of left and right fastener stringers 32 sewn and a slider 36 for engaging and releasing the left and right element rows 35 are provided. In addition, the said fastener tape 33 is not specifically limited, The various tapes which can sew the fastener element 34 can be used.

  The fastener element 34 is formed by pressing a synthetic resin monofilament such as polyamide or polyester at predetermined intervals by stamping to form a meshing head and then winding it in a coil shape. The coiled fastener element 34 has a core string 41 inserted therein, and is sewn on the side edge of the fastener tape 33 by double ring stitching of the sewing thread 42.

  A part of the element row 35 is provided with an open area that can separate the left and right elements 34 in a meshed state when receiving a force larger than a predetermined force without sliding the slider 36. Yes. This open area is provided with a predetermined length in the tape length direction of the element row 35.

  Further, in the open area of the element row 35, a normal meshing portion 37 in which the left and right elements 34 mesh alternately and regularly, and a separation head formed by cutting the meshing head 21 of the element 34 as a non-meshing portion 39 are formed. Starting point portions 38 are alternately arranged on the right fastener stringer 32. The separation starting point 38 in the second embodiment is formed by cutting the meshing head 21 of the element 34 constituting the separation starting point 38 after the coiled fastener element 34 is sewn to the fastener tape 33. A cut end face 25 is formed at the tip of the upper and lower leg portions 22 and 23 of the element 34. Thereby, when the left and right element rows 35 of the slide fastener 31 are meshed, the elements 34 constituting each separation starting point portion 38 do not mesh with the meshing head 21 of the counterpart element 34. Can be reduced.

  At this time, in the second embodiment, the separation starting point portion 38 formed by the non-meshing portion 39 is only the right element row 35 so that the average meshing strength in the open area of the element row 35 is 100N or more and 300N or less. Are arranged for every 10 elements. In addition, also about the slide fastener 31 which concerns on this 2nd Embodiment, it is possible to control the average meshing strength in an open area by changing the pitch of the separation starting part 38 formed in an open area.

  The slide fastener 31 according to the second embodiment having such a configuration has an average meshing strength of 100 N or more in the open area of the element row 35, and each separation starting point portion 38 does not receive, for example, the occupant's fingertip. Thus, it is formed by one non-meshing portion 39. For this reason, even if the engaged element row 35 is pressed or twisted with a fingertip, the left and right element rows 35 can be prevented from being separated unexpectedly, and the meshing state of the element row 35 can be stabilized. Can be maintained.

  In addition, the slide fastener 31 has an average meshing strength of 300 N or less in the open area of the element row 35, and a plurality of separation starting points 38 are provided in the open area of the element row 35. For this reason, when the entire open area of the element row 35 receives a predetermined pressing force such as the inflation pressure of the airbag, the element rows 35 are simultaneously separated from the plurality of separation starting point portions 38. Thereby, the element row | line | column 35 in an open area can be isolate | separated quickly and reliably. Therefore, the slide fastener 31 according to the second embodiment can also be suitably used for the opening portion of the seat cover of the vehicle seat in which the side airbag device is installed.

  FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of only the fastener element 34 ′ of the slide fastener 31 ′ according to the modification of the second embodiment. The fastener element 34 'shown in FIG. 9 is formed by pressing a synthetic resin monofilament at predetermined intervals by stamping to form a meshing head, and then bending the zigzag. A pair of left and right fasteners can be obtained by sewing the zigzag fastener element 34 ′ with the fastener tape inserted between the upper and lower leg portions 22 and 23 and using a sewing thread. A stringer is formed.

  Then, from the obtained fastener stringer, the meshing head 21 of the element 34 ′ at a predetermined location is cut out to form a separation starting point portion 38 ′ composed of a plurality of non-meshing portions 39 ′, thereby obtaining an average meshing in the open area. A slide fastener 31 ′ whose strength is controlled within a required range can be obtained.

  In this way, instead of the coil-shaped fastener element 34 of the slide fastener 31 according to the second embodiment described above, the zigzag-shaped fastener element 34 ′ is used to configure the slide fastener 31 ′. The same effect as the form can be obtained.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a slide fastener according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Here, FIG. 10 is a schematic front view showing the slide fastener according to the third embodiment.
The slide fastener 51 shown in FIG. 10 engages and disengages a pair of left and right fastener stringers 52 in which a plurality of individual fastener elements 54 are integrally formed on the side edge of the fastener tape 53 and the left and right element rows 55 (not shown). And a slider.

  The fastener tape 53 has a core string portion 61 formed on opposite side edges, and a fastener element 54 made of synthetic resin is injected into an element mounting portion including the core string portion 61 of the fastener tape 53. The element rows 55 are formed by forming along the tape length direction by molding. In this case, each fastener element 54 includes a leg portion 62 that is fixed to the fastener tape 53 so as to sandwich the core string portion 61, a neck portion 63 that extends in the tape width direction so as to be confined from the leg portion 62, and a neck portion And a meshing head 64 formed in an oval shape at the tip end side of 63.

  Further, in the open area arranged in a part of the element row 55, the normal meshing portion 57 and the separation starting point portion 58 formed as the first non-meshing portion 59 are alternately formed by omitting the formation of the element 54. It is arranged. At this time, the separation starting point 58 is arranged on the right side fastener stringer 52 for every ten elements. Since the separation starting point portions 58 by the first non-meshing portions 59 are arranged at a predetermined pitch, the meshing strength of the element row 55 is lowered, and the average meshing strength in the open area of the element row 55 is 100N or more and 300N. The following can be controlled.

  In the third embodiment, the separation starting point 58 is formed in the cavity of the fastener element 54 at a position to be the separation starting point 58 when a plurality of fastener elements 54 are injection-molded on the fastener tape 53 using a mold, for example. It can be easily formed by performing injection molding using a mold not provided with.

  In the case of the slide fastener 51 according to the third embodiment having such a configuration, as in the first and second embodiments described above, the meshed element row 55 is pressed with a fingertip or twisted. Even if it does, it can prevent effectively that the left and right element row | line | column 55 isolate | separates unexpectedly, and the meshing state of the element row | line 55 can be maintained stably.

  In addition, the entire open area of the element row 55 receives a predetermined pressing force such as the inflation pressure of the airbag, so that the element row 55 in the open area can be quickly and reliably separated. Therefore, the slide fastener 51 according to the third embodiment can also be suitably used for the opening portion of the seat cover of the vehicle seat in which the side airbag device is installed.

  FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of an element mounting portion of a slide fastener 51 ′ according to a modification of the third embodiment. The separation starting portion 58 ′ formed in the slide fastener 51 ′ shown in FIG. 11 is configured by a first non-engaging portion 59 in which the formation of the element 54 is omitted as in the slide fastener 51 according to the third embodiment. Instead, the second non-meshing portion 60 having only the leg portions 62 is formed without forming the neck portion 63 and the meshing head portion 64 of the element 54.

  The slide fastener 51 ′ in which the separation starting point portion 58 ′ is formed by the second non-engaging portion 60 can obtain the same effect as the slide fastener 51 according to the third embodiment described above. In addition, since the slide fastener 51 ′ has the leg portion 62 disposed at the separation starting point portion 58 ′, for example, when the left and right element rows 55 are meshed, the portion where the second non-meshing portion 60 is provided is meshed. A form can be stabilized compared with the case where the above-mentioned 1st non-meshing part 59 is provided. Thereby, when the slider is slid on the element row 55, the sliding operation of the slider can be performed more smoothly.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, a slide fastener according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Here, FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of a main part showing only the fastener element of the slide fastener according to the fourth embodiment.
The slide fastener 71 shown in FIG. 12 engages and detaches a pair of left and right fastener stringers in which an element row is formed by sewing a fastener element 74 at the tape side edge of the fastener tape, and the left and right element rows are not shown. And a slider.

  The fastener elements 74 constituting the left and right element rows have a meshing head 81 provided with a protrusion 84 in the tape length direction, and upper and lower leg portions 82 and 83 extending from the meshing head 81 in parallel to each other. However, it is U-shaped when viewed from the side. Each of these fastener elements 74 has a connecting thread 85 inserted through the end portions of the upper and lower leg portions 82 and 83, and is sewn to the fastener tape 53 in a state where all the fastener elements 74 are connected to each other.

  Further, the upper and lower leg portions 82 and 83 of each fastener element 74 are formed with a recess 86 for receiving a sewing thread (not shown) for sewing the fastener element 74 on the tape side edge side with respect to the connecting thread 85. Yes. Accordingly, each fastener element 74 can be stably sewed at a predetermined position by the sewing thread, and the sewing thread and the slider can be prevented from being rubbed against each other when the slider is slid to cause the sewing thread to be cut. .

  In addition, an open area is provided in a part of the element row, and in order to make the average mesh strength in the open area 100N or more and 300N or less, a separation starting point portion 78 is provided in the right element row in the open area. It is arranged at the pitch. In the fourth embodiment, the separation starting point portion 78 is constituted by a weakly engaging portion 79 formed by omitting the formation of the protruding portion 84 from the engaging head portion 81 of the fastener element 74.

  Even in the slide fastener 71 according to the fourth embodiment, as in the first to third embodiments, the meshed element row is pressed with a fingertip or twisted. However, the left and right element rows can be effectively prevented from being separated unexpectedly, and the meshing state can be stably maintained. Further, by receiving a predetermined pressing force such as the inflation pressure of the airbag in the entire open area of the element row, the element row in the open area can be quickly and reliably separated.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described more specifically with reference to examples.
(Examples 1 to 5 and Comparative Example 1)
First, in order to examine the average mesh strength in the open area of the slide fastener according to the present invention, as the measurement sample, for example, separation starting point portions 8 are arranged at a predetermined pitch number in the open area as shown in FIG. A plurality of fastener chains for hidden slide fasteners (Examples 1 to 5) and a conventional fastener chain for hidden slide fasteners (Comparative Example 1) in which no separation starting point portion was arranged were prepared.

  In the fastener chains of Examples 1 to 5 and Comparative Example 1, the side edge portions of the left and right fastener tapes 3 are folded back in a U shape, and the coil-like fastener elements 4 are meshed with the tape side edges. The left and right element rows 5 are formed by sewing with the head protruding outward from the U-shaped folded portion. At this time, the chain widths of the fastener chains of Examples 1 to 5 and Comparative Example 1 are all set to 5 to 6 mm.

  Furthermore, the fastener chain of Examples 1 to 5 has an open area in a part of the element row 5, and the meshing head of the fastener element 4 is in one element row 5 in the open area. A separation starting point 8 constituted by the cut non-meshing portion 9 is formed. At this time, the separation starting point 8 is separated every 60 pitches (about 100.8 mm) in the first embodiment, every 30 pitches (about 50.4 mm) in the second embodiment, and 15 pitches (about 25.2 mm in the third embodiment). ) Every 10 pitches (about 16.8 mm) in Example 4, and every 5 pitches (about 8.4 mm) in Example 5. On the other hand, the fastener chain of Comparative Example 1 is formed without any separation starting portion provided in the open area of the element row.

  Next, for each of the prepared fastener chains of Examples 1 to 5 and Comparative Example 1, an average meshing strength in an open area of each fastener chain is obtained by performing a chain lateral pulling strength test as follows. Asked.

  In this chain lateral pull strength test, first, the fastener chain is held so as not to be loosened by fixing the front end portion and the rear end portion in the tape length direction of the fastener chain, and the predetermined position of the left and right fastener tapes 3 is set to the left and right. The pair of grippers 19 are respectively gripped. Next, a load is gradually applied to the meshed left and right element rows 5 by moving the left and right grandpers 19 holding the fastener tape 3 in a direction away from each other. Then, by measuring the load when the separation of the element rows 5 occurs in the fastener chain, the meshing strength of the element rows 5 at the position gripped by the grandper 19 is obtained.

  At this time, the grip width (dimension in the tape length direction) of the fastener tape 3 by the grandper 19 is set to 25.4 mm. Further, the position where the gripper 19 grips the fastener tape 3 is the first position where the separation starting point 8 is provided in the tape length direction with respect to one separation starting point 8 as shown in FIG. A tape gripping position 19a, a second tape gripping position 19b that is an intermediate position between the separation starting point 8 and the adjacent separation starting point 8 formed at a predetermined pitch, and a first tape gripping position 19a and a second tape gripping It is set at three positions of the third tape gripping position 19c which is an intermediate position with respect to the position 19b, and the mesh strength of the element row is obtained at each of the tape gripping positions 19a to 19c.

  And such a horizontal pulling strength test is done with respect to five separation starting points in the open area for each measurement sample of Examples 1 to 5 and Comparative Example 1. As a result, the meshing strength of the element rows at each of the fastener chains at a total of 15 tape gripping positions was determined. In addition, about the fastener chain of a comparative example, since the separation starting part was not arranged, the meshing strength of the element row was obtained at a total of 15 positions in the open area.

  Furthermore, after obtaining the meshing strength at the 15 tape gripping positions for each fastener chain, the average meshing strength in the open area of each fastener chain was calculated by calculating the average of the 15 meshing strengths. The result of the average meshing strength in the open area of each fastener chain of Examples 1 to 5 and Comparative Example 1 obtained in this manner is shown in the graph of FIG.

  In the graph of FIG. 14, the ♦ plot indicates the mesh strength measured at the first tape gripping position, the X plot indicates the mesh strength measured at the second tape gripping position, and + The plot of (2) shows the mesh strength measured at the third tape gripping position.

  As shown in FIG. 14, when comparing the average meshing strength of the open areas in each fastener chain of Examples 1 to 5, the pitch of the separation starting points arranged in the open areas is changed. It can be confirmed that the average meshing strength in the open area has changed. From this, it can be seen that the hidden slide fastener according to the present invention can easily control the average meshing strength in the open area of the slide fastener to a desired range by arbitrarily changing the pitch of the separation starting portion.

  From the results shown in FIG. 14, the fastener chains of Examples 3 to 5 in which the pitch of the separation starting point portion is 15 pitches or less are within the range of the average mesh strength in the open area of 100 N or more and 300 N or less, In particular, the samples of Example 4 and Example 5 have an average engagement strength in the range of 150N or more and 200N or less. For this reason, the hidden slide fastener provided with the fastener chain of Example 3 to Example 5 can be suitably used for the opening portion of the seat cover of the vehicle seat in which the side airbag device is provided.

  On the other hand, the fastener chain of Comparative Example 1 used for the conventional hidden slide fastener has an average meshing strength of about 700 N in the open area, so that the entire open area has a predetermined pressing force such as an inflation pressure of an airbag. It is difficult to separate the left and right element rows even after receiving. Therefore, it is clear that the fastener chain of Comparative Example 1 is not suitable for the hidden slide fastener used in the opening portion of the seat cover of the vehicle seat in which the side airbag device is installed.

(Examples 6 to 14 and Comparative Examples 2 and 3)
Next, as a measurement sample, for example, a plurality of normal type fastener chains for slide fasteners (Examples 6 to 14) in which separation start points are arranged at a predetermined pitch in an open area as shown in FIG. And a conventional normal type fastener chain for slide fasteners (Comparative Examples 2 and 3) in which no separation starting point portion is arranged.

  In the fastener chains of Examples 6 to 14 and Comparative Examples 2 and 3, coil-like fastener elements 34 are sewn along the tape length direction at the side edges of the woven left and right fastener tapes 33, respectively. Thus, left and right element rows 35 are formed. At this time, as for the fastener chains of Examples 6 to 10 and Comparative Example 2, the chain width is set to 6 to 7 mm. On the other hand, for the fastener chains of Examples 11 to 14 and Comparative Example 3, fastener elements having a smaller size than those of Examples 6 to 10 and Comparative Example 2 are attached, and the chain width is All are set to 4-5 mm.

  In addition, the fastener chains of Examples 6 to 10 have an open area in a part of the element row 35, and in the open area, a separation starting point including a non-engagement portion 39 obtained by cutting off the meshing head. The portion 38 is performed every 60 pitches (about 110.4 mm) in Example 6, every 30 pitches (about 55.2 mm) in Example 7, and every 15 pitches (about 27.6 mm) in Example 8. In Example 9, it is formed every 10 pitches (about 18.4 mm), and in Example 10, it is formed every 5 pitches (about 9.2 mm). On the other hand, the fastener chain of Comparative Example 2 is formed without any separation starting portion provided in the open area of the element row.

  Furthermore, the fastener chains of Examples 11 to 14 also have an open area in a part of the element row 35, and in the open area, a separation starting point including a non-engagement portion 39 obtained by cutting off the meshing head. The portion 38 is carried out every 80 pitches (about 100.8 mm) in the embodiment 11, every 40 pitches (about 50.4 mm) in the embodiment 12, and every 20 pitches (about 25.2 mm) in the embodiment 13. In Example 14, it is formed every 10 pitches (about 12.6 mm). On the other hand, the fastener chain of Comparative Example 3 is formed without any separation starting point portion provided in the open area of the element row.

  Next, with respect to each of the prepared fastener chains of Examples 6 to 10 and Comparative Example 2, the above-mentioned chain lateral pulling strength test was performed to determine the average mesh strength in the open area of each fastener chain. . In addition, the same chain transverse strength test was performed on the fastener chains of Examples 11 to 14 and Comparative Example 3. The results of the average meshing strength of the open areas in the fastener chains of Examples 6 to 10 and Comparative Example 2 obtained in this way are shown in the graph of FIG. 15, and Examples 11 to 14 are also shown. And the result of the average meshing strength of the open area in each fastener chain of the comparative example 3 is shown according to the graph of FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, it can be confirmed that the average meshing strength of the open area is changed by changing the pitch of the separation starting point portions disposed in the open area. From this, the normal type slide fastener according to the present invention can easily control the average engagement strength in the open area of the slide fastener to a desired range by arbitrarily changing the pitch of the separation starting point portion. I understand.

  From the results shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the fastener chains of Examples 9, 10, 13, and 14 are provided with the fastener chains because the average meshing strength in the open area is in the range of 100N to 300N. The normal type slide fastener can be suitably used in the opening portion of the seat cover of the vehicle seat in which the side airbag device is installed.

  On the other hand, the fastener chains of Comparative Example 2 and Comparative Example 3 used for the conventional slide fastener have average engagement strengths in the open areas of about 1000 N and about 600 N, respectively, which are too high. Therefore, it is obvious that these fastener chains are not suitable for slide fasteners used in the opening portion of the seat cover of the vehicle seat in which the side airbag device is installed.

It is a schematic rear view which shows the slide fastener which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a principal part enlarged view which expands partially and shows typically the isolation | separation starting part in the slide fastener. It is sectional drawing which shows typically the state of the separation origin part when the left and right elements of the slide fastener mesh. It is a perspective view which shows the vehicle seat in which the same slide fastener is used. It is a principal part enlarged view which expands and shows the isolation | separation starting part of the slide fastener which concerns on the modification of 1st Embodiment partially. It is a principal part enlarged view which shows typically the state of the isolation | separation starting part when the right-and-left element row | line | column of the slide fastener has meshed | engaged. It is a schematic front view which shows the slide fastener which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a principal part longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows typically the state of the isolation | separation starting part when the left and right elements of the slide fastener mesh. It is a principal part enlarged view which expands and shows only the fastener element of the slide fastener which concerns on the modification of 2nd Embodiment. It is a schematic front view which shows the slide fastener which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a principal part enlarged view which expands and shows the element attachment part of the slide fastener which concerns on the modification of 3rd Embodiment. It is a principal part enlarged view which expands and shows only the fastener element of the slide fastener which concerns on 4th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing explaining the position which a grandper hold | grips when performing the horizontal pulling strength test of a fastener chain. It is a graph which shows the result of having calculated | required the average meshing strength in the open area of each fastener chain of Example 1- Example 5 and Comparative Example 1. FIG. It is a graph which shows the result of having calculated | required the average meshing strength in the open area of each fastener chain of Example 6- Example 10 and Comparative Example 2. FIG. It is a graph which shows the result of having calculated | required the average meshing strength in the open area of each fastener chain of Example 11- Example 14 and Comparative Example 3. FIG. (A) is a top view which shows the conventional slide fastener, (B) is a principal part enlarged view which shows the connection link of the slide fastener. (A) is a perspective view which shows the surface side of the single fastener element with which the conventional slide fastener is provided, (b) is a perspective view which shows the back surface side of the single fastener element. In the slide fastener, it is sectional drawing which shows the state which the right and left fastener elements meshed. It is a perspective view which shows the state which the element row | line | column of the slide fastener isolate | separates.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1,1 'Hidden slide fastener 2 Fastener stringer 3 Fastener tape 3a Tape main part 3b Element attachment part 4 Fastener element 5 Element row 6 Slider 7 Normal meshing part 8, 8' Separation starting part 9 Non-meshing part 10 Weakly meshing part 11 Ground Weft 12 Ground warp 13 Lower fixing warp 14 Upper fixing warp 15 Fastening warp 16 Positioning warp 17 Open area 19 Glamper 19a First tape gripping position 19b Second tape gripping position 19c Third tape gripping position 21 Engagement head 22 Upper leg portion 23 Lower leg portion 24 Connection portion 25 Cutting end face 26 Projection portion 31, 31 'Slide fastener 32 Fastener stringer 33 Fastener tape 34, 34' Fastener element 35 Element row 36 Slider 37 Normal meshing portion 38, 38 'Separation start Part 39, 39 'Non-engagement part 41 Core string 42 Sewing thread 51, 51' Slide fastener 52 Fastener stringer 53 Fastener tape 54 Fastener element 55 Element row 57 Normal engagement part 58, 58 'Separation start part 59 First non-engagement part 60 second non-engagement part 61 core string part 62 leg part 63 neck part 64 meshing head 71 slide fastener 74 fastener element 78 separation starting part 79 weak meshing part 81 meshing head 82 upper leg part 83 lower leg part 84 projecting part 85 connecting thread 86 Recess 91 Vehicle seat 92 Side airbag device 93 Seat cushion 93a Seat cover 94 Seat back 94a Seat cover

Claims (12)

A number of fastener elements (4) having a head (21, 64, 81) and legs (22, 23, 62, 82, 83) at the tape side edges of a pair of left and right fastener tapes (3, 33, 53) , 34, 34 ', 54, 74) and a pair of left and right fastener stringers (2, 32, 52) in which the element rows (5, 35, 55) are formed along the tape length direction, Sliders (6, 36) for engaging and disengaging the element rows (5, 35, 55), and the element rows (5, 35, 55) are engaged with the right and left fastener elements (4, 34). , 34 ′, 54, 74) at least in part with a slide fastener (1, 1 ′, 31, 31 ′) that can be separated by a predetermined force without depending on the slider (6, 36). , 51,51'71)
At least one of the element rows (5, 35, 55) is within the open area (17),
Normal engagement portions (7, 37, 57) in which the left and right fastener elements (4, 34, 34 ', 54, 74) are alternately and regularly engaged in a predetermined form;
At least one or more of the fastener elements (4, 34, 34 ', 54, 74) are in an element row area where they can be arranged and do not mesh with the other fastener element (4, 34, 34', 54) By a non-meshing portion (9,39,39 ', 59,60) or a weakly meshing portion (10,79) that meshes weakly with the counterpart fastener element (4,74) and the normal meshing portion (7) A plurality of separation starting points (8,8 ', 38,38', 58,58 ', 78) formed;
Have
The normal meshing part (7, 37, 57) and the separation starting point part (8, 8 ', 38, 38', 58, 58 ', 78) are alternately arranged in the open area (17). ,
A slide fastener characterized by that.   The slide fastener according to claim 1, wherein the separation starting points (8, 8 ', 38, 38', 58, 58 ', 78) are arranged at a predetermined pitch in the element row (5, 35, 55). .   The slide fastener according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the element row (5, 35) is formed by attaching a continuous fastener element (4, 34, 34 ') made of synthetic resin formed by stamping.   The slide fastener according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the element row (55) is formed by arranging individual fastener elements (54, 74) integrally formed on a fastener tape (53).   The non-meshing portion (9, 39, 39 ', 60) is configured by removing the head (21, 64) of the fastener element (4, 34, 34', 54). 2. The slide fastener according to 2.   The slide fastener according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the weakly engaging portion (10, 79) is configured by excluding a part of the head (21, 81) of the fastener element (4, 74).   The slide fastener according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the non-engagement portion (59) is configured by excluding the fastener element (54) itself from the side edge portion of the tape.   The separation starting point (8, 8 ', 38, 38', 58, 58 ', 78) is formed only in the element row (5, 35, 55) of one of the fastener stringers (2, 32, 52). The slide fastener according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the slide fastener is formed.   The slide fastener according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the separation starting point (8, 8 ') is formed in the element row (5) for every 10 or less fastener elements (4).   The slide fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein an average transverse pulling strength in the open area (17) is controlled to be 100N or more and 300N or less.   The slide fastener (1, 1 ') has a side edge portion of the fastener tape (3) folded back in a U-shape, and the head (21) of the fastener element (4) is moved outward from the U-shape folded portion. The slide fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the slide fastener is a hidden slide fastener configured such that the element row (5) becomes invisible from the tape surface side by being formed to project.   A seat airbag (94a) in which the slide fastener (1,1 ', 31,31', 51,51'71) according to any one of claims 1 to 11 is attached to an opening is covered, and the side airbag device (92) A vehicle seat characterized by being installed therein.

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