WO2023100904A1

WO2023100904A1 - Stringer, stopper, and fastener

Info

Publication number: WO2023100904A1
Application number: PCT/JP2022/044068
Authority: WO
Inventors: 貴宏橋爪
Original assignee: Ykk株式会社
Priority date: 2021-11-30
Filing date: 2022-11-29
Publication date: 2023-06-08
Also published as: GB2613353A; TWI828449B; TW202335603A; GB202117285D0

Abstract

A stringer (6, 8) for a sliding fastener (2) comprises a fastener tape (18, 20), a plurality of coupling elements (10, 12), and a first stopper (24, 26). In the stringer (6, 8), the first stopper comprises an overhang (46) extending laterally beyond the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape and a protrusion (48) extending from the overhang in a first direction beyond a first surface of the fastener tape, wherein the protrusion is spaced apart from the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape.

Description

stringers, fasteners and fasteners

The present invention relates to stringers for slide fasteners. The invention also relates to a slide fastener including such a stringer and a stop for the stringer of the slide fastener.

A conventional slide fastener generally comprises a pair of stringers and an opening/closing means usually called a slider. Each stringer comprises a tape and a plurality of connecting elements. A connecting element extends along an edge of each tape and interlocks or interlocks with a corresponding connecting element of the stringer when the slider of the slide fastener moves relative to the connecting element in a first sliding direction. Move the slide fastener to the closed position. When each tape of the slide fastener is attached to a separate portion of the article, the separate portion of the article is releasably joined by moving the slider to the closed position to close the slide fastener, thereby The coupling elements can be in mutually engaged relationship. Similarly, separate parts of the article are separated by moving the slider relative to the coupling element in a second sliding direction opposite the first sliding direction to release the slide fastener. , thereby uncoupling the coupling element and moving the slide fastener to the open position.

A plurality of connecting elements may take the form of separate individual elements, also called coupling teeth. Alternatively, the multiple coupling elements may take the form of a continuous coil.

The tape is typically woven or knitted and may be made of polyester, for example. If the connecting element takes the form of a toothing, the connecting element may be attached to the tape, for example by crimping or molding the connecting element onto a reinforcing portion of the tape, the reinforcing portion being disposed at the edge of the tape. be. The reinforcing portion is sometimes called a cord. When the connecting element is formed as a continuous coil, each stringer coil is most commonly sewn to the surface of the tape and to the reinforcing portion of the tape. If the coupling element is formed as a continuous coil, the reinforcing portion may be offset from the edge of the tape, or may be on the top surface of the tape, or offset at the edge of the tape. may be on the top surface of the A continuous coil may be woven or knitted into a tape.

Each stringer has a stop provided to hold the slider on the stringer. Generally, the stop is formed directly on each stringer by a suitable method such as injection molding. One or more defects may occur during the formation of the fastener on the stringer. For example, when the fastener is formed on the fastener tape, burrs can occur at the edges of the fastener.

The stop generally limits movement of the slider relative to the coupling element in the first sliding direction.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a stringer that at least partially addresses one or more problems with alternative stringers and/or existing stringers, whether identified herein or not.

According to a first aspect of the invention, a stringer for a slide fastener is provided. The stringers are provided with fastener tapes. The fastener tape has longitudinal edges, a first surface and a second surface. The second surface is opposite the first surface. The second surface is spaced from the first surface in a first direction. The stringer further comprises a plurality of connecting elements arranged along the longitudinal edges of the fastener tape. The plurality of coupling elements are configured such that, in use, the plurality of coupling elements are couplable with corresponding plurality of coupling elements of the second stringer, thereby coupling the stringer to the second stringer. The stringer further includes a first stop disposed at or adjacent longitudinal ends of the plurality of connecting elements. At least a portion of the first fastener is formed on the first surface of the fastener tape. Although the first stop preferably does not contact the second surface of the fastener tape, the first stop may contact the second surface of the fastener tape. The first fastener includes an overhang extending laterally beyond the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape. The first stop further comprises a projection extending in the first direction from the overhang and beyond the first surface of the fastener tape. The protrusion is spaced from the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape.

The protrusion spaced from the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape reduces contact between the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape and the first fastener during formation of the first fastener. reduce the likelihood. This reduces the likelihood of burr formation during formation of the first fastener on the first surface of the fastener tape.

The first stop that is not in contact with the second surface of the fastener tape isolates the second surface of the fastener tape from the first stop while forming the first stop. This advantageously reduces the likelihood of damage occurring to the second surface of the fastener tape during formation of the first fastener.

A lateral gap may be defined between the protrusion and the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape.

The first fastener does not have to be in contact with the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape.

The term "lateral gap" may be understood to mean that there is no material between the protrusion and the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape in the lateral direction. In other words, the protrusions are laterally spaced from the longitudinal edges of the fastener tape.

Advantageously, damage to the second surface and/or the longitudinal edges of the fastener tape is prevented if a lateral gap is defined between the projection and the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape. The likelihood and likelihood of burrs forming while forming the first stop is further reduced.

The protrusion may not extend beyond the second surface of the fastener tape in the first direction.

If the protrusion does not extend beyond the second surface, the protrusion advantageously does not interfere with the movement of the slider of the slide fastener including the stringer in use.

The protrusion may define an end point in the first direction. The end point may coincide with the second surface of the fastener tape in the first direction.

The end point can be said to be the vertex in the first direction, or it can be said to be located at the part of the protrusion extending in the direction further away from the overhanging part in the first direction.

The protrusion may define a generally rounded surface.

Since the protrusions define a generally rounded surface, it is advantageous compared to the case where the protrusions form a surface that defines one or more vertices. The possibility of damage to the skin of the skin, etc. is reduced. A generally rounded surface may be said to be a smoothly curved surface.

The projecting portion may extend from the laterally outermost peripheral region of the overhanging portion.

Since the projection extends from the laterally outermost peripheral region of the overhang, the distance between the projection and the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape is maximized. By maximizing the spacing between the protrusion and the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape, the risk of burr formation and the risk of burr formation and the formation of the second stop while forming the first stop are advantageously reduced. can further reduce the risk of damage to the surface of the

The laterally outermost peripheral region of the overhang is the region or portion of the overhang that has the greatest lateral separation from the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape.

In cross-section, the protrusion may define a first radius and a second radius.

This advantageously facilitates removal of the first end stop from the mold used to form the first stop end.

The first radius may extend tangentially from the second radius.

This advantageously makes it easier to remove the first end stop from the mold used to form the first stop end.

The fastener tape may have a film layer.

The film layer may be located on or define i) the second surface of the fastener tape and/or ii) the longitudinal edges of the fastener tape.

A second aspect of the present invention provides a stop for a stringer of a slide fastener. The stops are configured to be disposed at or adjacent longitudinal ends of the plurality of connecting elements of the stringer. The fastener includes an attachment surface attachable to the first surface of the fastener tape of the stringer. The first surface is opposite the second surface of the fastener tape of the stringer. The second surface is spaced from the first surface in a first direction. The stop further comprises an overhang. The ledges are configured to extend laterally beyond the longitudinal edges of the fastener tape in use. The stop further comprises a projection extending from the overhang. The projection is configured to extend beyond the first surface in the first direction when the fastener is attached to the first surface of the fastener tape via the attachment surface in use. The fastener is configured such that, in use, when the fastener is attached to the first surface of the fastener tape via the mounting surface, it does not contact the second surface of the fastener tape. The protrusion is configured to be spaced from the longitudinal edge of the fastener tape, in use, when the stop is attached to the first surface of the fastener tape via the mounting surface. there is

The advantages described above in relation to the first aspect of the invention also apply to this aspect of the invention.

A fastener is provided in a third aspect of the present invention. The fastener comprises a first stringer according to the first aspect of the invention. The fastener further comprises a second stringer. A second stringer comprises a fastener tape. The fastener tape has longitudinal edges. The second stringer further comprises a plurality of connecting elements disposed along longitudinal edges of the fastener tape. The plurality of connecting elements of the first stringer are coupled to each other along the fastener axis with the plurality of connecting elements of the first stringer to the corresponding connecting elements of the plurality of connecting elements of the second stringer to form the first stringer. is connectable with a plurality of connecting elements of the second stringer to secure the stringer of the second stringer to the second stringer. The fastener further comprises a slider. The slider is slidable along the fastener axis in the first direction such that the slider biases the plurality of coupling elements of the first stringer to interlock with the plurality of coupling elements of the second stringer. is. The slider moves in a second direction, opposite the first direction, such that the slider biases the plurality of coupling elements of the first stringer to uncouple from the plurality of coupling elements of the second stringer. It is slidable.

The second stringer may be a stringer according to the first aspect of the invention.

An embodiment of the present invention will be disclosed with reference to the attached drawings.

1 shows a fastener according to a first embodiment of the invention; 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the stringer of the fastener of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a mold for forming the fastener of FIG. 1; FIG. 3 shows a stringer with a first stop of the stringer of FIG. 2; Fig. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the stringer of the second embodiment; Fig. 2 shows a plan view of the stringer of the second embodiment; The sectional view of the metallic mold at the time of forming the 1st fastener of a 2nd embodiment is shown. FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of a stringer according to a modification of the second embodiment; The top view of the stringer which concerns on the modification of 2nd Embodiment is shown.

[First embodiment]
FIG. 1 shows a slide fastener 2 according to a first embodiment. The slide fastener 2 comprises a slider 4 , a first stringer 6 and a second stringer 8 . Each

stringer

6,8 includes a plurality of connecting elements 10,12 (in FIG. 1 one of each plurality of elements) attached to respective

longitudinal edges

14,16 of

respective fastener tapes

18,20. Only the connecting elements are numbered). The connecting

elements

10, 12 are sometimes referred to as coupling teeth. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling element is formed as a continuous coil. However, in another example, each of the plurality of connecting elements, also called teeth, can take the form of separate individual elements. Tapes may be woven or knitted. Longitudinal edges 14, 16 of the fastener tape extend along respective longitudinal axes (not shown in FIG. 1).

Each

fastener tape

18, 20 comprises a first surface 28, 30 (although not visible in FIG. 1, the

first surface

28, 30 is located opposite the fastener tape 18, 20). Each

fastener tape

18,20 has a

second surface

32,35. Each

first surface

28,30 is opposite a respective

second surface

32,35. The first surfaces 28, 30 are shown in FIG. 1 by dashed leader lines because they are positioned on the far side of the page of FIG. The second surfaces 32,35 are spaced apart from the

first surfaces

28,30, respectively, in a first direction AB (see FIG. 2), as will be described in more detail below. Each

fastener tape

18,20 includes a cord (not visible in FIG. 1, but disposed on a

first surface

28,30 of each

fastener tape

18,20, respectively). A cord (core string) 38 is illustrated in FIG. 2, which will be described later. A cord is woven, knitted, or otherwise incorporated into each

fastener tape

18,20. The cords are offset from

longitudinal edges

14,16 of

respective fastener tapes

18,20.

The two

stringers

6,8, when brought together (as shown in the bottom part of FIG. 1), form a chain 22 by engaging each other such that the connecting

elements

10,12 of each

stringer

6,8 are connected to each other. To be attached (or joined). The chain 22 is generally flat and the chain (and the

coupling elements

10, 12 forming part of the chain) extends along the longitudinal axis L of the chain.

The connecting

elements

10, 12 are composed of continuously extruded filaments formed into loops defining individual connecting elements. Coupling

elements

10,12 are attached to

first surfaces

28,30 of

respective fastener tapes

18,20. This type of coupling element is well known in the art and will not be described further. However, as noted above, in some embodiments each of the plurality of coupling elements can also take the form of a separate and independent element.

The slider 4 is attached to the chain 22 so as to be movable along the chain between the two

stringers

6,8. The slider 4 has a pull tab 5 . In use, the pull 5 is held by the user with the pull 5 on one side of the chain 22 . In the illustrated embodiment, the slider 4 is such that the position of the pull 5 is on the side of the chain where the

second surfaces

32,35 of the

fastener tapes

18,20 are visible. Movement of the slider 4 along the chain 22 in the first sliding direction E attaches the connecting element 10 of the first stringer 6 to the connecting element 12 of the second stringer 8 . On the other hand, movement of the slider 4 along the chain 22 in a second sliding direction D opposite to the first sliding direction E causes the coupling element 10 of the first stringer 6 to move into the coupling of the second stringer 8 . Remove from element 12.

Each of the

stringers

6,8 comprises a

first stop

24,26. The first stops 24, 26 are sometimes called top stops. The purpose of the first stops 24,26 is to hold the slider 4 on the two

stringers

6,8. The slider 4 has a Y-shaped channel (not visible in FIG. 1, but the slider's inside the main body). The Y-shaped channel comprises two upper (but in the orientation of FIG. 1) arms that merge into a single lower (but in the orientation of FIG. 1) arm. Each of the upper arms includes a respective aperture for receiving at least a portion of the

fastener tapes

18,20 and the connecting

elements

10,12 of the

respective stringers

6,8. The central vertex of the Y-shaped channel is defined by a "diamond" in the (guide) post or slider. The general construction of sliders is well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in further detail. For example, the portions of the first stops 24, 26 that cannot be received in the openings of the respective upper arms are arranged so that they abut the slider 4 when the slider moves in the first sliding direction E. , in at least one direction perpendicular to the movement of the slider in the sliding directions D, E, outside the opening. The abutment between the openings and any outwardly extending portion of the slider 4 prevents entry of the first stops 24, 26 into the respective channel openings. In some embodiments, one or both of the

stops

24, 26 has one or more portions that extend outwardly of the respective upper arm opening such that the entire perimeter of the channel opening abuts the stop. may contain In some embodiments, one or both of the

stops

24, 26 may include one or more portions that extend in four directions out of the respective upper arm opening. The four directions include, for example, two directions generally parallel to the transverse axis T and two directions perpendicular to both the transverse axis and the longitudinal axis L. Therefore, the slider 4 cannot slide in the first sliding direction E beyond the first stops 24,26. In some embodiments, the first stops 24, 26 and the Y-channel are configured such that the first stop can be received by, but not passed beyond, the two upper arm portions of the Y-channel. dimensions. When the slider 4 moves in the first sliding direction E, the first stops 24, 26 abut each other in the lower arm of the Y-shaped channel, thus preventing further movement of the slider.

The

first fasteners

24,26 are formed on

first surfaces

28,30 of

respective fastener tapes

18,20, respectively. A

first stop

24,26 is disposed adjacent a longitudinal end of each one of the plurality of

coupling elements

10,12. In some, not shown embodiments, at least a portion of one or both of the first stops 24, 26 is on at least a portion of at least one of the respective plurality of coupling elements 10, 12 ( or integrally therewith) and formed on the respective

first surfaces

28,30 of the

respective fastener tapes

18,20. At least a portion of at least one of the plurality of connecting

elements

10, 12 on which one or both of the first stops 24, 26 are disposed is at each longitudinal end of the . If the

first stop

24,26 is formed on at least a portion of (or integral with) at least one of the respective plurality of connecting

elements

10,12, the first It can be said that the

stops

24,26 are disposed at respective longitudinal ends of the respective plurality of

coupling elements

10,12.

The first stop 24 of the first stringer 6 is generally identical to the first stop 26 of the second stringer 8, but is a mirror image thereof. First fastener tape 18 is generally identical to second fastener tape 20 of second stringer 8 . The first fastener 24 of the first stringer 6 and the first fastener tape 18 are further described with reference to FIG. However, since the first stop 24 of the first stringer 6 is generally identical to the first stop 26 of the second stringer 8, and the first fastener tape 18 is similar to the second fastener tape. 20 , the following description applies equally to the first fastener 26 of the second stringer 8 and the second fastener tape 20 of the second stringer 8 . In some embodiments not shown, the first stop 26 of the second stringer 8 may not be the same as the first stop 24 of the first stringer 6, or may be the second stop 24 of the first stringer 6. stringer 8 need not include the first stop 26 at all. In some embodiments not shown, the first fastening tape 18 of the first stringer 6 need not be the same as the second fastening tape 20 of the second stringer 8 .

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the first stringer 6 of FIG. 1 rotated 180 degrees through the cross-sectional line XX. As can be seen, the second surface 32 of the first fastener tape 18 is opposite the first surface 28 of the first fastener tape. Second surface 32 is opposite first surface 28 in first direction AB. As can be seen in FIG. 2, first fastener tape 18 comprises first layer 31 and second layer 33 . First surface 28 is the surface of first layer 31 . The first layer 31 is a fabric layer. The fabric may be, for example, woven or knitted. In other embodiments, the first layer may be made of any other suitable material. The second surface 32 is the surface of the second layer 33 . The second layer 33 is a film layer. The second layer 33 may be made of polyurethane, for example. In other embodiments, the second layer may be made of resin or a thermally activated adhesive. Furthermore, the second layer 33 may be made of a synthetic material. The material from which the second layer 33 is formed may be impermeable to water or any other suitable substance. Other materials for second layer 33 are also suitable and can be selected based on the function of second layer 33 . The function fulfilled by the second layer 33 may be water repellent, water resistant or decorative, among others. Therefore, the second layer 33 may be water-repellent, water-resistant, or decorative. A second layer 33 is attached to the first layer 31 . Second layer 33 may be attached to first layer 31 by any suitable method. For example, second layer 33 may be attached to first layer 31 by gluing, welding, or both. In some, not shown, embodiments, the second layer 33 need not be provided.

The first stop 24 has a first surface 25 . First surface 25 includes mounting surface 34 . Mounting surface 34 contacts first fastener tape 18 . Mounting surface 34 contacts first surface 28 of first fastener tape 18 . Mounting surface 34 includes a cord receiving portion 36 . A cord receiving portion 36 is formed on the cord 38 of the first stringer 6 to receive the cord 38 . A cord receiver 36 is attached to (or receives) a cord 38 of the first stringer 6 . First stop 24 further comprises a second surface 40 . A second surface 40 faces the mounting surface 34 . The distance in the first direction AB from the second surface 40 to the mounting surface 34 can be referred to as the height of the first stop 24 . First stop 24 further comprises a first lateral surface 42 and a second lateral surface 44 . First lateral surface 42 faces second lateral surface 44 . The first and second lateral surfaces 42, 44 define end faces of the first stop 24 in the direction of the transverse axis T (left to right direction as depicted in FIG. 2). The distance from the first lateral surface 42 to the second lateral surface 44 can be referred to as the width of the first stop 24 . As can be seen in FIG. 2, no portion of first fastener 24 contacts second surface 32 of first fastener tape 18 . This advantageously reduces the likelihood of damage occurring to the second surface 32, and thus the second layer 33, of the first fastener tape 18 during formation of the first fastener 24. FIG.

The first stopper 24 further includes an overhang (overhang portion) 46 . Overhang 46 extends beyond longitudinal edge 14 of first fastener tape 18 in the direction of transverse axis T. As shown in FIG. Overhang 46 does not overlap first fastener tape 18 in first direction AB. The first stop 24 further comprises a protrusion 48 . A protrusion 48 extends from the overhang 46 . The projecting portion 48 extends from the overhang 46 in the first direction AB. Projection 48 extends from the laterally outermost peripheral region of overhang 46 . Projection 48 defines surface 50 . Surface 50 of projection 48 forms part of first surface 25 of first stop 24 . Surface 50 of projection 48 is adjacent first lateral surface 42 of first stop 24 . In cross-section through a plane (not shown in FIG. 2) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, surface 50 defines a generally rounded shape. In particular, the shape of surface 50 is defined by two radii of curvature. One dimension of the radius is greater than the other dimension of the radius. The larger radius is adjacent the first lateral surface 42 of the first stop 24 . Adjacent the first lateral surface 42 with the larger radius advantageously allows the first lateral surface A smoother transition between 42 and surface 50 of protrusion 48 results. This smooth transition between first lateral surface 42 and surface 50 of protrusion 48 prevents protrusion 48 from scratching or otherwise damaging the surface upon contact. reduce the likelihood of The radii extend tangentially to each other. Because the surface 50 of the projection 48 defines a generally rounded shape, the first stop 24 may be formed from the metal used to form the first stop 24, as described in more detail below. It can be removed from the mold more easily. In some embodiments, not shown, surface 50 of protrusion 48 may define a single radius of curvature. In some embodiments not shown, the smaller radius may be adjacent the first lateral surface 42 of the first stop 24 . In some embodiments not shown, the surface of protrusion 48 may define any other suitable shape. In some embodiments not shown, protrusion 48 may be offset from first lateral surface 42 of first stop 24 . Projection 48 advantageously simplifies the manufacture of first stop 24 while the corner between first lateral surface 42 and first surface 25 of first stop 24 is Sharpness can be avoided.

The protrusion 48 defines an end point 52 in the first direction AB. In first direction AB, endpoint 52 is disposed between first surface 28 of first fastener tape 18 and second surface 32 of first fastener tape 18 . Accordingly, protrusion 48 extends beyond first surface 28 of first fastener tape 18 in first direction AB. End point 52 of protrusion 48 does not extend beyond second surface 32 of first fastener tape 18 in first direction AB. The distance from the first surface 25 of the first stopper 24 to the end point 52 in the first direction AB is 0.1 mm or more. In some embodiments not shown, the end point 52 of the protrusion 48 may mate with the second surface 32 of the first fastener tape 18 in the first direction AB. Congruent may be understood to mean that the endpoints 52 are disposed flush with the second surface 32 .

The protrusion 48 is spaced from the longitudinal edge 14 of the first fastener tape 18 . Because the projections 48 are spaced from the longitudinal edge 14 of the first fastener tape 18, damage to the second layer 33 during formation of the first fastener 24 is avoided. is further reduced. Additionally, the likelihood of burrs forming during formation of the first stop 24 is also reduced. The protrusion 48 is spaced from the longitudinal edge 14 of the first fastener tape 18 such that a tape is defined between the longitudinal edge 14 of the first fastening tape 18 and the protrusion 48 . A lateral gap 54 is formed. The term "lateral gap" may be understood to mean that there is no material between the protrusion 48 and the longitudinal edge 14 of the first fastener tape 18 in the lateral direction. The size of the lateral gap 54 in the direction of the lateral axis T may be of any suitable size, but during the formation of the first fastener 24 the longitudinal edge 14 of the first fastener tape 18 is provided that contact between the and the first stop 24 is substantially avoided. The lateral clearance 54 advantageously means that less material is required to manufacture the first stop 24 as compared to conventional stops.

FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a mold 56 that can be used to form the first stop 24. FIG. The position of the cross-section in FIG. 3 corresponds to the position of the cross-section taken in FIG. 3 schematically shows the structure of the mold 56, and the internal shape of the mold 56 is slightly different from that of the first stopper 24 shown in FIG. Also, the outer frame of the mold 56 is different from the actual outer frame. Mold 56 is formed from first half 58 and second half 60 . First half 58 and second half 60 are attachable to each other. FIG. 3 shows two

halves

58, 60 secured together. In the locked state the two

halves

58 , 60 are in sealing engagement with each other at the interface 61 . First half 58 and second half 60 are in contact with each other at interface 61, except for the portion of mold 56 that receives the stringer in use, as described in more detail below. One or both of the first half 58 and the second half 60 are movable in a vertical direction (as depicted in FIG. 3) to separate the two

halves

58, 60. .

The second half 60 has a wall portion 62 . In the illustrated embodiment, wall 62 is integrally formed with second half 60 . However, in some non-illustrated embodiments, the wall may be formed separately from the second half 60 . A cavity 64 is defined between the two

halves

58 , 60 of the mold 56 . Cavity 64 includes a stringer receiver 66 . Cavity 64 includes a stop forming portion 68 . The stopper forming portion 68 includes a protrusion forming portion 70 . The projection forming portion 70 is shaped to form the projection 48 (not shown in FIG. 3) of the first stopper 24 . Wall portion 62 is disposed between protrusion forming portion 70 and stringer receiving portion 66 . Thus, wall portion 62 provides space between protrusion 48 of first stop 24 and first fastener tape 18 during formation of first stop 24 .

The mold 56 has an injection port 72 . In use, molten plastic (not shown) is injected into mold 56 through inlet 72 . Mold 56 includes tape-receiving apertures 74 . In use, at least a portion of the first stringer 6, comprising fastener tape (not shown) from which the first fastener 24 is to be formed, passes through the tape receiving aperture 74 into the stringer receiving portion 66 of the cavity 64. extends inside.

To form the first fastener 24 to the first fastener tape 18, the two

halves

58, 60 of the mold 56 are initially separated. The first stringer 6 is then positioned such that the longitudinal edge 14 of the first fastener tape 18 abuts the wall 62 at the stringer receiving portion 66 . First fastener tape 18 is positioned such that second surface 32 of first fastener tape 18 contacts second half 60 of mold 56 . The two

halves

58 , 60 of the mold 56 are secured together around the first fastener tape 18 such that the first stringer 6 is received in the tape receiving aperture 74 . The first stringer 6 is engaged by the two

halves

58, 60 such that the tape receiving aperture 74 is sealed. Molten plastic is then injected into cavity 64 through inlet 72 . Because second surface 32 of first fastener tape 18 is in contact with second half 60 of mold 56, second surface 32 is freed from molten plastic during formation of first fastener 24. better isolated. This reduces the likelihood of contact between the second surface 32 and the molten plastic, which in turn reduces the likelihood of damage to the second surface 32 . Specifically, the first fastener tape 18 of the first stringer 6 includes the second layer 33 or an adhesive material having a lower melting point than the second layer 33 between the first layer 31 and the second layer 33 . to reduce the possibility of damage to the layer. In addition, the wall 62 spaces the first fastener tape 18 of the first stringer 6 and the projection 48 of the first fastener 24 during formation of the fastener so that the wall 62 is By reducing the likelihood of contact between the molten plastic and the longitudinal edge 14 of the first fastener tape 18, the likelihood of burr formation during formation of the first fastener 24 is reduced. . Once the molten plastic has solidified, it separates the two

halves

58 , 60 so that the formed first stop 24 can be removed from the mold 56 . The rounded shape of protrusion forming portion 70 facilitates removal of first stop 24 from mold 56 .

4 is a plan view of the first stringer 6. FIG. As can be seen, the first stop 24 is disposed adjacent the longitudinal ends of the plurality of connecting elements 10 of the first stringer 6 . Also as can be seen, the first stop 24 is formed on the first surface 28 of the first fastener tape 18 of the first stringer 6 .

[Second embodiment]
Next, a stringer for a slide fastener according to a second embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the stringer of the second embodiment. FIG. 6 is a plan view of the stringer of the second embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the stringer 6 of the second embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment in that the first stopper 24 has a through hole 81 . Since other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, description thereof will be omitted or simplified by assigning the same reference numerals to the drawings. Also, the first stop 26 of the second stringer 8 is substantially the same as the first stop 24 of the first stringer 6 and is a mirror image thereof and will not be described.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the first stopper 24 has a through hole 81 penetrating the first stopper 24 in the first direction AB. The through hole 81 is formed so as to overlap the first fastener tape 18 in the lateral direction without extending beyond the longitudinal edge 14 of the first fastener tape 18 .

The through hole 81 includes a communication port 83 (lower opening in FIG. 5) that penetrates through the first surface 25 of the first fastener 24 and communicates with the first surface 28 of the first fastener tape 18, and a and an opening 85 (upper opening in FIG. 5) passing through the second surface 40 of one stop 24 at both ends in the first direction AB.

The communication port 83 of the through-hole 81 has a first end 83a and a second end 83b, which are both ends in the horizontal direction. A first end 83 a of the communication opening 83 is laterally disposed between the longitudinal edge 14 of the first fastener tape 18 and the cord 38 . The first end 83a is preferably closer to the edge 14 than the cord 38 in the lateral direction. A second end 83b of the communication port 83 is arranged on the cord (core cord) 38 of the first fastener tape 18 in the lateral direction.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a mold 56 that can be used to form the first stopper 24 of the second embodiment. FIG. 7 schematically shows the structure of the mold 56, the internal shape of which is slightly different from that of the first stopper 24 shown in FIG. Also, the outer frame of the mold 56 is different from the actual outer frame. A first half 58 of the mold 56 has a through hole forming portion 59 forming a through hole 81 . Although the through-hole forming portion 59 actually matches the shape of the through-hole 81, it is shown schematically in FIG.

The through-hole forming part 59 abuts against the first surface 28 of the first fastener tape 18 and presses it down from above in FIG. Therefore, if the first end portion 83a of the communication port 83 is arranged laterally close to the edge portion 14 of the first fastener tape 18 as described above, the injection of the first stopper 24 can be achieved. During molding, the vicinity of the edge 14 in the lateral direction of the first fastener tape 18 is pressed by the through-hole forming portion 59 of the mold 56 . As a result, it is possible to prevent the first fastener tape 18 from moving in the first direction AB or the like and fluttering during the injection molding of the first fastener 24 . Furthermore, since the second end 83b of the communication port 83 is arranged on the cord 38 in the lateral direction as described above, it is possible to prevent the cord 38 from floating during the injection molding of the first stopper 24. can be prevented.

If the first fastener tape 18 flutters, the contact state between the second surface 32 of the first fastener tape 18 and the second half 60 of the mold 56 cannot be maintained, and the first fastener tape 18 cannot be maintained. Molten plastic can adhere to second surface 32 during formation of tool 24 . In this case, the possibility of damage to the second surface 32 arises. In contrast, in the present embodiment, flapping of the first fastener tape 18 is prevented so that the second surface 32 is better isolated from the molten plastic during formation of the first fastener 24. . This reduces the likelihood of contact between the second surface 32 and the molten plastic, which in turn reduces the likelihood of damage to the second surface 32 .

The first fastener 24 of this embodiment has a projecting portion 48 extending in the first direction AB beyond the first surface 28 of the first fastener tape 18 from the projecting portion 46, as in the first embodiment. , and the projection 48 is spaced (gap 54 ) from the longitudinal edge 14 of the first fastener tape 18 . This causes the walls 62 of the mold 56 forming the gap 54 to separate the first fastener tape 18 and the projection 48 of the first fastener 24 while forming the first fastener 24. As a result, the possibility of contact between the molten plastic and the longitudinal edge 14 of the first fastener tape 18 is reduced, further reducing the possibility of damage to the second surface 32 . However, in the first fastener 24 of the present embodiment, the through-hole forming portion 59 forming the through-hole 81 suppresses the fluttering of the first fastener tape 18, thereby reducing the possibility of damage to the second surface 32. is reduced, it is not always necessary to provide the protrusion 48 and the gap 54 between the protrusion 48 and the edge 14 .

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a stringer according to a modification of the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a plan view of a stringer according to a modification of the second embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, in the stringer of this variation, the first fastener tape 18 connects to the edge 14 and laterally extends to the first surface 28 in the first direction AB. It has an extension part 15 that bends and extends to the side (upward in FIG. 8).

The extension part 15 is arranged at a position overlapping the gap 54 between the edge part 14 of the first fastener tape 18 and the projecting part 48 of the first fastener 24 in the first direction AB. When the first fastener 24 is injection molded with a mold 56 (see FIG. 7), the extending portion 15 of the first fastener tape 18 is formed between the wall portion 62 of the second half 60 and the second half 60 . Abut in one direction AB. Therefore, the first fastener tape 18 is pressed against the wall 62 of the second half 60 from one side (lower in FIGS. 7 and 8) of the extension 15 in the first direction AB, and further described above. As shown, the vicinity of the edge 14 in the horizontal direction of the first fastener tape 18 is pushed from the other side (upper side in FIGS. 7 and 8) in the first direction AB by the through-hole forming portion 59 of the first half 58. be held down. In this way, the first fastener 24 can be injection molded while the first fastener tape 18 is pressed by the first and

second halves

58 and 60 from both sides in the first direction AB. , the flapping of the first fastener tape 18 can be further suppressed.

Also in this modified example, the end point 52 of the protruding portion 48 in the first direction AB is located between the first surface 28 of the first fastener tape 18 and the first surface 28 of the first fastener tape 18 in the first direction AB. It can be said to be disposed between the second surface 32 and . That is, when discussing the positional relationship in the first direction AB between the end point 52 of the protrusion 48 and the first and

second surfaces

28, 32 of the first fastener tape 18, the first fastener tape 18 Of these, the extending portion 15 and the cord 38, which are portions protruding in the first direction AB, are excluded from consideration. It should be noted that in some embodiments not shown, the end point 52 of the protrusion 48 may mate with the second surface 32 of the first fastener tape 18 in the first direction AB. Congruent may be understood to mean that the endpoints 52 are disposed flush with the second surface 32 .

Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that the present invention may be practiced in ways other than those described. The descriptions above are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. It will therefore be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications may be made to the invention as described without departing from the scope of the claims set forth below.

This application is based on UK patent application 2117285.3 filed on 30 November 2021, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

2 slide fastener 4 slider 6 first stringer 8

second stringer

10, 12

coupling element

14, 16 longitudinal edge 15

extension

18, 20 fastener tape 22

chain

24, 26 first stop 25

first surface

28, 30 first surface 31

first layer

32, 35 second surface 33 second layer 34 mounting surface 36 cord receptacle 38 cord 40 second surface 42 first lateral surface 44 second Lateral surface of 46 overhang (overhang)
48 projection 50 surface 52 end point 54 lateral gap 56 mold 58 first half 59 through hole formation 60 second half 62 wall 64 cavity 66 stringer receiver 68 stop formation 70 projection formation Portion 72 Inlet 74 Tape receiving hole 81 Through hole 83 Communication port 83a First end 83b Second end 85 Opening AB First direction

Claims

Stringers (6, 8) for a slide fastener (2), comprising:
A fastener tape (18, 20) comprising longitudinal edges (14, 16), a first surface (28, 30) and a second surface (32, 35), said second are opposite said first surface (28, 30) and said second surface (32, 35) are opposite said first surface (28, 30) in a first direction (AB). , 30), a fastener tape (18, 20);
a plurality of coupling elements (10, 12) disposed along said longitudinal edges (14, 16) of said fastener tapes (18, 20), wherein in use said plurality of coupling elements (10 , 12) are couplable with corresponding plurality of connection elements (10, 12) of a second stringer, thereby connecting said stringer to said second stringer. (10, 12) and
First stops (24, 26) disposed at or adjacent longitudinal ends of said plurality of coupling elements (10, 12), said first stops (24, 26) 26) formed at least in part on said first surface (28, 30) of said fastener tape (18, 20);
The first fasteners (24, 26) are
an overhang (46) extending laterally beyond the longitudinal edges (14, 16) of the fastener tape (18, 20);
a projection (48) extending from the overhang (46) beyond the first surface (28, 30) of the fastener tape (18, 20) in the first direction (AB);
A stringer (6,8) wherein said protrusion (48) is spaced from said longitudinal edges (14,16) of said fastener tape (18,20).
2. The claim of claim 1, wherein a lateral gap (54) is defined between said protrusion (48) and said longitudinal edges (14, 16) of said fastener tapes (18, 20). Stringa.
Claim 1 or claim 2, wherein said protrusion (48) does not extend beyond said second surface (32, 35) of said fastener tape (18, 20) in said first direction (AB). stringers as described in .
Said protrusion (48) defines an end point (52) in said first direction (AB), said end point being said second end of said fastener tape (18, 20) in said first direction (AB). A stringer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which is congruent with the surfaces (32, 35) of the .
A stringer according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said protrusion (48) defines a generally rounded surface (50).
The stringer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said protrusion (48) extends from the laterally outermost peripheral region of said overhang (46).
A stringer according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein in cross-section said protrusion (48) defines a first radius and a second radius.
The stringer of claim 7, wherein said first radius extends tangentially from said second radius.
The stringer according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said fastener tape (18, 20) comprises a film layer.
The first stopper (24, 26) includes a through hole (81) passing through the first stopper (24, 26) in the first direction (AB);
a communication port (83) in contact with the first surface (28, 30) of the fastener tape (18, 20) and communicating with the through hole;
A stringer according to any one of claims 1-9.
said fastener tape (18, 20) having a cord (38) on said first surface (28, 30);
The communication port (83) of the through hole (81) has a first end (83a) and a second end (83b), which are both ends in the horizontal direction,
said first end (83a) being disposed in said lateral direction between said edge (14, 16) of said fastener tape (18, 20) and said cord (38);
said second end (83b) is disposed on said cord (38) of said fastener tape (18, 20) in said lateral direction;
A stringer according to claim 10 .
A stop (24, 26) for a stringer (6, 8) of a slide fastener (2) at or adjacent to longitudinal ends of a plurality of connecting elements (10, 12) of said stringer. is configured to be placed at
an attachment surface attachable to a first surface (28,30) of a fastener tape (18,20) of said stringer (6,8), said first surface (28,30) being the Opposite a second surface (32, 35) of the fastener tape, said second surface (32, 35) being spaced in a first direction (AB) from said first surface (28, 30). a mounting surface (34) comprising:
An overhang (46), which in use is configured to extend laterally beyond the longitudinal edges (14, 16) of said fastener tapes (18, 20). and,
Extending from said overhang (46), in use said fasteners (24,26) engage said first surfaces (28,30) of said fastener tapes (18,20) through said mounting surface (34). a projection (48) configured to extend beyond said first surface (28, 30) in said first direction (AB) when attached;
When the fastener is in use attached to the first surface (28, 30) of the fastener tape (18, 20) via the mounting surface (34), the fastener tape (18, 20) ) is configured not to contact the second surface (32, 35) of the
The protrusion (48) is in use when the fastener (24,26) is attached to the first surface (28,30) of the fastener tape (18,20) via the attachment surface. a stop (24, 26) configured to be spaced from said longitudinal edge (14) of said fastener tape (18, 20).
a fastener (2),
a first stringer (6) according to any one of claims 1 to 11;
A second stringer (8) comprising a fastener tape (20) including a longitudinal edge (16) and further disposed along said longitudinal edge (16) of the fastener tape (20). a second stringer (8) comprising a plurality of connecting elements (12) provided;
Said plurality of connecting elements (10) of said first stringer (6) is such that said plurality of connecting elements (10) of said first stringer (6) are connected to said plurality of connecting elements (10) of said second stringer (8). said first stringer (6) to be secured to said second stringer (8) by coupling together along the fastener axis with the corresponding coupling element (10) of the coupling element (12); engageable with said plurality of coupling elements (12) of two stringers (8);
Said fastener (2) further comprises a slider (4), said slider (4) extending along said fastener axis in a first direction (E) such that said slider (4) extends along said first stringer. slidable to mutually couple and bias said plurality of connecting elements (10) of (6) with said plurality of connecting elements (12) of said second stringer (8); In direction (D), opposite to said first direction (AB), said slider (4) biases said plurality of connecting elements (10) of said first stringer (6) such that said A fastener (2) slidable away from said plurality of coupling elements (12) of a second stringer (8).
Fastener according to claim 13, wherein said second stringer (8) is the stringer according to any one of claims 1 to 11.