METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SLIDE FASTENER

Abstract

A method for manufacturing a slide fastener includes: a sewing step of sewing in a state where first and second element rows are separated from each other; a dyeing step of dyeing in a state where the first and second element rows are engaged with each other and where a first fastener tape and a second fastener tape overlap with each other; and a folding step of folding the first fastener tape and the second fastener tape such that the first fastener tape and the second fastener tape are each buckled in the mountain shape and come into close contact with each other when the first and second element rows are engaged with each other.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a slide fastener including a pair of first and second fastener tapes, a first element row provided at a widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape, and a second element row provided at a widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape, in which the first and second element rows are capable of engaging with and separating from each other, and when the first and second element rows are engaged with each other, the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape are each buckled in a mountain shape and come into close contact with each other, the method comprising: a sewing step of sewing the first element row to the first fastener tape, and sewing the second element row to the second fastener tape in a state where the first and second element rows are separated from each other; a dyeing step of dyeing the first and second fastener tapes and the first and second element rows in a state where the first and second element rows are engaged with each other and where the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape overlap with each other in a front-rear direction; and a folding step of folding the first fastener tape and the second fastener tape such that the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape are each buckled in the mountain shape and come into close contact with each other when the first and second element rows are engaged with each other.

2. The method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to claim 1, wherein the sewing step includes temporary setting processing of heating the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape in the state where the first and second element rows are engaged with each other and where the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape overlap with each other in the front-rear direction.

3. The method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to claim 1, further comprising: after the sewing step, a setting step of heating the first and second fastener tapes and the first and second element rows in the state where the first and second element rows are engaged with each other and where the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape overlap with each other in the front-rear direction.

4. The method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to claim 1, further comprising: after the dyeing step, in a state where the first and second element rows are separated from each other and where the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape are brought close to each other, a waterproof film bonding step of bonding a single waterproof film to the first and second fastener tapes; and a cutting step of cutting the waterproof film along a gap between the widthwise end portions of the first and second fastener tapes to form first and second waterproof films.

5. The method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to claim 4, further comprising: after the folding step, an aging step of leaving the widthwise end portions to rest for a certain period of time in a state where the first and second element rows are engaged with each other and where the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape are each buckled in the mountain shape and come into close contact with each other.

6. The method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to claim 1, further comprising: before the folding step, a water repellent treatment step of applying a water repellent and drying the applied water repellent in the state where the first and second element rows are engaged with each other and where the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape overlap with each other in the front-rear direction.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0022] FIG. 1 is a surface view of a first embodiment of a slide fastener according to the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of the slide fastener shown in FIG. 1, showing a state where first and second element rows are engaged with each other.

[0024] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of the slide fastener shown in FIG. 1, showing a state where the first and second element rows are separated from each other.

[0025] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to the first embodiment.

[0026] (a) of FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of fastener tapes and the element rows in a sewing step of FIG. 4. (b) of FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tapes and the element rows in the sewing step, a setting step, and a dyeing step of FIG. 4. (c) of FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tapes and the element row in a folding step of FIG. 4.

[0027] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of the slide fastener according to a second embodiment, showing a state where first and second element rows are engaged with each other.

[0028] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to the second embodiment.

[0029] (a) of FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tapes, the element rows, and a waterproof film in a waterproof film bonding step of FIG. 7. (b) of FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tapes, the element rows, and the waterproof film in a cutting step of FIG. 7. (c) of FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the waterproof film and the fastener tape in the cutting step of FIG. 7 as viewed from the front surface side.

[0030] (a) of FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tapes, the element rows, and the waterproof film in a water repellent treatment step of FIG. 7. (b) of FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing a device used in the water repellent treatment step of FIG. 7. (c) of FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tapes, the element rows, and the waterproof film in a folding step and an aging step of FIG. 7.

[0031] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing a normal reverse slide fastener.

[0032] (a) of FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tapes and the element rows in a sewing step, a setting step, and a dyeing step of FIG. 10. (b) of FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tapes, the element rows, and a waterproof film in a waterproof film bonding step of FIG. 10. (c) of FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tapes, the element rows, and the waterproof film in a cutting step of FIG. 10.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0033] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In this specification, the term up-down direction of a slide fastener refers to the sliding direction of a slider, which refers to the longitudinal direction of the slide fastener, and in particular, the direction in which the slider slides to engage the left and right element rows to each other is referred to as upward, and the direction in which the slider slides to separate the left and right element rows is referred to as downward.

[0034] Furthermore, the left-right direction of a slide fastener refers to the direction in which a pair of element rows are arranged, the direction perpendicular to the sliding direction of the slider, and can also be referred to as the width direction of the slide fastener.

[0035] Furthermore, the front-rear direction of the slide fastener and the top stop refers to a direction perpendicular to the up-down direction and the left-right direction, and can also be rephrased as the thickness direction of the fastener tape or the height direction of the element row.

First Embodiment

[0036] FIG. 1 is a surface view of a first embodiment of a slide fastener according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of the slide fastener shown in FIG. 1, showing a state where first and second element rows are engaged with each other. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of the slide fastener shown in FIG. 1, showing a state where the first and second element rows are separated from each other.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, a slide fastener 1 according to the present embodiment includes a pair of left and right fastener stringers 3 and 5, and a slider 40 capable of opening and closing the pair of left and right fastener stringers 3 and 5.

[0038] The pair of left and right fastener stringers 3 and 5 are long and include a pair of left and right first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20, each having rear surfaces 11 and 21 and front surfaces 13 and 23 opposite the rear surfaces 11 and 21, a first element row 50 provided on the rear surface 11 of a widthwise end portion 10a (right end portion in FIG. 2) of the first fastener tape 10, and a second element row 60 provided on the rear surface 21 of a widthwise end portion 20a (left end portion in FIG. 2) of the second fastener tape 20. Hereinafter, in the width direction of the first fastener tape 10 and the second fastener tape 20, the side on which the element row is provided is defined as one end side in the width direction, and the other end side is defined as the other side in the width direction.

[0039] The first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 are woven or knitted fabrics made of polyester yarn or the like, and have excellent pliancy. The first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 may be nonwoven fabric.

[0040] The slider 40 engages and separates the pair of left and right first and second element rows 50 and 60. The slider 40 includes a slider body 41, a pull tab attachment portion 42 provided on the front surface of the slider body 41, and a pull tab 43 attached to the pull tab attachment portion 42. Then, by moving the slider 40 upward, the pair of left and right first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other as shown in FIG. 2, and by moving the slider 40 downward, the pair of left and right first and second element rows 50 and 60 separate from each other as shown in FIG. 3. The slide fastener 1 may also have a top stop portion and a bottom stop portion (not shown). In addition, instead of the bottom stop portion, an opening device having a retainer pin and a retaining box may be provided.

[0041] The first and second element rows 50 and 60 are coil-shaped fastener element rows formed by winding a synthetic resin monofilament in a fixed direction, and each have a plurality of elements 31. The first and second element rows 50 and 60 have a cord 32 inserted inside the plurality of elements 31, and are sewn to the rear surface 11 of the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the rear surface 21 of the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 by a sewing thread 33 that is double-thread-chain-stitched. Examples of the synthetic resin material for the monofilament include polyester and nylon.

[0042] The element 31 includes: an engagement head 31a which engages with and separates from the mating element 31; a first leg portion 31b which extends from the front end portion of the engagement head 31a toward the other end side in the width direction, and is in contact with the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20; a second leg portion 31c which extends from the rear end portion of the engagement head 31a toward the other end side in the width direction, and is not in contact with the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20; and a connecting portion 31d which connects the outer end portion in the width direction of the first leg portion 31b to the other end portion in the width direction of the second leg portion 31c of the adjacent element 31. Therefore, the first leg portion 31b and the second leg portion 31c are formed to protrude from the engagement head 31a and extend in parallel.

[0043] FIG. 2 shows an engagement center O of the first and second element rows 50 and 60. This engagement center O is the central position when the elements 31 and 31 are engaged with each other, and coincides with the center of the slide fastener 1 in the width direction. In FIG. 3, the positions that become the engagement center O when the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other are indicated as O1 and O2. The positions O1 and O2 are positioned on the other end side in the width direction with respect to the engagement head 31a of the element 31.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 3, in a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated from each other, the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 are spaced apart from each other in the width direction.

[0045] In addition, the upper portion of FIG. 1 shows that in a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated from each other, the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 are shown to be in a shape buckled in a mountain-like form. However, this indicates that when the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated from each other after a certain period of time has elapsed in a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other, a set deformation in the buckled state remains. When a certain period of time has elapsed in a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated from each other, the buckled deformation is released, and the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 may each assume a substantially flat shape as shown in FIG. 3.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 3, in a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated from each other, the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 extends toward the second fastener tape 20 (widthwise end portion) with respect to the position O1, which is the engagement center O of the first and second element rows 50 and 60, and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 extends toward the first fastener tape 10 (widthwise end portion) with respect to the position O2, which is the engagement center O. That is, the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 are designed to overlap with the engagement center O when the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other as shown in FIG. 2. By disposing the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 and the first and second element rows 50 and 60 in this manner, when the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other as described below, the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 can be buckled in a mountain shape and brought into close contact with each other.

[0047] More specifically, in a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated from each other, a widthwise end surface 10b of the first fastener tape 10 is disposed on a side of the second fastener tape 20 (one end side in the width direction) with respect to the position O1, which is the engagement center O, and a widthwise end surface 20b of the second fastener tape 20 is disposed on a side of the first fastener tape 10 (one end side in the width direction) with respect to the position O2, which is the engagement center O.

[0048] The widthwise end surface 10b of the first fastener tape 10 may be disposed in a position overlapping with at least a part of the engagement head 31a of the element 31 in the width direction, may be disposed on the same plane F1 as a widthwise end surface 31e of the engagement head 31a (that is, the widthwise end surface of the first element row 50) in the width direction, or may be disposed on the side of the second fastener tape 20 with respect to the engagement head 31a. In the example of FIG. 3, the widthwise end surface 10b of the first fastener tape 10 is disposed on the same plane F1 as the widthwise end surface of the first element row 50 in the width direction.

[0049] The widthwise end surface 20b of the second fastener tape 20 may be disposed in a position overlapping with at least a part of the engagement head 31a of the element 31 in the width direction, may be disposed on the same plane F2 as a widthwise end surface 31f of the engagement head 31a (that is, the widthwise end surface of the second element row 60) in the width direction, or may be disposed on the side of the first fastener tape 10 with respect to the engagement head 31a. In the example of FIG. 3, the widthwise end surface 20b of the second fastener tape 20 is disposed on the same plane F2 as the widthwise end surface of the second element row 60 in the width direction.

[0050] In this manner, in a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated from each other, the widthwise end surface 10b of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end surface of the first element row 50 are disposed on the same plane F1, and the widthwise end surface 20b of the second fastener tape 20 and the widthwise end surface of the second element row 60 are disposed on the same plane F2. Accordingly, when the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged as described below, the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 can be more reliably buckled in a mountain shape to come into close contact with each other. This is because the widthwise end portions 10a and 20a of the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 are arranged in such a positional relationship that does not interfere with the engagement between the first and second element rows 50 and 60, and that makes it difficult for the pressure bonding between the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 to fail. In addition, disposed on the same plane does not necessarily mean that the tapes are disposed exactly on the same plane, but also includes being disposed on substantially the same plane in which the widthwise end surfaces 10b and 20b of the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 coincide with the range from the start point of the taper of the engagement head 31a to the end point of the taper, taking into account the taper of the engagement head 31a.

[0051] When the slider 40 is moved upward from a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated from each other as shown in FIG. 3, the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other as shown in FIG. 2. At this time, the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 extends toward the second fastener tape 20 (one end side in the width direction) with respect to the position O1, which is the engagement center O of the first and second element rows 50 and 60, and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 extends toward the first fastener tape 10 (one end side in the width direction) with respect to the position O2, which is the engagement center O. Therefore, the widthwise end portion 10a and the widthwise end portion 20a deform by pressing against each other in the width direction, and are buckled in a mountain shape that is convex on the front side and come into close contact with each other. At this time, as shown in FIG. 2, the sewing thread 33 which are sewn to the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 and located on the widthwise end portions 10a and 20a side of the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 may stretch slightly and rise up due to the buckling of the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20.

[0052] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2, when the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other, the rear surfaces 11 and 21 of the widthwise end surface 10b and the widthwise end surface 20b of the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 are spaced apart in the front-rear direction from the first and second element rows 50 and 60 (elements 31), and first and second spaces T1 and T2 are defined therebetween, respectively.

[0053] In this manner, when the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other, the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 are in close contact with each other, and thus no gap (so-called center line portion) is formed between the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 unlike in the reverse slide fasteners in the related art. Therefore, when a user views the slide fastener 1 from the front side, the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are not visible, resulting in an excellent appearance. The slide fastener 1 is particularly suitable for articles in which aesthetic appearance is important, such as car seats, bags, and furniture.

[0054] In addition, since the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 are buckled to each other in a mountain shape and come into close contact with each other, even when a force (so-called lateral pulling) in a direction separating the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 from each other is applied to the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20, the degree of buckling will be slightly weakened to the extent that the engagement gap between the elements 31 and 31 is canceled, the close contact state therebetween will be maintained, and thus the good appearance of the slide fastener 1 is maintained.

[0055] Next, a method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to the first embodiment. (a) of FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tape and the element row in a sewing step of FIG. 4. (b) of FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tapes and the element rows in the sewing step, a setting step, and a dyeing step of FIG. 4. (c) of FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tapes and the element row in a folding step of FIG. 4. (a) of FIG. 5 to (c) of FIG. 5 show cross sections of the fastener tape and the element row sewn together, but sewing threads and the like are omitted.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 4, the method for manufacturing the slide fastener 1 of the first embodiment includes a sewing step S1, a setting step S2, a dyeing step S3, and a folding step S4. Each step will be described in detail below.

[0057] First, in the sewing step S1, as shown in (a) of FIG. 5, in a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated from each other, the first element row 50 is sewn to the rear surface 11 at the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10, and the second element row 60 is sewn to the rear surface 21 at the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20. By the sewing step S1, the fastener stringer 3 configured by the first fastener tape 10 and the first element row 50, and the fastener stringer 5 configured by the second fastener tape 20 and the second element row 60 are formed.

[0058] In the sewing step S1 according to the present embodiment, the temporary setting processing described below may be carried out. In the temporary setting processing, as shown in (b) of FIG. 5, in a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other, and the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 overlap with each other in the front-rear direction, the overlapping part of the fastener stringers 3 and 5 is heated. The purpose of the temporary setting processing is to stabilize the shrinkage or the like of the fabric in the overlapping part of the fastener stringers 3 and 5, or to suppress the occurrence of folds or wrinkles in the corresponding part. When performing the temporary setting processing, in the sewing step S1, after the fastener stringers 3 and 5 are respectively formed, when the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other, the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 overlap with each other such that the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 partially covers the front surface 23 side of the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 using a jig (not shown). After the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 overlap with each other, a heated roll, flat plate, or the like is brought into contact with the front surface 13 side of the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10, thereby mainly heating the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10.

[0059] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the setting step S2 is carried out after the sewing step S1. In the setting step S2, as shown in (b) of FIG. 5, in a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other, and the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 overlap with each other in the front-rear direction, the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 and the first and second element rows 50 and 60, that is, the entire fastener stringers 3 and 5, are heated by dry heat. Through this heating processing, the overall shape of the fastener stringers 3 and 5, including the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 as well as the first and second element rows 50 and 60, is stabilized.

[0060] In the dyeing step S3 described later, the fastener stringers 3 and 5 are wound around a cylindrical beam and dyed while being heated at a high temperature of about 130 C. Therefore, by heating the fastener stringers 3 and 5 in the setting step S2 and shrinking the fibers in advance, it is possible to prevent the beam from being damaged due to shrinkage of the fastener stringers 3 and 5 during dyeing. In addition, stabilizing the fibers of the fastener stringers 3 and 5 facilitates more uniform dyeing. The setting step S2 is also called a heat setting step.

[0061] Next, in the dyeing step S3, similar to the setting step S2, the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other, and the fastener stringers 3 and 5 are dyed in a state where the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 overlap with each other in the front-rear direction. In the present embodiment, in the above-mentioned setting step S2, a state is achieved where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other, and the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 overlap with each other in the front-rear direction, and dyeing is performed while maintaining this state. In the dyeing step S3, for example, the fastener stringers 3 and 5 are wound around a cylindrical beam and dyed using a beam dyeing machine. At this time, by performing dyeing under heated and pressurized conditions, it is also possible to further stabilize the shape of the fastener stringers 3 and 5.

[0062] Next, in the folding step S4, as shown in (c) of FIG. 5, the first fastener tape 10 and the second fastener tape 20 are folded such that the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other, and the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 are each buckled in a mountain shape and come into close contact with each other. In the present embodiment, after the dyeing step S3, the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated once, and when the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other again, the first fastener tape 10 and the second fastener tape 20 are folded using a jig not shown. Accordingly, it is possible to obtain the slide fastener 1 in which the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 are each buckled in a mountain shape and in close contact with each other.

[0063] As described above, in the manufacturing method according to the present embodiment, in the sewing step S1, in a state where the first element row 50 and the second element row 60 are separated from each other, the first element row 50 is sewn to the first fastener tape 10, and the second element row 60 is sewn to the second fastener tape 20. Accordingly, according to the present embodiment, sewing can be performed in a state the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 of the slide fastener 1 do not interfere with each other.

[0064] The setting step S2 and the dyeing step S3 are performed in a state where the first element row 50 and the second element row 60 are engaged with each other. As a result, in the setting step S2 and the dyeing step S3, even when heat, pressure, tension, or the like is applied to the slide fastener 1, it is possible to stabilize the shapes of the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 and the first and second element rows 50 and 60 while preventing variation in the pitch of the first and second element rows 50 and 60, that is, the distance between the elements 31 arranged in the longitudinal direction.

[0065] Furthermore, in the setting step S2 and the dyeing step S3, a state is achieved where the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 overlap with each other in the front-rear direction. In the slide fastener 1 according to the present embodiment, the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 come into close contact with each other while being buckled in a mountain shape, by being deformed through mutual pressing against each other in the width direction. By preventing the mountain-shaped buckled deformation during the stages of the setting step S2 and the dyeing step S3, a high degree of close contact can be achieved between the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 when the slide fastener 1 is completed.

[0066] According to the method for manufacturing the slide fastener described above, the slide fastener 1 having an excellent appearance, in which the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 extends to one end side in the width direction of the first element row 50 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 extends to one end side in the width direction of the second element row 60, can be stably manufactured while avoiding interference between the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20.

Second Embodiment

[0067] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a main portion of the slide fastener according to a second embodiment, showing a state where the first and second element rows are engaged with each other. The slide fastener 1 according to the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that first and second waterproof films 70 and 80 are provided on the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20. Other configurations of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, and thus the same reference signs as those of the first embodiment are used in the drawings to omit or simplify the description thereof.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 6, the slide fastener 1 of the second embodiment further includes the first waterproof film 70 provided on the front surface 13 of the first fastener tape 10 and the second waterproof film 80 provided on the front surface 23 of the second fastener tape 20. Therefore, the slide fastener 1 of the present embodiment is a waterproof fastener having waterproof performance.

[0069] The pair of left and right first and second waterproof films 70 and 80 are long like the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20, and have rear surfaces 71 and 81 and front surfaces 73 and 83 opposite the rear surfaces 71 and 81. The first and second waterproof films 70 and 80 are formed to cover the entire front surfaces 13 and 23 of the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20. In the present embodiment, the first and second waterproof films 70 and 80 and the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 have substantially the same vertical dimensions and width dimensions.

[0070] When the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other, the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 are designed to overlap with the engagement center O, and the first and second waterproof films 70 and 80 are also designed to overlap with the engagement center O. By arranging the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20, the first and second waterproof films 70 and 80, and the first and second element rows 50 and 60 in this manner, when the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other, the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 and the first and second waterproof films 70 and 80 can be buckled in a mountain shape and brought into close contact with each other.

[0071] Next, a method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to the second embodiment. (a) of FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tape, the element row, and the waterproof film in the waterproof film bonding step of FIG. 7. (b) of FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tapes, the element rows, and the waterproof film in a cutting step of FIG. 7. (c) of FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the waterproof film and the fastener tape in the cutting step of FIG. 7 as viewed from the front surface side. (a) of FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tapes, the element rows, and the waterproof film in the water repellent treatment step of FIG. 7. (b) of FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing a device used in the water repellent treatment step of FIG. 7. (c) of FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of the fastener tapes, the element rows, and the waterproof film in a folding step and an aging step of FIG. 7. (a) of FIG. 8, (b) of FIG. 8, (a) of FIG. 9, and (c) of FIG. 9 show cross sections of a state where the fastener tape and the element row are sewn together, but sewing threads and the like are omitted. In addition, in (b) of FIG. 9, the fastener tapes and the element rows, that is, the fastener stringers, are schematically shown in a linear form.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 7, the method for manufacturing the slide fastener 1 of the second embodiment includes the sewing step S1, the setting step S2, the dyeing step S3, a waterproof film bonding step S5, a cutting step S6, a water repellent treatment step S7, the folding step S4, and an aging step S8. Each step will be described in detail below. Since the sewing step S1, the setting step S2, and the dyeing step S3 are substantially similar to those in the first embodiment, the following description will be focused on the waterproof film bonding step S5 and thereafter.

[0073] In the waterproof film bonding step S5, as shown in (a) of FIG. 8, in a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated from each other, and the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20 are brought into close contact with each other, a single waterproof film 90 (the first and second waterproof films 70 and 80) is bonded to the front surface 13 of the first fastener tape and the front surface 23 of the second fastener tape 20.

[0074] In the present embodiment, an upper pressure bonding roll 300 and a lower pressure bonding roll 350 apply pressure to sandwich the fastener stringers 3 and 5, the adhesive (not shown), and the waterproof film 90, thereby bonding the single waterproof film 90 to the front surfaces 13 and 23 of the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20. The upper pressure bonding roll 300 is provided with two guide grooves 310 and 320, and the first and second element rows 50 and 60, which are separated from each other, are guided by the guide grooves 310 and 320. As a result, the fastener stringers 3 and 5 are pressurized in a stable state. After the waterproof film 90 is bonded, the fastener stringers 3 and 5 are left to rest for a certain period of time to stabilize the bonded state.

[0075] In the present embodiment, thermosetting polyurethane is used for the waterproof film 90. However, the waterproof film 90 may be any resin film that does not allow penetration of liquids such as water, and is preferably a film made of a thermosetting resin.

[0076] In the cutting step S6, as shown in (b) of FIG. 8, while keeping a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated from each other, the waterproof film 90 is cut along a gap G1 at a position directly above the gap G1 between the widthwise end portions 10a and 20a of the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 using a cutting tool 400 to form the pair of left and right first and second waterproof films 70 and 80.

[0077] During cutting, as shown in (c) of FIG. 8, the fastener stringers 3 and 5 are pulled in the longitudinal direction (upper side in (c) of FIG. 8), and the fastener stringers 3 and 5 are cut while being separated in the left-right direction (left-right direction in (c) of FIG. 8) by a wedge-shaped jig 410 provided on the cutting tool 400. Accordingly, the cut surfaces of the first and second waterproof films 70 and 80 can be neatly finished. Furthermore, the cutting tool 400 preferably uses a fixed blade.

[0078] In the water repellent treatment step S7, as shown in (a) of FIG. 9, the water repellent treatment is performed on the fastener stringers 3 and 5 in which a state is achieved where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other and the widthwise end portions 10a and 70a of the first fastener tape 10 and the first waterproof film 70 and the widthwise end portions 20a and 80a of the second fastener tape 20 and the second waterproof film 80 overlap with each other in the front-rear direction. In the present embodiment, after the cutting step S6, while the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other, a jig (not shown) is used to overlap the widthwise end portions 10a and 70a of the first fastener tape 10 and the first waterproof film 70 with the widthwise end portions 20a and 80a of the second fastener tape 20 and the second waterproof film 80 such that the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 partially covers the front surface 83 side of the widthwise end portion 80a of the second waterproof film 80.

[0079] In the water repellent treatment step S7, for example, as shown in (b) of FIG. 9, there are provided an immersion tank 600 for storing a water repellent, a dry heat treatment chamber 700 for drying the water repellent applied to the fastener stringers 3 and 5 and for causing the water repellent to permeate and adhere to the fastener stringers 3 and 5 by heating, and a plurality of guide rollers 500 for passing the fastener stringers 3 and 5 through the inside of the immersion tank 600 and the dry heat treatment chamber 700 by changing the moving direction of the fastener stringers 3 and 5. Then, the fastener stringers 3 and 5 are fed from the left side of (b) of FIG. 9 and, while being guided by the peripheral surface of the guide roller 500, are fed successively into the immersion tank 600 and the dry heat treatment chamber 700, whereby the water repellent is continuously applied, dried, and adhered.

[0080] In the folding step S4, as shown in (c) of FIG. 9, the first fastener tape 10, the first waterproof film 70, the second fastener tape 20, and the second waterproof film 80 are folded such that the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other, and the widthwise end portions 10a and 70a of the first fastener tape 10 and the first waterproof film 70 and the widthwise end portions 20a and 80a of the second fastener tape 20 and the second waterproof film 80 are each buckled in a mountain shape and come into close contact with each other. In the present embodiment, after the water repellent treatment step S7, the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated from each other once, and when the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are again engaged with each other, the widthwise end portion 10a and 70a of the first fastener tape 10 and the first waterproof film 70 and the widthwise end portion 20a and 80a of the second fastener tape 20 and the second waterproof film 80 are folded using a jig (not shown).

[0081] In the aging step S8, in a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other, and the widthwise end portions 10a and 70a of the first fastener tape 10 and the first waterproof film 70 and the widthwise end portions 20a and 80a of the second fastener tape 20 and the second waterproof film 80 are each buckled in a mountain shape and come into contact close contact with each other, the fastener stringers 3 and 5 are left to rest for a certain period of time. When the fastener stringers 3 and 5 are provided with the first and second waterproof films 70 and 80, the buckled part becomes harder than when the first and second waterproof films 70 and 80 are not provided, and thus, it is desirable to maintain the mountain-like buckling shape for a certain period of time to impart buckled deformation. Accordingly, it is possible to obtain the slide fastener 1 in which the widthwise end portions 10a and 70a of the first fastener tape 10 and the first waterproof film 70 and the widthwise end portions 20a and 80a of the second fastener tape 20 and the second waterproof film 80 are each buckled in a mountain shape and in close contact with each other.

[0082] As described above, in the present embodiment, the waterproof film bonding step S5 and the cutting step S6 are performed in a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated from each other. Accordingly, the first and second waterproof films 70 and 80 can be bonded to the widthwise end portion 10a of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a of the second fastener tape 20, while avoiding interference between the widthwise end portion 10a and 70a of the first fastener tape 10 and the first waterproof film 70 and the widthwise end portion 20a and 80a of the second fastener tape 20 and the second waterproof film 80.

[0083] Furthermore, in the cutting step S6 of the present embodiment, a fixed blade is used which is more stable than the rotary blade used in the cutting step S6 in the method for manufacturing a normal reverse slide fastener. Accordingly, accuracy during cutting can be ensured even in the present embodiment, in which the waterproof film 90 is cut in a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are separated from each other, which is more unstable than a state where the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with each other.

[0084] According to the method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to the second embodiment described above, it is possible to stably manufacture the slide fastener 1 having an excellent appearance and waterproof performance, in which the widthwise end portions 10a and 70a of the first fastener tape 10 and the first waterproof film 70 extend to one end side in the width direction of the first element row 50 and the widthwise end portions 20a and 80a of the second fastener tape 20 and the second waterproof film 80 extend to one end side in the width direction of the second element row 60.

[0085] The present invention is not limited to the manufacturing methods of the above embodiments, and can be modified as appropriate. For example, while the manufacturing method according to the first embodiment does not perform the water repellent treatment step S7, the water repellent treatment step S7 may be performed on the slide fastener 1 according to the first embodiment in which the first and second waterproof films 70 and 80 are not provided. Furthermore, the method of carrying out each step may be any method that can stably manufacture the slide fastener 1 by setting conditions such as whether the first and second element rows 50 and 60 are engaged with or separated from each other, or the positional relationship between the widthwise end portion 10a and the like of the first fastener tape 10 and the widthwise end portion 20a and the like of the second fastener tape 20, as described above. That is, the method for dyeing the fastener stringers 3 and 5, the method for bonding and cutting the waterproof film 90, the method for folding the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 and the like using a jig, and the like can be changed as appropriate.

[0086] As described above, the present specification discloses the following.

[0087] [1] A method for manufacturing a slide fastener including a pair of first and second fastener tapes, a first element row provided at a widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape, and a second element row provided at a widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape, in which the first and second element rows are capable of engaging with and separating from each other, and when the first and second element rows are engaged with each other, the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape are each buckled in a mountain shape and come into close contact with each other, the method including: [0088] a sewing step of sewing the first element row to the first fastener tape, and sewing the second element row to the second fastener tape in a state where the first and second element rows are separated from each other; [0089] a dyeing step of dyeing the first and second fastener tapes and the first and second element rows in a state where the first and second element rows are engaged with each other and where the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape overlap with each other in a front-rear direction; and [0090] a folding step of folding the first fastener tape and the second fastener tape such that the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape are each buckled in the mountain shape and come into close contact with each other when the first and second element rows are engaged with each other.

[0091] According to this configuration, the widthwise end portion (10a) of the first fastener tape (10) and the widthwise end portion (20a) of the second fastener tape (20) are each buckled in a mountain shape and come into close contact with each other, and the method for manufacturing the slide fastener (1) having a structure with excellent concealability of the element row and therefore excellent appearance can be provided.

[0092] [2] The method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to [1], in which [0093] the sewing step includes temporary setting processing of heating the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape in the state where the first and second element rows are engaged with each other and where the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape overlap with each other in the front-rear direction.

[0094] According to this configuration, it is possible to stabilize the shrinkage of the fabric in the overlapping part of the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20), or to suppress the occurrence of folds or wrinkles in the overlapping part.

[0095] [3] The method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to [1] or [2], further including: [0096] after the sewing step, a setting step of heating the first and second fastener tapes and the first and second element rows in the state where the first and second element rows are engaged with each other and where the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape overlap with each other in the front-rear direction.

[0097] According to this configuration, the overall shapes of the first and second fastener tapes 10 and 20 and the first and second element rows 50 and 60 can be stabilized, making it easier to carry out the dyeing step (S3).

[0098] [4] The method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to any one of [1] to [3], further including: [0099] after the dyeing step, in a state where the first and second element rows are separated from each other and where the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape are brought close to each other, [0100] a waterproof film bonding step of bonding a single waterproof film to the first and second fastener tapes; and [0101] a cutting step of cutting the waterproof film along a gap between the widthwise end portions of the first and second fastener tapes to form first and second waterproof films.

[0102] According to this configuration, by providing the first and second waterproof films (70, 80), the method for manufacturing the slide fastener (1) having excellent waterproof performance can be provided.

[0103] [5] The method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to [4], further including: [0104] after the folding step, an aging step of leaving the widthwise end portions to rest for a certain period of time in a state where the first and second element rows are engaged with each other and where the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape are each buckled in the mountain shape and come into close contact with each other.

[0105] According to this configuration, the shapes of the first and second fastener tapes (10, 20) provided with the first and second waterproof films (70, 80) can be stabilized, and the degree of close contact can be improved.

[0106] [6] The method for manufacturing the slide fastener according to any one of [1] to [5], further including: [0107] before the folding step, a water repellent treatment step of applying a water repellent and drying the applied water repellent in the state where the first and second element rows are engaged with each other and where the widthwise end portion of the first fastener tape and the widthwise end portion of the second fastener tape overlap with each other in the front-rear direction.

[0108] According to this configuration, by carrying out the water repellent treatment, the method for manufacturing the slide fastener (1) having more excellent waterproof performance can be provided.

[0109] As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a manufacturing method capable of stably manufacturing a slide fastener which has excellent concealability for the element row and, ultimately, excellent appearance.