Zipper Patents (Class 425/814)
  • Patent number: 7416397
    Abstract: A waterproof slide fastener and a manufacturing apparatus thereof are disclosed, wherein each fastener element has a coupling head, a neck portion, a body portion, and leg portions which are continuously fused and integrated, a terminal end is projected from a gap between upper/lower half portions of the coupling head, upper/lower flanges of a slider make a sliding contact with a surface of each of upper/lower half portions of each leg portion, each half portion of the leg portion extending from the body portion via a crotch portion and guiding the flanges, two or more leg portions are disposed with a predetermined interval in a sliding direction, an entire shoulder width of a shoulder portion is larger than a body width of the body portion if it is provided, thereby intensifying fixing strength between a fastener tape and fastener elements and waterproofness, and allowing a smooth sliding of a slider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: YKK Corporation
    Inventors: Masahiro Kusayama, Kenji Yuki, Ryo Tanaka
  • Patent number: 7320768
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a metal mold of a simple structure that can be used for injection molding a combined product composed of some molded pieces regardless of the accuracy and the shape of a desired combined product and a method of molding such combined product. A metal mold M for injection molding comprises a first piece mold 5 for molding a first molded piece 2, a second piece mold 4 for molding a second molded piece 6, and a pin core 8 for forming an insertion hole 1. A method of injection molding a combined product P comprises the steps of injection molding the first molded piece 2 from a first plastic resin A, removing the pin core 8 that is used for forming the insertion hole 1 in the first molded piece 2 in the former step from the first molded piece 2, and injection molding the second molded piece 4 from a second plastic resin B.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Assignees: Mishima Giken Co., Ltd., Kakuichikasei Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Katsuji Eimura
  • Patent number: 7214334
    Abstract: Several methods and machines for continuously forming a fastener product having an array of fastener elements extending from a continuous, sheet-form base, employing a mold belt on which the sheet-form base of the product is formed and from which it is subsequently stripped. The belt defines an array of cavities extending from its outer surface, for molding either the array of fastener elements or an array of preform stems that are subsequently reformed into the fastener elements. In some cases the cavities are blind, such as for forming hook-type fastener elements; in other cases, the cavities extend through the belt, such as for forming mushroom-type fastener elements. Various belt constructions and fastener element shapes are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Velcro Industries B.V.
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jens, William Clune, George A. Provost, James W. Babineau
  • Patent number: 7168938
    Abstract: A nylon zipper has two fastener structures. Each fastener structure has a plurality of nylon gripper elements. Each nylon gripper element has at least one side including a concave portion. A seaming wire for seaming the zipper to a cross strip is embedded in the concave portion. Thereby when pulling a pull head, the seaming wire will not rubber the cross strip. Moreover, a threaded rod device of a nylon zipper comprises two parallel threaded rods. Each threaded rod has threads. One of the threaded rod has a plurality of tips arranged in recesses between each two threads for forming concave portions and convex portions on nylon gripper elements of the fastener structures of the nylon zipper at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Inventor: Hsin-Kun Wu
  • Patent number: 6946047
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a zipper without shift in injection molding comprises the steps of forming a bank of continuous zipper teeth at an edge of each of two parallel zipper strips by molding injection; wherein an inner side of each zipper strip has a respective connecting strip; scraping a part of zipper teeth on the zipper strip; melting two layers of films and coating the films on the upper and lower sides of the zipper strip; punching holes at inner lateral sides of the films, but the connecting strips are remained; guiding two zipper strips into an upper and a lower engaging piece molds; and tensioning the zipper strips within the molds; injection-molding engaging pieces; moving the molds from the zipper strips; cutting the zipper strips along the holes, thus forming the upper and lower engaging pieces of a zipper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventor: Chang-Wen Cao
  • Patent number: 6783351
    Abstract: An apparatus for manufacturing slide fastener spiral continuous element row comprises a forming screw assembly, a die assembly, an abutment assembly, and a rear forming assembly. The invention can effect a stable operation with the cooperation of a spring-biased shaft mechanism, a rear adjustment screw, and two side adjustment screws so as to manufacture quality products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Inventor: Hung An Chen
  • Patent number: 6783350
    Abstract: An apparatus for manufacturing slide fastener coil-shaped continuous element row comprises a forming screw assembly, a die assembly, an abutment assembly, and a rear forming assembly having one or two shuttle assemblies or a shaft mechanism. An arcuate recessed portion is formed on a top side of either element or a flat area formed on a bottom side of either element when the arcuate piece of the top shuttle assembly or the flat piece of the bottom shuttle assembly is abutted on the element so that the invention can effect a stable operation and a precise positioning of zipper forming space by manipulating the rear forming assembly in an adjustment operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Inventor: Hung An Chen
  • Publication number: 20040094860
    Abstract: Several methods and machines for continuously forming a fastener product having an array of fastener elements extending from a continuous, sheet-form base, employing a mold belt on which the sheet-form base of the product is formed and from which it is subsequently stripped. The belt defines an array of cavities extending from its outer surface, for molding either the array of fastener elements or an array of preform stems that are subsequently reformed into the fastener elements. In some cases the cavities are blind, such as for forming hook-type fastener elements; in other cases, the cavities extend through the belt, such as for forming mushroom-type fastener elements. Various belt constructions and fastener element shapes are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Applicant: Velcro Industries B.V.
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jens, William Clune, George A. Provost, James W. Babineau
  • Publication number: 20040005375
    Abstract: An apparatus for manufacturing slide fastener coil-shaped continuous element row comprises a forming screw assembly, a die assembly, an abutment assembly, and a rear forming assembly having one or two shuttle assemblies or a shaft mechanism. An arcuate recessed portion is formed on a top side of either element or a flat area formed on a bottom side of either element when the arcuate piece of the top shuttle assembly or the flat piece of the bottom shuttle assembly is abutted on the element so that the invention can effect a stable operation and a precise positioning of zipper forming space by manipulating the rear forming assembly in an adjustment operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Publication date: January 8, 2004
    Inventor: Hung An Chen
  • Patent number: 6540497
    Abstract: A secondary molding apparatus includes a transfer path for a primary molded product, and an internal heating unit disposed vertically at a predetermined interval across the transfer path, the internal heating unit disposed to come into contact with a rear surface of a flat base material and to melt top portions of protrusions located on a front surface of the flat base material. The secondary molding apparatus also includes a pressing member disposed vertically at a predetermined interval across the transfer path, the pressing member configured to press and deform the top portions of the protrusion to a desired shape, the pressing member being a non-heating member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: YKK Corporation
    Inventors: Masaaki Fuda, Shinichi Daijyogo
  • Patent number: 6533239
    Abstract: A metal mold for molding a slider of a slide fastener is provided. The metal mold comprises upper and lower mold cavities for molding portions of the slider, with the upper and lower molds moving up and down relative to each other in order to open and close the mold. The mold further comprises at least two sliding molds for molding portions of the slider not molded by the upper and lower molds. The sliding molds are capable of being removably introduced into the upper and lower molds from their front and rear sides when the upper and lower molds are in tight contact with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: YKK Corporation
    Inventors: Susumu Komuro, Hiroo Minami
  • Publication number: 20020190418
    Abstract: Several methods and machines for continuously forming a fastener product having an array of fastener elements extending from a continuous, sheet-form base, employing a mold belt on which the sheet-form base of the product is formed and from which it is subsequently stripped. The belt defines an array of cavities extending from its outer surface, for molding either the array of fastener elements or an array of preform stems that are subsequently reformed into the fastener elements. In some cases the cavities are blind, such as for forming hook-type fastener elements; in other cases, the cavities extend through the belt, such as for forming mushroom-type fastener elements. Various belt constructions and fastener element shapes are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Applicant: Velcro Industries B.V., a Curacao
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jens, William Clune, George A. Provost, James W. Babineau
  • Patent number: 6302676
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for manufacturing a slide fastener spiral continuous element row wherein a monofilament is carried on a mandrel while ensuring an accurate pitch of elements even in a high-speed operation and a stepped form of an upper leg portion can be accurately formed at a predetermined portion of each the element. In order to continuously manufacture the slide fastener spiral element row from the continuous monofilament made of synthetic resin, the monofilament transferred continuously is wound spirally around the mandrel and carried while being retained between screw grooves of opposed screws. Then, a coupling head is formed by hitting a portion of the spiral monofilament carried on the mandrel by a pressing roller, the portion corresponding to the coupling head. After that, a stepped upper leg portion is formed by pressing a portion of the spiral monofilament by a rotary hammer at a predetermined position on the mandrel, the portion corresponding to the upper leg portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: YKK Corporation
    Inventors: Takashi Kato, Yoshihiro Kousaka, Shigeru Imai
  • Patent number: 6206679
    Abstract: An enhanced flexibility fastener product has a base and hook elements extending from the base. Rip-stops integrally molded with the base and with the hook elements are offset relative to the hook elements to reduce widthwise stiffness of the fastener product. Edge margins of the fastener are feathered in that they taper or otherwise reduce in thickness over an extended distance, preferably from at or near the hooks to an edge, resulting in a softer, less irritating fastener tape. Fasteners according to the invention are particularly advantageous on disposable absorbent garments such as diapers, sanitary napkins, and other articles of wear which come into contact with a user's skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Velcro Industries B.V.
    Inventors: George A. Provost, James V. Stumpf, A. Todd Leak, Apiromraj S. Roslansky
  • Patent number: 6190594
    Abstract: Tool rolls and methods of using the tool rolls to manufacture articles with one or more structured surfaces are disclosed. The tool rolls include an outer surface that, when used in connection with materials of the proper viscosity or formability, can form a structured surface on an article. Because the tools are manufactured in roll-form, they can be advantageously used in continuous manufacturing processes. Alternatively, discrete articles may be processed using the tool rolls. The tool rolls are constructed of a cylindrical base roll and are wrapped with one or more continuous wires in a helical pattern. The wires are used, in essence, to form a structured surface on the tool roll that is the negative of the structured surface to be formed on the articles processed using the tool roll. One of the wires wound around the base roll may include a plurality of voids formed therein that, when wound in helical coils about the base roll, form a plurality of mold cavities on the outer surface of the tool roll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Michael R. Gorman, Roger D. Pavlis
  • Patent number: 6162040
    Abstract: A method is provided for forming an array of fastener elements extending from a common base. The method includes delivering moldable resin to a mold having a mold surface from which a plurality of fixed mold cavities extend inwardly, each mold cavity having a throat extending from the mold surface and a bowl extending from the throat to a bowl rim, a protrusion of the mold extending into the bowl, thereby filling the mold cavities and forming the common base; solidifying the resin in the cavities to form the fastener elements; and removing the solidified fastener elements from their corresponding fixed mold cavities by pulling the common base away from the mold surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Velcro Industries B.V.
    Inventor: William Clune
  • Patent number: 6099289
    Abstract: A method for producing a multiplicity of miniature cavities extending from a mold surface for molding a plastic product having features integrally molded with and extending from a product base, and a mold so produced. The mold cavities are formed by depositing multiple layers of plating material on a workpiece in a predetermined pattern selected to produce a desired mold cavity shape. The mold may be in the form of a roll or belt for continuous processing, or in any form for discrete injection molding. The invention is particularly applicable to the production of touch fastener products, such as those with arrays of miniature hooks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Velcro Industries B.V.
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jens, Andrew C. Harvey, Gilbert G. Fryklund, Scott M. Filion, Samuel W. Pollard, Keith G. Buzzell, Shawn C. Banker
  • Patent number: 6062839
    Abstract: An automatic pull tab insertion unit of an insert molding machine can automatically insert a plurality of metal pull tab members fitted to respective sliders of slide fasteners into the insert molding machine in order to form a synthetic resin grip integral with each of the pull tab members. The pull tab insertion unit has a pull tab insertion member for inserting a plurality of pull tab members fitted to respective sliders into the insert molding machine, while holding the sliders, and a positioning member for causing the pull tab insertion device to hold the sliders with the respective pull tab members by pushing the sliders against the pull tab insertion member and positioning the pull tab members. The pull tab insertion member and the positioning device are arranged perpendicularly with each other and adapted to be vertically moved together by a lift-device and pivoted by 90.degree. between a horizontal plane and a vertical plane by a pivoting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: YKK Corporation
    Inventor: Kazuhiro Funaya
  • Patent number: 6039556
    Abstract: Molding apparatus and method for molding of features integral with a base, such as in the production of fastener elements for hook-and-loop type touch fasteners, e.g. by the Fischer process, employs a mold roll formed of rings that have coolant passages formed within the ring components themselves for substantially direct contact with cooling liquid. Axial tie rods compress the mold rings together, contributing to the sealing of the coolant passages and the stiffness of the mold roll. Other types of sealing are disclosed. Mold cavities, including cavities used for injection molding, and cooling passages formed in either mold rings or injection mold plates by photo-chemical etching, laser machining and other techniques are disclosed. Various machines and methods taking unique advantage of these features are disclosed, including ring alignment methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: Velcro Industries B.V.
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jens, Andrew C. Harvey, Richard M. Formato
  • Patent number: 5971738
    Abstract: Molding apparatus and method for continuous molding of features integral with a base, such as in the production of fastener elements for hook-and-loop type touch fasteners, e.g. by the Fischer process, employs a mold roll formed of rings that have coolant passages formed within the ring components themselves for substantially direct contact with cooling liquid. Axial tie rods compress the mold rings together, contributing to the sealing of the coolant passages and the stiffness of the mold roll. Other types of sealing are disclosed. Mold cavities and cooling passages formed by photo-chemical etching, laser machining and other techniques are disclosed. Various machines and methods taking unique advantage of these features are disclosed, including ring alignment methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Velcro Industries B.V.
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jens, Andrew C. Harvey, Richard M. Formato, Samuel W. Pollard, James Stumpf
  • Patent number: 5962040
    Abstract: Disclosed is a zipper for a reclosable thermoplastic bag having opposing rib and groove profiles wherein at least one of the opposing zipper profiles has an longitudinally extending part interlockable and substantially free of interdigitation with the opposing profile and wherein the part is structurally discontinuous along its length. When the rib and groove profiles are interlocked, an audible clicking sound and/or a vibratory or bumpy feel perceptible to the touch is imparted.Further disclosed is a process and apparatus for making the zipper wherein a zipper profile is extruded and indentions are formed within and along it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Dowbrands L.P.
    Inventors: Brian C. Dais, Jose Porchia, Raymond R. Rydman
  • Patent number: 5705114
    Abstract: A synthetic resin monofilament being continuously supplied is intermittently stamped to form head portions as flattened protuberances bulging laterally. Then the stamped monofilament is bent at the head portions to form leg portions and turnover portions bridging the leg portions of adjacent head portions, forming an continous coupling element row. While the continous coupling element row is conveyed by a conveying section, the head portions are heated and softened by a heating section, and a head-portion shaping tool having arcuate recesses is brought into contact with the individual outwardly curved softened head portions to shape the external shape of each head portion into an arcuate shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Assignee: YKK Corporation
    Inventors: Toshiharu Wakashima, Sakae Aimono
  • Patent number: 5698239
    Abstract: A heating mechanism for zipper forming machines includes a mold base, a support seat, a seat cover, a screw sleeve and a heating element. The support seat has a clearance at a central portion and a heat insulation pad is fitted into the clearance for dividing the support seat into a heating area and a cooling area. The heating element is disposed in the heating area and a cooling element is disposed at the cooling area for enhancing heat energy efficiencies and reducing noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Assignee: Chung Shan Institute of Science & Technology
    Inventors: Ray-Long Tsai, Joseph Wu
  • Patent number: 5698243
    Abstract: In a mold apparatus for simultaneously molding two cross-linked annular parts, having first through fourth split cores arranged in a cross pattern, firstly the adjacent first and second split cores are moved by first split core moving means as guided on fixed dies along a first sliding passageway perpendicularly in the mold opening and closing direction, and then the adjacent third and fourth split cores are moved toward and away from part of movable dies simultaneously when the part of the movable dies is moved toward and away in the mold opening and closing direction by guide means. At the same time, the third and fourth split cores are moved away from the molded product along a second sliding passageway by a link mechanism composed of arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Assignee: YKK Corporation
    Inventor: Masao Wakabayashi
  • Patent number: 5688539
    Abstract: An improved zipper teeth forming mechanism for zipper forming machines. The teeth forming mechanism includes a mold base, a support seat, a seat cover, a screw sleeve and a ram mechanism. The screw sleeve consists of an upper portion and a lower portion defining a space therebetween for accommodating a forming screw. The upper portion has an elongate groove and a notch. A central rod is disposed in the groove while the ram mechanism is secured at the notch of the upper portion of the screw sleeve. The ram mechanism consists of a ram adjusting seat with a post, a bearing positioned on the post, a ram roller fitted on the bearing and a slide block fitted on the post of the ram adjusting seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: Chung Shan Institute of Science & Technology
    Inventors: Ray-Long Tsai, Joseph Wu
  • Patent number: 5536460
    Abstract: A method of forming end stops to a continuous slide fastener chain including element-free space portions at longitudinally spaced intervals, wherein as the chain is fed in the backward direction, a pair of rows of interengaged coupling elements extending on the downstream side of an element-free space portion is spread open by a chain splitting apparatus for subsequent molding of a separable end stop whereas a pair of rows of coupling elements on the upstream side of the element-free space portion is kept in engaged condition. After the separable end stop is molded, the chain is fed in the forward direction during which time a sprue portion and gate portions formed integrally with the separable end stop are caught by a chain splitting member of the chain splitting apparatus. The chain splitting member is then lowered to automatically remove the sprue portion and gate portions from the separable end stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Assignee: YKK Corporation
    Inventor: Kazuki Kuse
  • Patent number: 5536343
    Abstract: In a method and apparatus for manufacturing a slide fastener chain having rows of coupling elements and members of a separable bottom end stop assembly, two positioning holes are formed at predetermined positions on reinforcing films attached to a pair of fastener tapes. The positioning holes are used to position the fastener tapes relative to a molding unit with respect to each individual slide fastener length. Thus, even when a positioning error is produced due to a change in tension on the fastener tapes being processed, such error is limited to a small extent which is created only in the individual slide fastener length. Thus, the coupling elements and the first pin member and the second pin member can be molded precisely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Assignee: YKK Corporation
    Inventor: Kazuki Kuse
  • Patent number: 5529482
    Abstract: The manufacture of slit-type zip fasteners is accelerated by synchronizing the movement of the slit former with the movement of the ejector. A portion of the slit former slides while ejecting the product or closing the mould in a guide which causes a movement of the slit forming portion of the slit former obliquely to the general ejection direction thus pulling the slit forming portion out of the heads of the zipper teeth. The zip fastener is made preferably in a mould wherein the slider that comprises inter alia the moulds for the zipper stops is disposed asymmetrically at one end of the mould. The hot runner of this mould is designed in such a manner that the material flow is first directed to the feed nozzle furthest away from the slider and then to the nozzle next to the slider which is working for the injection moulding of a zip fastener of any length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Inventor: Friedrich Mayerhofer
  • Patent number: 5500276
    Abstract: A slide fastener of synthetic resin which has regularly spaced elements formed and fixed to the edge of fastener tape by the injection molding of the molten mass of the synthetic resin is disclosed. The fastener tape is formed of polyethylene terephthalate and the elements of slide fastener are made of a polymer alloy of polybutylene terephthalate with polypropylene or polyethylene terephthalate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Assignee: Yoshida Kogyo K.K.
    Inventors: Ryozo Sawada, Masanori Hirasawa, Yoshiharu Yamaguchi, Shigeru Funakawa, Masaru Kanayama
  • Patent number: 5478228
    Abstract: Disclosed is a zipper for a reclosable thermoplastic bag having opposing rib and groove profiles wherein at least one of the opposing zipper profiles has an longitudinally extending part interlockable and substantially free of interdigitation with the opposing profile and wherein the part is structurally discontinuous along its length. When the rib and groove profiles are interlocked, an audible clicking sound and/or a vibratory or bumpy feel perceptible to the touch is imparted.Further disclosed is a process and apparatus for making the zipper wherein a zipper profile is extruded and indentions are formed within and along it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1995
    Assignee: Dowbrands LP
    Inventors: Brian C. Dais, Jose Porchia, John O. McCree, Raymond R. Rydman, Bertha R. Vaughn
  • Patent number: 5472652
    Abstract: As a pair of fastener tapes is supplied through a molding machine and then through a fiber hardening agent applying and impregnating unit, a predetermined length of coupling element rows are molded on and along confronting beaded edges of the fastener tapes, and simultaneously a separable bottom stop assembly composed of a pin member and a box member and top stops are molded about one ends and the other ends of the coupling element rows, whereupon a fiber hardening agent is applied over and impregnated in the tape surfaces of the prospective bottom end portions by the fiber hardening agent applying and impregnating unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Assignee: Yoshida Kogyo K.K.
    Inventor: Eiichi Yoshimura
  • Patent number: 5470516
    Abstract: A method of molding a separable bottom stop assembly on a concealed slide fastener, including: forming a number of space portions devoid of fastener elements at predetermined intervals in a concealed slide fastener; impregnating molten synthetic resin in fastener tapes at areas around the space portion; heat-molding and hardening the tapes in such a manner that confronting edge portions of the tapes are turned over; cutting the tapes across the space portion; injection molding a second pin member of the separable bottom stop assembly on the edge portion of one tape and a first pin member of a box member on the edge portion of the other tape at the space portion, contiguously to the fastener elements; and attaching a box to the first pin member to complete the box member. The result is that a separable concealed slide fastener, which could not be put to practical use conventionally, can be manufactured simply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Assignee: Yoshida Kogyo K.K.
    Inventor: Tsutomu Fudaki
  • Patent number: 5441687
    Abstract: A surface fastener engaging member manufacturing method includes: extruding from an extrusion nozzle a predetermined width of molten resin; introducing the molten resin into a predetermined gap between the extrusion nozzle and a die wheel to fill up coupling element molding cavities with the molten resin as the die wheel rotates in one direction; continuously molding a multiplicity of coupling elements integrally on the front surface of a continuous board-shaped base layer as the die wheel is rotated; applying a porous backing material to the base layer under pressure while the base layer is moved in response to the rotation of the die wheel; cooling the die wheel to a predetermined temperature; and positively pulling the base layer with the backing material attached thereto as cooled, from the die wheel as the molded coupling elements of the engaging section are removed off the coupling element molding cavities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1995
    Assignee: Yoshida Kogyo K.K.
    Inventors: Ryuichi Murasaki, Hissai Nishiyama
  • Patent number: 5163552
    Abstract: The invention relates to the joining of one web, e.g. of camouflage material to a carrier net or the like with the aid of fastener devices comprising male fastener parts provided with pins or like elements which are hammered into complementary holes in female fastener parts. The female and male fastener parts are banded together by means of plastic wires moulded along the sides of the fastener parts and are separated subsequent to being brought to a fastener applying position from a respective magazine. The male fastener parts are banded with the pins positioned in the direction of the band, while the holes provided in the female fastener parts face at right angles to the band direction. The bands are advanced by means of pawl-mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1992
    Assignee: Barracuda Technologies AB
    Inventor: Hermann Thuswaldner
  • Patent number: 5079820
    Abstract: A process for manufacturing zip fasteners by molding sets of locking members of any length and of the staggered or slit type, the upper stop members, the coupling and the box, in a single operation. The process is achieved with a two-part injection molding tool having strips with recesses for forming locking members which are applied to both the lower and the upper part of the tool. The lower strips can be moved vertically. A transverse slide has recesses for the upper stop members, a recess for the coupling, and a mold part for a box, in which is located a mold body displaceable within the plane of the slide. In order to form locking members with slits the lower part of the tool is provided with a mechanism which removes the insert forming the slit from the slit when the finished zip fastener member is removed. Accordingly, all combinations of zip fasteners can be manufactured in a single operation without expensive subsequent processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1992
    Assignee: Saurer First Tech-Products Ltd.
    Inventor: Friedrich Mayerhofer
  • Patent number: 5073103
    Abstract: A molding device for molding a sliding member of a slide fastener includes a first mold, a second mold movable toward or away from the first mold to close or open the molding device, at least one set of upper movable moving parts, a first upper stationary molding part detachably fixed to the first mold and a second upper stationary molding part detachably fixed to the second mold. The upper stationary molding parts are replaceable to alter the design of the holding end of a pulling tab of the slide fastener. Each set of the upper movable molding parts includes a first and a second upper movable molding part installed in the first mold, a third and a fourth upper movable molding part in the second mold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1991
    Assignee: Hseng Chee Enterprise PTE, Ltd
    Inventor: Ching-Fu Liao
  • Patent number: 5047195
    Abstract: A method of molding articles including the steps of continuously moving a forming mold and a band-like molding member in a first and second endless path, respectively, engaging the respective mold and member through a region of engagement to form a continuous open-ended molding cavity; injecting hardenable material into the cavity; intermixing and compacting the hardenable material before hardening into an article and then disengaging the mold and band before removing the article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1991
    Inventor: George B. Moertel
  • Patent number: 5043125
    Abstract: A method of forming a chain of meandering or zig-zag coupling elements for slide fasteners includes dividing or bifurcating a continuous length of substantially cross-sectionally circular monofilamentary material axially into identical halves of substantially semi-circular cross-section immediately prior to introduction to a forming apparatus. The identical halves may be provisionally joined together to provide a cross-sectionally circular monofilament and divided back into respective halves immediately prior to formation thereof into respective rows of coupling elements for slide fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1991
    Assignee: Yoshida Kogyo K.K.
    Inventor: Takeo Fukuroi
  • Patent number: 5013511
    Abstract: A method of making a slider for use in a slide fastener, which slider is provided with bearings for a pull tab on an upper surface of a slider body on its opposite side to pivotably hold a pintle of the pull tab. By making use of only one slide core, a slider body mold cavity in a mold is blocked from a pull tab mold cavity and at the same time, hollow space portions in the bearings for the pull tab are formed by means of the slide core. After molding the slider body, by retreating this slide core, the hollow space portions in the already molded pull tab bearings are used as a mold portion for a pintle of the pull tab. By injecting an amount of molten synthetic resin having a larger thermal contraction coefficient than the synthetic resin used previously for molding the slider body, into the pull tab mold cavity, the pintle of the pull tab and the pull tab are integrally molded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1991
    Assignee: Yoshida Kogyo K. K.
    Inventor: Shunji Akashi
  • Patent number: 4979288
    Abstract: The process makes it possible to manufacture any zip fasteners, i.e. to mold sets of locking members of any length, of the staggered or slit type, the upper stop members, the coupling and the box in a single operation. The apparatus for injection moulding all these components comprises a two part injection moulding tool wherein strips with recesses for the forming of locking members are applied to both the lower and the upper part of the tool and the lower strips can be moved vertically. The transverse slide has in addition to recesses for the upper stop members and the recess for the coupling a mold part for the box, in which is located a mold body which can be displaced within the plane of the slide. In order to form locking members with slits the lower part of the tool is provided with a device to remove the insert which forms the slit from the slit when the finished zip fastener member is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 25, 1990
    Assignee: First Tech
    Inventor: Friedrich Mayerhofer
  • Patent number: 4775310
    Abstract: Apparatus for continuously producing an elongated strip-like fastener member is disclosed which facilitates highly efficient formation of the fastener member with a great multiplicity of resiliently flexible hook-like projections. The method comprises the formation of an extrusion of plastic material which is shaped between a pair of coacting first and second rollers of the apparatus. Notably, one of the rollers is formed of a series of plates and defines a plurality of hook-forming cavities about its periphery within which the hook projections of the fastener member are formed. The forming roller is suitably cooled so as to effect substantial reduction in the temperature of the molten plastic extrusion form which the fastener member is formed. In this manner, the fastener member may be removed or stripped from the forming roller without opening of the hook-forming cavities, thus promoting highly efficient formation of the fastener member without resort to unduly complex equipment or processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1988
    Assignee: Velcro Industries B.V.
    Inventor: James R. Fischer
  • Patent number: 4743412
    Abstract: A space portion processing method and apparatus for preprocessing a slide fastener chain before attaching parts forming a separable end stop such as a retainer pin and a separable pin at the space portion of a slide fastener chain formed by cutting and removing a row of elements for a certain length from a row of coil-like continuous fastener elements of thermoplastic resin attached around a core cord along each of the facing side edges of a pair of fastener tapes are disclosed. After the space portion is detected and positioned and the slide fastener chain is held on a bed, fusion of the element cut edges at the end of the space portion into the tapes and press-forming of the core cords is carried out simultaneously by using the same pressing means. The space portion processing method and apparatus for a slide fastener chain according to the invention enables the apparatus to be made simple and compact, allows processing efficiency to be improved, and processing costs to be lowered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1988
    Assignee: Yoshida Kogyo K.K.
    Inventor: Kazuki Kuse
  • Patent number: 4731212
    Abstract: In a method for continuously manufacturing slide fastener coupling elements, a molded strip of coupling element blanks is folded by a first folder unit about its longitudinal axis while still hot into a U-shaped cross-section to provide a folded strip of coupling element blanks each having a width larger than a predetermined width of each of the coupling elements as ultimately shaped. After having been heated by a hot-air blower, the hot folded strip of blanks is shaped by a second folder unit into slide fastener coupling elements of a finalized shape and dimensions through a plurality of bending stages in which the widths of the coupling element blanks are constricted stepwise by the second folder unit as the folded strip of blanks is fed therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1988
    Assignee: Yoshida Kogyo K. K.
    Inventor: Akira Hasegawa
  • Patent number: 4725221
    Abstract: An improved machine for the continuous production of a separable fastening element includes an endlessly-circulating belt of molding modules that, in the preferred embodiment, cyclically pass by at least two injection heads and two removal-wheels once every revolution. Each injection head includes a single-pump-driven reservoir that feeds an injection and forming die operative to first form a backing layer, and then to form plural hook-like projections, by a wedge-like forcing action of a portion of the backing into hook-like mode cavities. The resulting ribbon then cures and includes the hook-like elements standing off of and integral with the backing. The modules include interdigited mold and spacer plates that are each of a generally-rectangular configuration and that together are cooperative to define releasable hook-like forming cavities and a smooth backing-forming two-dimensional surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1988
    Assignee: John H. Blanz Company, Inc.
    Inventor: John H. Blanz
  • Patent number: 4714573
    Abstract: A method of supplying a thermoplastic material to a molding machine for molding the same into a desired formation on slide fastener tapes is disclosed, whereby a composite plastic material, consisting in such a predetermined ratio of a fresh supply of material and removed runners and sprues, is fed so as to enable homogeneous color distribution of the resulting element chain on the fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1987
    Assignee: Yoshida Kogyo K. K.
    Inventor: Hiroshi Yoshida
  • Patent number: 4698118
    Abstract: For producing a plastic film having a plastic fastener, with male and female interlockable profiles, and accessory strips, such as ribs and strips, in preparation of a reclosable plastic bag, there is provided a first forming die which extrudes the accessory strips, a separate second forming die which extrudes the fastener, a pair of nip rolls for press-bonding the accessory strips onto the surface of the film being fed in the vicinity of the first forming die, and a bonding roll for receiving the film with press-bonded accessory strips and the fastener from the second forming die placed onto the film surface such that the fastener is bonded to the surface of the film at the bonding roll by virtue of heat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1987
    Assignee: Minigrip, Inc.
    Inventor: Katsuhito Takahashi
  • Patent number: 4665603
    Abstract: In a method and apparatus for forming a row of zigzag coupling elements, the entire rotating die wheel is heated by a built-in interior heater so as to remain at a temperature slightly lower than the temperature at which a monofilament of thermoplastic synthetic resin is deformable, the monofilament being folded in an annular peripheral groove of the die wheel into a row of U-shaped coupling element blanks. Then, immediately before coupling heads are shaped, the monofilament in the form of U-shaped coupling element blanks received in the annular peripheral groove is additionally heated locally by an exterior heater outside of the die wheel such that its temperature rises to a heat setting temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1987
    Assignee: Yoshida Kogyo K. K.
    Inventor: Yasuhiko Matsuda
  • Patent number: 4665613
    Abstract: An apparatus, for forming a row of slide fastener coupling element, comprises a continuously rotatable die wheel having an annular peripheral groove for receiving a row of coupling element blanks in folded fashion, and a punching unit for forming coupling heads on the blanks in the groove. The punching unit includes a punch, an eccentric drive mechanism for imparting eccentric motion to the punch, and a linkage for regulating the eccentric motion of the punch, the drive mechanism having an outer ring connected at opposite ends to the punch and the linkage. Owing to the combination of the eccentric motion of the outer ring and the motion of the linkage, the punch is moved so as to follow the rotation of the die wheel while the coupling heads are shaped on each stroke of the punch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1987
    Assignee: Yoshida Kogyo K. K.
    Inventor: Yasuhiko Matsuda
  • Patent number: 4659301
    Abstract: An apparatus for forming a slide fastener chain includes an injection molding machine with a mold, a sprue and runner cutter adjacent the mold, a pelletizer adjacent to the cutter for reducing the sprues and runners to particle size which are delivered to a first hopper, a second hopper for fresh molding materials, a mixing hopper for blending the used and fresh molding materials to be fed to the mold, and controls for regulating the proportions of used and fresh materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1987
    Assignee: Yoshida Kogyo K. K.
    Inventor: Hiroshi Yoshida
  • Patent number: 4657500
    Abstract: In an apparatus for forming a row of zigzag coupling elements, a winding unit includes a guide plate having a guide hole through which a monofilament is supplied onto a periphery of a continuously rotating die wheel. The guide plate is driven by two separate drive mechanisms, for lateral reciprocating movement and tangential reciprocating movement, respectively, with respect to the die wheel periphery so that the guide hole traces a horizontal figure-eight curve to thereby wind the monofilament alternately around a pair of rows of circumferentially staggered pins, on the die wheel periphery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1987
    Assignee: Yoshida Kogyo K. K.
    Inventor: Yasuhiko Matsuda