EP3405064A1

EP3405064A1 - Improved zipper slider system

Info

Publication number: EP3405064A1
Application number: EP16886763.8A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Tesia THOMAS
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2016-01-20
Filing date: 2016-06-20
Publication date: 2018-11-28
Also published as: WO2017127131A1; CN108697209A; JP2019502486A; US20200329827A1; EP3405064A4

Abstract

A zipper slider system (10) comprising at least one zipper profile/strip (14) formed along a tape and include a core (18) comprised of a series (19) of U-shaped bodies (16), and can be comprised of a section of webbing (17) attached to the series of the U-shaped bodies (16) or formed with the U-shaped bodies, and a core covering (24). A zipper slider (13) is used for opening and closing the strips (14a) and (14b) of the zipper tape 14. The zipper slider has first and second passageways (38) and (40) disposed so that the centerlines x-x and y-y through the first and second passageways extend at an angle b so that the first and second interconnection portions of the strips may be both forced into engagement with one another and forced to disengage from each another.

Description

IMPROVED ZIPPER SLIDER SYSTEM

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a to a zipper slider system and specifically, to a slider that can open and close flexible closure strips.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This non-provisional patent application claims the benefit of the Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/236,131 filed on October 1, 2015;

Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/239,275 filed on October 9, 2015; Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/239,276 filed on October 9, 2015; Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/281,163 filed on January 20, 2016; Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/306,624 filed on March 10, 2016; Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/317,603 filed on April 3, 2016 all of which are incorporated in their entireties in the present application.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Various closure devices have been utilized to join and separate pieces of fabric type material together. Resilient fasteners, including those having zipper sliders, are well-known in the art. Fastening devices typically include two flexible elongated components having teeth that are forced to interlock and separate by moving a zipper pull along the components. Generally, fasteners of this variety include a pair of flexible closure strips, each extruded from a polymeric resin material in continuous lengths and having an interlocking rib and groove structure. Such structures on each of the pair of flexible closure strips may be identical to one another, locking together in an interference fit. Alternatively, one of the pair of flexible closure strips may have a male interlocking member, while the other of the pair may have a female interlocking member into which the male interlocking member may be snapped in an interference fit.

[04] Resilient fasteners of either of these two of the flexible closure strips, joining them to one sliders, which track along the interlocking structures varieties may be opened and closed with a zipper when pulled in one direction, and separating them when being pulled in the opposite direction. Furthermore, traditional magnetic pin boxes are for zipper tapes containing teeth as there did not exist a sufficiently strong zipper tape without teeth.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[05] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is disclosed a zipper slider system characterized by a zipper tape having a profile including at least a first strip extending the length of the zipper tape. The at least a first strip is constructed of at least one material selected from the group comprising materials that are rigid, semi-rigid, flexible, and semi-flexible.

[06] According to another embodiment of the present invention, there is disclosed a zipper slider mounted to first and second strips of a zipper tape for opening and closing the first and second strips of the zipper tape. The zipper slider has first and second passageways adapted to receive the first and second therein. The first and second passageways are disposed with respect to each other so that when the zipper slider transverses the first and second strips in one direction, the first and second interconnection portions of the first and second strips, respectively, are forced into engagement with one another and when the zipper slider transverses the first and second strips in a second opposite direction, the first and second interconnection portions of the first and second strips, respectively, are forced to disengage from each another.

[07] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, there is disclosed a slider having separate first and second portions that are joined together with a hinge mechanism. Further, first and second portions of the zipper slider are movably interconnected by the hinge mechanism so that the zipper slider opens and closes around first and second strips of zipper tape , respectively, against a restoring force of the hinge mechanism.

[08] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, there is disclosed a zipper slider characterized by a first portion with a first passageway formed therein, and a second portion with a second passageway formed therein. The first portion has a first magnet section mounted thereto, and the second portion has a second magnetic section mounted thereto, whereby the first and second magnetic sections have an opposite polarity to each other, such that whereby the first and second magnetic sections can be temporarily and removably interconnected.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[09] The structure, operation, and advantages of the present invention will become further apparent upon consideration of the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures (FIGs.). The figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Certain elements in some of the figures may be omitted, or illustrated not-to-scale, for illustrative clarity. The cross-sectional views may be in the form of "slices", or "near-sighted" cross-sectional views, omitting certain background lines which would otherwise be visible in a "true" cross-sectional view, for illustrative clarity.

[010] In the drawings accompanying the description that follows, both reference numerals and legends (labels, text descriptions) may be used to identify elements. If legends are provided, they are intended merely as an aid to the reader, and should not in any way be interpreted as limiting.

[011] Figure 1 is a three-dimensional front view of an improved zipper slider on a strip of zipper tape mounted on separate pieces of material together, in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 2 is a bottom, three-dimensional view of the core of the strip of zipper tape, in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the core embedded within a core covering forming a portion of the strip of zipper tape, in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 4 is a three-dimensional, cross-sectional view of a length of one portion of the strip of zipper tape, in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 5 is a cross-sectional end view of the two portions of the strip of zipper tape after they have been engaged and removably attached to each other, in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 6 is a front, three-dimensional view of a first embodiment of a slider attach the two portions of the strip of zipper tape, in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 7 is a rear, three-dimensional view of the first embodiment of the slider, in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 8 is a front, three-dimensional view of the first embodiment of the slider having the two portions of the strip of zipper tape aligned therein to engage or disengage the two portions of the strip of zipper tape, in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 9 is a front three-dimensional view of a second embodiment of the slider, in accordance with the present invention. [020] Figure 10 is a rear three-dimensional view of the second embodiment of the slider, in accordance with the present invention.

[021] Figure 11 is a front, three-dimensional view of the second embodiment of the slider and two strips of zipper tape contained therein, in accordance with the present invention.

[022] Figure 12 is a front, three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the slider having the two portions of the strip of zipper tape aligned therein to engage or disengage the two portions of the strip of zipper tape, in accordance with the present invention.

[023] Figure 13 is a front three-dimensional view of a third embodiment of the zipper slider system, in accordance with the present invention.

[024] Figure 14 is a front three-dimensional view of the third embodiment of the zipper slider system having the two portions of the strip of zipper tape aligned therein to engage or disengage the two portions of the strip of zipper tape, in accordance with the present invention.

[025] Figure 15 is a side view of an alternative manner in which the strips of zipper tape can be interlocked, in accordance with the present invention.

[026] Figure 16 is a three-dimensional front view of a third embodiment of the improved zipper slider on a strip of zipper tape mounted on separate pieces of material together, in accordance with the present invention.

[027] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the strips of zipper tape formed of the core and webbing embedded within a covering are interlocked, in accordance with the present invention. Figure 18 is a side view of an alternative manner in which the strips of zipper tape can be interlocked, in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[029] In the description that follows, numerous details are set forth in order to

provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that variations of these specific details are possible while still achieving the results of the present invention. Well- known processing steps are generally not described in detail in order to avoid unnecessarily obfuscating the description of the present invention.

[030] In the description that follows, exemplary dimensions may be presented for an illustrative embodiment of the invention. The dimensions should not be interpreted as limiting. They are included to provide a sense of proportion. Generally speaking, it is the relationship between various elements, where they are located, their contrasting compositions, and sometimes their relative sizes that is of significance.

In the drawings accompanying the description that follows, often both reference numerals and legends (labels, text descriptions) will be used to identify elements. If legends are provided, they are intended merely as an to the reader, and should not in any way be interpreted as limiting.

[032] Slide fasteners, commonly known as zippers, have long been known to be useful for the opening and closing two adjoining pieces of material, such as a fabric type material. A traditional zipper is typically composed of a tracking base made of substantially equal size portions of material, such as a fabric type material on either side, a series of teeth that interlock upon closing and unlock upon opening that is attached to the tracking base, and a sliding means for opening and closing the interlocking teeth that are attached to each track that contains the interlocking teeth. However, traditional zippers have an inherent mechanical weakness due to the fact that their zipper tape is comprised of two series of tiny teeth or coils on a tracking base that interlock with one another by a force caused by pulling the two series of tiny teeth or coils of interlocking teeth toward each other when a sliding device is moved along the length of the tracking base. An opposite force is created when the two series of tiny teeth or coils on the two equal size portions of material, such as a fabric type material on the tracking base are pulled away from each, such as when the zipper is on a full suitcase that is being forced to close. Therefore, traditional zippers have an inherent weakness when they are stressed as they are stressed and joined, interlocked and unlocked in the same force component. This makes for a very weak joint.

[033] The improved zipper slider system 10 utilizes a novel orientation and

attachment of two strips of zipper tape or interconnection mechanisms 14a and 14b forming in combination a length of a zipper tape 14. The two strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14, see Figure 5, are mounted to separate portions of material, such as a fabric type material 15a and 15b, respectively. As explained in more detail hereinafter, the orientation of the two strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape or interconnection mechanisms 14, redirects the forces on the zipper slider system 10 out of the plane of the zipper tape 14, thereby causing less wear and breaks than the typical prior art zipper systems. Each if the strips 14a and 14b can be provided independently of the other. The improved zipper slider 10 is designed to operate smoothly and reduce the friction commonly found with traditional zippers.

[034] Figure 1 illustrates an improved zipper slider system 10 mounted to separate portions of material, such as a fabric type material 15a and 15b, such as a garment or a suitcase. In general terms, the improved zipper slider 10 is a structure consisting of two strips 14a and 14b of a unique zipper tape 14 that can be interconnected to seal the zipper tape into a closed condition, as shown in Figure 5, by moving a zipper slider 13 in a first direction toward where the two strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 are not connected and spaced from each other, as shown at the upper end of Figure 1. The strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 are identical to one another. The improved zipper slider system 10 is configured such that the two strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 can be opened and closed to form the sealed zipper 14. Alternatively, the two strips 14a and 14b of the zipper tape 14 that can be disconnected from each other by moving the zipper slider 13 in a second direction away from where the two strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 are not connected, as shown at the upper end of Figure 1.

[035] Figure 2 illustrates a detailed view of an interconnection portion 1 1 of the core

18 of the strip 14a of zipper tape 14. Although strip 14a is illustrated, it should be noted that the two strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 are identical.

[036] The core 18 is comprised of a series or plurality 19 of generally U-shaped bodies 16 that can be interconnected to each other. It is also within the scope of the invention to include as wire carrier, a section of webbing 17 or to dispense with a section of webbing 17 to reinforce the tape and profile of the two strips 14a and 14b. The U-shaped bodies 16 have two side walls 16a and 16b, and a connecting bottom wall 16c. The U-shaped bodies 16 are typically constructed of metal and may have any desirable dimensions. There may be any desirable number of individual U-shaped bodies 16 in the series, generally determined by the length of zipper tape 14. It is within the terms of the embodiment that the U-shaped bodies 16 be made of wire that is not segmented. Further, it should be noted that the two strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 needn't incorporate a U-shaped core or a webbing.

[037] The U-shaped bodies 16 are connected, although they can be adapted to be easily removable or broken away from each other. Upon each of the first and second side walls 16a and 16b is disposed one or more protruding connectors 18a and 18b, respectively, which is linked to one or more protruding connectors protruding connectors 18a and 18b of an adjacent U-shaped body. The connectors 18a on each U-shaped body 16 are attached to the connector 18a on an adjacent connector and the connectors 18b protruding from each U- shaped body are attached to the connectors 18b protruding from an adjacent U-shaped body. The linkage of these small connectors 18a and 18b ensures that while the U-shaped bodies 16 are connected, the bond therebetween is not overly rigid. This is due to the relatively small surface area of each connector 18a and 18b.

[038] The section of webbing 17 project outward from the two strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 and are attached to the separate portions of material, such as a fabric type material 15a and 15b, as shown for example in Figure 1, adjacent to the location where the two strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 are to be opened or closed. Generally, the webbing portion 17 and core covering 24 are attached to the garment 12, by either a mechanical attachment method such as stitching the webbing to the garment or a heat attachment method such as a welding method or a chemical attachment method such as applying an adhesive to the webbing and then attaching the webbing to the garment.

Webbing 17 includes a plurality of parallel rows 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d, (20a- 20d) of adjacent but unconnected grooves 22. There may be any desirable number of grooves 22 in the webbing 17.

[039] The upper ends 16d of the first and second side walls 16a and 16b are

designed to be disposed within each of the grooves 22, thereby freely mounting the series of interconnecting generally U-shaped bodies 16 to a desired row 20d of the grooves. Although row 20d of the grooves is illustrated as being engaged to the series of interconnecting generally U- shaped bodies 16, any of the desired rows 20a- 20d may be secured to the series of interconnecting generally U-shaped bodies.

[040] Figure 3 illustrates a detailed, cross-sectional view of the interconnecting portion 1 1 including core 18 covered by the core covering 24 of the strip of zipper tape 14. The core covering 24 extends over and encases the core 18 to form the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14. The core covering 24 may be constructed of any suitable material, such as a temperature resistant material, such as a high temperature resistant film, a polymeric or elastomeric material, a woven material, and/or a non-woven material.

[041] The core covering 24 extends over both the series of interconnecting generally

U-shaped bodies 16, and the portion of webbing 17. The core covering portion 26 envelops the interior and exterior of the series of U-shaped bodies 16. The interior slot 26a of the core covering portion 26 forms an interlocking portion 28 that is typically formed two ribs 27a and 27b projecting towards sidevvall 16b and opposite facing ribs 27c and 27d projecting towards sidevvall 16a of the two side walls 16a and 16b of each U-shaped body 16. The inteiiocking portion 28 is formed within the two side walls 26a and 26b and the connecting bottom wall 26c. The interlocking portion 28 is designed to allow the two strips of zipper tape 14 to engage to one another as seen in Figure 5.

[042] As seen in Figure 4, the interlocking portion 28 of sidewall 16a includes first and second, solid form-retaining continuous longitudinally extending ribs 27a and 27b, respectively, extending outward from the first side wall 16a and first and second solid form-retaining continuous longitudinally extending ribs 27c and 27d extending outward from the second side wall 16b of strip 12a. A curved, bottom interior wall 26c extends from ribs 27b to 27d. The continuous longitudinally extending ribs 27a, 27b, 27c, and 27d are inclined inwardly towards the interior wall 26c. A first longitudinal channel 34 is formed between the two solid form-retaining continuous longitudinally extending ribs 27a and 27b, and a second longitudinal channel 35 is formed between the second solid form-retaining continuous longitudinaiiy extending ribs 27b and the bottom wall 16c. A first longitudinal channel 36 is formed between the two solid form-retaining continuous longitudinally extending ribs 27c and 27d, and a second longitudinal channel 37 is formed between the second solid form-retaining continuous longitudinally extending ribs 27d and the bottom wall 16c.

[043] When the two strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 are interconnected as

shown in Figure 5, the ribs 27a and 27b are located on within the longitudinal channels 36 and 37, respectively, of the zipper tape 12b. The longitudinal channel 34 of zipper tape 12a receives the rib 27d of zipper tape 12b so that two strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 are interconnected as shown in Figure 5. At the same time, the rib 27c is disposed within the longitudinal channel 35.

[044] The core covering portion 24 extends over the webbing 17. The core coyering portion 24 is attached to the separate portions of material, such as a fabric type material 15a and 15b by either a mechanical attachment method such as stitching the webbing to the portions of material or a chemical attachment method such as applying an adhesive to the core covering portion and then attaching the core covering portion 24 covering the webbing 17 to the separate portions of fabric 15a and 15b to be closed or by a heat attachment method such as heating the core covering to heat weld/bond the core covering to materials.

Figure 4 illustrates a three dimensional, side view of the strip 14a of zipper tape 14. The series of interconnecting generally U-shaped bodies 16, and a portion of webbing 17 is enveloped by the core covering 24.

[046] The strips 14a and 14b are engaged and removably attached to each other, as illustrated in cross-sectional view in Figure 5. The strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 may lock together, as shown in Figure 5, in an interference fit by the engagement of the longitudinal channels 34, 35, 36, and 37 and the four solid form-retaining continuous longitudinally extending ribs 27a-27d. The ribs 27a- 27 d prevent the strip 14a of zipper tape 14 from being easily disengaged from the strip 14b of zipper tape 14 once they are joined. [047] After the slider seals the strips 14a and 14b, as described below, each of the side wails 16a of the U-shaped bodies 16 of strip 14a extend into the interlocking portions 28 of the U-shaped bodies 16 of strip 14b, The firs continuous longitudinally extending rib 27a is lodged within the second longitudinal channel 37, and the second continuous longitudinally extending rib 27b is lodged within the first longitudinal channel 36. Similarly, each of the side walls 16b of the U-shaped bodies 16 of strip 14b extend into the interlocking portions 28 of the U-shaped bodies 16 of strip 14a. The first continuous longitudinally extending rib 27c is lodged within the second longitudinal channel 35, and the second continuous longitudinally extending rib 27d is lodged within the first longitudinal channel 34.

[048] The zipper slider 13 is the element that controls the action for opening and closing the zipper slider system 10 by making the pair of two strips 14a and 14b of unique zipper tape 14 engage with and separate from each other. In general terms, the zipper slider 13 contains first and second passages 38 and 40, each for receiving a strip 14a and 14b, respectively, of zipper tape 14. As the zipper slider 13 trans verses in a first direction from the distal ends 21a and 21b of the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14, respectively, to the proximal ends 23a and 23b of the strips of zipper tape, the interlocking portion 28 formed within the two side walls 26a and 26b and the connecting bottom wall 26c of each of the strips are forced into engagement with one another as seen in Figure 5 to secure the two strips together. To disengage the strips 14a and 14b from one another, the zipper slider 13 is moved in a second opposite direction so as to transverses the strips from the proximal ends 23a and 23b to the distal ends, 21a and 21b whereby each of the strips are forced to disengage from each other. If desired the distal ends can be secured together by a bottom stop 29, as shown in Figure 1.

[049] Figure 6 illustrates a front, three-dimensional view of the first embodiment of the zipper slider 13 which attaches the two portions of the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 and 14b. The first embodiment of the zipper slider 13 is defined by the first and second passageways 38 and 40 being attached as one cohesive unit. The slider 13 is constructed with first and second outer surfaces 41 and 42. First outer surface 41 is attached to sidewalls 44 and 46, and second outer surface 42 is attached to side walls 48 and 50. Further attached to the first and second outer surface 41 and 42 are front walls 52 and 54, respectively. The passageway 38 for holding the strip 12a of zipper tape 14a is formed between the first outer surface 41, the sidewalls 44 and 46, and the front wall 52. The passageway 40 for holding the strip 14b of zipper tape 14 is formed between the second outer surface 42, the side wails 48 and 50, and the front wall 54.

[050] Each passageway 38 and 40 has a first end 38a and 40a, respectively, and a second end 38b and 40b, respectively, as seen in Figure 7 which shows the rear, three-dimensional view of the first embodiment of the zipper slider. Further, the two passageways 38 and 40 are joined together with a back wall 56. Back wall 56 is disposed between the sidewall 44 of the first passageway 38 and the sidewall 50 of the second passageway 40.

[051] The passageways 38 and 40 are disposed so that a centerline x-x and y-y

through the passageways extend at an angle b of between 0 degrees and 90 degrees and preferably between about 0 degrees and 30 degrees with respect to each other. In general, the smaller the angle b, the easier the slider will traverse the tapes 14a and 14b. This relationship results in the first ends 38a and 40a of passageways 38 and 40 being closer to each other then second ends 38b and 40b so that when the zipper slider 13 transverses from the distal ends 21a and 21b of the strips 14a and 14b to the proximal ends 23a and 23b, as shown in Figure 8, the interlocking portion 28 formed within the two side walls 26a and 26b and the connecting bottom wall 26c of each of the strips are forced into engagement with one another, as seen in Figure 5, to secure the two strips together. To disengage the strips 14a and 14b from one another, the zipper slider 13 is moved in an opposite direction so as to transverses the strips from the proximal ends 23a and 23b to the distal ends, 21a and 21b whereby the strips are forced to disengage from each another.

[052] Each of the first and second outer surfaces 41 and 42 are designed to

incorporate a pull tab holder 58, as seen in Figure 7, to aid in pulling the slider 13 along the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14. In this first embodiment, the pull tab holder 58 is illustrated as being arch-shaped to extend in the slide direction while one end of the strips 14a and 14b is fixed. However, the shape of the pull tab holder 58 is not limited to the above. It is possible to employ any shape of the pull-tab holder attaching portion that is known by one skilled in the art.

[053] In the present first embodiment, there are first and second slots 60a,60b

disposed within the first outer surface 41 and third and fourth slots 62a,62b disposed within the second outer surface 42. The pull tab holder 58 incorporates first and second slot fittings 64a, 64b, which are designed to slide in and out of either first and second slots 60a,60b disposed within the first outer surface 41 or third and fourth slots 62a,62b disposed within the second outer surface 42. The slot fittings 64a,64b allow the pull tab holder 58 to be temporarily secured within the zipper slider 13, with the freedom to readily remove the pull tab holder if necessary. Additionally, the pull tab holder can be made to be interference fit into the two slot 60a and 60b of the slider 13 in such a way that it is pushed so tightly into the slot fittings that it is not easily removed.

[054] In use, the strip 14a of zipper tape 14 is inserted into the first passage 38 and the strip 14b of zipper tape 14 is inserted into the second passage 40 of the zipper slider 13, as seen in Figure 8. The distal ends 21a and 21b of the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14, respectively, are first joined together as the user pulls the pull tab holder 58 of the zipper slider 13, thereby engaging the ribs 27a and 27b with the channels 36 and 37, and also the ribs 27c and 27d with the channels 34 and 35, as discussed above. The strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14a and 14b may lock together, as shown in Figure 5, in an interference fit by the engagement of the longitudinal channels 34, 35, 36, and 37 and the solid form-retaining continuous longitudinally extending ribs 27a- 27d. The ribs 27a-27b engaged within the channels 36 and 37, and the ribs 27c and 27d engaged with the channels 34 and 35 prevent the strip 12a of zipper tape 14a from being easily disengaged from the strip 12b of zipper tape 14 once they are joined.

[055] Figure 9 illustrates a front three-dimensional view of a second embodiment of the zipper slider 100. Zipper slider 100 has the same function as the first embodiment of the zipper slider 13, in that it engages the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 and both engages and disengages the strips. However, the zipper slider 100 is unique in that it is not constructed of a unitary piece, as zipper slider 13, but rather two separate first and second portions 102 and 104 that are joined together with a spring hinge mechanism 106.

[056] The spring hinge mechanism 106 opens and closes around the strips 14a and

14b of zipper tape 14, respectively, and allows for attaching the slider 100 onto the strips of the zipper tape in the event the strips are pulled apart from each other. Furthermore, the spring hinge mechanism 106 provides extra strength and greater durability of the slider 100. The spring hinge allows for a firm grip around the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 and adjustability which means that it will not get stuck or cause one of the several common ways that zippers break.

[057] The passageways 38 and 40 are disposed so that a centerline x-x and y-y

[058] In general terms, and as shown in Figures 9 and 10, the zipper slider 100

contains first and second passages 108 and 110, each for receiving a strip 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14. As seen in Figure 11, the zipper slider 100 transverses from the distal ends 21a and 21b of the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14, respectively, to the proximal ends 23a and 23b of the strips of zipper tape, whereby the two strips engage to one another. To disengage the strips 14a and 14b from one another, the zipper slider 100 transverses from the proximal ends 21a and 21b to the distal ends, 23a and 23b, respectively, of the strips.

[059] As seen in Figures 9 and 10, the second embodiment of the zipper slider 100 is defined by the first and second passageways 108 and 110 as separate units. The first passageway 108 is formed within the first portion 102, and the second passageway 110 is formed within the second portion 104. The first portion 102 is constructed with first upper surface 112, which is attached to sidewalls 114, 116 and a front wall 117. The second portion 104 is constructed with a second upper surface 118, which is attached to sidewalls 120, 122 and a front wall 123. The passageway 108 for holding the strip 12a of zipper tape 14a is formed between the upper surface 112, the sidewalls 114 and 116, and the front wall 117, The passageway 110 for holding the strip 14b of zipper tape 14 is formed between the lower surface 118, the side walls 120 and 122, and the front wall 123.

[060] Further as seen in Figures 9 and 10, the second embodiment of the zipper slider 100 can include first and second magnets of the type shown and discussed with regard to Figures 13 and 14 can be disposed in the first ends 108a, 110a of first and second passageways 108,110. The first and second magnets can connect to each other and position the zipper slider 100 around the first and second strips 14a, 14b.

[061] As seen in Figure 11, each passageway 108 and 110 has a first end 108a and

110a, respectively, and a second end 108b and 110b, respectively. The two passageways 108 and 110 formed within the first portion 102 and second portion 104, respectively, are joined together with a hinge mechanism 106, such as a spring hinge mechanism 106. The nut and bolt assembly 129 of the spring hinge mechanism 106 is disposed between and interconnects the sidewall 116 and the sidewall 122. While a nut and bolt assembly 129 is illustrated, it is within the preferred embodiment to substitute any rod or shaft that the coil spring 127 can mount thereabout so as to keep the hinge in place. The spring hinge mechanism 106 includes a coil spring 127 disposed about a nut and bolt assembly 129 and having first and second end portions 127a and 127b (not shown). While a coil spring hinge is shown, it is within the scope of the embodiments to substitute any type of hinge, including a wire form, a spring, or a flexible strip.

[062] Referring again to Figure 11, there is illustrated at least one magnet 131a and preferably two magnets 131a and 131b located in the upper edge 122a of sidewall 104 and at least one magnet 133a and preferably 133a and 133b located in the edge 114a facing the magnets 131a and 131b disposed in the edge of 122a of sidewall 104. The magnetic force between the two magnets 131a and 131b and the two magnets 133a and 133b will tend to keep the zipper slider in the closed position as shown in Figure 11. It is within the terms of the preferred embodiment to substitute a ferromagnetic material for the magnets.

[063] The first portion 102 has a handle section 124, and the second portion 104 has a handle section 126. Each of the handle sections 124 and 126 are designed to be disposed against the first and second end portions 127a and 127b, respectively, of the spring 127, that control the hinge mechanism 106 and normally keep them spaces as shown in Figure 9. When pressure is applied to the handle sections 124 and 126, the zipper slider 100 opens as shown in Figure 12.

[064] The passageways 108 and 110 are disposed so that a centerline R- and S-S through the passageways extend at an angle c of between 0 degrees and 180 degrees and preferably about 90 degrees and 145 degrees with respect to each other when pressure is applied to the handle sections 124 and 126. Alternatively, when the handle sections 124 and 126 are in the resting state, the centerline R-R and S-S through the passageways 108 and 110 are disposed so that a through the passageways extend a an angle c of between 0 degrees and 90 degrees and preferably between about 0 degrees and 30 degrees with respect to each other. In general, the smaller the angle c, the easier the slider will traverse the tapes 14a and 14b.

[065] This relationship results in the first ends 108a and 110a of passageways 108 and 110 being closer to each other then second ends 108b and 110b so that when the zipper slider 100 transverses from the distal ends 21a and 21b of the strips 14a and 14b to the proximal ends 23a and 23b, as shown in Figure 12, the interlocking portion 28 formed within the two side walls 26a and 26b and the connecting bottom wall 26c of each of the strips are forced into engagement with one another, as seen in Figure 5, to secure the two strips together. To disengage the strips 14a and 14b from one another, the zipper slider 100 is moved in an opposite direction so as to transverses the strips from the proximal ends 23a and 23b to the distal ends, 21a and 21b whereby the strips are forced to disengage from each another.

[066] Each of the upper and lower plates 112 and 118 is designed to incorporate a pull tab holder 128, as seen in Figure 8, to aid in pulling the slider 100 along the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14. In this embodiment, the pull tab holder 128 is illustrated as being arch-shaped to extend in the slide direction while one end of the zipper is fixed. However, the shape of the pull tab holder 128 is not limited to the above. It is possible to employ any shape of the pull- tab attaching portion that is known by one skilled in the art.

[067] In the present embodiment, there are two slots 130a and 130b disposed within the upper plate 112 and two slots 132a and 132b disposed within the lower plate 118. The pull tab holder 128 incorporates two slot fittings 134a and 134b, which are designed to slide in and out of either slots 130a and 130b disposed within the upper surface 112 or slots 132a and 132b disposed within the lower surface 118. The slot fittings 134a and 134b allow the pull tab holder 128 to be temporarily secured within the zipper slider 100, with the freedom to readily remove the pull tab holder if necessary.

[068] In use, the strip of zipper tape 14a is inserted into the first passage 108 and the strip of zipper tape 14b is inserted into the second passage 110 of the zipper slider 13, as seen in Figure 8. The distal ends 21a and 21b of the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14, respectively, are first joined together as the user pulls the pull tab holder 58 of the zipper slider 13, thereby engaging the ribs 27a-27d with the channels 34, 35, 36, and 37, as discussed above.

[069] Figures 13 and 16 illustrates a front three-dimensional view of a third

embodiment of the zipper slider system 201. Zipper slider 200 has the same function as the first embodiment of the zipper slider 13, in that it controls the action for opening and closing the zipper slider system 10 by making the pair of two strips 14a and 14b of unique zipper tape 14 engage with and separate from each other. In general terms, the zipper slider 200 contains first and second passages 208 and 210, forming a magnetic pin box 211, for receiving a strip 14a and 14b, respectively, of zipper tape 14. In the same manner as zipper slider 13 operates by transversing in a first direction from the distal ends 21a and 21b of the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14, respectively, to the proximal ends 23a and 23b of the strips of zipper tape, the interlocking portion 28 formed within the two side walls 26a and 26b and the connecting bottom wall 26c of each of the strips are forced into engagement with one another as seen in Figure 5 to secure the two strips together. To disengage the strips 14a and 14b from one another, the zipper slider 200 is moved in a second opposite direction so as to transverses the strips from the proximal ends 23a and 23b to the distal ends, 21a and 21b whereby each of the strips are forced to disengage from each other.

[070] Referring to Figure 14, the zipper slider 200 includes first and second

housings 224 and 226, which can be interconnected to each other by grooves 227a and 227b in housing 224, and tongues 229a and 229b in housing 226. Disposed within each of the housings 224 and 226 is a magnet 206a and 206b which have an opposite polarity to each other. Thus, when the first and second housings 224 and 226 are joined together, they are held in place by both the interconnection between the grooves 227a and 227b and the tongues 229a and 229b, and the magnetic force generated between the magnets 206a and 206b.

[071] Referring to Figure 14, a housing 231 is affixed at one end 231a to the second housing 226. A second end 231b includes a slot 233 which receives the distal end 21a of the strip 14a. The zipper slider 200 is temporarily mounted onto the first cylindrical housing 224. [072] The zipper slider 200 is constructed of a unitary piece, as the first embodiment of the zipper slider 13. The magnets 206a and 206b allows the zipper slider 200 to open and close around the strips of zipper tape 14a and 14b and allows for repositioning of the slider. Furthermore, the magnets 206a and 206b provides extra strength and greater durability of the slider 200.

[073] In general terms, the zipper slider 200 contains first and second passages 208 and 210, which are disposed at an angle to each other as described with reference to Figure 6. each for receiving a strip 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14. As seen in Figure 14, the zipper slider transverses from the distal ends 21a and 21b of the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14, respectively, to the proximal ends 23a and 23b of the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14, the two strips engage to one another. To disengage the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 from one another, the zipper slider 200 transverses from the distal ends 21a and 21b to the proximal ends 23a and 23b, respectively, of the strips 14a and 14b.

[074] As seen in Figure 13, the third embodiment of the zipper slider 200 is defined by the first and second passageways 208 and 210 as separate units. The first passageway 208 is formed within the first portion 202, and the second passageway 210 is formed within the second portion 204. The first portion 202 is constructed with upper surface 212, which is attached to sidewalls 214, 216 and a front wall 217. The second portion 204 is constructed with the lower surface 218, which is attached to sidewalls 120, 122 and a front wall 123. The passageway 208 for holding the strip 14a of zipper tape 14 is formed between the upper surface 212, the sidewalls 214 and 216, and the front wall 217. The passageway 210 for holding the strip 14b of zipper tape 14 is formed between the lower surface 218, the side walls 220 and 222, and the front wall 223. The first passageway 208 and the second passageway 210 are joined together with a back wall (corresponding back wall 56, as seen in Figure 7).

[075] Each passageway 208 and 210 has a first end 208a and 210a, respectively, and a second end 208b and 210b, respectively. The two passageways 208 and 210 formed within the first portion 202 and second portion 204, respectively, meet at the magnet 206. The magnet 206 utilizes two magnetic pole sections 206a and 206b. Magnetic section 206a is disposed in a first housing 224, and the magnetic section 206b is disposed in a second housing 226. The first housing 224 is formed on the strip 14b of zipper tape 14, and the second housing is mounted on the rectangular prism 231. The housings 224 and 226 are designed to temporarily and removably interconnect, utilizing the magnet sections 206a and 206b.

[076] Each of the upper and lower surfaces 212 and 218 is designed to incorporate a pull tab holder 228, as seen in Figure 13, to aid in pulling the slider 200 along the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14. In this embodiment, the pull tab holder 228 is illustrated as being arch-shaped to extend in the slide direction while one end is in a fixed location. However, the shape of the pull tab holder 228 is not limited to the above. It is possible to employ any shape of the pull- tab attaching portion that is known by one skilled in the art.

[077] In the present embodiment, there are two slots 230a and 230b disposed within the upper surface 212 and two slots 232a and 232b (not shown) disposed within the lower surface. The pull tab holder 228 incorporates two slot fittings 234a and 234b, which are designed to slide in and out of either slots 230a and 230b disposed within the upper surface 212 or slots 232a and 232b disposed within the lower surface 218. The slot fittings 234a and 234b allow the pull tab holder 228 to be temporarily secured within the zipper slider 200, with the freedom to readily remove the pull tab holder if necessary.

[078] In use, the strip 14a of zipper tape 14 is inserted into the first passage 208 and the strip 14b of zipper tape 14 is inserted into the second passage 210 of the zipper slider 200, as seen in Figure 1. The distal ends 21a and 21b of the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14, respectively, are first joined together as the user pulls the pull tab 228 of the zipper slider 200, thereby engaging the ribs 27a- 27 d with the channels 34, 35, 36, and 37, as discussed above.

Figure 15 is a side view of an alternative manner in which the strips 14a and 14b of zipper tape 14 can be interlocked by the U-shaped bodies 300a and 300b.

[080] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the strips 14a and 14b of the zipper tape

14 each formed with a core 402a and 402b and integral webbing 404a and 404b embedded within a covering 406a and 406b being interlocked.

[081] Figure 18 is a side view of an alternative manner in which the strips 14a and

14b of zipper tape 14 can be interlocked by the U-shaped bodies 500a and 500b. In this embodiment, strips 14a and 14b extend in the same direction.

[082] Although the invention has been shown and described with respect to a certain preferred embodiment or embodiments, certain equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art upon the reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described components (assemblies, devices, etc.) the terms (including a reference to a "means") used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (i.e., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the herein illustrated exemplary embodiments of the invention. In addition, while a particular feature of the invention may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several embodiments, such feature may be combined with one or more features of the other embodiments as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application.

Claims

In the claims:

1. A zipper slider system (10), characterized by:

a zipper tape (14) having a profile (11) including at least a first strip (14a), the at least a first strip (14a) being compri sed of at least one material selected from the group comprising materials that are rigid, semi-rigid, flexible, and semi-flexible.

2. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 1 wherein the zipper tape (14) is further characterized by:

the zipper tape (14) including first and second strips 14(a,14b);

each of the first and second strips having an interconnection portion (11) comprising a core (18) and a core covering (24),

3. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 2 wherein the core (18) is further characterized by a series (19) of interconnecting, generally U-shaped bodies (16) and a section of webbing (17) attached to the series of the U-shaped bodies (16) that act to reinforce the profile, tape, or both profile and tape of the strip.

4. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 2 wherein the zipper tape (14) is further characterized by:

a zipper slider (13) mounted to the first and second strips (14a, 14b) for opening and closing the first and second strips of the zipper tape (14);

the zipper slider having first and second passageways (38,40) adapted to receive the first and second strips (14a, 14b) therein; and

the first and second passageways (38,40) being disposed with respect to each other so that when the zipper slider transverses the first and second strips in one direction, the first and second interconnection portions of the first and second strips, respectively, are forced into engagement with one another and when the zipper slider transverses the first and second strips in a second opposite direction, the first and second interconnection portions of the first and second strips, respectively, are forced to disengage from each another.

5. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 1 further characterized by the first and second passageways (38,40) of the zipper slider (13) haying centerlines x-x and y-y extending along the length thereof and extending at an angle b to each other so that the first and second interconnection portions (11) of the first and second strips (14a,14b), respectively, may be both forced into engagement with one another and forced to disengage from each another.

6. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 5 further characterized by the centerlines x-x and y-y through the first and second passageways (38,40) being at an angle b being between 0 and 90 degrees.

7. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 1 further characterized by the core covering (24) being any polymer, metal, ceramic, or composite material such as a plastic, elastomer, film, a woven material, and a non-woven material.

8. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 1 further characterized by the core covering (24) being coated with a material selected from the group consisting of polymer such as a laminate, film, paint, print, or fabric.

9. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 1 further characterized by the core covering (24) being formed such that the material disposed over the core (18) generally

conforming to the shape of the profile (11).

10. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 3 further characterized by the U-shaped bodies (16) having two side walls (16a, 16b) and a connecting bottom wall (16c); and

the section of webbing ( 17).

11. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 10 further characterized by the section of webbing (17) being formed with the U-shaped bodies (16).

12. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 10 further characterized by the section of webbing (17) being formed separate from the U-shaped bodies (16).

13. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 10 further characterized by upper ends (16d) of the first and second side walls (16a, 16b) being disposed within one of the unconnected grooves (22) in the section of webbing (17).

14. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 10 further characterized by upper ends (16d) of the first and second side walls (16a) and (16b) being formed within the U-shaped bodies

(16) .

15. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 11 further characterized by the U-shaped bodies (16) having protruding connectors (18a,18b), adapted to be linked to protruding connectors of an adjacent U-shaped body.

16. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 13 further characterized by the core covering (24) extending over and encasing the U-shaped bodies (16) and the section of webbing

(17) of the core (18) to form the first and second strips (14a,14b) of zipper tape (14).

17. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 4 further characterized by the first and second passageways (38) and (40) being joined together with a back wall (56) disposed between a sidewall (44) of the first passageway (38) and a sidewall (50) of the second passageway (40).

18. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 17 further characterized by first and second slots (60a,60b) disposed within a first outer surface (41 ) of the first passageway (38) and third and fourth slots (62a) and (62b) disposed within a second outer surface (42) of the second passageway (40).

19. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 18 further characterized by a pull tab holder (58) having first and second slot fittings (64a, 64b), adapted to slide in and out of first and second slots (60a, 60b), respectively, disposed within the first outer surface (41) and the third and fourth slots (62a) and (62b) disposed within the second outer surface (42).

20. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 19 further characterized by the pull tab holder (58) having first and second slot fittings (64a, 64b), adapted to have an interference fit with the first and second slots (60a, 60b), respectively, and the third and fourth slots (62a, 62b) so as to be permanently affixed within the first and second slots (60a, 60b) and the third and fourth slots (62a, 62b).

21. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 2 further characterized by the zipper slider (100) having separate first and second portions (102, 104) that are joined together with a hinge mechanism (106).

22. The zipper slider system (10) of claim 2 further characterized by the zipper slider (100) having separate first and second portions (102, 104) that are magnetically joined together with a magnet material (131a, 131b,133a,133b)

23. The zipper slider system of claim 21 further characterized by the first passageway (108) being formed within the first portion (102), and the second passageway (110) being formed within the second portion (104).

24. The zipper slider system of claim 21 further characterized by the first portion (102) having a handle section (124), and the second portion (104) having a handle section (126), each of which is disposed against first and second end portions (127a,127b), respectively, of the spring (127), whereby the restoring force of the spring causes the zipper slider to be normally closed around the strips (14a, 14b) of zipper tape (14), respectively, against the restoring force of the spring.

25. The zipper slider system of claim 4 further characterized by the first and second passageways (208,210) are joined together with a back wall, and including first and second cylindrical housings (224,226), which can be interconnected to each other.

26. The zipper slider system of claim 24 further characterized by grooves (227a,227b) in the first housing (224), and tongues (229a,229b) in the second housing (226).

27. The zipper slider system of claim 25 further characterized by each of the first and second housings (224,226) having a magnet section (206a,206b), respectively, which have an opposite polarity to each other, such that there is an interconnection between the grooves (227a,227b) and the tongues (229a,229b), and the magnetic force generated between the magnet section (206a,206b).

28. The zipper slider system of claim 26 further characterized by a first housing (231) affixed at one end (231a) to the second housing (226), and a slot (233) in a second end (231b) which receives the distal end (21a) of the strip (14a).

28. The zipper slider system of claim 27 further characterized by the first and second passageways (208,210) meeting at a magnet (206), which utilizes the two magnetic sections (206a,206b).

29. The zipper slider system of claim 28 further characterized by the first housing (224), containing the magnet section (206a), being formed on the strip (14b) of zipper tape (14), and the second housing (226) containing the magnet section (206b), is formed on the housing (231), whereby the first and second housings can be temporarily and removably interconnected.

30. A zipper slider (13) mounted to first and second strips (14a, 14b) of a zipper tape (14) for opening and closing the first and second strips of the zipper tape;

31. The zipper slider (13) of claim 30 further characterized by the first and second passageways (38,40) of the zipper slider (13) having centei ines x-x and y-y extending along the length thereof and extending at an angle b to each other so that the first and second interconnection portions (11) of the first and second strips (14a,14b), respectively, may be both forced into engagement with one another and forced to disengage from each another.

32. The zipper slider (13) of claim 31 further characterized by a pull tab holder (58) having first and second slot fittings (64a, 64b), adapted to slide in and out of first and second slots (60a, 60b), respectively, disposed within a first outer surface (41 ) of the first passageway (38) and the third and fourth slots (62a) and (62b) disposed within a second outer surface (42) of the second passageway (40).

33. The zipper slider (13) of claim 31 further characterized by the pull tab holder (58) having first and second slot fittings (64a, 64b), adapted to have an interference fit with the first and second slots (60a, 60b), respectively, and the third and fourth slots (62a, 62b) so as to be permanently affixed within the first and second slots (60a, 60b) and the third and fourth slots (62a, 62b).

34. A slider (100) having separate first and second portions (102, 104) that are joined together with a hinge mechanism (106), and first and second portions (102, 104) of the zipper slider being movabiy interconnected by the hinge mechanism so that the zipper slider opens and closes around first and second strips (14a,14b) of zipper tape (14), respectively, against a restoring force of the hinge mechanism.

35. A zipper slider (200) characterized by:

a first portion (202) with a first passageway (208) formed therein; a second portion (204) with a second passageway (210) formed therein;

the first portion having a first magnet section (206a) mounted thereto, and the second portion having a second magnetic section (206b) mounted thereto, whereby the first and second magnetic sections have an opposite polarity to each other, such that whereby the first and second magnetic sections can be temporarily and removably interconnected.

36. The zipper slider (200) of claim 35 further characterized by the first and second passageways (208,210) being joined together with a back wall, and including first and second cylindrical housings (224,226) adapted to receive the first magnet section (206a) and the second magnetic section (206b), respectively, which can be interconnected to each other.

37. The zipper slider (200) of claim 36 further characterized by grooves (227a,227b) in the first housing (224), and tongues (229a,229b) in the second housing (226), such that there is an interconnection between the grooves and the tongues, and the magnetic force generated between the magnet section (206a,206b).