US20040187277A1 - Fastener - Google Patents

Fastener Download PDF

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Publication number
US20040187277A1
US20040187277A1 US10/803,413 US80341304A US2004187277A1 US 20040187277 A1 US20040187277 A1 US 20040187277A1 US 80341304 A US80341304 A US 80341304A US 2004187277 A1 US2004187277 A1 US 2004187277A1
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US
United States
Prior art keywords
fastener
airbag
coupling elements
link
tapes
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US10/803,413
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Shunji Akashi
Shigeyoshi Takasawa
Meirion Williams
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
YKK Corp
Original Assignee
YKK Europe Ltd
YKK Corp
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by YKK Europe Ltd, YKK Corp filed Critical YKK Europe Ltd
Assigned to YKK EUROPE LIMITED reassignment YKK EUROPE LIMITED ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: AKASHI, SHUNJI, TAKASAWA, SHIGEYOSHI, WILLIAMS, MEIRION
Assigned to YKK CORPORATION reassignment YKK CORPORATION ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: YKK EUROPE LIMITED
Publication of US20040187277A1 publication Critical patent/US20040187277A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/74—Details of notification to user or communication with user or patient ; user input means
    • A61B5/742—Details of notification to user or communication with user or patient ; user input means using visual displays
    • A61B5/7425—Displaying combinations of multiple images regardless of image source, e.g. displaying a reference anatomical image with a live image
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44B—BUTTONS, PINS, BUCKLES, SLIDE FASTENERS, OR THE LIKE
    • A44B19/00—Slide fasteners
    • A44B19/24—Details
    • A44B19/36—Means for permanently uniting the stringers at the end; Means for stopping movement of slider at the end
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
    • A44B—BUTTONS, PINS, BUCKLES, SLIDE FASTENERS, OR THE LIKE
    • A44B19/00—Slide fasteners
    • A44B19/24—Details
    • A44B19/26—Sliders
    • A44B19/30—Sliders with means for locking in position
    • A44B19/301—Sliders with means for locking in position at the end of their upward travel with any suitable device, e.g. pull member combined with a press-button, a hook, a key-operated lock
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B42—BOOKBINDING; ALBUMS; FILES; SPECIAL PRINTED MATTER
    • B42D—BOOKS; BOOK COVERS; LOOSE LEAVES; PRINTED MATTER CHARACTERISED BY IDENTIFICATION OR SECURITY FEATURES; PRINTED MATTER OF SPECIAL FORMAT OR STYLE NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; DEVICES FOR USE THEREWITH AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; MOVABLE-STRIP WRITING OR READING APPARATUS
    • B42D15/00—Printed matter of special format or style not otherwise provided for
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
    • G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
    • G09F23/00—Advertising on or in specific articles, e.g. ashtrays, letter-boxes
    • G09F23/10—Advertising on or in specific articles, e.g. ashtrays, letter-boxes on paper articles, e.g. booklets, newspapers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/05—Detecting, measuring or recording for diagnosis by means of electric currents or magnetic fields; Measuring using microwaves or radio waves 
    • A61B5/053—Measuring electrical impedance or conductance of a portion of the body
    • A61B5/0537—Measuring body composition by impedance, e.g. tissue hydration or fat content
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/45—For evaluating or diagnosing the musculoskeletal system or teeth
    • A61B5/4519—Muscles
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/48—Other medical applications
    • A61B5/4869—Determining body composition
    • A61B5/4872—Body fat
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/48—Other medical applications
    • A61B5/4869—Determining body composition
    • A61B5/4875—Hydration status, fluid retention of the body
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R21/00—Arrangements or fittings on vehicles for protecting or preventing injuries to occupants or pedestrians in case of accidents or other traffic risks
    • B60R21/02—Occupant safety arrangements or fittings, e.g. crash pads
    • B60R21/16—Inflatable occupant restraints or confinements designed to inflate upon impact or impending impact, e.g. air bags
    • B60R21/20—Arrangements for storing inflatable members in their non-use or deflated condition; Arrangement or mounting of air bag modules or components
    • B60R21/215—Arrangements for storing inflatable members in their non-use or deflated condition; Arrangement or mounting of air bag modules or components characterised by the covers for the inflatable member
    • B60R2021/21518—Arrangements for storing inflatable members in their non-use or deflated condition; Arrangement or mounting of air bag modules or components characterised by the covers for the inflatable member comprising a lock unlocked during deployment
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
    • Y10T24/45—Separable-fastener or required component thereof [e.g., projection and cavity to complete interlock]
    • Y10T24/45152—Each mating member having similarly shaped, sized, and operated interlocking or intermeshable face

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to fasteners, and in particular to a fastener for closing an airbag cover.
  • Cars are often provided with airbags, for use as a safety device in case of a collision.
  • An airbag is provided at the front of the car, e.g. on the central part of the steering wheel. If a collision occurs, a sensor detects the collision, and the airbag is immediately inflated. This will cushion a person who is thrown forwards from the car seat.
  • the opening on the car seat, through which the airbag emerges, should be kept closed in normal use, but should open as the airbag inflates. It is known to keep the airbag opening closed by having it sewn up with yarn. When the airbag inflates, the pressure against the yarn causes the yarn to break, allowing the airbag to emerge from the car seat, and protect an occupant of the car.
  • closure for an airbag opening which overcomes some of the problems mentioned above.
  • closure for an airbag opening which closure comprises a zip fastener and means for facilitating opening of the fastener when a force is applied transverse to the plane of the fastener.
  • a zip fastener provides a mechanism for easily closing an opening. It is known that zip fasteners can be opened (or broken) at a point along the row of coupling elements if sufficient force is applied to the fastener to separate the coupling elements of the fastener. It is difficult to provide a fastener in which the coupling elements will reliably disengage in this way when a predetermined force is applied. However, the engaging coupling elements can be readily peeled apart once a break is made, or from an end of the row of elements if, for example, the slider inadvertently moves past the upper end stops.
  • a zip fastener having a pair of tapes which are joined by rows of coupling elements mounted on the respective tapes, wherein a point of weakness is provided at a predetermined position along the fastener so that the coupling elements will separate at the point of weakness when a predetermined force is applied to the fastener. More than one point of weakness may be provided along the fastener.
  • the point of weakness may be a gap in at least one of the rows of elements.
  • a frangible connection or a releasable connection is provided at the point of weakness in order to retain the adjacent elements in engagement until the connection is broken or released.
  • a slider provides the point of weakness. Pressure transverse to the plane of the fastener at the slider will cause the tapes to bulge outwards and urge the slider back along the row of elements, opening the zip fastener.
  • Two sliders can be provided, the sliders closing the fastener from opposite directions, and meeting at an intermediate position to close the fastener.
  • the sliders may be coupled together by a frangible or releasable connection.
  • the or a point of weakness is provided in a central region, when measured from the ends of the opening provided by the opened fastener.
  • a point of weakness is provided in a central half of the fastener, in a region between one quarter and three quarters of the length of the fastener. More preferably, a point of weakness is provided substantially mid-way along the fastener, i.e. at half the length of the fastener.
  • the fastener according to the present invention may be used to close an airbag opening, such as an airbag opening in the seat of a car or other motor vehicle
  • a force for releasing the holding means will come from the pressure of the airbag against the fastener. However, although this pressure will primarily be in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the fastener, for example the side of the seat, the fastener is also stretched within the plane of the stringer tapes. The force (or displacement) from the airbag, perpendicular to the side of the seat and/or the stretching force, may be utilised to open the fastener.
  • coupling elements are more easily separated by peeling apart from open region of the fastener than within a connected region of the fastener.
  • the tapes may be joined at ends of the first and second areas furthest from the opening point, to prevent the fastener from opening at those ends.
  • the holding means for holding the tapes together may take a variety of forms.
  • One form comprises a pair of sliders which are mounted onto the first and second areas of coupling elements respectively, to open the coupling elements when the sliders are moved away from one another, and to close the coupling elements when moved towards one another.
  • the coupling elements at the leading end of a slider are separated within the slider body.
  • the sliders can be urged back along the tapes, opening the fastener, by a force which causes the tape to bulge in the region of the sliders.
  • a stop is provided to position the sliders when the fastener is closed, the sliders providing a point of weakness where the force of the airbag will cause the fastener to start to open.
  • the two sliders may be provided without a puller, or with a removable puller for removal after the fastener has been installed and fastened, so that the slider are less likely to be accidentally moved or interfered with while the fastener is installed on a car seat.
  • a link may be provided for linking two sliders together, the link being broken or separated by the force of the exploding air bag, for example.
  • the link may be cooperating locking parts provided on the slider bodies or provided on the slider pull tabs, for example.
  • the link may directly connect the first slider to the second slider, co-operating formations on the two sliders holding them together.
  • the link is separated or broken in order to allow the sliders to move apart to open the fastener.
  • An intermediate linking element may be provided, the linking element being connected to the two sliders.
  • the holding means may comprise a link which joins the stringer tapes when the fastener is closed.
  • the link may be a frangible element, needing replacement after it has been broken a single time.
  • the link may be reconnectable, such that if the link is opened, it fastener may subsequently be closed again by closing the coupling elements in the first and second areas and re-closing the link.
  • the link may be made of a plastics material.
  • a frangible link may be formed by welding, fusing or melting an area of the stringer tapes to join the two stringer tapes, or by attaching a piece of material across the two stringer tapes to bridge them.
  • the force required to break the link may be determined by the material, by the welding or joining process used, by an area over which the join or weld extends, and/or by providing a weakened region, etc.
  • a replaceable disposable link which is breakable when a large enough force is applied to it, such as a clasp, clip, or breakable moulded element, may be provided.
  • the disposable link may be directly connected to both the stringer tapes. In another embodiment it may be connected to the stringer tape via a piece of tape. This tape may be welded, glued or otherwise fixed onto the stringer tape.
  • the disposable link may comprise a single breakable part, and a line of weakness may be provided on the breakable part, such as a thin area, along which the link will break under tension.
  • the disposable link may comprise two parts which are connected together, but which separate when a sufficient force is applied.
  • the airbag expansion force i.e. the force at which the fastener should open, is expected to be around 400 Newtons, although this may vary with the model of car used and the size of airbag used.
  • the holding means must be chosen such that the fastener will open under the pressure of the exploding air bag, but will not during normal use of the vehicle.
  • the length of the fastener is around 50 cm.
  • the coupling elements may extend in continuous rows along the respective tapes.
  • the first and second areas may both be part of the continuous rows of coupling elements.
  • gaps are formed along the rows of coupling elements to provide the first and second areas.
  • the gap may be located in the centre of the fastener, or in an off-centre position.
  • the holding means may be provided in the gap.
  • the fastener may be arranged to open at more than one point along its length.
  • a plurality of gaps may be provided, dividing the rows into more than two areas.
  • a link may be provided in each gap.
  • the coupling elements may be helically wound coil elements or may be discrete interlocking teeth elements of metal or moulded plastics as well known in the art.
  • the fastener may be reusable or may be designed for a single use.
  • the coupling elements are mounted on a longitudinal marginal edge of the stringer tape. Where a slider is provided, it may be moved along the stringer tapes to bring the fastener element rows into or out of engagement with each other.
  • the airbag may subsequently be removed or deflated.
  • a replacement airbag may be put inside the opening in the car seat, and the fastener may be closed, to make it ready for use again.
  • the fastener comprises a slider
  • the slider may be used to close the coupling elements.
  • a special tool may be used to close the coupling elements.
  • a known example of such a tool is a jig with a part for pressing the coupling elements together, and a handle for moving the jig along the row of coupling elements.
  • FIG. 1A shows a top view of a first embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 1B shows a perspective view of the link of the first embodiment
  • FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a car seat with the fastener of the first embodiment on the side of the seat;
  • FIG. 3 shows a top view of a second embodiment of the invention in which a tape or a weld link is provided to link the stringer tapes together;
  • FIG. 4A shows a top view of a third embodiment of the invention, in which the link is provided by a clip.
  • FIG. 4B shows a top view of the clip when open, and
  • FIG. 4C shows a cross sectional view of the clip;
  • FIGS. 5 A-C show a perspective view and two cross sectional views of a fourth embodiment in which the link is provided by a two part link with a pushing pin to allow separation when a force is applied to the pin;
  • FIG. 6 shows a fifth embodiment of the invention in which a pair of sliders is provided
  • FIG. 7 shows a top view of a sixth embodiment of the invention in which a pair of linkable sliders are provided
  • FIG. 8 shows a top view of a seventh embodiment of the invention in which a pair of sliders with a separate linking element is provided to connect the sliders;
  • FIGS. 9 A-D show perspective views of a pair of sliders and pulltabs according to an eighth embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 10 shows a side view of a jig for closing the coupling elements on a fastener without a pair of sliders.
  • FIG. 1A shows a first embodiment of the invention, with the fastener closed
  • FIG. 2 shows the fastener 100 of the first embodiment in position on a car seat 20 .
  • the fastener 100 comprises two stringer tapes 102 , with a plurality of coupling elements 104 mounted on the inner longitudinal marginal edges 101 of the stringer tapes 102 .
  • the coupling elements 104 interlock to close the fastener and connect the stringer tapes 102 together, as well known in the art. With the fastener closed, the coupling elements 104 are engaged in a first area 106 and a second area 107 . The region between the first and second areas does not have coupling elements 104 attached, but instead, a gap 110 is provided between the first and second areas. The gap 110 is located in the centre of the fastener.
  • a link 115 is provided in the centre of the gap, joining the two stringer tapes 102 together at this point to prevent the coupling elements peeling apart.
  • the ends 109 of the fastener 100 are fixed together by a link (not shown) or by sewing to the seat cover
  • FIG. 1B shows a perspective view of the link 115 .
  • the link 115 may be formed of plastics by insert moulding on to the opposed edges 101 of the tapes 102 , a waisted region being formed, at which the link will break when subjected to a predetermined force.
  • halves of the link may be formed on respective tape edges, and then joined at the waisted region by ultrasonic welding, for example.
  • the car seat 20 has a frame shaped like the seat and a back cover 21 covering the frame inside which back cover an airbag 30 has been installed.
  • the side 22 of the back cover 21 of the car seat 20 has an opening 23 running vertically along it, the opening being about 500 mm in length.
  • a fastener 100 according to the first embodiment of the invention is sewn into the opening in the car seat cover.
  • the airbag 30 will explode or expand rapidly and push against the fastener 100 .
  • the gap 110 and the link 115 are positioned at a location which will be impacted by the exploding air bag.
  • the link 115 will break and the coupling elements 104 in the first and second areas will subsequently peel apart, thus opening the entire fastener to allow the air bag to expand through the opening 23 .
  • FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of the invention, again showing the fastener while it is closed.
  • a pair of stringer tapes 102 are provided with a plurality of coupling elements 104 attached to their edge, to allow the stringer tapes 102 to be connected.
  • a gap 110 is provided between a first and second areas 106 , 107 of the coupling elements.
  • a link 115 is provided.
  • the link comprises a weld or a tape link.
  • the weld link may be formed by partially melting adjacent areas of the two stringer tapes, for example with ultrasonic welding, in order to join the stringer tapes.
  • a tape link may be formed by attaching a piece of tape, such as taffeta tape, by gluing, sewing or welding to both stringer tapes to bridge the gap between the stringer tapes. When force is applied by an airbag, the weld or tape link will break, and the fastener will then open.
  • FIG. 4A shows a third embodiment of the invention in which the link 115 comprises a clip 140 .
  • the clip 140 comprises a first, male part 141 and a second, female part 142 which are connected to the first and second stringer tapes respectively.
  • the first 141 and second 142 parts of the clip 140 engage together to close the clip 140 and join the stringer tapes.
  • Male part 141 has an arrow shaped engaging head 143 which is received in the female part 142 to hold the two parts 141 , 142 together.
  • Such clip designs are well known.
  • the clip 140 may be welded directly to the tape, or may be welded to another piece of tape which is attached to the stringer tapes.
  • the clip 140 may be reusable, opening under a predetermined force but being reconnectable.
  • FIGS. 4B and 4C show more detailed views of the structure of the clip 140 of FIG. 4A.
  • FIG. 4B is a top view, showing three open clips 140 attached to stringer tapes
  • FIG. 4C is a cross sectional view of one of the clips 140 , taken along line A-A of FIG. 4B.
  • a core portion 144 is formed on the edge of each stringer tape 102 .
  • Both the female 142 and male 141 parts of the clip 140 have a leg portion 145 , 149 for sandwiching the core portions 144 from above and below to hold the clip parts 141 , 142 onto the stringer tapes 102 .
  • the female part 142 of the clip has a cavity portion 146 which is long in a longitudinal direction of the stringer tape 102 and which vertically penetrates a front face of the leg portion 145 .
  • a front wall 147 at the end of the cavity portion 146 is defined with a rectangular engaging hole 148 which is long in the longitudinal direction of the tape such that the engaging hole 148 communicates with the cavity portion 146 and the engaging head 143 of the male part 141 can be inserted into and engaged with the engaging hole 148 .
  • the male part 141 has a thin neck portion 154 projecting from a front face of the leg portion 149 and having a width smaller than that of the leg portion 149 and substantially equal to that of the engaging hole 146 .
  • the engaging head 143 is mounted to an end of the neck portion 154 , and is arc-shaped, having the same width as that of the neck portion 154 and being triangular in cross section such that the engaging head 143 can receive the front wall 147 of the female part 142 .
  • FIGS. 5 A-C show a fourth embodiment of the invention, comprising a fastener 100 which opens due to direct displacement of a part of a link by the airbag.
  • the fastener comprises a two-part link element 115 which opens in a direction perpendicular to the stringer tapes.
  • a projection 150 is provided on one part 152 of the link element 115 and faces the air bag. The projection 150 is positioned over the airbag, in a position in which the airbag will give the greatest displacement.
  • the projection 150 is a blunt ended pin.
  • FIG. 5A shows a perspective view of the link element with the projection.
  • FIG. 5B shows a cross-sectional view of the link element when it is in a closed position
  • FIG. 5C shows a cross-sectional view of the link element when it is in an open position.
  • the link element 115 comprises first 152 and second 151 parts, with the projection 150 provided on the first part 152 , and a linking part also being provided on the first part 152 .
  • the linking part 160 is in the from of a tongue which is received in a complementary shaped blind recess 162 in the second part 151 of the link element, preventing separation of the parts 151 , 152 in the plane of the tapes 102 .
  • the linking part 160 is displaced from the recess 162 when pressure is applied to the pin 150 by the exploding air bag, in a direction perpendicular to the stringer tapes 102 .
  • FIG. 6 shows a fifth embodiment of the invention in which the fastener is again shown in a closed state.
  • a pair of stringer tapes 102 are provided, each stringer tape having a first area 106 and a second area 107 with coupling elements mounted along an inner edge 101 of the stringer tape 102 .
  • a stop 120 is provided in a gap 110 in the rows of fastener elements, to prevent movement of a slider 125 , 126 too far along the tapes, thus ensuring that the sliders meet at the required position for engagement by the exploding air bag.
  • Such stops are well known in the art and may be provided for example by attaching clips to the tapes.
  • the fastener is held closed by the pair of sliders 125 , 126 mounted on the fastener chain 105 .
  • Each slider has a front end 130 and a back end 131 .
  • forward movement of the slider along the stringer tapes closes the fastener, and movement backwards opens the fastener.
  • FIG. 7 shows a sixth embodiment of the invention. This is similar to the fifth embodiment, except that in this case the two sliders 125 , 126 are connected to each another.
  • each slider comprises a female element and a male element.
  • the female element of one slider is connectable with the male element of the other slider, and vice versa, to allow the two sliders to connect together.
  • a force is applied from the exploding airbag, the two sliders are pushed apart, thus disengaging the link between them.
  • the strength of the link between the sliders can be controlled, thus providing more control over the force required to open the fastener.
  • FIG. 8 shows a seventh embodiment of the invention. This is similar to the sixth embodiment, except that instead of the two sliders 125 , 126 linking directly to one another, each of the sliders links to a common link element 180 .
  • the length of the link element 180 may be varied to modify the minimum force required to open the link.
  • the type of connection used between the link element and the first and second sliders will also influence the strength of the link.
  • FIGS. 9 A-D show perspective views of a pair of sliders and pulltabs according to an eighth embodiment of the invention.
  • the eighth embodiment is similar to the sixth embodiment, except that each slider 125 , 126 is provided with a pulltab 170 , 171 , and the two pulltabs 170 , 171 are provided with means to connect to each other.
  • FIG. 9A shows a pair of sliders 125 , 126 and pulltabs 170 , 171 when connected together
  • FIG. 9B shows a pair of sliders 125 , 126 and pulltabs 170 , 171 when disconnected.
  • FIG. 9C shows an enlarged view of the two pulltabs 170 , 171 when connected together
  • FIG. 9D shows an enlarged view of the two pulltabs 170 , 171 when disconnected.
  • One pulltab 170 is provided with a male connector element 172
  • the other pulltab 171 is provided with a female connector element 173 .
  • the male connector element 172 is a snap-fit in the recess provided by the female connector element 173 .
  • the coupling parts 172 and 173 may deform on being separated, in which case the pull tabs could be removed and fresh pull tabs attached to the sliders for re-use of the fastener.
  • the weak point of the zip fastener is formed by the connection of the pull tabs which provide for opening and closing easily as well as providing a controlled breaking or bursting point of the fastener. It is also possible to use a combination pull tab wherein each of the two sliders has the same design. For example, each slider may be provided with both a male connector element and a female connector element.
  • the pulltabs shown in FIGS. 9 A-D are solid parts, but alternatively, they could be fabric pulltabs.
  • Fabric pull tabs may be connected with a snap fastening button such as a press stud or a ‘linesnap’ fastener as marketed by YKK, instead of the connector elements shown in FIGS. 9 A-D.
  • a snap fastening button such as a press stud or a ‘linesnap’ fastener as marketed by YKK, instead of the connector elements shown in FIGS. 9 A-D.
  • the two sliders are linked by a solid clip which breaks off with the force of the airbag.
  • This embodiment provides a one-time use.
  • the clip is free to fly off in any direction, however, if preferred, one side of the clip may be permanently fixed to one of the sliders, to prevent the clip from flying off completely.
  • FIG. 10 shows a jig which may be used to re-close the coupling elements on the stringer tapes after the fastener has been opened, in the absence of a slider.
  • the jig may be closed around teeth of the fastener element and slid along the length of the stringer tape, closing the coupling elements as it is moved.
  • Such jigs are well known in the art of zip fastener manufacture.
  • the jig is comprised of a curved frame member 200 , and a pair of upper and lower wings 202 and 204 mounted on the upper and lower ends, respectively, of the frame member 200 .
  • the upper wing 202 has a guide post 206 mounted on its lower side.
  • the upper wing 202 and the lower wing 204 are movable toward and away from each other.
  • the upper wing 202 and the lower wing 204 define therebetween a Y-shaped channel through which rows of coupling elements 104 pass.
  • the jig is slid longitudinally of the stringer tapes with the coupling element rows passing through the Y-shaped channel, the jig closes the coupling elements, as a slider does.
  • a further use of the present invention is to form a closure for doors, such as shutter doors.
  • doors such as shutter doors.
  • shutter doors such as PVC doors may be provided to divide separate areas or to protect an opening for goods or vehicles from the outside weather or elements.
  • a reusable fastener according to the invention is provided for closure of an edge of such a shutter door, a vehicle driving accidentally into the door will open it, avoiding damage to the door. Afterwards, the fastener may be re-closed.
  • a fastener may be provided with sliders for this purpose to make it easier to re-close.
  • a fastener may comprise a single gap for opening or may comprise a plurality of gaps along the length of each stringer tape.
  • the fastener of the invention provides a closure for an airbag opening which overcomes some of the problems mentioned above, and, in particular, provides a highly reliable closure for an airbag opening which closure comprises a zip fastener and means for facilitating opening of the fastener when a force is applied transverse to the plane of the fastener.

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  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Molecular Biology (AREA)
  • Radiology & Medical Imaging (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Biophysics (AREA)
  • Pathology (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • Medical Informatics (AREA)
  • Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging (AREA)
  • Surgery (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Slide Fasteners (AREA)
  • Air Bags (AREA)
US10/803,413 2003-03-31 2004-03-17 Fastener Abandoned US20040187277A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GBGB0307401.0A GB0307401D0 (en) 2003-03-31 2003-03-31 A fastener
GB0307401.0 2003-03-31

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US20040187277A1 true US20040187277A1 (en) 2004-09-30

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US (1) US20040187277A1 (ko)
EP (1) EP1468622B1 (ko)
JP (1) JP2004298641A (ko)
KR (1) KR100540726B1 (ko)
CN (1) CN1259010C (ko)
DE (1) DE602004017533D1 (ko)
ES (1) ES2315620T3 (ko)
GB (1) GB0307401D0 (ko)

Cited By (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2889493A1 (fr) * 2005-08-05 2007-02-09 Faurecia Sieges Automobile Element de siege integrant un dispositif de securite a coussin gonflable, muni d'une fermeture a glissiere
US20090049658A1 (en) * 2005-04-01 2009-02-26 Ykk Corporation Readily Burstable Slide Fastener
US20090320249A1 (en) * 2008-06-30 2009-12-31 Ykk Corporation Of America Slide fastener
US20110291447A1 (en) * 2010-05-27 2011-12-01 Shell Oil Company Vehicle Seat Cover
US9039092B1 (en) * 2011-01-04 2015-05-26 Bell Automotive Products, Inc. Air bag enabling car seat cover
US20160302497A1 (en) * 2015-04-20 2016-10-20 Dignity Garments, Llc Privacy medical garment for access to a buttocks region
US20200069006A1 (en) * 2018-08-31 2020-03-05 Ykk Corporation Of America Slide fastener with blocking element
GB2595658A (en) * 2020-06-01 2021-12-08 Ykk Europe Ltd Fastener
WO2024200248A1 (en) * 2023-03-24 2024-10-03 Autoliv Development Ab Rupturable device

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DE102005019450A1 (de) * 2005-04-25 2007-06-06 Werner Sand Verschlusssystem an einem Sitzbezug
DE112006001676B4 (de) * 2005-06-21 2015-04-02 Ykk Corp. Einsteller
JP2009028131A (ja) * 2007-07-25 2009-02-12 Ykk Corp スライドファスナー及び車両用シート
JP5043688B2 (ja) * 2008-01-08 2012-10-10 Ｙｋｋ株式会社 スライドファスナー
JP5571652B2 (ja) * 2008-03-25 2014-08-13 ジョンソン コントロールズ テクノロジー カンパニー 縫合の代わりに接着剤を使用する車両トリムの応用
WO2009118846A1 (ja) * 2008-03-26 2009-10-01 Ykk株式会社 スライドファスナー
JPWO2010106620A1 (ja) * 2009-03-16 2012-09-20 Ykk株式会社 ファスナーストリンガー
DE102013003638B4 (de) 2013-03-05 2017-03-23 Autoliv Development Ab Airbagabdeckung
US9915500B2 (en) 2014-12-08 2018-03-13 Josh Ralph Portable firearm carrier
US11013298B2 (en) * 2018-07-18 2021-05-25 Nike, Inc. Releasable fastener
CN112385941B (zh) * 2019-08-16 2022-11-22 浙江伟星实业发展股份有限公司 一种双头拉链

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US2701903A (en) * 1946-02-01 1955-02-15 Harvey L Williams Slide fastener
US3122808A (en) * 1962-01-09 1964-03-03 Angelo P Maschi Slide fastener and quick release
US3289264A (en) * 1964-02-03 1966-12-06 Doelter Gandolph Sliding clasp continuous fasteners
US3953912A (en) * 1970-07-08 1976-05-04 Yoshida Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Concealed sliding clasp fastener
US3977051A (en) * 1974-10-22 1976-08-31 Yoshida Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Reusable slide fastener with emergency opening means
US4000545A (en) * 1974-10-22 1977-01-04 Yoshida Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Slide fastener with emergency opening means
US4023241A (en) * 1974-12-28 1977-05-17 Yoshida Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Top end construction for slide fasteners
US5588671A (en) * 1995-09-21 1996-12-31 Takata, Inc. Resealable tear seam for seat deployed side impact air bag
US6705642B1 (en) * 1999-08-31 2004-03-16 I.E.E. International Electronics & Engineering S.A R.L. Device for controlled deflation of a gas bag

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GB527825A (en) * 1939-04-21 1940-10-16 Carr Fastener Co Ltd Improvements in or relating to sliding clasp fasteners
GB678755A (en) * 1950-05-02 1952-09-10 Rfd Co Ltd Improvements in means for packing inflatable dinghies and other pneumatic equipment, parachutes and other objects
CA2207022A1 (en) * 1997-06-17 1998-12-17 Imre Jack Smith Side-entry fastener
LU90330B1 (de) * 1998-12-16 2000-06-19 Imeco Einwegprodukte Gmbh & Co Verschlusssystem fuer Airbaghuelle

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2701903A (en) * 1946-02-01 1955-02-15 Harvey L Williams Slide fastener
US3122808A (en) * 1962-01-09 1964-03-03 Angelo P Maschi Slide fastener and quick release
US3289264A (en) * 1964-02-03 1966-12-06 Doelter Gandolph Sliding clasp continuous fasteners
US3953912A (en) * 1970-07-08 1976-05-04 Yoshida Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Concealed sliding clasp fastener
US3977051A (en) * 1974-10-22 1976-08-31 Yoshida Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Reusable slide fastener with emergency opening means
US4000545A (en) * 1974-10-22 1977-01-04 Yoshida Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Slide fastener with emergency opening means
US4023241A (en) * 1974-12-28 1977-05-17 Yoshida Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Top end construction for slide fasteners
US5588671A (en) * 1995-09-21 1996-12-31 Takata, Inc. Resealable tear seam for seat deployed side impact air bag
US6705642B1 (en) * 1999-08-31 2004-03-16 I.E.E. International Electronics & Engineering S.A R.L. Device for controlled deflation of a gas bag

Cited By (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8800118B2 (en) 2005-04-01 2014-08-12 Ykk Corporation Readily burstable slide fastener
US20090049658A1 (en) * 2005-04-01 2009-02-26 Ykk Corporation Readily Burstable Slide Fastener
US8925161B2 (en) 2005-04-01 2015-01-06 Ykk Corporation Readily burstable slide fastener
FR2889493A1 (fr) * 2005-08-05 2007-02-09 Faurecia Sieges Automobile Element de siege integrant un dispositif de securite a coussin gonflable, muni d'une fermeture a glissiere
US20090320249A1 (en) * 2008-06-30 2009-12-31 Ykk Corporation Of America Slide fastener
US20090320250A1 (en) * 2008-06-30 2009-12-31 Ykk Corporation Of America Slide fastener
US8359717B2 (en) * 2008-06-30 2013-01-29 Ykk Corporation Slide fastener
US8695178B2 (en) * 2008-06-30 2014-04-15 Ykk Corporation Slide fastener
US20110291447A1 (en) * 2010-05-27 2011-12-01 Shell Oil Company Vehicle Seat Cover
US8770662B2 (en) * 2010-05-27 2014-07-08 Auto Expressions, Llc Vehicle seat cover
US9039092B1 (en) * 2011-01-04 2015-05-26 Bell Automotive Products, Inc. Air bag enabling car seat cover
US20160302497A1 (en) * 2015-04-20 2016-10-20 Dignity Garments, Llc Privacy medical garment for access to a buttocks region
US20200069006A1 (en) * 2018-08-31 2020-03-05 Ykk Corporation Of America Slide fastener with blocking element
US10646005B2 (en) * 2018-08-31 2020-05-12 Ykk Corporation Of America Slide fastener with blocking element
GB2595658A (en) * 2020-06-01 2021-12-08 Ykk Europe Ltd Fastener
WO2024200248A1 (en) * 2023-03-24 2024-10-03 Autoliv Development Ab Rupturable device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB0307401D0 (en) 2003-05-07
KR100540726B1 (ko) 2006-01-10
JP2004298641A (ja) 2004-10-28
ES2315620T3 (es) 2009-04-01
DE602004017533D1 (de) 2008-12-18
KR20040086567A (ko) 2004-10-11
EP1468622A1 (en) 2004-10-20
EP1468622B1 (en) 2008-11-05
CN1259010C (zh) 2006-06-14
CN1533726A (zh) 2004-10-06

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