Flexible and breathable slider assembly

Abstract

Aspects herein relate to a flexible and breathable slider assembly (100) for an article of clothing (300). The slider assembly (100) includes a first slider tape (110) having a first longitudinal edge (114) and a second longitudinal edge (125), the first longitudinal edge (114) having a first string of alternating peaks (116) and valleys (118). The slider assembly (100) also includes a second slider tape (112) having a third longitudinal edge (132) and a fourth longitudinal edge (144), the third longitudinal edge (132) having a second string of alternating peaks (131) and valleys (134). A first fabric edge (312) of the article (300) is attached to each peak (116) of the first string of peaks (116) but not to each valley (118) of the first string of valleys (118) to form a first string of spaces (318). A second fabric edge (314) of the article (300) is attached to each peak (131) of the second string of peaks (131) but not to each valley (134) of the second string of valleys (134) to form a second string of spaces (320).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This article relates in various aspects to a slider assembly and a garment incorporating the slider assembly, wherein the slider assembly is flexible and breathable. Background Technology

[0002] Typical slider assemblies include slider strips with linear longitudinal edges, which can make the slider assembly difficult to bend in directions orthogonal to the linear edges. Furthermore, typical slider assemblies often lack features that promote breathability and / or permeability when incorporated into garments. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The following clauses represent exemplary aspects of the concepts envisioned herein. Any of the following clauses may be combined in a multi-dependent manner to depend on one or more other clauses. Furthermore, any combination of dependent clauses (clauses that explicitly depend on preceding clauses) may be combined while remaining within the scope of the aspects envisioned herein. The following clauses are examples and not limitations.

[0004] Clause 1. A slider assembly comprising: a first slider strip having a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, the first longitudinal edge including a first series of alternating peaks and valleys, the second longitudinal edge opposite to the first longitudinal edge, and a first set of connecting elements attached to the second longitudinal edge; and a second slider strip having a third longitudinal edge and a fourth longitudinal edge, the third longitudinal edge including a second series of alternating peaks and valleys, the fourth longitudinal edge opposite to the third longitudinal edge, and a second set of connecting elements attached to the fourth longitudinal edge, wherein the first set of connecting elements engages, partially engages with, or disengages from the second set of connecting elements.

[0005] Clause 2. The slider assembly according to Clause 1, wherein the second longitudinal edge of the first slider strip is linear.

[0006] Clause 3. The slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 1 to 2, wherein the fourth longitudinal edge of the second slider strip is linear.

[0007] Clause 4. The slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the first set of connecting elements and the second set of connecting elements include zipper teeth.

[0008] Clause 5. The slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein when the first set of connecting elements engages with the second set of connecting elements, the peak of the first string of peaks of the first slider strip is aligned with the peak of the second string of peaks of the second slider strip across the width of the slider assembly.

[0009] Clause 6. The slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein when the first set of connecting elements engages with the second set of connecting elements, the valleys in the first string of valleys of the first slider strip are aligned with the valleys in the second string of valleys of the second slider strip across the width of the slider assembly.

[0010] Clause 7. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly, the garment article comprising: a first fabric having a first fabric edge and a second fabric having a second fabric edge; a first slider band of the slider assembly having a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, the first longitudinal edge comprising a first series of alternating peaks and valleys, the second longitudinal edge opposite to the first longitudinal edge, a first set of connecting elements attached to the second longitudinal edge, wherein the first fabric edge is fixed to the first series of peaks but not to the first series of valleys, such that a space is formed between the first fabric edge and the respective valleys of the first series of valleys; and a second slider band of the slider assembly having a third longitudinal edge and a fourth longitudinal edge, the third longitudinal edge comprising a second series of alternating peaks and valleys, the fourth longitudinal edge opposite to the third longitudinal edge, a second set of connecting elements attached to the fourth longitudinal edge, wherein the second fabric edge is fixed to the second series of peaks but not to the second series of valleys, such that a space is formed between the second fabric edge and the respective valleys of the second series of valleys.

[0011] Clause 8. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly as described in Clause 7, wherein the second longitudinal edge of the first slider strip is linear, and wherein the fourth longitudinal edge of the second slider strip is linear.

[0012] Clause 9. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 7 to 8, wherein the first slider band is secured to the inward-facing surface of the first fabric, and wherein the second slider band is secured to the inward-facing surface of the second fabric.

[0013] Clause 10. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 7 to 9, wherein the slider assembly further comprises a slider puller, and wherein the slider puller is positioned on the outward-facing surface of the garment article.

[0014] Clause 11. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 7 to 11, wherein the first fabric edge is secured to the first peak of the first slider band using a zigzag stitch, and wherein the second fabric edge is secured to the second peak of the second slider band using a zigzag stitch.

[0015] Clause 12. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 7 to 11, wherein the width of the space formed between the edge of the first fabric and the respective valleys of the first string of valleys is about 1.5 mm to about 2.5 mm.

[0016] Clause 13. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 7 to 12, wherein the width of the space formed between the edge of the second fabric and the respective valleys of the second string of valleys is about 1.5 mm to about 2.5 mm.

[0017] Clause 14. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 7 to 13, wherein the first set of connecting elements and the second set of connecting elements comprise zipper teeth.

[0018] Clause 15. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 7 to 14, wherein the first set of connecting elements engages with, partially engages with, or disengages from the second set of connecting elements.

[0019] Clause 16. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly as described in Clause 15, wherein when the first set of connecting elements engages with the second set of connecting elements, the peak of the first string of peaks of the first slider strip is aligned with the peak of the second string of peaks of the second slider strip across the width of the slider assembly.

[0020] Clause 17. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 15 to 16, wherein when the first set of connecting elements engages with the second set of connecting elements, the valleys in the first string of valleys of the first slider strip are aligned with the valleys in the second string of valleys of the second slider strip across the width of the slider assembly.

[0021] Clause 18. A method of manufacturing a garment article incorporating a slider assembly, the method comprising: securing a first fabric edge of the garment article to a first longitudinal edge of a first slider strip of the slider assembly, the first longitudinal edge of the first slider strip comprising a first series of alternating peaks and valleys, wherein the first fabric edge is secured to the first series of peaks but not to the first series of valleys, such that a space is formed between the first fabric edge and each valley of the first series of valleys, the first slider strip further comprising a second longitudinal edge opposite to the first longitudinal edge, a first set of connecting elements attached to the second longitudinal edge; and securing a second fabric edge of the garment article to a third longitudinal edge of a second slider strip of the slider assembly, the third longitudinal edge of the second slider strip comprising a second series of alternating peaks and valleys, wherein the second fabric edge is secured to the second series of peaks but not to the second series of valleys, such that a space is formed between the second fabric edge and each valley of the second series of valleys, and wherein the second slider strip further comprises a fourth longitudinal edge opposite to the third longitudinal edge, a second set of connecting elements attached to the fourth longitudinal edge.

[0022] Clause 19. A method of manufacturing a garment article incorporating a slider assembly as described in Clause 18, wherein the width of the space formed between the edge of the first fabric and the respective valleys of the first tuft is about 1.5 mm to about 2.5 mm, and wherein the width of the space formed between the edge of the second fabric and the respective valleys of the second tuft is about 1.5 mm to about 2.5 mm.

[0023] Clause 20. A method of manufacturing a garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 18 to 19, wherein the first fabric edge is secured to the first peak of the first slider band using a zigzag stitch, and wherein the second fabric edge is secured to the second peak of the second slider band using a zigzag stitch.

[0024] Clause 21. A slider assembly comprising: a first slider strip having a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, the first longitudinal edge including a first series of alternating peaks and valleys, the second longitudinal edge opposite to the first longitudinal edge, and a first set of connecting elements attached to the second longitudinal edge; and a second slider strip having a third longitudinal edge and a fourth longitudinal edge, the third longitudinal edge including a second series of alternating peaks and valleys, the fourth longitudinal edge opposite to the third longitudinal edge, and a second set of connecting elements attached to the fourth longitudinal edge.

[0025] Clause 22. The slider assembly according to Clause 21, wherein a peak in the first string of peaks is aligned with a valley in the second string of valleys across the width of the slider assembly, and wherein a valley in the first string of valleys is aligned with a peak in the second string of peaks across the width of the slider assembly.

[0026] Clause 23. The slider assembly according to Clause 21, wherein the peaks of the first series of peaks are aligned with the peaks of the second series of peaks across the width of the slider assembly, and wherein the valleys of the first series of valleys are aligned with the valleys of the second series of valleys across the width of the slider assembly.

[0027] Clause 24. The slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 21 to 23, wherein the vertex region of the first peak in the first series of peaks is positioned at a first distance from the centerline of the slider assembly, and wherein the vertex region of the second peak in the first series of peaks is positioned at a second distance from the centerline of the slider assembly, the first distance being greater than the second distance.

[0028] Clause 25. The slider assembly according to Clause 24, wherein the vertex region of the first peak in the second series of peaks is positioned at a first distance from the centerline of the slider assembly, and wherein the vertex region of the second peak in the second series of peaks is positioned at a second distance from the centerline of the slider assembly, the first distance being greater than the second distance.

[0029] Clause 26. The slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 21 to 25, wherein the first distance between the first peak in the first series of peaks and the adjacent second peak is greater than the second distance between the second peak in the first series of peaks and the adjacent third peak.

[0030] Clause 27. The slider assembly according to Clause 26, wherein the first distance between the first peak in the second series of peaks and the adjacent second peak is greater than the second distance between the second peak in the second series of peaks and the adjacent third peak.

[0031] Clause 28. The slider assembly according to any one of Clauses 21 to 27, wherein one or more of the vertex regions of the first peak and the vertex regions of the first valley comprise two right angles separated by line segments.

[0032] Clause 29. The slider assembly according to Clause 28, wherein one or more of the vertex regions of the second peak and the vertex regions of the second valley comprise two right angles separated by line segments. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Examples of various aspects of this article are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] Figure 1 The illustration shows the outward-facing surface of an example slider assembly according to various aspects of this article;

[0035] Figure 2 The diagram illustrates the various aspects based on this article. Figure 1The inward-facing surface of the slider assembly;

[0036] Figure 3 The diagram illustrates the combination of various aspects of this article. Figure 1 The outward-facing surface of the slider assembly;

[0037] Figure 4 The diagram illustrates the various aspects based on this article. Figure 3 The inward-facing surface of the product;

[0038] Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the various aspects based on this article. Figure 3 An enlarged view of a portion of the product;

[0039] Figure 6 The diagram illustrates the lateral curvature based on various aspects of this text. Figure 3 Products;

[0040] Figure 7 The diagram illustrates the longitudinal extension based on various aspects of this text. Figure 3 Products;

[0041] Figure 8 The diagram illustrates the combination of various aspects of this article. Figure 1 The example slider component shows a front view of the example upper body clothing;

[0042] Figure 9 The diagram illustrates the combination of various aspects of this article. Figure 1 The example slider component shows a front view of the example lower body clothing;

[0043] Figures 10 to 11 The illustration shows the outward-facing surface of a portion of a slider assembly, based on some alternative examples from various aspects of this article;

[0044] Figures 12 to 13 The illustration shows an outward-facing surface of a portion of an article of an alternative example slider assembly, based on various aspects of this text; and

[0045] Figure 14 The illustration shows a flowchart of an example method for manufacturing a garment incorporating an example slider component, according to various aspects of this article. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The subject matter of this invention has been specifically described herein to satisfy legal requirements. However, this description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Rather, the inventors have envisioned that the claimed or disclosed subject matter may also be embodied in other ways in combination with other current or future techniques to include different steps or combinations of steps similar to those described herein. Furthermore, although the terms “step” and / or “box” may be used herein to refer to different elements of the method employed, these terms should not be construed as implying any particular order among or between the various steps disclosed herein, unless and only as expressly stated.

[0047] Conventional slider assemblies used for releasably joining, for example, fabric edges together, typically lack the ability to flex in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal edge of the slider assembly and / or extend in the longitudinal direction of the slider assembly. Therefore, garments incorporating conventional slider assemblies may lack freedom of movement when subjected to tension in a particular direction. Additionally, conventional slider assemblies often lack breathability and permeability, thus trapping hot air and / or moisture inside the garment when worn, potentially causing discomfort to the wearer. This document provides a slider assembly configured to hinge or flex in the transverse direction (i.e., in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal edge of the slider assembly) and, in some respects, extend in the longitudinal direction of the slider assembly, thereby allowing greater freedom of movement in garments incorporating the slider assembly. Similarly, the slider assembly is incorporated into the garment in such a way that small spaces are spaced apart along the length of the slider assembly, which enhances the breathability and permeability of the garment.

[0048] At a high level, this document relates in various aspects to a slider assembly having a first slider strip and a second slider strip. The first slider strip has a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge, the first longitudinal edge comprising a first series of alternating peaks and valleys, the second longitudinal edge being linear, and a first set of connecting elements attached to the second longitudinal edge. The second slider strip has a third longitudinal edge and a fourth longitudinal edge, the third longitudinal edge comprising a second series of alternating peaks and valleys, the fourth longitudinal edge being linear, and a second set of connecting elements attached to the fourth longitudinal edge. In use, the first and second sets of connecting elements are adapted to releasably engage with each other. Configuring the slider assembly to include edges formed by alternating peaks and valleys allows the slider assembly to flex or hinge in the lateral direction. For example, in response to a force transmitted approximately across the width of the slider assembly, adjacent peaks on one of the slider strips may deflect towards each other, and adjacent peaks on opposing slider strips may deflect away from each other, causing the slider assembly to flex in the lateral direction. In an exemplary aspect, when the slider strip is formed of a material exhibiting tensile and restorative properties, the slider assembly can also extend in the longitudinal direction when subjected to longitudinal tension. For example, in response to the force transmitted along the length of the slider assembly, the distance between adjacent peaks on each of the slider strips can be increased, resulting in a reversible increase in the linear length of the slider assembly.

[0049] When incorporated into garments, the first longitudinal edge of the first slider band and the third longitudinal edge of the second slider band are secured to the fabric edge of the garment, such that the fabric edge is secured to the peaks of the slider bands but not to the valleys. This results in spaces or through channels between the fabric edge and the respective valleys. These spaces can serve as pathways for hot air and / or moisture to exit the garment, which can improve wearer comfort, especially when the garment is worn by the wearer under exercise conditions.

[0050] As used herein, the term "clothing articles" encompasses any number of products intended for wear by a wearer, including upper garments (e.g., shirts, jackets, hoodies, pullovers), lower garments (e.g., trousers, shorts, leggings), footwear (such as shoes or socks), headwear (e.g., hats and hoods), gloves, separate sleeves (e.g., arm warmers, calf warmers), etc. The term "clothing articles" can also refer to articles used by the wearer, such as backpacks, wallets, duffel bags, handbags, etc.

[0051] Positional terms such as "outward-facing," "inward-facing," etc., used in describing slider components and / or garment articles incorporating slider components are relative to the intention of the slider component and / or garment article as an upright wearer. Accordingly, when the article is, for example, a duffel bag, the inward-facing surface of the slider component and / or garment article is configured to face inward toward the wearer and / or toward the internal volume, and when the article is, for example, in the form of a duffel bag, the outward-facing surface of the slider component and / or garment article is configured to face outward away from the wearer and / or away from the internal volume. As used herein, the term "edge" refers to the end or edge of the corresponding structure. As used herein, the term "about" means within ±5% of the indicated value.

[0052] As used herein, the term "slider assembly" encompasses any slider technology used to releasably join the edges of fabric, such as those in garment articles, together. Therefore, a slider assembly can include zipper assemblies, slot and hook assemblies, track and guide assemblies, etc. Depending on the type of slider assembly, the term "connecting element" can include various components such as zipper teeth, slots, hooks, tracks, guides, etc.

[0053] As used herein, the term "peak" can be defined as a shape having a vertex region located at a first distance from an axis extending along the length of the slider band, and "valley" can be defined as a shape having a vertex region located at a second distance from an axis extending along the length of the slider band, wherein the second distance is less than the first distance. The term "vertex region" can be defined as the region of a peak or valley that is furthest from or closest to the longitudinal axis, respectively. In terms of examples, a vertex region can be a defined point or a broader region. As used herein, the term "linear" refers to an edge extending along a straight line or nearly a straight line.

[0054] Unless otherwise indicated, all measurements provided herein are taken with the slider assembly and / or articles incorporating the slider assembly at standard ambient temperature and pressure (25 degrees Celsius or 298.15 K and 1 bar) and in a static or untensioned state.

[0055] Figure 1 and Figure 2The outward-facing surface and the inward-facing surface of the slider assembly 100 in an untensioned or stationary state are depicted, respectively. The slider assembly 100 includes a first slider strip 110 and a second slider strip 112 extending along the longitudinal length of the slider assembly 100. The first slider strip 110 has a first longitudinal edge 114 comprising a first series of peaks 116 and a first series of valleys 118, wherein the peaks 116 and valleys 118 alternate. Adjacent peaks 116 are separated by a distance 101. As further shown in an enlarged view of a portion of the first slider strip 110, the vertex region 120 of the peaks 116 is located at a first distance 121 from an imaginary axis 126 extending the length of the first slider strip 110 and positioned inward from the valleys 118, and the vertex region 122 of the valleys 118 is located at a second distance 123 from the imaginary axis 126; the first distance 121 is greater than the second distance 123. The first slider band 110 also includes a second longitudinal edge 125 opposite to the first longitudinal edge 114, and a first set of connecting elements 128 are attached to the second longitudinal edge 125. Figure 2 (As shown in the example). In this example, the second vertical edge 125 is linear.

[0056] The second slider band 112 has a third longitudinal edge 132, which includes a second series of peaks 131 and a second series of valleys 134, wherein the peaks 131 and valleys 134 alternate. Adjacent peaks 131 are separated by a distance 101. As further shown in an enlarged view of a portion of the second slider band 112, the apex region 136 of the peaks 131 is located at a first distance 137 from an imaginary axis 142 that extends the length of the second slider band 112 and is positioned inward from the valleys 134, and the apex region 138 of the valleys 134 is located at a second distance 140 from the imaginary axis 142; the first distance 137 is greater than the second distance 140. The second slider band 112 also includes a fourth longitudinal edge 144 opposite the third longitudinal edge 132, to which a second set of connecting elements 146 are attached (in...) Figure 2 (As shown in the figure). In the example, the fourth longitudinal edge 144 is linear. When the slider assembly 100 is at rest or untensioned, the slider assembly 100 has a width 150 measured from the vertex region 120 of peak 116 to the vertex region 136 of peak 131. When the slider assembly 100 is at rest or untensioned, the slider assembly 100 also has a length 151 measured from the first end 152 to the second end 154 of the slider assembly 100 (in the figure). Figure 1 (as shown in the image).

[0057] In one example, the slider assembly 100 also includes a slider puller 148, which, when an upward or downward tension is applied to the slider puller 148, can be used to engage or disengage the first set of connecting elements 128 from the second set of connecting elements 146. Thus, in one example, the slider puller 148 can be used to fully engage the first and second sets of connecting elements 128 and 146, partially engage the first and second sets of connecting elements 128 and 146, or disengage the first set of connecting elements 128 from the second set of connecting elements 146. In one example, and as... Figures 1 to 2 As shown, when the first set of connecting elements 128 engages with the second set of connecting elements 146, peak 116 aligns with peak 131 across the width 150 of slider assembly 100. Similarly, when the first set of connecting elements 128 engages with the second set of connecting elements 146, valley 118 aligns with valley 134 across the width 150 of slider assembly 100. In other words, a first line orthogonal to the second longitudinal edge 125 and the fourth longitudinal edge 144 will pass through the vertex region 120 of peak 116 and the vertex region 136 of peak 131. A second line orthogonal to the second longitudinal edge 125 and the fourth longitudinal edge 144 will pass through the vertex region 122 of valley 118 and the vertex region 138 of valley 134.

[0058] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The illustrations show the outward-facing and inward-facing surfaces of a portion of the article 300 incorporating the slider assembly 100. For example... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, article 300 includes a first fabric 310 having a first fabric edge 312 and a second fabric 314 having a second fabric edge 316. The slider assembly 100 is positioned adjacent to the inward-facing surfaces of the first fabric 310 and the second fabric 314, as... Figure 4 As shown. The first longitudinal edge 114 of the first slider band 110 is positioned such that the vertex regions 120 of the first peaks 116 overlap (or are positioned adjacent to) and are secured to the first fabric edge 312, and the first fabric edge 312 is spaced apart from the vertex regions 122 of the first valleys 118. This results in a first string space 318 between the first fabric edge 312 and the vertex regions 122 of the first valleys 118. Similarly, the third longitudinal edge 132 of the second slider band 112 is positioned such that the vertex regions 136 of the second peaks 131 overlap (or are positioned adjacent to) and are secured to the second fabric edge 316, and the second fabric edge 316 is spaced apart from the vertex regions 138 of the second valleys 134. This results in a second string space 320 between the second fabric edge 316 and the vertex regions 138 of the second valleys 134. The first and second string spaces 318 and 320 are through channels and provide a fluid communication path between the outward-facing surface of the article 300 and the inward-facing surface of the article 300.

[0059] In one example, the first fabric edge 312 can be secured to the vertex region 120 of the first peak 116 by sewing, adhesive, spot welding, bonding, etc. In another example, and as... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the first fabric edge 312 can be secured to the vertex region 120 of the first peak 116 using a zigzag stitch 322 (i.e., a zigzag-configured stitch). Similarly, the second fabric edge 316 can be secured to the vertex region 136 of the second peak 131 by stitching, adhesive, spot welding, bonding, etc. In one example aspect, and as... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the second fabric edge 316 can be secured to the apex region 136 of the second peak 131 by zigzag stitch 324. Other securing techniques (such as bonding) can be used with the zigzag stitches 322 and 324 to reinforce the attachment of the first and second slider bands 110 and 112 to the first and second fabric edges 312 and 316.

[0060] Figure 5 The diagram shows... Figure 3 An enlarged view of a portion of the article 300. As described above, because the first fabric edge 312 and the second fabric edge 316 are fixed only to the vertex regions 120 and 136 of peaks 116 and 131, respectively, first and second string spaces 318 and 320 are formed between the first and second fabric edges 312 and 316 and the vertex regions 122 and 138 of valleys 118 and 134. In an example aspect, the distance or width 510 between the first and second fabric edges 312 and 316 and the vertex regions 122 and 138 of valleys 118 and 134 can be from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm, from about 1.0 mm to about 2.5 mm, or about 2 mm. In an example aspect, the first and second string spaces 318 and 320 can provide fluid communication paths through which hot air and / or moisture can escape from the article 300, thereby improving wearer comfort. The first and second string spaces 318 and 320 can also provide fluid communication paths for air to enter the article 300 from the external environment for further cooling of the wearer.

[0061] As described herein, the slider assembly 100 is configured to facilitate hinged connection of the slider assembly 100 in the lateral direction. Figure 6The image depicts the article 300 and the force 610 transmitted across the width 150 of the slider assembly 100 in the direction indicated by the arrow. In response to force 610, the first series of peaks 116 deviate from each other. In other words, in response to force 610, the distance 612 between adjacent peaks 116 decreases in the region of the slider assembly 100 subjected to force 610, where distance 612 is less than distance 101. Similarly, in response to force 610, the second series of peaks 131 deviate from each other. In other words, in response to force 610, the distance 614 between adjacent peaks 131 increases in the region of the slider assembly 100 subjected to force 610, where distance 614 is greater than distance 101. The combination of these two actions allows the slider assembly 100 to bend or flex in the direction of force 610, thereby improving the degree of freedom of movement of the article 300. Although force 610 is shown as orthogonal to the longitudinal edge of slider assembly 100, various aspects herein envision slider assembly 100 also bending or flexing in response to forces in directions other than parallel to the longitudinal edge of slider assembly 100.

[0062] In terms of examples, the first slider belt 110 and the second slider belt 112 may be formed of, or at least partially of, a material having elastic properties (i.e., stretching and recovery properties), such as elastic yarns, including spandex (by trademark). As is known to the public), elastic fibers, etc. In another example, the first fabric 310 and the second fabric 314 of the article 300 may also be formed of, or at least partially of, a material having elastic properties. In these examples, the shape configuration of the first and second slider bands 110 and 112 (e.g., first and second peaks 116 and 131, and first and second valleys 118 and 134) and the use of zigzag stitching can enable the slider assembly 100 to be reversibly stretched in the longitudinal direction, such as Figure 7 As shown. That is, when the longitudinal force 710 is applied to the slider assembly 100, the apexes of peaks 116 and 131 are pulled toward the centerline of the slider assembly 100, thereby reducing the width of the slider assembly from width 150 to a new width 712, where width 712 is less than width 150. Continuing, the longitudinal force 710 also increases the distance between adjacent peaks of the first string of peaks 116 and the second string of peaks 131 to a new distance 714, where distance 714 is greater than distance 101. The spacing between adjacent peaks of the zigzag stitch can also be increased, so that the slider assembly 100 reversibly increases to a new length 716, where length 716 is greater than length 151. Once the longitudinal force 710 is removed, the slider assembly 100 can return to its original length 151 due to the elastic properties of the slider assembly 100. The reversible increase in the length of the slider assembly 100 can help increase the degree of freedom of movement of the article 300. Although force 710 is shown in a downward direction, it is contemplated herein that force 710 can be in an upward direction.

[0063] The slider assembly 100 can be incorporated into many different garment products. For example, the slider assembly 100 can be incorporated into upper garments, such as... Figure 8 As shown. Figure 8 A jacket-style upper garment 800 is depicted. A slider assembly 100 is incorporated into the upper garment 800 as a front center closure 810, although it is envisioned that the slider assembly 100 could be used in other locations, such as pocket closures, hood attachments, sleeve attachments, etc. Using the slider assembly 100 in the upper garment 800 can enhance the garment 800's appearance, such as... Figure 7 The stretching and / or tension along the longitudinal direction of the front center closure 810 as shown Figure 6 The front center closure 810 shown has the ability to flex or bend in the lateral direction. Additionally, the first and second string spaces 318 and 320 increase the ability of the upper garment 800 to vent hot air and / or moisture from the interior of the garment 800 to the external environment. Although the garment 800 is shown as a jacket, it is contemplated herein that the garment 800 may be in other forms, such as a vest, shirt, pullover, hoodie, etc. Any and all aspects and any variations thereof are contemplated within the scope of this document.

[0064] Figure 9 The illustration depicts a lower garment 900 incorporating a slider assembly 100 as a front center closure 910, although this document contemplates that the slider assembly 100 could be used in other locations, such as pocket closures, leg attachments, etc. Similar to the upper garment 800, the use of the slider assembly 100 in the lower garment 900 enhances the garment's freedom of movement and also increases its permeability and / or breathability. Although the garment 900 is shown as trousers, this document contemplates that the lower garment 900 could be in other forms, such as shorts, three-quarter pants, leggings, etc. Any and all aspects and any variations thereof are contemplated within the scope of this document.

[0065] Figure 10 and Figure 11 The outward-facing surface of a portion of some alternative example slider components is depicted. Figure 10A portion of a slider assembly 1000 is depicted, including a first slider band 1010 having a first series of peaks 1012 alternating with a first series of valleys 1014. The slider assembly 1000 also includes a second slider band 1016 having a second series of peaks 1018 alternating with a second series of valleys 1020. Unlike slider assembly 100, the peaks 1012 on the first slider band 1010 are aligned with the valleys 1020 on the second slider band 1016 across the width of slider assembly 1000. In other words, a first line 1022 orthogonal to the longitudinal edge of slider assembly 1000 passes through the peaks 1012 on the first slider band 1010 and the valleys 1020 on the second slider band 1016. Additionally, a second line 1024 orthogonal to the longitudinal edge of slider assembly 1000 passes through the valleys 1014 on the first slider band 1010 and the peaks 1018 on the second slider band 1016.

[0066] Figure 11 A portion of an example slider assembly 1100 is depicted, including a first slider band 1110 having a first series of peaks 1112 and a second series of peaks 1113, wherein each of the first series of peaks 1112 and the second series of peaks 1113 alternates with a first series of valleys 1114. The slider assembly 1100 also includes a second slider band 1116 having a third series of peaks 1118 and a fourth series of peaks 1119, wherein each of the third series of peaks 1118 and the fourth series of peaks 1119 alternates with a second series of valleys 1120. Unlike slider assemblies 100 and 1000 (where each of the peaks on the first and second slider bands is positioned at the same distance from the longitudinal centerline of the slider assembly), the first peak 1112 and the third peak 1118 are positioned at a first distance 1122 from the centerline 1123 of slider assembly 1100, and the second peak 1113 and the fourth peak 1119 are positioned at a second distance 1124 from the centerline 1123, wherein the first distance 1122 is greater than the second distance 1124. Although each of the first and second valleys 1114 and 1120 is shown as being positioned at the same distance from the centerline 1123, it is contemplated herein that one or more of the first and / or second valleys 1114 and 1120 may be positioned at different distances from the centerline 1123. Any and all aspects and any variations thereof are contemplated within the scope of this document.

[0067] Figure 12An outward-facing surface of a portion of article 1200 is depicted, the article 1200 having a first garment piece 1210 with a first garment piece edge 1212 and a second garment piece 1214 with a second garment piece edge 1216. A slider assembly 1218 is incorporated into article 1200. Slider assembly 1218 includes a first slider band 1220 having a longitudinal edge having a first series of peaks 1222 alternating with a first series of valleys 1224. Slider assembly 1218 additionally includes a second slider band 1226 having a second series of peaks 1228 alternating with a second series of valleys 1230. Unlike other slider assemblies depicted herein (such as slider assemblies 100, 1000, and 1100), the distance between adjacent peaks is varied. For example, regarding the first peak 1222, peak 1232 is spaced 1238 away from adjacent peak 1234, and peak 1234 is spaced 1240 away from adjacent peak 1236, where distance 1240 is greater than distance 1238. This described configuration causes variations in the length of the spaces formed between the first and second garment edge edges 1212 and 1216 and the first and second valleys 1224 and 1230. For example, since the distance 1238 between adjacent peaks 1232 and 1234 is less than the distance 1240 between adjacent peaks 1234 and 1236, the length of space 1242 can be less than the length of space 1244. The result of this configuration is that the breathability characteristics of the slider assembly 1218 can vary along the length of the slider assembly 1218.

[0068] Figure 13 The outward-facing surface of a portion of another article 1300 is depicted, the article 1300 having a first garment piece 1310 with a first garment piece edge 1312 and a second garment piece 1314 with a second garment piece edge 1316. Article 1300 is incorporated with a slider assembly 1318. Slider assembly 1318 includes a first slider band 1320 and a second slider band 1326, the first slider band 1320 having a first series of peaks 1322 alternating with a first series of valleys 1324, and the second slider band 1326 having a second series of peaks 1328 alternating with a second series of valleys 1330. The peaks 1322 and 1328 and the valleys 1324 and 1330 are square (i.e., each includes two right angles separated by line segments), rather than having circular apex regions (as shown in conjunction with other slider assemblies described herein). This configuration can result in a relatively long space being formed between the first and second garment piece edges 1312 and 1316 and the valleys 1324 and 1330. For example, the length 1334 of space 1332 can be greater than, for example... Figure 3 The lengths of the spaces in the diagram are 318 and 320. Use, for example... Figure 13 The configuration of the slider assembly shown can increase the overall air permeability / permeability of the product.

[0069] Figures 10 to 13The configuration of the slider component shown is illustrative only, and this document envisions that the slider component may include other configurations, including combinations of the configurations described herein.

[0070] Figure 14 A flowchart depicts an example method 1400 for manufacturing a garment article incorporating a slider assembly as described herein. At step 1410, a first fabric edge (such as the first fabric edge 312 of article 300) is secured to a first longitudinal edge of a first slider band of the slider assembly (such as the first longitudinal edge 114 of the first slider band 110 of slider assembly 100). The first longitudinal edge includes a first series of alternating peaks and valleys, such as a first series of peaks 116 and a first series of valleys 118. In an example embodiment, the first fabric edge is secured to the first series of peaks but not to the first series of valleys, such that a first series of spaces, such as a first series of spaces 318, are formed between the first fabric edge and the respective valleys of the first series of valleys. The first slider band also includes a second longitudinal edge, such as a second longitudinal edge 125, to which a first set of connecting elements (such as a first set of connecting elements 128) are attached. In an example embodiment, the second longitudinal edge may be linear.

[0071] At step 1412, a second fabric edge (such as the second fabric edge 316 of article 300) is secured to a third longitudinal edge of the second slider band of the slider assembly (such as the third longitudinal edge 132 of the second slider band 112 of slider assembly 100). The third longitudinal edge includes a second series of alternating peaks and valleys, such as a second series of peaks 131 and a second series of valleys 134. In an example embodiment, the second fabric edge is secured to the second series of peaks but not to the second series of valleys, such that a second series of spaces, such as a second series of spaces 320, are formed between the second fabric edge and the respective valleys of the second series of valleys. The second slider band also includes a fourth longitudinal edge, such as a fourth longitudinal edge 144, to which a second set of connecting elements (such as a second set of connecting elements 146) are attached. In an example embodiment, the fourth longitudinal edge may be linear.

[0072] Various aspects of this disclosure have been described in an illustrative rather than restrictive manner. Alternative aspects will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from its scope. Those skilled in the art can develop alternative means to implement the above-described improvements without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0073] It should be understood that certain features and sub-combinations are useful and can be used without reference to other features and sub-combinations, and are contemplated to be within the scope of the claims. Not all steps listed in the various figures need to be performed in the specific order described.

Claims

1. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly, the garment article comprising: A first fabric having a first fabric edge and a second fabric having a second fabric edge; The slider assembly has a first slider strip having a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge. The first longitudinal edge includes a first series of alternating peaks and valleys. The second longitudinal edge is opposite to the first longitudinal edge. A first set of connecting elements is attached to the second longitudinal edge. The first fabric edge is fixed to the first series of peaks but not to the first series of valleys, such that a space is formed between the first fabric edge and the valleys of the first series of valleys. The second slider strip of the slider assembly has a third longitudinal edge and a fourth longitudinal edge, the third longitudinal edge comprising a second series of alternating peaks and valleys, the fourth longitudinal edge opposite the third longitudinal edge, and a second set of connecting elements attached to the fourth longitudinal edge, wherein a second fabric edge is fixed to the second series of peaks but not to the second series of valleys, such that a space is formed between the second fabric edge and each valley of the second series of valleys. The spaces formed between the edge of the first fabric and the valleys of the first string of valleys of the first slider belt, and the spaces formed between the edge of the second fabric and the valleys of the second string of valleys of the second slider belt, are through channels.

2. The garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to claim 1, wherein the second longitudinal edge of the first slider strip is linear, and wherein the fourth longitudinal edge of the second slider strip is linear.

3. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the first slider strip is fixed to the inward-facing surface of the first fabric, and wherein the second slider strip is fixed to the inward-facing surface of the second fabric.

4. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first fabric edge is secured to the first peak of the first slider band using a zigzag stitch, and wherein the second fabric edge is secured to the second peak of the second slider band using a zigzag stitch.

5. The garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the width of the space formed between the edge of the first fabric and the respective valleys of the first string of valleys is about 1.5 mm to about 2.5 mm.

6. The garment article incorporating the slider assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the width of the space formed between the edge of the second fabric and the respective valleys of the second string of valleys is about 1.5 mm to about 2.5 mm.

7. The garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first set of connecting elements and the second set of connecting elements comprise zipper teeth.

8. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first set of connecting elements engages with, partially engages with, or disengages from the second set of connecting elements.

9. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein when the first set of connecting elements engages with the second set of connecting elements, the peak of the first string of peaks of the first slider strip is aligned with the peak of the second string of peaks of the second slider strip across the width of the slider assembly.

10. A garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein when the first set of connecting elements engages with the second set of connecting elements, the valleys in the first string of valleys of the first slider strip are aligned with the valleys in the second string of valleys of the second slider strip across the width of the slider assembly.

11. The garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to claim 8, wherein when the first set of connecting elements engages with the second set of connecting elements, the peaks of the first string of peaks of the first slider strip are aligned with the valleys of the second string of valleys of the second slider strip across the width of the slider assembly, and wherein when the first set of connecting elements engages with the second set of connecting elements, the valleys of the first string of valleys of the first slider strip are aligned with the peaks of the second string of peaks of the second slider strip across the width of the slider assembly.

12. A method for manufacturing a garment article incorporating a slider assembly, the method comprising: The first fabric edge of the garment is secured to the first longitudinal edge of the first slider band of the slider assembly. The first longitudinal edge of the first slider band includes a first series of alternating peaks and valleys, wherein the first fabric edge is secured to the first series of peaks but not to the first series of valleys, such that a space is formed between the first fabric edge and each valley of the first series of valleys. The first slider band also includes a second longitudinal edge opposite to the first longitudinal edge, and a first set of connecting elements is attached to the second longitudinal edge. as well as The second fabric edge of the garment is secured to the third longitudinal edge of the second slider band of the slider assembly, the third longitudinal edge of the second slider band comprising a second series of alternating peaks and valleys, wherein the second fabric edge is secured to the second series of peaks but not to the second series of valleys, such that a space is formed between the second fabric edge and each valley of the second series of valleys, and wherein the second slider band further comprises a fourth longitudinal edge opposite to the third longitudinal edge, to which a second set of connecting elements is attached. The spaces formed between the edge of the first fabric and the valleys of the first string of valleys of the first slider belt, and the spaces formed between the edge of the second fabric and the valleys of the second string of valleys of the second slider belt, are through channels.

13. The method of manufacturing a garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to claim 12, wherein the width of the space formed between the edge of the first fabric and the respective valleys of the first tuft is about 1.5 mm to about 2.5 mm, and wherein the width of the space formed between the edge of the second fabric and the respective valleys of the second tuft is about 1.5 mm to about 2.5 mm.

14. The method of manufacturing a garment article incorporating a slider assembly according to any one of claims 12 to 13, wherein the first fabric edge is secured to the first peak of the first slider band using a zigzag stitch, and wherein the second fabric edge is secured to the second peak of the second slider band using a zigzag stitch.

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