Zipper strap structure, packaging bag including zipper strap structure, and method for manufacturing zipper strap structure

Abstract

A zipper strap structure, a packaging bag including the zipper strap structure, and a method for manufacturing the zipper strap structure are provided. The zipper strap structure includes a first strap, a second strap aligned with the first strap, a post portion protruding from the first strap toward the second strap and extending in the length direction of the first strap, a male coupling portion including a pair of locking protrusions formed at the end of the post portion and extending in the width direction of the first strap and in opposite directions to each other and extending in the length direction of the first strap, and a head portion having a central separation groove extending in the length direction of the first strap, the outer surface of the end between the locking protrusions being concave toward the post portion, and a female coupling portion including a pair of wall portions protruding from the second strap toward the first strap and extending in the length direction of the second strap with a storage space for storing the head portions therebetween, and a pair of hook portions bent at the end of the wall portions toward the storage space, extending in the length direction of the second strap, and locked to the locking protrusions.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a zipper strap structure, a packaging bag including the zipper strap structure, and a method for manufacturing the zipper strap structure, and more particularly to a zipper strap structure that provides both tactile and auditory feedback when the zipper is in use and that provides an effective seal, a packaging bag including such a zipper strap structure, and a method for manufacturing such a zipper strap structure. [Background technology]

[0002] Disposable packaging is used in a wide variety of ways. Many products for sale are packed in disposable containers made of vinyl or plastic, and disposable packaging is also used to store products for reuse and for waste disposal. Plastic wrap and plastic bags found in homes are examples of disposable packaging that are useful in everyday life.

[0003] Vinyl bags, in particular, are produced in a variety of sizes, materials, and shapes, and are used for a variety of purposes. Among them, products with zippers at the opening can be sealed and opened and closed as needed, making them useful for storing perishable food items and small items that are easy to lose. Examples of such vinyl bags are disclosed in Korean Utility Model Registration No. 20-0487661, etc.

[0004] The zippers on these vinyl bags are usually constructed with a male and female interlocking structure and are made of flexible plastic material. Therefore, if they are not precisely molded, problems such as poor sealing or difficulty in opening can occur. Furthermore, adding a slider to forcefully open and close the zipper can complicate the structure and increase costs. In particular, the problem of poor zipper opening and closing is more likely to occur when the zipper is modified or a structure is added to add additional functions (for example, to generate zipper operating noise with protrusions), making it a difficult point in product development. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Korean Registered Utility Model No. 20-0487661 (October 17, 2018) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The technical object of the present invention is to solve these problems by providing a zipper strap structure that provides both tactile and auditory sensations when the zipper is used and that is effectively sealed, a packaging bag including such a zipper strap structure, and a method for manufacturing such a zipper strap structure.

[0007] The technical problems of the present invention are not necessarily limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] a male coupling part including: a post portion protruding from the first strap toward the second strap and extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap; a pair of locking protrusions formed at ends of the post portion in the width direction of the first strap, extending in opposite directions in the longitudinal direction of the first strap; and a head portion having an outer surface at the end between the locking protrusions that is concave toward the post portion and has a central separation groove extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap; and a female coupling part including: a pair of wall portions protruding from the second strap toward the first strap and extending in the longitudinal direction of the second strap, spaced apart with an accommodation space therebetween that accommodates the head portions; and a pair of hook portions bent at ends of the wall portions toward the accommodation space, extending in the longitudinal direction of the second strap, and adapted to be engaged with the locking protrusions.

[0009] The male coupling portion may have a height and width of the head portion relative to the first strap that vary periodically along the longitudinal direction of the first strap.

[0010] The head portions may be arranged alternately along the longitudinal direction of the first strap, with first head portions disposed at a first height relative to the first strap and second head portions disposed at a second height relative to the first strap that is lower than the first height and formed by a portion of the head portion being pressed by pressure applied to the central separation groove.

[0011] When the male coupling portion and the female coupling portion are coupled, the distance between the locking protrusion of the second head portion and the hook portion of the female coupling portion may be smaller than the distance between the locking protrusion of the first head portion and the hook portion of the female coupling portion.

[0012] Due to the difference between the first height and the second height, when the male coupling part and the female coupling part are coupled, the difference between the gap between the locking protrusion of the first head part and the hook part of the female coupling part and the gap between the locking protrusion of the second head part and the hook part of the female coupling part can be made smaller.

[0013] The second head portion may have a width greater than that of the first head portion.

[0014] The width of the pillar portion supporting the second head portion may be greater than the width of the pillar portion supporting the first head portion.

[0015] The depth of the central separation groove does not exceed the height of the head portion alone, which is the height of the head portion minus the height of the pillar portion.

[0016] The head portion may have an asymmetric structure in which one of the pair of locking protrusions is larger than the other.

[0017] A packaging bag including the zipper strap structure according to the present invention is formed by attaching the zipper strap structure to an opening.

[0018] A method for manufacturing a zipper strap structure according to the present invention includes the steps of: (a) extrusion-molding a male coupling part having a uniform cross section, the male coupling part including a first strap, a post portion protruding from the first strap and extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap, a pair of locking protrusions formed at ends of the post portion in the width direction of the first strap and extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap, and a head portion having a central separation groove formed on an outer surface of the end of the post portion and recessed between the locking protrusions and extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap; and (b) repeatedly applying pressure to portions of the head portion using a pressure device to deform the cross section of the male coupling part, apply pressure to the central separation groove, and apply pressure to the locking protrusions of the second head portion while spreading them outward, thereby arranging first head portions disposed at a first height relative to the first strap and second head portions disposed at a second height lower than the first height relative to the first strap alternately along the longitudinal direction of the first strap.

[0019] (c) The method may further include a step of molding, by extrusion molding, a second strap, a pair of wall portions protruding from the second strap and extending in the longitudinal direction of the second strap, spaced apart with an accommodation space therebetween for accommodating the head portion, and a female coupling portion including a pair of hook portions bent at ends of the wall portions toward the accommodation space and extending in the longitudinal direction of the second strap, so as to have a constant cross section.

[0020] Due to the deformation in step (b), when the male coupling portion and the female coupling portion are coupled, the distance between the locking protrusion of the second head portion and the hook portion of the female coupling portion in step (c) may be smaller than the distance between the locking protrusion of the first head portion and the hook portion of the female coupling portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to the present invention, the male and female connection of the zipper strap structure is achieved with high accuracy and precision. Furthermore, the tactile and audible signals during operation allow the user to intuitively recognize whether the zipper strap structure is open or closed. Therefore, such a zipper strap structure can be effectively applied to packaging bags and the like to seal the contents. In particular, since the user can effectively seal the contents through the male and female connection of the zipper strap structure and clearly know the operating status of the zipper through the tactile and audible signals, they do not need to repeatedly check whether the zipper is fully closed, as in the past. Furthermore, the present invention allows for the convenient and efficient manufacture of such an improved zipper strap structure, significantly reducing the reject rate during the manufacturing process, making it useful for the manufacture of various products requiring an improved zipper structure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a zipper strap structure according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is a view showing the zipper strap structure of FIG. 1 in a coupled state. FIG. [Figure 3]3 is a cross-sectional view of the zipper strap structure of FIG. 2 taken along line AA'. FIG. [Figure 4] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the zipper strap structure of FIG. 2 taken along the line BB'. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a view of the zipper strap structure as seen from the side where the male coupling portion protrudes. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a view of the zipper strap structure as seen from the side where the female coupling portion protrudes. [Figure 7] 2 is a side view of the female joint of the zipper strap structure of FIG. 1. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a side view of the male coupling portion of the zipper strap structure of FIG. 1. [Figure 9] 1 is a perspective view of a packaging bag including a zipper strap structure according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 10] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating an exemplary method for manufacturing a zipper strap structure according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating an exemplary method for manufacturing a zipper strap structure according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating an exemplary method for manufacturing a zipper strap structure according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 13 is a diagram showing in more detail a process of pressing the head portion with the pressing device of FIG. 12 in the method of manufacturing the zipper strap structure. [Figure 14] 13 is a diagram showing in more detail a process of pressing the head portion with the pressing device of FIG. 12 in the method of manufacturing the zipper strap structure. [Figure 15] 1 is a cross-sectional photograph of a zipper strap structure according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] 1 is a cross-sectional photograph of a zipper strap structure according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] 10 is a cross-sectional photograph of a comparative embodiment. [Figure 18] 10 is a cross-sectional photograph of a comparative embodiment. [Figure 19] 10 is a cross-sectional photograph of a comparative embodiment. [Figure 20]10 is a cross-sectional photograph of a comparative embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] The advantages and features of the present invention, as well as methods for achieving them, will become apparent from the following detailed description of the embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and can be embodied in various different forms. The present embodiments are provided solely to complete the disclosure of the present invention and to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. The present invention is defined solely by the claims. The same reference numerals refer to the same elements throughout the specification.

[0024] Hereinafter, a zipper strap structure, a packaging bag including the zipper strap structure, and a method for manufacturing the zipper strap structure according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to Figures 1 to 20. For the sake of brevity and clarity, the zipper strap structure will be described in detail first with reference to Figures 1 to 8, and then the packaging bag including the zipper strap structure and the method for manufacturing the zipper strap structure will be described in that order with reference to the remaining figures.

[0025] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a zipper strap structure according to one embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the fastened state of the zipper strap structure of Fig. 1, Fig. 3 is an A-A' cross-sectional view of the zipper strap structure of Fig. 2, and Fig. 4 is a B-B' cross-sectional view of the zipper strap structure of Fig. 2. In particular, the A-A' cross-section of Fig. 3 is a cross-section of the first head portion, and the B-B' cross-section of Fig. 4 is a cross-section of the second head portion.

[0026] 1 to 4, a zipper strap structure 10 according to the present invention includes a male coupling portion 110 and a female coupling portion 120. Each of these is divided into a first strap 11 and a second strap 12. The male coupling portion 110 and the female coupling portion 120 are shown in FIG. 1 when separated, but can be coupled as shown in FIG. 2 when pressure is applied to at least one of them to bring them into close contact with each other. While FIGS. 1 and 2 may only show a portion of the zipper strap structure 10, the entire structure is essentially the same since the same structure is repeated. By repeating the illustrated structure, the zipper strap structure 10 can be extended as needed. This zipper strap structure 10 can be used in a variety of applications for products that require zipper closure, such as packaging bags.

[0027] In particular, the zipper strap structure 10 according to the present invention has a central separating groove (see 112c in FIGS. 1, 3, and 4) disposed between the protrusions (locking protrusions 112a, 112b) formed on the male coupling portion 110. As shown in FIG. 1, the central separating groove 112c extends along the length of the male coupling portion 110 and is disposed across the entire heads (first head portion 112-1 and second head portion 112-2) of the male coupling portion 110, whose height and width vary along the length. This central separating groove 112c serves to evenly distribute pressure to both sides of the groove when pressure is applied to the heads (i.e., head portion 112) of the male coupling portion 110 to form heights and depressions, thereby enabling the present invention to obtain a cross-section of the male coupling portion 110 with a precise shape, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. The central separation groove 112c plays a very important role in controlling the process to maintain the shape of the protrusions when forming the different height structures (first head portion 112-1 and second head portion 112-2) on the male coupling portion 110 and to prevent buckling due to uneven pressure.

[0028] Therefore, the present invention allows for a periodic structure of first head portion 112-1 and second head portion 112-2, which are aligned straight without buckling and have varying heights and widths while maintaining a protruding structure, to be arranged on the male coupling portion 110. This periodic structure allows the female coupling portion 120 and the male coupling portion 110 to generate a repeated contact sound when they are attached to or detached from each other, and also provides the user with a periodic tactile sensation created at the contact points. Furthermore, because the male coupling portion 110 is aligned straight without buckling and the protruding structure maintains its precise shape as intended, it can tightly fit with the female coupling portion 120 to form a tight seal between the female coupling portion 120 and the male coupling portion 110.

[0029] The zipper strap structure 10 of the present invention is specifically configured as follows: The zipper strap structure 10 comprises a first strap 11, a second strap 12 arranged in parallel to and facing the first strap 11, a pillar portion 111 projecting from the first strap 11 toward the second strap 12 and extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11, and a pair of locking protrusions 112a, 112b extending in the width direction of the first strap 11 at the end of the pillar portion 111, extending in opposite directions to each other in the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11, and a terminal outer surface between the locking protrusions 112a, 112b that is concave toward the pillar portion 111. The first strap (11) includes a male coupling portion (110) including a head portion (112) having a central separating groove (112c) extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap (11); a pair of wall portions (121) protruding from the second strap (12) toward the first strap (11) and extending in the longitudinal direction of the second strap (12), spaced apart with a storage space (121a) therebetween that stores the head portion (112); and a female coupling portion (120) including a pair of hook portions (122) bent at the ends of the wall portions (121) toward the storage space (121a), extending in the longitudinal direction of the second strap (12) and engaging with the engaging protrusions (112a, 112b).

[0030] In particular, in one embodiment of the present invention, the height and width of the head portion 112 of the male coupling portion 110 relative to the first strap 11 may vary periodically along the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11 (see FIG. 1), and therefore the head portions 112 may be arranged alternately along the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11, with first head portion 112-1 disposed at a first height (see FIG. 3a) relative to the first strap 11 and second head portion 112-2 disposed at a second height (see FIG. 4a') lower than the first height relative to the first strap 11, formed by pressure applied to the central separation groove 112c pressing a portion of the head portion 112. Hereinafter, the configuration, operation, and effects of the present invention will be described in more detail based on one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Referring to FIG. 1 , first strap 11 and second strap 12 are arranged side by side facing each other. Each strap has a certain width and is longer than its width in the longitudinal direction. First strap 11 and second strap 12 can be made of flexible plastic and may be opaque or transparent. Depending on the material, each strap may have different colors, and they may be the same or different colors. First strap 11 and second strap 12 can be extended in length as needed, and in this manner, they can be tailored to various products. For example, when zipper strap structure 10 is applied to the opening of a plastic bag for packaging, first strap 11 and second strap 12 can each have a length corresponding to half the circumference of the opening. For example, the width of first strap 11 and second strap 12 can be several millimeters or approximately one centimeter, and the length can be extended as needed depending on the application. However, this is not limited thereto, and the width of each strap can be extended as needed. The first strap 11 and the second strap 12 form a surface due to their width and length, so that they can be attached to the applicable product with their flat outer surfaces, and after attachment, they can be fixed to the applicable product and support the protruding male coupling portion 110 and female coupling portion 120 on the opposite inner surface.

[0032] The male coupling portion 110 protrudes from the first strap 11, and the female coupling portion 120 protrudes from the second strap 12. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the male coupling portion 110 protrudes toward the second strap 12, and the female coupling portion 120 protrudes toward the first strap 11. That is, the male coupling portion 110 and the female coupling portion 120 protrude toward each other on opposing inner surfaces of each strap. The male coupling portion 110 includes a post portion 111 that protrudes from the first strap 11 toward the second strap 12 and extends in the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11, and a head portion 112 disposed at the end of the post portion 111. The head portion 112 has a pair of locking protrusions 112a, 112b that extend in opposite directions from the end of the pillar portion 111 in the width direction of the first strap 11 and in the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11, and a central separation groove 112c that extends in the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11, with the outer surface of the end between the locking protrusions 112a, 112b recessed toward the pillar portion 111. That is, as described above, the head portion 112 includes the pair of locking protrusions 112a, 112b and the central separation groove 112c that is disposed between the locking protrusions 112a, 112b. The central separation groove 112c has a groove structure that recesses toward the pillar portion 111 in the opposite direction to the protrusion of the pillar portion 111, and in this form, it also has a groove structure that extends long in the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11. As shown in FIG. 1, the central separating groove 112c is disposed across the entire head portion 112, traversing between the locking projections 112a and 112b.

[0033] In particular, as shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 4, the male coupling portion 110 is formed in a structure in which the height and width of the head portion 112 relative to the first strap 11 periodically change along the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11. Therefore, the head portion 112 may include a first head portion 112-1 having a relatively high height and a second head portion 112-2 having a relatively low height. The first head portions 112-1 and the second head portions 112-2 are alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11, as shown in FIG. 1 . That is, the first head portions 112-1 and the second head portions 112-2 may be repeatedly arranged throughout the male coupling portion 110 along the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11. The specific structures of the first head portions 112-1 and the second head portions 112-2 will be described in more detail below. The male coupling portion 110 may be molded integrally with the first strap 11 and made of the same material as the first strap 11. However, this is not a limitation, and if necessary, the material may be changed by a method such as multiple molding (including injection molding) using two or more materials. The male coupling portion 110 protruding from the first strap 11 may be formed in a variety of ways.

[0034] The female coupling part 120 includes a pair of wall parts 121 that protrude from the second strap 12 toward the first strap 11 and extend in the longitudinal direction of the second strap 12, spaced apart with a receiving space 121a therebetween for receiving the head part 112, and a pair of hook parts 122 that bend toward the receiving space 121a at the ends of the wall parts 121, extend in the longitudinal direction of the second strap 12, and engage with the engaging protrusions 112a, 112b of the male coupling part 110. The female coupling part 120 has a uniform cross-section and, unlike the male coupling part 110, does not have a variable height structure. The present invention also has a structural feature that maximizes the elasticity of the female coupling part 120 without additional deformation by not applying additional deformation to the female coupling part 120. As described below, the variable height structure that periodically changes is concentrated on the male coupling part 110 side, and the female coupling part 120 maintains a uniform cross-section. The female coupling portion 120 may also be molded integrally with the second strap 12 and may be made of the same material as the second strap 12, or if necessary, the material may be changed by multiple molding (including injection molding) using two or more materials. The female coupling portion 120 may also be formed by protruding from the second strap 12 in a variety of ways.

[0035] The structural features of the zipper strap structure will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 3 and 4 together with Figures 5-8.

[0036] FIG. 5 is a view of the zipper strap structure as seen from the side where the male coupling portion protrudes, FIG. 6 is a view of the zipper strap structure as seen from the side where the female coupling portion protrudes, FIG. 7 is a side view of the female coupling portion of the zipper strap structure of FIG. 1, and FIG. 8 is a side view of the male coupling portion of the zipper strap structure of FIG. 1.

[0037] The zipper strap structure 10 is a structure in which the female coupling portion 120 and the male coupling portion 110 are coupled together. In particular, the male coupling portion 110 has first and second head portions 112-1 and 112-2, which are periodically arranged and differ in height, providing the user with a contact sound and tactile sensation indicating the operation state. For example, in the case of a longitudinally long plastic product such as the present invention, repeated longitudinal deformation, such as height changes, can be achieved by secondary pressure application after primary molding. However, defects such as excessive deformation and buckling can frequently occur in the areas where pressure is applied. In particular, in the case of the present invention, which has a small width on the order of millimeters, the individual structures are very fine and are easily destroyed or damaged even by small pressure. The present invention solves this problem by using the central separation groove 112c as described above. The pressure distribution by the central separation groove 112c allows the post portion 111 and the locking protrusions 112a and 112b to maintain their intended normal shape and orientation, while essentially realizing a structure in which only the height and width of the head portion 112 periodically change. The manufacturing processes involved are described in more detail below, and the structural features of the present invention realized by such manufacturing processes are explored in more detail below.

[0038] The head portion 112 includes a first head portion 112-1 disposed at a first height a relative to the first strap 11 as shown in FIG. 3, and a second head portion 112-2 disposed at a second height a' relative to the first strap 11, which is lower than the first height, as shown in FIG. 4. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 8, the first head portions 112-1 and the second head portions 112-2 are alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11. For example, the length of the first head portion 112-1 is longer than the length of the second head portion 112-2 in the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11, and therefore the second head portions 112-2, which are substantially lower in height, can be viewed as being periodically arranged between the first head portions 112-1. In particular, the second head portions 112-2 are formed by pressing a portion of the head portion 112 with pressure applied to the central separation groove 112c at the upper end. In other words, when the second head portion 112-2 is formed, the central separation groove 112c is pressurized, thereby dispersing the pressure appropriately, so that the shapes of the pillar portion 111 and the locking protrusions 112a, 112b maintain their intended shapes, as shown in Figure 4, and a cross-sectional structure can be formed in which the pillar portion 111 protrudes vertically from the first strap 11 without buckling.

[0039] The female coupling part 120 grips both sides of the male coupling part 110 with a pair of wall parts 121. The hook parts 122 are bent toward the receiving space between the wall parts 121 (see 121a in FIG. 6) to be engaged with the engaging protrusions 112a and 112b of the male coupling part 110. Due to this structure, differences in the coupling structure may occur, particularly between the first head part 112-1 and the second head part 112-2, which have different heights, and specifically, these may include the following parts. 3 and 4, when the male coupling portion 110 and the female coupling portion 120 are coupled, the distance (b1', b2' in FIG. 4) between the locking protrusions 112a, 112b of the second head portion 112-2 and the hook portion 122 of the female coupling portion 120 may be smaller than the distance (b1, b2 in FIG. 3) between the locking protrusions 112a, 112b of the first head portion 112-1 and the hook portion 122 of the female coupling portion 120. In other words, the locking protrusions 112a, 112b of the second head portion 112-2 may be coupled to the hook portion 122 of the female coupling portion 120 so as to be closer to each other.

[0040] Furthermore, due to the difference between the first height a and the second height a' (which may be a-a'), when the male coupling part 110 and the female coupling part 120 are coupled, the difference between the intervals b1 and b2 between the locking protrusions 112a and 112b of the first head part 112-1 and the hook part 122 of the female coupling part 120 and the intervals b1' and b2' between the locking protrusions 112a and 112b of the second head part 112-2 and the hook part 122 of the female coupling part 120 (which may be b1-b1' and b2-b2', respectively) can be made smaller. In other words, when the second head part 112-2 is pressed by pressure, the locking protrusions 112a and 112b can move more toward the hook part 122 due to the difference in height relative to the first head part 112-1. This is also due to the appropriate pressure dispersion effect of the central separation groove 112c. 5, the width F' of the second head portion 112-2 may be larger than the width F of the first head portion 112-1, which may be a deformation effect due to pressure. Therefore, the second head portion 112-2, which is relatively wider, can be more strongly bound to the hook portion 122.

[0041] 3 and 4, the width c' of the pillar 111 supporting the second head 112-2 may be greater than the width c of the pillar 111 supporting the first head 112-1. The width of the pillar 111 is shown based on the width at the point where it is connected to the head. Both the pillar 111 supporting the first head 112-1 when no pressure is applied and the pillar 111 supporting the second head 112-2 when pressure is applied remain substantially perpendicular to the first strap 11, and deformation is limited to only an increase in the width of the pillar 111. This is also an effect achieved by dispersing pressure to both sides from the central separation groove 112c, and the central separation groove 112c is used to prevent buckling of the pillar 111, allowing deformation to occur with only an increase in height and width c'.

[0042] The difference in the coupling structure between the second head portion 112-2 and the first head portion 112-1 is periodically repeated between the alternatingly arranged second head portion 112-2 and the first head portion 112-1, and the interaction of these differences can produce periodic sound effects. For example, the periodically arranged second head portion 112-2 has relatively large widths c' and F' of the post portion 111 and relatively small intervals b1' and b2' between the locking protrusions 112a and 112b and the hook portion 122, so it can be more firmly coupled to the female coupling portion 120 than the first head portion 112-1. Therefore, when the female coupling portion 120 and the male coupling portion 110 are pushed together to couple or pulled apart, subtle differences in external force, differences in coupling or separation time, differences in elastic force caused by structural differences, and accompanying differences in vibration (or vibration sound) are periodically generated, and the resulting sound effect can be heard when opening or closing the female coupling portion 120 and the male coupling portion 110. In addition, because the user applies pressure with their hands to contact the female coupling portion 120 and the male coupling portion 110 by squeezing them together, the user can more strongly sense the periodic changes in the male coupling portion 110 through tactile sensations at the time of contact. This allows the user to intuitively recognize and clearly know the opening and closing operation when opening or closing the zipper strap structure 10.

[0043] 3 and 4, the pillar 111 maintains a perpendicular shape to the first strap 11 at both the first head 112-1 and the second head 112-2 and is in close contact with the wall 121 of the female coupling part 120, thereby providing a very firm seal between the female coupling part 120 and the male coupling part 110. As shown in Figures 3 to 8, the head 112 may be formed with an asymmetrical structure in which one of the pair of locking protrusions 112a, 112b is larger than the other, and such an asymmetrical structure can be accurately maintained on the first head 112-1 and the second head 112-2 sides due to the pressure distribution of the central separation groove 112c described above. For example, the relatively larger of the locking protrusions 112a, 112b is positioned inside the packaging bag or the like where the contents are located, preventing the connection from being broken due to pressure from the contents, and the relatively smaller of the locking protrusions 112a, 112b is positioned on the opposite entrance side, making it easier for a person to open the entrance.

[0044] As mentioned above, the central separating groove 112c, which disperses pressure when pressure is applied, is crucial to achieving this structure, and the size of the central separating groove 112c contributes to the desired effect of the structure. Preferably, the depth of the central separating groove 112c (d in FIGS. 3 and 4) does not exceed the height of the head portion alone (E, E' in FIGS. 3 and 4), which is the height of the head portion minus the height of the post portion 111. That is, by forming the depth of the central separating groove 112c so that it does not exceed the head portion, the rigidity of the entire male coupling part 110 can be maintained while improving the pressure dispersion effect. While there may be a partial difference between the height E of the first head portion 112-1 alone and the height E' of the second head portion 112-2 alone due to deformation caused by pressure, the central separating groove 112c can be formed to a depth that does not exceed the height of the head portion alone. The zipper strap structure 10 of the present invention can be formed using this structure.

[0045] A packaging bag including a zipper strap structure according to the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to Figure 9. The zipper strap structure described below is substantially the same as the zipper strap structure described above, and therefore includes the same technical features as the zipper strap structure described above. Therefore, redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted, and any descriptions of the zipper strap structure not specifically mentioned will be replaced with the descriptions described above.

[0046] 9 is a perspective view of a packaging bag including a zipper strap structure according to an embodiment of the present invention, and the enlarged view of FIG. 9 shows a cross section of the enlarged portion.

[0047] Based on the above description of the zipper strap structure 10, one embodiment of a packaging bag 1 including the zipper strap structure will now be described. Referring to FIG. 9 , the packaging bag 1 including the zipper strap structure is formed by attaching the zipper strap structure 10 to the opening 1a of the packaging bag 1. The packaging bag 1 may be made of a material such as vinyl, and the opening 1a may be an entrance to the packaging bag 1. The packaging bag 1 is closed on the side opposite the opening 1a so that contents can be placed inside, and the size and capacity of the packaging bag 1 can be changed as desired. Therefore, if the size of the opening 1a changes, the length and width of the zipper strap structure 10 can be adjusted accordingly, so that the opening 1a of the packaging bag 1 can be easily sealed with the zipper strap structure 10.

[0048] When opening or closing the opening 1a of the packaging bag 1, for example, a user can apply pressure with their hands to squeeze or pull the opening 1a or the zipper strap structure 10 arranged at the opening 1a. In this case, the zipper strap structure 10 provides the user with an operating sound and a sense of operation due to the periodic structure as the male coupling portion 110, in which the first head portion 112-1 and the second head portion 112-2 are alternately arranged, couples with or separates from the female coupling portion 120, as described above. This allows the user to clearly recognize the degree to which the packaging bag 1 is open or closed, making it easier to use. Furthermore, when the zipper strap structure 10 is coupled, the male coupling portion 110 and the female coupling portion 120, as described above, tightly seal the opening 1a, allowing the contents of the packaging bag 1 to be stored without leakage. In this manner, a packaging bag 1 including the zipper strap structure 10 can be formed.

[0049] However, the application range of the zipper strap structure 10 need not be limited to packaging bags, etc., and the zipper strap structure 10 can be applied to any number of other products that require opening and closing using a zipper.

[0050] Hereinafter, a method for manufacturing a zipper strap structure according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to Figures 10 to 14. The zipper strap structure described below is substantially similar to the zipper strap structure described above, and therefore, the description of any specific details not specifically mentioned above shall be substituted for the description described above.

[0051] 10 to 12 are views illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing a zipper strap structure according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 13 and 14 are views illustrating in more detail the process of pressing the head portion using the pressing device of FIG. 12 in the method for manufacturing the zipper strap structure.

[0052] The zipper strap structure (see 10 in FIG. 1) can be specifically manufactured in the following manner: The zipper strap structure can be manufactured by sequentially applying extrusion molding and pressure molding.

[0053] Specifically, the method for manufacturing the zipper strap structure includes the following steps: First, a first strap 11 and a male coupling portion 110 are formed by extrusion molding to have a uniform cross section, the male coupling portion 110 including a first strap 11, a pillar portion 111 protruding from the first strap 11 and extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11, a pair of locking protrusions 112a, 112b extending in the width direction of the first strap 11 at the end of the pillar portion 111 and extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11, and a head portion 112 having a central separating groove 112c formed on the outer surface of the end of the pillar portion 111, recessed between the locking protrusions 112a, 112b and extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11 (step (a) - see FIG. 10).

[0054] Thereafter, the pressure device 30 repeatedly applies pressure to a portion of the head portion to deform the cross section of the male coupling portion 110, applies pressure to the central separation groove 112c, and applies pressure while spreading the locking protrusions of the second head portion 112-2 to both sides, so that the first head portion 112-1 arranged at a first height (see FIG. 3a) relative to the first strap 11 and the second head portion 112-2 arranged at a second height (see FIG. 4a') lower than the first height relative to the first strap 11 are alternately arranged along the longitudinal direction of the first strap 11 (step (b) - see FIG. 12).

[0055] Furthermore, by extrusion molding, the second strap 12, a pair of wall portions 121 protruding from the second strap 12 and extending in the longitudinal direction of the second strap 12 and spaced apart with an accommodation space 121a therebetween for accommodating the head portion 112, and a pair of hook portions 122 bent at the ends of the wall portions 121 toward the accommodation space 121a and extending in the longitudinal direction of the second strap 12 can be molded to have a constant cross section (step (c) - see Figure 11).

[0056] That is, the zipper strap structure may include a process of integrally molding the first strap 11 and the male coupling portion 110 using an extrusion molding method (step (a)), and then applying pressure using a pressure device 30 to form the first head portion 112-1 and the second head portion 112-2 on the male coupling portion 110 (step (b)). On the other hand, the second strap 12 and the female coupling portion 120 may be manufactured using only the extrusion molding method without the pressure process (step (c)). The process of forming the second strap 12 and the female coupling portion 120 (step (c)) is independent of the remaining processes of forming the first strap 11 and the male coupling portion 110 (steps (a) and (b)), and may therefore overlap with any one of the remaining steps. The extrusion process of the first strap 11 and the male coupling portion 110 and the extrusion process of the second strap 12 and the female coupling portion 120 will be described first.

[0057] For example, each can be formed by being extruded under pressure from the extrusion device 20 so that they have the same cross section. This process is conceptually shown in Figures 10 and 11. Each extrusion device 20 can have a nozzle at its end, and each nozzle is formed in a shape corresponding to the cross section of the first strap 11 and male coupling part 110, and the cross section of the second strap 12 and female coupling part 120. When molten material is pressurized and discharged through such a nozzle, the first strap 11 and male coupling part 110 having the above-mentioned cross section can be formed as shown in Figure 10, and the second strap 12 and female coupling part 120 having the above-mentioned cross section can be formed as shown in Figure 11. Although not shown, each extrusion can be cooled outside the extrusion device 20 by cooling water or the like.

[0058] However, because each part is formed to have the same cross section through extrusion molding, a process is performed in which pressure is applied again to the extruded first strap 11 and male coupling part 110 using a pressure device 30 to deform the height and width of the head part 112. This pressurizing process is illustrated in FIG. 12. The pressure device 30 may be formed, for example, as a rotor with gear-shaped protrusions 31 formed thereon, and the protrusions 31 can be repeatedly brought into contact with the top end of the head part as the rotor rotates. Heat can also be applied during pressurization; for example, heat can be applied by applying pressure while the pressure device 30 is heated to an appropriate temperature. This process (step (c)) can be a process in which the head part (see 112 in FIG. 10), which was formed to have the same cross section through extrusion molding (step (a)), is repeatedly pressed again to deform the cross section. In particular, the protrusions 31 can apply pressure to the central separation groove 112c of the head part 112, spreading the locking protrusions of the second head part 112-2 outward.

[0059] The pressurizing process is shown in more detail in Figures 13 and 14. Figure 13 shows the state before the protrusion 31 of the pressurizing device 30 presses the central separation groove 112c, and therefore is essentially the same as the first head portion 112-1. When the protrusion 31 of the pressurizing device 30 rotates in this state and presses the central separation groove 112c, the lower second head portion 112-2 is formed, as shown in Figure 14. That is, the unpressurized portion forms the first head portion 112-1 having the first height, and the pressed portion forms the second head portion 112-2 having a lower second height. In particular, pressure can be applied to the central separation groove 112c using the protrusion 31, thereby spreading and compressing the engaging protrusions 112a and 112b of the second head portion 112-2. In this case, as shown in the figure, the pressure is dispersed by the central separation groove 112c and transmitted to both sides of the groove in a balanced manner, thereby making it possible to lower the height of the second head portion 112-2 while maintaining the column portion 111 substantially vertical without buckling, as previously described.

[0060] Furthermore, due to the pressure dispersion effect of the central separation groove 112c, the locking protrusions 112a and 112b on both sides are compressed while spreading outward, so that the second head portion 112-2 decreases in height and expands in width (see F' in FIG. 5) as described above. Even at this time, the pressure is transmitted evenly to both sides through the central separation groove 112c, so the locking protrusions 112a and 112b maintain their precise shape without being deformed or crushed. That is, the central separation groove 112c allows the second head portion 112-2 to be formed with locking protrusions 112a and 112b that have a precise shape that is substantially similar to that of the first head portion 112-1, which is not subjected to pressure. The pressure evenly distributed to both sides of the central separation groove 112c pushes the pillars 111 supporting the second head portion 112-2 evenly on both sides, increasing only the width (see c' in FIG. 4) without buckling.

[0061] Due to the deformation caused by this pressure application process (step (b)), when the male coupling part 110 and the female coupling part 120 are coupled together, the distances b1' and b2' between the locking protrusions 112a and 112b of the second head part 112-2 and the hook part 122 of the female coupling part 120 become smaller than the distances b1 and b2 between the locking protrusions 112a and 112b of the first head part 112-1 and the hook part 122 of the female coupling part 120. This may cause the difference between the first head part 112-1 and the second head part 112-2 as described above. That is, as described above, the second head 112-2 can be more firmly coupled to the female coupling part 120 than the first head 112-1 because the distances b1', b2' between the locking protrusions 112a, 112b and the hook part 122 are relatively small. Therefore, when the female coupling part 120 and the male coupling part 110 are pushed together or pulled apart, subtle differences in external force, coupling or separation time, and elastic force caused by structural differences can occur periodically. Therefore, the resulting sound effect can be generated when the female coupling part 120 and the male coupling part 110 are opened or closed. The user can also strongly feel the periodic changes in the male coupling part 110 through the touch when they come into contact with each other by applying pressure with their hands, such as squeezing the female coupling part 120 and the male coupling part 110 together.

[0062] This deformation process due to pressure is unique and effective in the present invention, and its effects are more clearly confirmed when compared with the comparative embodiment. The effects of the present invention will be described in more detail below by comparing the present embodiment and the comparative embodiment using microscopic photographs.

[0063] 15 and 16 are cross-sectional photographs of a zipper strap structure according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 17 to 20 are cross-sectional photographs of comparative embodiments. These are micrographs of enlarged cross sections of the zipper strap structure according to one embodiment of the present invention and the comparative embodiments, respectively.

[0064] Figures 15 and 16 show cross-sectional photographs of a zipper strap structure according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15 is a cross-sectional photograph of the first head portion (see 112-1 in Figure 3) without pressure, and Figure 16 is a cross-sectional photograph of the second head portion (see 112-2 in Figure 4) formed by pressure (with heat). The shapes of the locking protrusions (see 112a and 112b in Figures 3 and 4) are clearly visible, the central separation groove (see 112c in Figures 3 and 4) is clearly formed, and the post portion (see 111 in Figures 3 and 4) extends perpendicular to the first strap (see 11 in Figures 3 and 4) without buckling. It is possible to actually manufacture zipper strap structures having such cross-sections using the manufacturing method of the present invention described above.

[0065] In contrast, cross sections of a comparative embodiment (which may be a zipper strap product including similar female and male coupling portions) can be seen in Figures 17-20. Figure 17 shows a structure corresponding to the male coupling portion of the present invention (a structure protruding upward from the bottom of the photograph), but it can be seen that no groove structure like the central separation groove 112c is formed. Instead, a protrusion X protruding upward in the center is observed. Figures 18, 19, and 20 show examples of deformation of Figure 17 by applying pressure. That is, Figure 17 corresponds to the first head portion of the present invention (the structure before pressure application), and Figures 18, 19, and 20 all correspond to the second head portion of the present invention (the structure after pressure (and heat) is applied). However, buckling and lateral warping are clearly observed in all of Figures 18, 19, and 20, confirming that no close coupling structure is formed with the upper structure corresponding to the female coupling portion. In particular, in the case of the comparative embodiment, when pressure is applied and deformation is caused, the parts corresponding to the locking protrusions of the present invention are crushed as shown in Figures 18, 19, and 20, making it difficult for them to function as locking protrusions.

[0066] The comparative example shows what happens when a male coupling part with a protrusion X protruding from the center is directly pressurized (along with heat) as shown in Figure 17. When a protrusion X is formed, it is difficult to distribute the applied pressure, causing irregular deformation throughout the structure corresponding to the male coupling part, and the structure corresponding to the post part almost buckles. Therefore, it can be seen that it is difficult to create a pressed structure while maintaining a normal shape, like the second head part of the present invention. Furthermore, because the structure corresponding to the locking protrusion itself is crushed or destroyed by uneven pressure due to buckling, it can be seen that it is difficult to use as a zipper strap.

[0067] If the pressurized portions (FIGS. 18, 19, and 20) buckle and collapse as in the comparative embodiment, it is difficult to achieve a structure in which the first and second head portions alternate periodically, as in the present invention. Even if the zipper is forcibly pressed and deformed, the pressurized portions buckle and collapse irregularly, as in FIGS. 18, 19, and 20, preventing the entire zipper strap from opening and closing uniformly and making it difficult to maintain its original performance. Even when the zipper is closed, the buckled or collapsed portions, as shown in the photographs, can cause contents to leak, and the zipper does not make a good sound when opening and closing, and the inconsistent sound and tactile sensation can actually cause uneasiness. This difference from the present invention can be confirmed by comparison with the comparative embodiment having the protrusion X, which indicates that it is due to the pressure dissipation structure, such as the central separation groove 112c. Therefore, this comparison also demonstrates the superior effects of the present invention.

[0068] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be embodied in other specific forms without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that the above-described embodiment is illustrative in all respects and is not limiting. [Industrial Applicability]

[0069] The zipper strap structure of the present invention achieves highly accurate and precise male-female coupling. Furthermore, the tactile and audible sensations during operation allow the user to intuitively recognize whether the zipper strap structure is open or closed, making the zipper strap structure of the present invention useful for sealing contents in packaging bags and other products. The present invention can also be applied to a variety of other products that can be opened and closed with a zipper. Furthermore, the manufacturing method of the present invention not only makes it possible to manufacture such an improved zipper strap structure very conveniently and effectively, but also significantly reduces the reject rate during the manufacturing process, making the manufacturing method of the present invention applicable to the manufacture of a variety of products requiring an improved zipper structure. Therefore, the present invention has industrial applicability. [Explanation of symbols]

[0070] 1 packing bag 1a opening 10 Zipper Strap Structure 11 First Strap 12 Second Strap 20 Extrusion equipment 30 Pressure device 31 Protrusion 110 Male coupling part 111 Column section 112 Head 112a,112b Locking protrusion 112c center separation groove 112-1 First head section 112-2 Second head section 120 female joint 121 Wall section 121a Containment Space 122 Hook part

Claims

1. A first strap; a second strap disposed adjacent to and facing the first strap; a male coupling part including a post portion projecting from the first strap toward the second strap and extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap, a pair of locking protrusions extending in opposite directions from an end of the post portion in the width direction of the first strap, and a head portion having a distal outer surface between the locking protrusions that is concave toward the post portion and has a central separating groove extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap; a female coupling portion including a pair of wall portions that protrude from the second strap toward the first strap, extend in the longitudinal direction of the second strap, and are spaced apart with an accommodation space therebetween for accommodating the head portion; and a pair of hook portions that bend at ends of the wall portions toward the accommodation space, extend in the longitudinal direction of the second strap, and are engaged with the engaging protrusions, The male coupling portion has a head portion whose height and width relative to the first strap vary periodically along the length of the first strap.

2. 2. The zipper strap structure according to claim 1, wherein the head portions are arranged alternately along the longitudinal direction of the first strap, with first head portions disposed at a first height relative to the first strap and second head portions formed by pressing a portion of the head portion with pressure applied to the central separation groove and disposed at a second height relative to the first strap that is lower than the first height.

3. 3. The zipper strap structure according to claim 2, wherein when the male coupling portion and the female coupling portion are coupled together, a distance between the locking protrusion of the second head portion and the hook portion of the female coupling portion is smaller than a distance between the locking protrusion of the first head portion and the hook portion of the female coupling portion.

4. 3. The zipper strap structure according to claim 2, wherein a difference between a distance between the locking protrusion of the first head portion and the hook portion of the female coupling portion and a distance between the locking protrusion of the second head portion and the hook portion of the female coupling portion when the male coupling portion and the female coupling portion are coupled is smaller than the difference between the first height and the second height.

5. 3. The zipper strap structure according to claim 2, wherein the width of the second head portion is greater than the width of the first head portion.

6. 3. The zipper strap structure of claim 2, wherein a width of the post supporting the second head portion is greater than a width of the post supporting the first head portion.

7. 3. The zipper strap structure of claim 2, wherein the depth of the central separating groove does not exceed the height of the head portion only, which is the height of the head portion minus the height of the post portion.

8. The zipper strap structure according to claim 1 , wherein the head portion has an asymmetrical structure in which one of the pair of locking protrusions is larger than the other.

9. A first strap; a second strap disposed adjacent to and facing the first strap; a male coupling part including a post portion projecting from the first strap toward the second strap and extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap, a pair of locking protrusions extending in opposite directions from an end of the post portion in the width direction of the first strap, and a head portion having a distal outer surface between the locking protrusions that is concave toward the post portion and has a central separating groove extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap; a zipper strap structure is attached to the opening, the zipper strap structure including a pair of wall portions projecting from the second strap toward the first strap and extending in a longitudinal direction of the second strap, spaced apart with an accommodating space therebetween for accommodating the head portion, and a female coupling portion including a pair of hook portions bent at ends of the wall portions toward the accommodating space, extending in the longitudinal direction of the second strap, and engaging with the engaging protrusions; The male connecting portion includes a zipper strap structure in which the height and width of the head portion relative to the first strap periodically change along the longitudinal direction of the first strap.

10. 10. A packaging bag including the zipper strap structure of claim 9, wherein the head portions are arranged alternately along the longitudinal direction of the first strap, with first head portions disposed at a first height relative to the first strap and second head portions formed by pressing a portion of the head portion by pressure applied to the central separation groove and disposed at a second height relative to the first strap that is lower than the first height.

11. 11. A packaging bag including the zipper strap structure of claim 10, wherein when the male coupling portion and the female coupling portion are coupled together, a distance between the locking protrusion of the second head portion and the hook portion of the female coupling portion is smaller than a distance between the locking protrusion of the first head portion and the hook portion of the female coupling portion.

12. 11. The packaging bag including the zipper strap structure of claim 10, wherein a difference between a distance between the locking protrusion of the first head portion and the hook portion of the female coupling portion and a distance between the locking protrusion of the second head portion and the hook portion of the female coupling portion is smaller than a difference between the first height and the second height when the male coupling portion and the female coupling portion are coupled.

13. The packaging bag including the zipper strap structure according to claim 10, wherein the width of the second head portion is greater than the width of the first head portion.

14. The packaging bag including the zipper strap structure according to claim 10, wherein a width of the column supporting the second head portion is greater than a width of the column supporting the first head portion.

15. 11. The packaging bag including the zipper strap structure according to claim 10, wherein the depth of the central separation groove does not exceed the height of the head portion only, which is the height of the head portion minus the height of the column portion.

16. 10. The packaging bag including the zipper strap structure according to claim 9, wherein the head portion is formed in an asymmetrical structure in which one of the pair of locking protrusions is larger than the other.

17. (a) molding a male coupling part having a uniform cross section by extrusion molding, the male coupling part including: a first strap; a post portion protruding from the first strap and extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap; a pair of locking protrusions extending in the width direction of the first strap at the end of the post portion and extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap; and a head portion having a central separating groove formed in a concave shape on an outer surface of the end of the post portion between the locking protrusions and extending in the longitudinal direction of the first strap; (b) repeatedly applying pressure to a portion of the head portion with a pressure device to deform a cross section of the male coupling portion, apply pressure to the central separation groove, and apply pressure while spreading the locking protrusions to both sides, thereby arranging first head portions disposed at a first height relative to the first strap and second head portions disposed at a second height relative to the first strap that is lower than the first height alternately along the longitudinal direction of the first strap.

18. 20. The method for manufacturing a zipper strap structure according to claim 17, further comprising: (c) molding, by extrusion molding, a second strap; a pair of wall portions protruding from the second strap and extending in a longitudinal direction of the second strap, the wall portions being spaced apart with an accommodation space therebetween for accommodating the head portion; and a pair of hook portions bent at ends of the wall portions toward the accommodation space and extending in the longitudinal direction of the second strap, so as to have a uniform cross section.

Images