Zipper bottom fastener

Abstract

A bottom stop mechanism (200) for a zip (100) is provided. The bottom stop mechanism (200) comprises: a first bottom stop (300) with a body (302) with a passage (304) for attachment to a first zip tape (102); and a second bottom stop (400) with a protrusion (406) for attachment to a second zip tape (104). The body (302) of the first bottom stop (300) has a longitudinal axis and the passage (304) extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. The coordinate system of the bottom stop mechanism (300) comprises a y-direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, an x-direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis along which the passage (304) is open, and a z-direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis along which the passage (304) is closed. The protrusion 406 is configured to be inserted into the passage 304 in the x direction to engage the first and second bottom stops 300, 400. The protrusion 406 is configured to slide within the passage 304 in the y direction when the first and second bottom stops 300, 400 are engaged, and the protrusion 406 is configured to slide within the passage 304 towards an end position. When the protrusion 406 is in the end position, the first and second bottom stops 300, 400 are aligned in the x, y and z directions by the engagement of the protrusion 406 with the passage 304 to allow fastening of the zip 100.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a bottom stop mechanism for a zip and to a zip. [Background technology]

[0002] Zips are used as closures to join two edges together, for example in clothing and life preservers. Zips are typically opened and closed by pulling a slider along two sets of teeth that meet at one end where the male zip section is inserted into the female zip section.

[0003] This maneuver can be difficult or even very challenging for people with poor or impaired vision and reduced dexterity caused by a variety of medical conditions, such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and other neurological conditions.

[0004] Additionally, zippers are difficult for young children to use, and users face extreme difficulties in harsh weather conditions that require the use of gloves.

[0005] Whether young, old, or disabled, it is well known that people have difficulty zipping up someone else's clothing.

[0006] If the male and female zip sections are not properly aligned, the zip closing process will fail. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The zipper was invented in the 1900s and there is a clear need to improve its design to make it universally usable so that everyone can benefit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] One aspect of the present invention is: a first bottom stop having a body with a passageway for attachment to a first zip tape; and a second bottom stop with a protrusion for attachment to a second zip tape;

[0010] The present invention provides a bottom stop mechanism for a zipper, comprising: wherein the body of the first bottom stop has a longitudinal axis and the passage extends parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the coordinate system of the bottom stop mechanism comprises a y direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, an x ​​direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and along which the passage opens, and a z direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and along which the passage closes; Here, the protrusion is configured to be inserted into the passage in the x direction to engage the first and second bottom stops, wherein the protrusion is configured to slide within the passage in the y direction once the first and second bottom stops are engaged, wherein the protrusion is configured to slide within the passage towards an end position, and wherein when the protrusion is in the end position, the first and second bottom stops are aligned in the x direction, y direction and z direction by the engagement of the protrusion with the passage, allowing the zip to be fastened.

[0009] Other aspects of the present invention include: a first zip tape having a first set of teeth; a second zip tape having a second set of teeth configured to engage with the first set of teeth; a slider disposed on the first set of teeth and slidable along the first set of teeth to guide the second set of teeth into engagement with the first set of teeth; and Bottom stop mechanism A zipper comprising: Here, the first zip tape has a first bottom stop, where the second zip tape has a second bottom stop, and where the y direction is parallel to the direction in which the slider slides over the teeth.

[0010] A "separation" of a zipper refers to the ability of the two edges to completely separate when the zipper is opened. The bottom stop is located at the end where the slider sits when the zipper is open, and this end includes a male and female portion that hold the two sides of the zipper together. In this specification, the female portion is referred to as the "box pin" and the male portion is the "butterfly pin." A top stop may also be located at the other end of the tooth to prevent the slider from disengaging from the tooth at that end.

[0011] A zip tape is a strip of fabric with teeth. The fabric can be sewn, glued, or otherwise incorporated into a garment or any article having a zipper. A slider can be configured to interlock teeth on each section of the zip (each zip tape). The slider can be positioned to slide over one set of teeth whether the zip is open or closed. To close the zip, the other set of teeth must also be engaged by the slider. The slider can have a Y-shaped passage and can be attached to the first zip tape via one side of the Y. The second set of teeth can have a tab configured to be inserted into the open side of the Y. The tab can be inserted through the Y and into the box pin of the first zip tape. From this point, sliding the slider along both sets of teeth will interlock them via the Y-shaped passage.

[0012] The bottom stop makes it easier for a user to insert the insert pin into the box pin. The box pin can be configured to receive the insert pin. A stop for the insert pin may be provided on the inside of (or as part of) the box pin, which is configured to engage with the insert pin when the insert pin is properly inserted into the box pin.

[0013] In use, a user can first fit the two bottom stops together in the x direction, and then slide the second bottom stop in the y direction relative to the first bottom stop so that the protrusion passes through the passageway.

[0014] The end position of the protrusion can be the point in the path farthest from the tooth. If the tooth is located near the top of the bottom stop, the end position is closer to the bottom of the bottom stop. As the protrusion slides to its end position, the bottom stops can be mated together in both the y and z directions.

[0015] Once the bottom stops are aligned in the x, y, and z directions, the user may be able to fasten the zip normally (ie, without the slider getting caught on misaligned teeth).

[0016] The protrusion may include a chamfered edge to improve ease of engagement between the protrusion and the passageway. The chamfered surface may include a smooth edge to allow smooth sliding in the passageway. The protrusion may include multiple chamfered edges to allow smooth sliding in either direction within the passageway.

[0017] The passage may narrow towards the end position so that as the protrusion moves towards the end position, the accuracy of alignment of the first bottom stop and the second bottom stop in the z direction at the end position improves.

[0018] In prior art zips with a tab and box pin in the bottom stop, the user must align the tab with the box pin in both the x and z directions before inserting the tab into the box pin in the y direction. In this case (because coordinates cannot be defined relative to the first bottom stop passage), the y direction is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the zip tape and the sets of teeth, and the x and z directions are both vertical. With the bottom stop mechanism, precise alignment in the z direction is not required when the user begins the zip closing process. As the protrusion slides through the passage toward the end point, the tab is guided by the box pin, thereby aligning the bottom stop in the z direction.

[0019] The first bottom stop may include a first part and a second part configured to clamp the first zip tape, the first part and the second part together defining a passageway, which may facilitate simple assembly of the zip. The first bottom stop may include a tab configured to penetrate the first zip tape.

[0020] The second end stop may further include a passageway parallel to the longitudinal axis of the second end stop, wherein the protrusion is disposed in and configured to protrude from the passageway, wherein the passageway is configured to accommodate a zip element associated with the first zip tape during use. For example, the passageways of the second end stop may be sized to accommodate a slider such that the slider does not get in the way when a user aligns the first and second end stops together. The passageway of the second end stop may account for the slider when a user aligns the first and second end stops.

[0021] The second bottom stop may include a third part and a fourth part configured to clamp the second zip tape, the third part and the fourth part together defining a passageway, which may facilitate simple assembly of the zip. The second bottom stop may include a tab configured to penetrate the second zip tape.

[0022] The third and fourth parts may each form a portion of the protrusion, and when brought together to sandwich the second zip tape, the portions of the protrusions may come together to form the protrusion, or the protrusion may be located on one of the third or fourth parts.

[0023] The first and second bottom stops may be made of a polymeric material, for example, the first and second bottom stops may comprise a plastic material.

[0024] Alternatively, the first and second bottom stops may comprise a metal. In one example, one of the first and second bottom stops may comprise a ferromagnetic material and the other of the first and second bottom stops may comprise a permanent magnet. The permanent magnet may be configured to magnetically attract the ferromagnetic material to attract the first and second bottom stops.

[0025] In one example, both the first and second bottom stops may include permanent magnets configured to magnetically attract each other, attracting the first and second bottom stops together.

[0026] The second bottom stop may include a permanent magnet, and the magnet may be located on or within the protrusion. The passageway of the first bottom stop may include a ferromagnetic material and / or a magnet, and the protrusion may be magnetically attracted toward the passageway. The protrusion may include a chamfered edge, and the permanent magnet may be located adjacent to the chamfered edge.

[0027] The first and second bottom stops may each have an outer surface for being grasped by a user, and the smooth outer surfaces may be parallel when the protrusions are at their end positions and when the bottom stops are aligned in the x, y, and z directions. In particular, if a user is visually impaired or blind, the user may rely on touch to identify that the bottom stops (and thus the insert pin and box pin) are aligned. The bottom stops may be configured such that when the protrusions reach their end positions, the outer surfaces of each become parallel to form a single outer surface.

[0028] The first zip tape may include a box pin (which may be configured adjacent to the first set of teeth to retain the slider on the first set of teeth). The passageway in the first bottom stop may be configured to accommodate the box pin. The passageway in the first bottom stop may extend in the y direction along the length of the first bottom stop away from the box pin.

[0029] The first bottom stop may clamp the first zip tape adjacent the box pin.

[0030] In these examples, the first bottom stop may include a box pin configured to hold the slider on the first set of teeth. The box pin can also be configured to ensure that the second set of teeth is properly aligned with the first set of teeth for closure when the insert pin is properly inserted. The box pin can also be configured to ensure that the slider is accurately positioned on the first set of teeth to ensure that the first and second sets of teeth are properly aligned when brought together. The box pin can also be configured to prevent the end of the zipper from accidentally disconnecting under load.

[0031] The second zip tape may include a butterfly pin configured to be inserted through the slider onto the box pin to engage the slider with the second set of teeth.

[0032] In these examples, the first bottom stop may include a groove into which the insert pin is configured to be inserted over the slider to engage the slider with the second set of teeth. The groove may include a stop for the insert pin configured to engage with the insert pin when properly inserted into the groove. In this example, the groove may replace the need for a box pin.

[0033] The zip may comprise a latch mechanism, wherein the first bottom stop comprises a latch configured to latch onto a latch receiving element of the second bottom stop, wherein the latch mechanism is configured to retain the first and second bottom stops in the x direction to prevent them from accidentally disengaging under load.

[0034] The second bottom stop may have a passage, and the insert pin may be disposed within the passage of the second bottom stop. A portion of the second zip tape may be disposed within the passage, and the insert pin may be attached to the second zip tape such that the insert pin can move on the second zip tape (fabric) within the passage. This flexibility may make it easier for a user to insert the insert pin into the box pin. The passage may allow room for misalignment of the first and second bottom stops when a user attempts to insert the insert pin into the box pin.

[0035] When the protrusion is in the end position, the insert pin may be inserted into the box pin. This is because when the protrusion is in the end position, the first and second bottom stops may be aligned in the x-direction, y-direction, and z-direction. By aligning the first and second bottom stops in the y-direction, the insert pin can be inserted into the box pin.

[0036] The second bottom stop may have a recess configured to accommodate the slider closer to the second zip tape than the protrusion. The recess may allow room for a user to struggle with aligning the first and second bottom stops in the x and z directions and with getting the protrusion into the passage of the first bottom stop. The user can attempt to insert the protrusion correctly without hitting the body of the second bottom stop against the slider (and possibly damaging or jamming the zip).

[0037] The slider may include a pull tab configured to allow the slider to be moved by a user over the teeth, where the recess has a length greater than the length of the pull tab. When the slider and pull tab are at the bottom end of the second zip tape, the recess may allow the user to more easily grip the pull tab. An easier-to-grasp pull tab is desirable, particularly when the zip is used in warm clothing and the user may operate the zip while wearing gloves or mittens.

[0038] The first and second bottom stops may extend less than 0.1 m from the first and second zip tapes, respectively. The bottom stops may extend less than 0.08 m, 0.07 m, 0.06 m, 0.05 m, or 0.05 m from the zip tapes, respectively. Each bottom stop may have a length of, for example, less than 0.1 m, 0.08 m, or 0.05 m. This may minimize any noticeable difference between conventional zips and the present zip. An advantage of the present zip may be that users of a product including the zip may experience the benefits of the improved first and second bottom stops without noticing any aesthetic or weight differences in the product.

[0039] Examples are shown in the following figures: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0040] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view of a zip having a bottom stop mechanism with a first bottom stop and a second bottom stop, showing the zip separated before the first and second bottom stops are engaged. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of the bottom stop mechanism of FIG. 1, showing the first bottom stop and second bottom stop engaged, but the zip not yet engaged. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a front view of the bottom stop mechanism of FIGS. 1 and 2, showing the first and second bottom stops fully engaged and the zip engaged. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a side view of the first bottom holdfast of FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 attached to a first zip tape. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows a side view of the second bottom holdfast of FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 attached to a second zip tape. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows the step of fully engaging the first and second bottom stops. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows the step of fully engaging the first and second bottom stops. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 shows the step of fully engaging the first and second bottom stops. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows the step of fully engaging the first and second bottom stops. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows the step of fully engaging the first and second bottom stops. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 shows a front view and a top view of a bottom stop mechanism according to a second embodiment including a magnet. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0041] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in more detail below, by way of example only: Because embodiments of the present invention may be in any orientation (either direction), terms such as horizontal, vertical, upper and lower should be understood to refer to relative positions and directions.

[0042] 1-5, the zip 100 is shown with a bottom stop mechanism 200. The bottom stop mechanism 200 includes a first bottom stop 300 and a second bottom stop 400. The first bottom stop 300 is attached to the first zip tape 102, and the second bottom stop 400 is attached to the second zip tape 104. The zip tapes 102, 104 each include a set of teeth 106 that interlock to close the zip 100. The teeth 106 are engaged and disengaged by a slider 108. To engage the teeth 106 and close the zip 100, the insert pin 116 must be fully inserted through the slider 108 and into the box pin 114. Subsequently, by moving the slider 108 over the zip tapes 102, 104, the teeth 106 interlock and close the zip 100.

[0043] Inserting the insert pin 116 into the box pin 114 is often difficult because the pin 116 is relatively small and the alignment of the pin 116 and the box pin 114 must be relatively precise for proper engagement. The slider 108 is provided with a pull tab 110 that the user can grasp and use to pull the slider 108 along the teeth 106.

[0044] According to an embodiment, the process of inserting the rod 116 into the box pin 114 is simplified and guided through the use of a bottom stop mechanism 200 .

[0045] The first bottom stop 300 comprises a body 302. In this embodiment, the body 302 comprises a first part 311 and a second part 312 that sandwich the first zip tape 102. The first part 311 may be secured to the second part 312 using fasteners such as screws 322, or in any other suitable manner (e.g., by snap fitting or using adhesive).

[0046] A passageway 304 is defined in the body 302. The passageway 304 defines a y-direction along its length and an x-direction perpendicular to the y-direction and into which the passageway 304 opens. Figure 1 illustrates the x and y directions. The z-direction is defined as perpendicular to both the x and y directions (crossing the plane of the paper in Figure 1). The y-direction corresponds to the direction that the slider 108 moves to fasten and unfasten the zipper 100. For the front zipper of the coat, which is located at the front of the body when worn, the y-direction is vertical, the x-direction is horizontal and extends in an inward / outward direction, and the z-direction is horizontal and extends in a front-to-back direction.

[0047] An advantage of the bottom stop mechanism 200 is that the bottom stops 300, 400 are configured to ensure alignment in the x and y directions which then naturally results in alignment in the z direction, so that even if a user aligns the bottom stops 300, 400 with somewhat poor (or inaccurate) alignment in the z direction, proper alignment for closing the zip 100 can be achieved.

[0048] The zip tape 102 secured to the first bottom stop 300 is positioned so that the box pin 114 is near the top end 303 of the first bottom stop 300. A passage 304 in the first bottom stop 300 may be open at the top end 303 of the first bottom stop 300 and close near the bottom end 301 of the first bottom stop 300 to define an end stop 305.

[0049] The body 302 further comprises a mating surface 313 that contacts the second bottom stop 400 to define the relative position of the first bottom stop 300 and the second bottom stop 400 in the x-direction.

[0050] The passageway 304 may extend over at least half the length (in the y-direction), for example, three-quarters of the length, of the body 302. The passageway 304 may be centrally located (in the z-direction) as shown in the exemplary embodiment, although this is not required.

[0051] The second bottom stop 400 comprises a body 402. The body 402 may comprise at least two parts (shown as a third part 411 and a fourth part 412) configured to come together to form the body 402. This may allow the body 402 to sandwich the second zip tape 104 (the third part and the fourth part are sandwiched on either side of the zip tape 104). Figure 1 shows a pair of screws 422 that pass through the body 402 and secure the third part to the fourth part. Other suitable attachment means, such as an adhesive, may be used to form the body 402.

[0052] The second bottom stop 400 further includes a protrusion 406 and a passage 404. The protrusion 406 extends outward in the x-direction from the mating surface 413 of the second bottom stop 400. The protrusion 406 is received in the passage 304 of the first bottom stop 300, thereby constraining the relative position (z-direction) between the first bottom stop 300 and the second bottom stop 400. The engagement between the mating surface 313 of the first bottom stop 300 and the mating surface 413 of the second bottom stop 400 constrains the relative position of the first bottom stop 300 and the second bottom stop 400 in the x-direction. The protrusion 406 and the mating surfaces 313, 413 guide the engagement between the first and second bottom stops 300, 400 and the engagement between the first and second zip tapes 102, 104.

[0053] Additionally, the protrusion 406 is configured to constrain the relative angular position of the first end stop 300 and the second end stop 400 when the protrusion 406 is received in the passage 304. For example, the protrusion 406 may include a flat ridge that is received in the passage 304 to constrain relative rotation of the first end stop 300 and the second end stop 400 about the x-axis. The protrusion may have a flat upper surface and a parallel flat lower surface, and may be configured to provide a clearance fit with corresponding surfaces of the passage 304.

[0054] Each of the bottom stops 300, 400 may have a width in the x-direction at its end 300a, 400a. The width of the first and second bottom stops may be approximately 2.5 cm, for example, in the range of 1 cm to 3 cm. The length of the first and second bottom stops may be in the range of 1 cm to 105 cm. The width (and / or length) of the first bottom stop 300 and the second bottom stop 400 need not be the same. The width of each main body 302, 402 may vary along the longitudinal axis of each main body 302, 402. The length (y-direction) of the protrusion 406 may be 5 mm to 35 mm. The thickness (z-direction) of the protrusion 406 may be 0.5 mm to 15 mm. The protrusion 406 may extend at least 1 mm, for example, 1 mm to 5 mm, above the mating surface 413 (x-direction). The gap between the protrusion 406 and the passage 304 may be at least 20 microns and at least 50 microns (z-direction).

[0055] 2, the passage 404 of the second bottom stop 400 can be configured to receive the box pin 114 of the first zip tape 102 during engagement of the first and second bottom stops 300, 400. The box pin 114 can be received in the passage 404 of the second bottom stop 400 when the protrusion 406 of the second bottom stop 400 is received in the passage 304 of the first bottom stop 300 (when the mating surfaces 313, 413 are parallel).

[0056] The second bottom stop 400 further includes a recess 408 that accommodates the slider 108 of the first zip tape 102 when the first and second bottom stops 300, 400 are engaged together. The recess 408 may include a region of the passageway 404 of the second bottom stop 400 that is open in the z-direction. The recess 408 may also provide space for a user's fingers to reach the pull tab 110, making it easier for the user to grip the pull tab 110. The recess 408 may have a length longer than the pull tab 110 to assist the user in gripping the pull tab 110.

[0057] Removable attachment means (such as screws 422) may be used such that the body 302, 402 is removably configured to the zip tape 102, 104. This allows the same body 102, 104 to be reused with new zip tapes 102, 104. In other embodiments, the attachment of the body 302, 402 may be designed to be permanent.

[0058] In other embodiments, the body 302, 402 may comprise one or more unitary pieces, for example, the body 302, 402 may comprise a flexible hinge along one side and a snap fastening mechanism that allows it to be fastened to (and optionally clamped to) the zip tape 102, 104.

[0059] One or both of the bodies 302, 402 may include protrusions or hooks, for example, for attachment to or passage through the zip tapes 102, 104. One or both of the bodies 302, 402 may include recesses for receiving the zip tapes 102, 104, respectively.

[0060] The bodies 302, 402 may each be made of, for example, a polymeric material or metal. It may be desirable to use a lightweight material so that the additional weight is not noticeable to a user having the bottom catch mechanism 200 on their clothing.

[0061] In the exemplary embodiment, the passageway 304 of the first bottom stop 300 is defined in both the first and second parts 311, 312. In other embodiments, the passageway of the first bottom stop 300 may be formed solely from the first part 311 or the second part 312. For example, the first part 311 may be defined as a simpler, flat "lid" for the passageway defined in the second part 312.

[0062] Similarly, the passageway 404 and protrusion 406 of the second bottom stop, in the exemplary embodiment, are defined by both the first and second parts 411, 412. In other embodiments, the passageway 404 and / or protrusion 406 may be formed by only the first part 411 or the second part 412.

[0063] The protrusion 406 may include a chamfered edge 416 to improve ease of insertion into the passageway 304 .

[0064] In Figure 1, the first and second bottom stops 300, 400 are shown disengaged and spaced apart by a distance of approximately 25 mm. In Figure 2, the first bottom stop 300 and the second bottom stop 400 are in contact, with the protrusion 406 of the second bottom stop 400 received in the passage 304 of the first bottom stop 300 and the box pin 114 of the first zip tape 102 received in the passage 404 of the second bottom stop 400. The mating surface 313 of the first bottom stop 300 is in contact with the mating surface 413 of the second bottom stop 400.

[0065] 2, the first end stop 300 is slidable along the second end stop, guided by the engagement of the protrusion 406 with the passage 304 and the contact between the mating surfaces 313 and 413. By moving the first end stop 300 upward along the second end stop 400, the insert pin 116 is inserted into the box pin 114 via the slider 108. The relative movement of the engaged first and second end stops 300 and 400 can be limited by the engagement of the insert pin 116 with the box pin 114 and / or by the engagement of the protrusion 406, which defines the end of the passage 304, with the stop 305. After the insert pin 116 is received in the box pin 114, the slider 108 can be moved above the zipper 100 to engage (fasten) the zipper 100. The protrusion 406 may be said to be in an end position when the insert pin 116 is inserted into the box pin 114 .

[0066] When the projection 406 reaches its end position, the first and second bottom stops 300, 400 may engage with their ends 300a, 400a aligned parallel to one another, although this is not essential.

[0067] The passage 304 may be tapered. For example, the passage 304 may narrow toward an end position to limit further movement of the protrusion 406 in the z-direction as the protrusion moves down the passage 304. In this manner, the bottom stop mechanism 200 may have a large alignment error when the protrusion 406 is initially inserted into the passage 304, and the error may decrease as the protrusion 406 moves toward the end position.

[0068] After opening the zip 100, the user can separate the bottom stop and remove the insert pin 116 from the box pin 114 by moving the protrusion 406 along the path 304 toward the box pin 114 and away from the end position.

[0069] The first bottom stop 300 can be configured to attach to the first zip tape 102 near the box pin 114 so as not to interfere with normal function of the box pin 114. The passage 304 in the body 302 can be configured to at least partially accommodate the box pin 114, for example. In some embodiments, the first bottom stop can be configured so that the box pin 114 does not protrude from the body 302 and is less susceptible to damage.

[0070] In an alternative embodiment, the first bottom stop 300 is configured to hold the slider 108 on the teeth 106 of the first zip tape 102. Parts 311 and 312 may clamp the first zip tape 102 to hold the slider 108. The body 302 may include a box pin 114 configured to hold the slider 108 on the teeth 106.

[0071] The box pin 114 may not be necessary; instead, the body 302 of the first bottom stop 300 may provide the function of the box pin 114. The first bottom stop 300 may provide the function of the box pin 114 in place of the box pin 114 by engaging the first and second sets of engaging teeth 106 and then providing a "stop" for the slider 108 to ensure proper positioning so that the engaging teeth 106 can slide without binding. The first bottom stop 300 may provide the other function of the box pin 114 in place of the box pin 114 by including a groove for accommodating the insert pin 116. The groove may be sized to snugly accommodate the insert pin 116. The groove may be defined in the body 302 above the passage 304, i.e., closer to the slider 108 than the passage 304. The groove may be defined in the mating surface 313 of the first bottom stop 300. The first bottom stop 300 may include a latch to replace the box pin 114 and provide other functions of the box pin 114. The first and second bottom stops 300, 400 may include a latch mechanism, where the latch may be configured to latch to a latch-receiving element of the second bottom stop 400. The latch mechanism may be configured to hold the first and second bottom stops 300, 400 in the x direction to prevent the bottom stops 300, 400 from accidentally releasing under load. The latch mechanism may be configured to hold the first and second bottom stops 300, 400 in the x direction to prevent the teeth 106 of each zip tape 102, 104 from accidentally releasing under load (the normal function of the box pin 114), which may be achieved by preventing the bottom stops 300, 400 from accidentally releasing.

[0072] The latch and latch receiving element can be engaged by sliding the projection 406 through the passage 304 as described above, and therefore does not make it more difficult for the user to close the zip 100. The latch and latch receiving element can be disengaged by sliding the projection 406 through the passage 304 as described above, and again, this does not make it more difficult to use the zip 100.

[0073] The parts 411 and 412 of the second main body 402 can be configured to be attached to the second zip tape 104 but not fixed to the insert pin 116 itself. This allows the insert pin 116 to remain exposed and to be retracted into the box pin 114 as the protrusion 406 slides into the passage 304. As shown, the passage 404 can be configured to receive the insert pin 116, similar to the box pin 114 described above, which can prevent the insert pin 116 from protruding from the main body 402 during use and therefore prevent damage to the insert pin 116. Additionally, all users need to sense the pair of bottom stops 300, 400 and possibly the protrusion 406 to identify how to engage the insert pin 116 and the box pin 114; however, there is no need to sense the insert pin 116 and the box pin 114, and therefore it may be easier for users to use if these elements are housed in the passages 304, 404 rather than protruding from the main body 302, 402.

[0074] In alternative embodiments, one or more features of the zip tapes 102, 104 may be integrated with the first bottom stop 300 and / or the second bottom stop 400. For example, the first bottom stop 300 may be integrally formed with the end of the zip tape 102 and include the insert pin 116, and / or the second bottom stop 400 may be integrally formed with the second zip tape 400 and include the box pin 114 (as previously described above).

[0075] In some embodiments, the two sets of teeth can be aligned simply by locating the protrusion 406 at the end, thereby allowing the slider 108 to slide normally on the two sets of teeth 106. The bottom stops 300, 400 can be retrofitted to an existing zip 100 that has an insert pin 116 and box pin 114, or the zip 100 can be custom manufactured with unique bottom stops 300, 400 and zip tapes 102, 104.

[0076] 3, the second bottom stop 400 may include a recess 408 configured to accommodate the slider 108. Additionally, the recess 408 may provide space for a user's fingers to reach the pull tab 110, making it easier for the user to grip the pull tab 110. The recess 408 may have a length greater than the pull tab 110 to assist the user in gripping the pull tab 110.

[0077] In some embodiments, the second bottom stop 400 may include a permanent magnet. An exemplary embodiment including a permanent magnet 420 sandwiched between a first part 411 and a second part 422 of the second bottom stop is shown schematically in FIG. 11. The embodiment of FIG. 11 shares the features described with reference to FIGS. 1-5 except that the protrusion is defined by the permanent magnet, and at least a portion of the first bottom stop 300 includes a ferromagnetic material, so the first bottom stop 300 and the second bottom stop 400 are attracted together by magnetic force. It will be appreciated that the magnet is not a required feature and that other locations of the magnet may also function. The magnet may be within the first bottom stop 300, and / or a pole piece may be used to couple magnetic flux from the magnet in one bottom stop with a ferromagnetic element in the other bottom stop. In some examples, both bottom stops 300, 400 may include a permanent magnet, and the two magnets may be attracted to each other.

[0078] Referring to Figures 6-10, an exemplary engagement between the first and second bottom stops is illustrated. The features of the bottom stops are substantially as described with reference to Figures 1-5. In Figure 6, the bodies 302, 402 of the first and second bottom stops are separated and not touching. In Figure 7, the protrusion 406 is partially inserted into the passage 304. This partial insertion of the protrusion 406 into the passage correctly positions the box pin 114 for receipt into the passage 404 by rotating the body 302 of the first bottom section 300 counterclockwise about the z-axis. This rotation positions the first and second bottom stops in the position shown in Figure 8. Further engagement engages the mating surfaces of the bodies 302, 402 and receives the slider 108 into the recess 408. By sliding the protrusion downward in the y direction along the track while keeping the mating surfaces of the bodies 302, 402 engaged, the insert pin 116 is eventually fully inserted into the box pin 114, as shown in Figure 10. The slider 108 can then be moved to close the zip.

[0079] While particular examples have been described, these are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which should be determined with reference to the appended claims.

Claims

1. Zip: a first zip tape having a first set of teeth and a box pin; a second zip tape including a second set of teeth configured to engage with the first set of teeth and an insert pin; a slider disposed on the first set of teeth and slidable along the first set of teeth to guide the second set of teeth into engagement with the first set of teeth; and A bottom stop mechanism, a first bottom stop having a body with a passage; a second bottom stop having a protrusion; the body of the first bottom stop has a longitudinal axis and the passage extends parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the coordinate system of the bottom stop mechanism includes a y-direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, an x-direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and along which the passage opens, and a z-direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and along which the passage closes; Bottom stop mechanism; Equipped with the protrusion is configured to be inserted into the passage in the x-direction and engage the first and second bottom stops, the protrusion is configured to slide within the passage in the y-direction once the first and second bottom stops are engaged, the protrusion is configured to slide within the passage towards an end position, and when the protrusion is in the end position, the first and second bottom stops are aligned in the x-direction, y-direction and z-direction due to the engagement between the protrusion and the passage, allowing the zip to be fastened; the first zip tape includes the first bottom stop, the second zip tape includes the second bottom stop, the y direction is parallel to the direction in which the slider slides on the engaging teeth, the first bottom stop is attached to the first zip tape adjacent to the box pin near an upper end of the first bottom stop, the passage of the first bottom stop extends away from the box pin toward a lower end of the first bottom stop, and the end position is closer to the lower end of the first bottom stop than to the upper end of the first bottom stop; the second bottom stop is attached to the second zip tape adjacent to the insert pin near an upper end of the second bottom stop, The protruding portion of the second bottom stop is disposed near a lower end of the second bottom stop. Zip.

2. The bottom stop mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the protrusion includes a chamfered edge that improves ease of engagement between the protrusion and the passage.

3. 3. The bottom stop mechanism of claim 1, wherein the passage narrows toward the end position as the protrusion moves toward the end position so that the accuracy of alignment of the first bottom stop and the second bottom stop in the z direction at the end position improves.

4. 3. The bottom stop mechanism of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first bottom stop comprises a first part and a second part configured to clamp the first zip tape, the first part and the second part together defining the passage.

5. 3. A bottom stop mechanism according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second bottom stop further comprises a passage parallel to a longitudinal axis of the second bottom stop, the protrusion being configured to be located within and protrude from the passage, the passage being configured to receive the box pin and / or slider in use.

6. 6. The bottom stop mechanism of claim 5, wherein the second bottom stop comprises a third part and a fourth part configured to clamp the second zip tape, the third part and the fourth part together defining the passage.

7. The bottom stop mechanism of claim 6 , wherein the third part and the fourth part each form a portion of the protrusion.

8. 3. The bottom stop mechanism of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and second bottom stops are made of a polymeric material.

9. 3. The bottom stop mechanism of claim 1 or 2, wherein one of the first and second bottom stops comprises a ferromagnetic material and the other of the first and second bottom stops comprises a permanent magnet.

10. 10. The bottom stop mechanism of claim 9, wherein the second bottom stop comprises the permanent magnet, the permanent magnet being disposed on or within the protrusion.

11. The bottom stop mechanism of claim 10 , wherein the protrusion comprises a chamfered edge, and the permanent magnet is disposed adjacent the chamfered edge.

12. 3. The bottom stop mechanism of claim 1, wherein the first bottom stop and the second bottom stop each have an outer surface that is gripped by a user, and wherein the outer surfaces are parallel when the protrusion is in the end position and the bottom stops are aligned in the x, y, and z directions.

13. The zipper according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the insert pin is inserted into the box pin when the protrusion is at the end position.

14. 3. The zip of claim 1 or 2, wherein the second bottom stop is closer to the second zip tape than the protrusion and includes a recess configured to receive the slider.

15. 15. The zip of claim 14, wherein the slider includes a pull tab configured to allow the slider to be moved by a user on the teeth, and the recess has a length greater than a length of the pull tab.

16. 3. The zip of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and second bottom stops extend a length of less than 0.1 m from the first and second zip tapes, respectively.

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