Slide fastener sealing system and method

Abstract

Slide fastener sealing system and associated methods. In one embodiment, the slide fastener sealing system includes a separate slide fastener having a first end secured overlapping a second end such that a sealing zone is located between the overlapping ends of the slide fastener. The sealing system also includes, in this embodiment, a sealing member that can be secured to the slide fastener in a releasable manner, a portion of the sealing member being disposed in the sealing zone to seal against fluid penetration from the sealing zone.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to slide fastener sealing systems and related methods that can be used in applications involving liquids or potentially harmful gases.

[0002] Reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 145,087, filed on February 3, 2021, entitled "Slide Fastener Sealing System and Method," the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Background Art

[0003] Zippers and other slide fasteners can be used to secure components that may be used in applications involving liquids and / or potentially harmful gases. Some non-limiting examples include that zippers and other slide fasteners can be used in waterproof clothing, laboratory suits, boat covers, and other applications as desired. As one non-limiting example, zippers and other slide fasteners can be used to removably secure the components of a waterproof garment so that the user can put on and take off the waterproof garment relatively easily. In applications involving liquids and / or potentially harmful gases, the slide fastener should ideally not impair the ability of an article (such as a waterproof garment) to resist or minimize the passage of fluids and / or gases into or out of the article. There are several sealing zippers and zipper systems that have been used for this purpose in the market, but all available options have drawbacks and room for improvement. This patent describes an improved slide fastener sealing system and related methods.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] As used in this patent, the terms “invention” and “present invention” are intended to broadly refer to all of the subject matter of this patent and the following claims. Statements containing these terms should be understood not to limit the subject matter described herein or the meaning or scope of the following claims. Embodiments of the invention covered by this patent are defined by the following claims, not by this summary. This summary is a high-level overview of various embodiments of the invention and introduces some of the concepts further described in the following detailed description sections. This summary is not intended to identify any important or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used alone to define the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by referring to the appropriate parts of the entire patent specification, some or all of the drawings, and each claim.

[0005] According to certain embodiments, a slide fastener sealing system includes a separator slide fastener comprising a first tape and a second tape, each tape comprising a first end, a second end, and fastening elements positioned along each tape. In some embodiments, the first end of the first tape overlaps and is fixed to the second end of the first tape, and the first end of the second tape overlaps and is fixed to the second end of the second tape, with the sealing zone located between the overlapping ends of the first and second tapes. The separator slide fastener also includes a slider configured to engage and disengage the fastening elements of the first and second tapes, and the first tape is separable from the second tape when the fastening elements are disengaged. In some embodiments, the sealing zone includes a passage whose sides are enclosed by the first and second tapes. In various embodiments, the slide fastener sealing system includes a sealing member configured to be fixed to the slide fastener in a removable manner so that at least a portion of the sealing member is positioned in the sealing zone to seal the passage. The sealing member includes a sealant, a connector configured to connect the sealing member to a slide fastener, and a sealant actuator configured to expand the sealant.

[0006] In some embodiments, the slide fastener includes a first side seal located between the first and second ends of the first tape within the sealing zone, and a second side seal located between the first and second ends of the second tape within the sealing zone. The connector may be configured to connect to the second ends of the first and second tapes. In some embodiments, the second end of one tape includes a retaining box, and the connector includes an elastic hook configured to connect to the retaining box in a removable manner. In various embodiments, the sealing member is configured such that when the connector connects the sealing member to the slide fastener, the sealing body is positioned adjacent to the first and second side seals within the sealing zone. In some cases, a sealing body actuator extends slidingly through the sealing body. The sealing body actuator may include a thicker portion configured to expand the sealing body when slid into the sealing body. In various embodiments, the sealing body actuator includes a pull configured to extend beyond the passage.

[0007] In various embodiments, the material of the sealing body has a Shore hardness ranging from 00-30 to Shore D-65. In some embodiments, the materials of the first and second side seals have a Shore A hardness ranging from 50 to 70. In a particular embodiment, once the sealing member is positioned in the sealing zone and the fastening element of the first tape engages with the fastening element of the second tape, the slide fastener sealing system is configured to prevent a fluid at a pressure of at least 1 PSI (6894.76 Pa) from penetrating through the sealing zone for at least 20 seconds.

[0008] According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a slide fastener sealing system includes a separation slide fastener having a first tape and a second tape, each tape including a first end, a second end, and fastening elements arranged along each tape. In some embodiments, the first end of the first tape overlaps and is fixed to the second end of the first tape, and the first end of the second tape overlaps and is fixed to the second end of the second tape, with the sealing zone located between the overlapping ends of the first and second tapes. The slide fastener may include a slider configured to engage and disengage the fastening elements of the first and second tapes, and the first tape is separable from the second tape when the fastening elements are disengaged. In certain embodiments, the sealing zone includes a passage whose sides are enclosed by the first and second tapes. A first side seal may be located between a first end and a second end of a first tape within the sealing zone, and a second side seal may be located between a first end and a second end of a second tape within the sealing zone. The slide fastener sealing system may also include a sealing member configured to be fixed to the slide fastener in a removable manner so that at least a portion of the sealing member is positioned in the sealing zone and seals the passage. The sealing member includes a sealing body and a connector configured to connect the sealing member to the slide fastener.

[0009] According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a sealing member for a slide fastener sealing system includes a deformable seal, a connector having an elastic hook attached to the seal and configured to connect the sealing member to a slide fastener, and a seal actuator configured to deform and expand the seal when operated. In some embodiments, the seal actuator extends slidingly through the seal. In some embodiments, the material of the seal has a Shore A hardness in the range of 0 to 10.

[0010] According to various embodiments of the present invention, a method for sealing a multi-piece article includes fastening a first piece and a second piece of the multi-piece article to each other with a slide fastener and connecting a sealing member to the slide fastener. The slide fastener includes a first tape coupled to the first piece of the article and a second tape coupled to the second piece of the article, each tape including a first end, a second end, and fastening elements arranged along each tape. In some embodiments, the first end of the first tape is fixed to overlap the second end of the first tape, and the first end of the second tape is fixed to overlap the second end of the second tape, with the sealing zone located between the overlapping ends of the first and second tapes. The sealing member includes a seal, a connector configured to connect the sealing member to the slide fastener, and a seal actuator. In some embodiments, the method includes acting the seal actuator to expand the seal and seal the sealing zone.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a slide fastener sealing system includes a slide fastener having first and second tapes, each tape including a first end, a second end, and fastening elements positioned along each tape. In some embodiments, the first end of the first tape is secured to overlap the second end of the first tape, and the first end of the second tape is secured to overlap the second end of the second tape, with the sealing zone located between the overlapping ends of the first and second tapes. The slide fastener sealing system may include a sealing member configured to be secured to the slide fastener in a removable manner so that at least a portion of the sealing member is positioned in the sealing zone. In some embodiments, once the sealing member is positioned in the sealing zone and the fastening element of the first tape is engaged with the fastening element of the second tape, the slide fastener sealing system is configured to prevent a fluid at a pressure of 1 PSI (6894.76 Pa) from penetrating through the sealing zone for 20 seconds.

[0012] In various embodiments, when a sealing member is placed in the sealing zone and the fastening element of the first tape engages with the fastening element of the second tape, the slide fastener sealing system is configured to prevent a fluid at a pressure of 4 PSI (27579 Pa) from penetrating through the sealing zone for 20 seconds. In some cases, when a sealing member is placed in the sealing zone and the fastening element of the first tape engages with the fastening element of the second tape, the slide fastener sealing system is configured to prevent a fluid at a pressure of 6.5 PSI (44815.9 Pa) from penetrating through the sealing zone for 20 seconds.

[0013] In some embodiments, the slide fastener includes a first side seal located between the first and second ends of a first tape within the sealing zone, and a second side seal located between the first and second ends of a second tape within the sealing zone, wherein the first and second side seals each comprise a material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 30 to 90. In various embodiments, the materials of the first and second side seals have a Shore A hardness in the range of 50 to 70. In certain embodiments, the sealing member further comprises a seal having a Shore A hardness in the range of 0 to 30. In some cases, the material of the seal has a Shore A hardness in the range of 0 to 10.

[0014] In various embodiments, the slide fastener includes a first side seal located between the first and second ends of a first tape within the sealing zone, and a second side seal located between the first and second ends of a second tape within the sealing zone, wherein the first and second side seals each comprise a material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 30 to 90. In some cases, the sealing member comprises a sealant, which comprises a material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 0 to 30. In some embodiments, the slide fastener comprises a separation slide fastener.

[0015] The various implementations described in this disclosure can include additional systems, methods, features, and advantages, which may not necessarily be explicitly disclosed herein, but will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. It is intended that all such systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within this disclosure and be protected by the accompanying claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0016] [Figure 1] Front view of an embodiment of a sealed zipper assembly in the closed position.

[0017] [Figure 2] Front view of the sealed zipper assembly shown in FIG. 1 in the open position.

[0018] [Figure 3] Front view of the sealed zipper assembly shown in FIG. 1 in the slider start position.

[0019] [Figure 4] Front view of the sealed zipper assembly shown in FIG. 1 in the slider closed position.

[0020] [Figure 5] Rear view of the sealed zipper assembly shown in FIG. 1 in the closed position.

[0021] [Figure 6] Cross-sectional view of the sealed zipper assembly taken along section line A-A of FIG. 1.

[0022] [Figure 7] Top view of the sealed zipper assembly shown in FIG. 1.

[0023] [Figure 8] Front view of the sealed zipper assembly shown in FIG. 1 with the sealing element in the open position.

[0024] [Figure 9] It is a cross-sectional view of the sealed zipper assembly along the section line B-B of FIG. 8.

[0025] [Figure 10] It is a top view of the sealed zipper assembly shown in FIG. 8.

[0026] [Figure 11] It is a perspective view of the sealing element shown in FIG. 9.

[0027] [Figure 12] It is a front view of another embodiment of the sealed zipper assembly in the open position.

[0028] [Figure 13] It is a cross-sectional view of the sealed zipper assembly of FIG. 12 along the section line C-C of FIG. 12.

[0029] [Figure 14] It is a top view of the sealed zipper assembly shown in FIG. 12.

[0030] [Figure 15] It is an exploded perspective view of the sealing element of FIG. 13.

[0031] [Figure 16] It is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the sealed zipper assembly.

[0032] [Figure 17] It is a perspective view of the sealing element shown in FIG. 16.

[0033] [Figure 18] It is a front view of another embodiment of the sealed zipper assembly in the closed position before sealing.

[0034] [Figure 19] It is a front view of the sealed zipper assembly of FIG. 18 shown with the sealing element inserted into the sealing zone.

[0035] [Figure 20] This is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a sealed zipper assembly.

[0036] [Figure 21] This is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a sealed zipper assembly.

[0037] [Figure 22] This is a top view of another embodiment of a sealed zipper assembly.

[0038] [Figure 23] This is a top view of another embodiment of a sealed zipper assembly.

[0039] [Figure 24] This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a sealing element having an air transfer pipe.

[0040] [Figure 25] This is a perspective view of an embodiment of an expandable sealing element.

[0041] [Figure 26] This is a front view of an embodiment of a sealing element that can be compressed in the vertical direction.

[0042] [Figure 27] Another embodiment of the slide fastening sealing system is shown.

[0043] [Figure 28] Figure 27 shows the slide fastener of the slide fastening sealing system. [Figure 29] Figure 27 shows a slide fastener of the slide fastening sealing system, and a cross-sectional view is also shown.

[0044] [Figure 30] Figure 27 shows the sealing member of the slide fastening system. [Figure 31]Figure 27 shows the sealing member of the slide fastening system. [Figure 32] Figure 27 shows the sealing member of the slide fastening system. [Figure 33] Figure 27 shows the sealing member of the slide fastening system, and a longitudinal cross-sectional view is also shown.

[0045] [Figure 34] Figures 30-33 show the connector components of the sealing member. [Figure 35] Figures 30-33 show the connector components of the sealing member, with a longitudinal cross-sectional view.

[0046] [Figure 36] Figures 30-33 show the sealing components of the sealing member.

[0047] [Figure 37] Figures 30-33 show the sealing actuator of the sealing member.

[0048] [Figure 38] An additional diagram of the slide fastening sealing system shown in Figure 27 is provided, illustrating the sealing member attached to the passage of the slide fastener. [Figure 39] An additional diagram of the slide fastening sealing system shown in Figure 27 is provided, illustrating the sealing member attached to the passage of the slide fastener. [Figure 40] An additional diagram of the slide fastening sealing system shown in Figure 27 is provided, illustrating the sealing member attached to the passage of the slide fastener. [Figure 41] An additional diagram of the slide fastening sealing system shown in Figure 27 is provided, illustrating the sealing member attached to the passage of the slide fastener.

[0049] [Figure 42] An example of a hydrostatic pressure test method is schematically shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0050] Several embodiments of slide fastener sealing systems and related methods are described below. The embodiments shown in Figures 1-11 will be described first.

[0051] Structure and relationships of parts Referring to Figure 10, the sealing zipper assembly of Figures 1-11 includes a first zipper segment 12 and a second zipper segment 14 that are in an overlapping relationship to form a sealing zone 16. Referring to Figures 6 and 9, the sealing zone 16 can be considered to form a tunnel. Referring to Figure 10, in this regard, the sealing zone 16 has an outer opening 18 and an inner opening 20. Referring to Figures 9 and 10, a sealing element 22 is positioned in the sealing zone 16 to prevent leakage between the first zipper segment 12 and the second zipper segment 14. Referring to Figure 11, the sealing element 22 is shown. Referring to Figures 9 and 10, the sealing element 22 is elastically deformable and is compressed within the sealing zone 16 by the first zipper segment 12 and the second zipper segment 14. Referring to Figure 10, it can be seen that in this first embodiment, the first zipper segment 12 and the second zipper segment 14 are part of a single interlocking zipper fastener 24 and form a single sealing zone already identified as the sealing zone 16. Two or more interlocking zipper fasteners and two or more sealing zones may be present, as illustrated and described below with reference to other embodiments.

[0052] Referring to Figures 1 to 5 and Figure 8, the interlocking zipper fastener 24 has a first set of interlocking teeth 26 supported by the band 28 and a second set of interlocking teeth 30 supported by the band 32. At least one slider 34 is provided. Referring to Figures 7 and 10, the interlocking zipper fastener 24 in this embodiment has a first end 36 that functions as a first zipper segment 12 and a second end 38 that functions as a second zipper segment 14.

[0053] Referring to Figure 2, the garment body 40, made of waterproof fabric, consists of a first or upper individual body part 42 and a second or lower individual body part 44. The interlocking zipper fastener 24 is annular in shape, allowing the first individual body part 42 to be separated from the second individual body part 44. Referring to Figure 2, the band 28 supporting the first set of interlocking teeth 26, which constitute the first half of the interlocking zipper fastener 24, is fixed to the first individual body part 42 in a generally annular shape, forming the first half of the first zipper segment 12 and the first half of the second zipper segment 14 in an overlapping relationship. Similarly, the band 32 supporting the second set of interlocking teeth 30, which constitute the second half of the interlocking zipper fastener 24, is fixed to the second individual body part 44 in a generally annular shape, forming the second half of the first zipper segment 12 and the second half of the second zipper segment 14 in an overlapping relationship.

[0054] Referring to Figure 3, the slider 34 is used to slide along the interlocking zipper fastener 24 in a first direction, engaging the first set of interlocking teeth 26 with the second set of interlocking teeth 30 as shown in Figure 1. Referring to Figure 4, the slider 34 slides along the interlocking zipper fastener 24 in a second direction, disengaging the first set of interlocking teeth 26 with the second set of interlocking teeth 30 and disengaging the interlocking zipper fastener 24 as shown in Figure 2. Referring to Figures 6, 7, 9, and 10, once the slider 34 engages the first set of interlocking teeth 26 with the second set of interlocking teeth 30, the first zipper segment 12 and the second zipper segment 14 are completed, and their overlap forms a sealing zone 16. The sealing zone 16 is then ready to receive the sealing element 22. Referring to Figure 11, the sealing element 22 has a raised portion 46 that assists in sealing. The sealing element 22 also has a first groove 48 on the first surface 50 and a second groove 52 on the second surface 54. Referring to Figure 9, the first groove 48 receives the meshing teeth 56 of the first zipper segment 12, and the second groove 52 receives the meshing teeth 58 of the second zipper segment 14.

[0055] operation Referring to Figure 2, the band 28 supporting the first set of meshing teeth 26, which constitute the first half of the interlocking zipper fastener 24, is fixed to the first individual body part 42 in a generally annular shape, forming the first half of the first zipper segment 12 and the first half of the second zipper segment 14 in an overlapping relationship. The band 32 supporting the second set of meshing teeth 30, which constitute the second half of the interlocking zipper fastener 24, is fixed to the second individual body part 44 in a generally annular shape, forming the second half of the first zipper segment 12 and the second half of the second zipper segment 14 in an overlapping relationship. Referring to Figure 3, the slider 34 slides along the interlocking zipper fastener 24 in a first direction, engaging the first set of meshing teeth 26 and the second set of meshing teeth 30 as shown in Figure 1. Referring to Figures 6 and 7, when the slider 34 engages the first set of meshing teeth 26 with the second set of meshing teeth 30, the first zipper segment 12 and the second zipper segment 14 are completed, and their overlap forms a sealing zone 16. Referring to Figures 9 and 10, the sealing element 22 is compressed within the sealing zone 16 by the first zipper segment 12 and the second zipper segment 14.

[0056] Variation The following describes some possible modifications to the first embodiment described above.

[0057] The first embodiment included a single sealing element 22. Referring to Figure 15, an alternative sealing element 122 having a first sealing component 124 and a second sealing component 126 is shown. Referring to Figure 12, the first sealing component 124 is pressed into the first individual body component 42 and held in place by friction or otherwise secured to the first individual body component 42. The second sealing component 126 is pressed into the second individual body component 44 and held in place by friction or otherwise secured to the second individual body component 44. Referring to Figures 13 and 14, when the interlocking zipper fastener 24 is closed, the first sealing component 124 and the second sealing component 126 are pressed against each other to form a sealing element 122 that fills the sealing zone 16.

[0058] In the first embodiment described above, the sealing element 22 was held in place by friction and was removable. Referring to Figures 16 and 17, the alternative sealing element 222 has a fabric strip 224 molded within an elastic foam. The fabric strip 224 is used to secure the alternative sealing element 222 to the first individual body part 42. This is done by sewing the fabric strip 224. The fabric strip 224 serves to secure the alternative sealing element 222 to the first individual body part 42 at a desired position where the overlap of the first zipper segment 12 and the second zipper segment 14 of the interlocking zipper fastener 24 forms a sealing zone 16. It will be understood that there are other methods for securing the alternative sealing element within the sealing zone 16.

[0059] In the first embodiment described above, the sealing element 22 was an elastic foam. Referring to Figures 18 and 19, an alternative sealing element 322 is shown. Referring to Figure 18, the sealing element 322 is a plug 324 that is suspended from the slider 34 by a tether 326 when not in use. Referring to Figure 19, the plug 324 is intended to be inserted into the outer opening 18 of the sealing zone 16 to seal the sealing zone 16. The plug 324 preferably has a surface shape such as ribs or protrusions to enhance both the sealing and retaining capacity of the plug 324. It will be understood that there are other raised surface shapes that serve this purpose as well.

[0060] In the first embodiment described above, the first zipper segment 12 and the second zipper segment 14 are arranged substantially parallel to the interlocking zipper fastener 24. Referring to Figure 22, the first zipper segment 12 and the second zipper segment 14 forming the sealing zone 16 can be configured to protrude outward or radially from the interlocking zipper fastener 24.

[0061] In the first embodiment described above, there was only one interlocking zipper fastener 24 and only one sealing zone 16. Referring to Figure 23, a configuration having multiple interlocking zipper fasteners 24 and multiple sealing zones 16 is shown. In this configuration, the first end 36 of one interlocking zipper fastener 24 functions as the first zipper segment 12, and the second end 38 of another interlocking zipper fastener 124 functions as the second zipper segment 14, forming the first sealing zone 16. Also, the first end 36 of the interlocking zipper fastener 124 functions as the first zipper segment 12, and the second end 38 of the interlocking zipper fastener 24 functions as the second zipper segment 14, forming the second sealing zone 116. Although two interlocking zipper fasteners 24 and 124 are shown in an annular configuration, it will be understood that three or more interlocking zipper fasteners can also be arranged in an annular configuration in a similar manner.

[0062] It is not uncommon for garments intended for use in water, such as the garment body 40, to have an air transfer valve that provides air movement. Referring to Figure 24, the alternative sealing element 422 is shown to have an air transfer pipe 424 extending through the body of the alternative sealing element 422. The air transfer pipe 424 allows air to move in and out of the garment body 40. When the garment body 40 is submerged in water or other liquid, the air transfer pipe 424 can be closed using a shut-off valve 426.

[0063] In the first embodiment described above, the sealing element 22 was compressed. Referring to Figure 25, an alternative sealing element 522 is shown, which is an air bladder-like structure that can be inflated like a balloon. The alternative sealing element 522 has a tube 524 into which a user can blow air to inflate the alternative sealing element 522, and a shut-off valve 526 for maintaining air pressure inside the alternative sealing element 522. When inflated, the alternative sealing element 522 expands and seals the sealing zone 16.

[0064] Another alternative sealing element is positioned between two clamp elements, allowing at least one clamp element to move closer to or away from the other. As the clamp elements move closer to each other, the sealing element is pushed outward, sealing the sealing zone. Referring to Figure 26, one such clamp configuration is shown. The alternative sealing element 622 has a bolt 624 that passes longitudinally through the alternative sealing element 622. A nut 626 is attached to one end of the bolt 624, and a twist knob 628 is attached to the other end of the bolt 624. The nut 626 functions as one clamp element, and the twist knob 626 functions as the other clamp element. Turning the twist knob 628 causes axial movement that compresses the alternative sealing element 622 between the twist knob 628 and the nut 626. When compressed, the alternative sealing element 622 expands outward, increasing the length of the outer circumference of the alternative sealing element 622 until the alternative sealing element 622 seals the sealing zone.

[0065] Precautions It will be understood that not all zippers can function in liquid environments. Using waterproof zippers may be desirable to avoid leaks. It will also be understood that waterproof zippers come in many different styles.

[0066] For the sealing elements described above to be effective, it may be desirable to take additional precautions to address potential leak points along seams and seams.

[0067] Referring to Figure 1, the seam 50 is used to secure the interlocking zipper fastener 24 in place. Referring to Figure 5, the waterproof tape 52 is heat-sealed or glued to the back of the seam 50 to prevent liquid from seeping through the seam 50.

[0068] Referring to Figures 20 and 21, the sealing zone 16 has a leaky edge seam 54. Referring to Figure 20, the leak can be addressed by sealing the edge seam 54 with a flexible edge molding 56. Referring to Figure 21, the leak can also be addressed by sealing the edge seam 54 with a polymer caulking bead 58.

[0069] Improved slide fastener sealing system Figures 27 to 41 show another embodiment of the slide fastener sealing system 1000, characterized by improvements, modifications, and alternatives to the slide fastener sealing system described above. The system 1000 shown in Figure 27 includes a slide fastener 1002 and a sealing member 1004. The slide fastener sealing system 1000 can be incorporated into a multi-piece waterproof suit or other multi-piece sealing system, allowing the pieces of these systems to be fixed to each other in a removable manner, while simultaneously providing a seal for these systems against fluid leakage through the slide fastener sealing system.

[0070] Slide fastener Figures 28 and 29 show the slide fastener 1002 of Figure 27 in more detail, with Figure 29 showing a cross-section of the slide fastener. The slide fastener 1002 includes two tapes 1006, each tape having a series of fastening elements 1008 arranged along the tape. Although not shown in Figures 28 and 29, the slide fastener 1002 may include a slider (for example, similar to the slider 34 shown in Figure 1) configured to engage and disengage the fastening elements 1008 of the two tapes 1006 when slid along the slide fastener 1002.

[0071] As shown in Figure 28, one end of two tapes 1006 overlaps with the other end of the two tapes 1006 (only the overlapping adjacent lengths of the slide fastener are shown in these figures). The slide fasteners 1002 in Figures 28 and 29 can be formed into a loop similar to the loop shown in Figure 7. Figure 7 shows a slide fastener formed into a circular loop, but other loop shapes or forms are also possible. As shown in Figures 28 and 29, the overlapping ends of each tape 1006 are fastened to each other along their edges 1010. This can be done by heat sealing the edges of the tape ends together or by other means. As shown in Figure 29, the slide fastener 1002 includes a side seal 1012 (described below) inside, where the overlapping ends of the tapes 1006 are joined to each other.

[0072] The slide fastener shown in this embodiment is a separation slide fastener that, in normal use, can completely separate two tapes 1006 from each other and reattach them. As shown in Figures 28 and 29, the separation slide fastener includes a retaining box 1014 at the end of a series of fastening elements 1008 of one tape 1006 and an insertion pin 1016 at the end of a series of fastening elements 1008 of the other tape 1006. The two tapes 1006 can be fastened to each other by inserting the insertion pin 1016 into the retaining box 1014 and sliding the slider along the fastening elements 1008. The two tapes 1006 can be separated from each other by sliding the slider in the opposite direction and removing the insertion pin 1016 from the retaining box 1014.

[0073] As shown in Figure 29, when the slide fastener 1002 is looped with one end of the tape 1006 overlapping the other end, and the edges 1010 of the tape 1006 are secured to each other, a passage 1018 is formed between the overlapping ends. When the slide fastener 1002 is incorporated into waterproof clothing or other sealing systems, the passage 1018 is where water, other liquids, or gases may enter or leave the system through the open end of the passage 1018 where the tape 1006 no longer overlaps. As will be further described below, the passage 1018 defines a sealing zone for receiving the sealing member 1004 in order to resist the penetration of fluid from the passage 1018.

[0074] Sealing member Figures 30-37 show an embodiment of a sealing member 1004 that can be inserted into the passage 1018 of a slide fastener 1002 to resist the penetration of fluid from the passage 1018. In this particular embodiment, the sealing member 1004 includes three components: a connector 1020, a sealant 1022, and a sealant actuator 1024.

[0075] The connector component 1020 is shown separated from the rest of the sealing member assembly 1004 in Figures 34 and 35. The connector 1020 is configured to connect the sealing member 1004 to the slide fastener 1002. In the particular embodiment shown in Figures 34-35, the connector 1020 includes an elastic hook 1026 that hooks around the end of the tape 1005 of the slide fastener 1002. As shown in Figure 35, the elastic hook 1026 includes an inclined surface 1028, a recess 1030, and a projection 1032, which engage with and receive the retaining box 1014 and insertion pin 1016 of the slide fastener 1002, securing the sealing member 1004 in place at the end of the slide fastener tape 1006. The connector 1020 also includes an opening 1034 for sliding in the sealing actuator 1024, as will be described in more detail below.

[0076] The connector 1020 shown in Figures 34 and 35 includes an arm 1036 that connects and secures the connector 1020 to the sealant 1022, the arm 1036 can be molded onto the connector 1020 during manufacturing. The sealant 1022 can be formed from a soft, deformable material. The sealant 1022 may have a basic shape in which it is not deformed. As will be described in more detail below, the sealant 1022 can be selectively deformed and expanded from its basic shape using a sealant actuator 1024. The sealant 1022 is shown in Figure 36 separated from the rest of the sealant assembly 1004. The sealant 1022 is molded to conform to the shape of the side seal 1012 of the slide fastener 1002 and has an outer side wall 1038 constructed in other ways (see, for example, Figures 40-41, which will be described further below). The seal includes grooved top and bottom surfaces 1040 configured to receive and fit the fastening element 1008 of the slide fastener 1002 and to provide a gap from which the slider can move. Similar to the connector 1020, the seal 1022 includes an opening 1042 for sliding in the seal actuator 1024.

[0077] The sealing actuator 1024 is shown in Figure 37, separated from the rest of the sealing member 1004. As shown in Figure 37, the sealing actuator 1024 gradually tapers between a thick end 1044 and a thin end 1046. When the thick end 1044 is moved further into the sealing body 1022, the deformable sealing body 1022 expands from its basic shape to accommodate the thick end 1044. Conversely, when the thin end 1046 is moved further into the sealing body 1022, the deformable sealing body 1022 contracts again toward its basic shape. It will be understood that the deformable sealing body 1022 may not return completely to its basic shape when the thin end 1046 is inside the sealing body 1022. The sealing actuator 1024 shown in Figure 37 can be connected toward the thin end 1046 to a pull such as the tether 325 shown in Figure 18. A pull can be used to pull the thick end 1044 of the seal actuator 1024 into the seal 1022, deforming the seal 1022 and causing it to expand. As shown in Figure 37, the seal actuator 1024 includes an opening 1048 to which a pull can be connected. Also as shown in Figure 37, the seal actuator 1024 includes a grip 1050 on its thick end 1044, and the grip 1050 can be used to pull the thick end 1044 of the seal actuator 1024 out of the seal 1022, causing the seal 1022 to contract. The thin end of actuator 1046 can also extend beyond the end of the seal 1022, thereby pushing the actuator 1024, moving the thin end 1046 of actuator 1024 into the seal 1022, causing the seal 1022 to contract.

[0078] Although not specifically shown in the figure, the sealing actuator 1024 and / or the pull connected to the actuator 1024 may be long enough to extend beyond the end of the passage 1018 formed by the overlapping ends of the slide fastener 1002 and / or to be accessible from the outside of the garment or other waterproof structure in which the slide fastener sealing system 1000 is used.

[0079] How to use The slide fastener sealing system 1000 shown in Figures 27 to 41 can be used by connecting the sealing member 1004 to the end of the slide fastener 1002, sliding the slider of the slide fastener to engage the fastening element 1008, closing the slide fastener 1002 over the sealing member 1004, and activating the sealing actuator 1024 to deform the sealing body 1022 so that it expands. By activating the sealing actuator 1024, the sealing body 1022 can be fitted inside the side seal 1012 and tape 1006, thereby sealing the passage 1018 and resisting fluid penetration from the passage 1018. Furthermore, by activating the sealing actuator 1024, the sealing body 1022 can be fitted to the element of the slide fastener, forming a seal with the element of the slide fastener and resisting fluid penetration from the element of the slide fastener.

[0080] Figures 38-41 show the sealing member 1004 attached to the passage 1018 of the slide fastener 1002 such that the sealing body 1022 of the sealing member 1004 is adjacent to the side seal 1012 of the slide fastener 1002 within the sealing zone of the passage 1018. Both the sealing body 1022 and the side seal 1012 are made of a relatively soft and flexible material to facilitate the formation of a liquid-tight seal that seals the inside of the passage 1018. In one embodiment, the sealing body 1022 includes a material having a Shore hardness in the range of OO-30 to Shore D-65, for example, a hardness in the range of Shore A-0 to Shore A30, or a hardness in the range of Shore A0 to Shore A10. In one non-limiting embodiment, the sealing body 1022 may include an elastomer material with a Shore hardness of A2. In one embodiment, the side seal 1012 includes a material having a Shore hardness in the range of OO-30 to Shore D-65, for example, a hardness in the range of Shore A30 to Shore A90, for example, a hardness in the range of Shore A50 to Shore A70, for example, a hardness in the range of Shore A50 to Shore A70, for example. The side seal may include a urethane material with a Shore hardness of A60. The Shore hardness can be measured, for example, using a durometer, according to the test procedure specified in ASTM D2240.

[0081] performance The slide fastener sealing system 1000 shown in Figures 27 to 41 may be relatively impermeable to the penetration of fluids including liquids and / or gases. The slide fastener 1002 itself may be a waterproof zipper, such as YKK®'s AQUASEAL® zipper. As described above, the sealing member 1004 may be used to resist the penetration of fluid from the passage 1018 between the overlapping ends of the slide fasteners 1002 which are fixed to each other to form a passage.

[0082] For example, the slide fastener sealing system 1000 can resist fluid penetration at a pressure of at least 1 PSI (6894.76 Pa) for 20 seconds. In another embodiment, the slide fastener sealing system 1000 can resist fluid penetration at a pressure of at least 4 PSI (27579 Pa) for 20 seconds. In yet another embodiment, the slide fastener sealing system 1000 can resist fluid penetration at a pressure of at least 6.5 PSI (44815.9 Pa) for 20 seconds. In yet another embodiment, the slide fastener sealing system 1000 can resist fluid penetration at pressures ranging from 1 PSI (6894.76 Pa) to 6.5 PSI (44815.9 Pa) for 20 seconds. In these embodiments, the slide fastener sealing system 1000 is resistant to fluid penetration from the slide fastener 1002 itself and from the passage 1018 where the sealing member 1004 is located.

[0083] To measure resistance to fluid penetration, hydrostatic testing methods can be used, such as the hydrostatic testing method described in Section 7.9 (October 30, 2019 edition) of the AA-55634C product description for zippers (fasteners, slide interlockings) approved by the U.S. Federal Government's General Services Administration.

[0084] Figure 42 schematically shows an example of the hydrostatic pressure test method. Note that Figure 42 shows a sample of a general zipper and does not specifically show a slide fastener sealing system including a slide fastener and a sealing member. To test a slide fastener sealing system including a slide fastener and a sealing member, such as the slide fastener sealing system shown in Figure 27, a sample of the length shown in Figure 27 can be mounted in the test apparatus of Figure 42 with the slide fastener in a closed position, the sealing member positioned in the passage formed by the overlapping ends of the slide fastener, and the sealing body expanded within the passage. To perform the test, the sample is mounted in the test apparatus so that all edges are sealed with gaskets, then immersed in water (for example, so that the entire sample is covered to a depth of about 1 inch), and then air pressure is applied for a certain period of time while observing air leaks (e.g., bubbles) at the top of the sample.

[0085] The sealing elements described herein can be made of a variety of materials suitable for selectively forming a seal with other components, and the sealing elements are not limited to elastic foams. In some non-limiting examples, in other embodiments, the sealing elements may be a variety of elastomer deformable materials, thermoplastic elastomers, combinations thereof, or a variety of other materials as desired.

[0086] The slide fastener sealing systems described herein are described in relation to waterproof clothing, but are not limited thereto. Instead, slide fastener sealing systems can be used, as desired, in other applications involving liquids and / or potentially harmful gases, including but not limited to boat covers, laboratory suits, bags, cases, and other applications. Furthermore, slide fastener sealing systems can be used in other applications that do not necessarily involve liquids and / or potentially harmful gases.

[0087] Examples A summary of exemplary embodiments is provided below, including at least some expressly listed as “Examples” that provide further explanation of various exemplary embodiments of the concepts described herein. These Examples are not intended to be mutually exclusive, exhaustive, or restrictive. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to these exemplary Examples and includes all possible modifications and variations within the scope of the acquired claims and their equivalents.

[0088] Example 1. (a) A separation slide fastener comprising (i) a first tape and a second tape, each tape comprising a first end, a second end, and fastening elements positioned along each tape, (ii) the first end of the first tape overlapping and fastening the second end of the first tape, and the first end of the second tape overlapping and fastening the second end of the second tape, with a sealing zone located between the overlapping ends of the first and second tapes, and (iii) a slider configured to engage and disengage the fastening elements of the first and second tapes, wherein the first tape, when the fastening elements are disengaged, engages the second tape A slide fastener sealing system comprising: (iv) a separation slide fastener detachable from a tape, wherein the sealing zone includes a passage whose sides are enclosed by first and second tapes; and (b) a sealing member, the sealing member configured to be fixed to the slide fastener in a removable manner such that at least a portion of the sealing member is positioned in the sealing zone to seal the passage, the sealing member comprising (i) a sealing body, (ii) a connector configured to connect the sealing member to the slide fastener, and (iii) a sealing body actuator configured to expand the sealing body.

[0089] Example 2. Any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples of a slide fastener sealing system further comprising a first side seal located between the first and second ends of a first tape within the sealing zone, and a second side seal located between the first and second ends of a second tape within the sealing zone.

[0090] Example 3. A slide fastener sealing system of any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples, in which the connector is configured to connect to the second ends of the first and second tapes.

[0091] Example 4. Any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples of a slide fastener sealing system, in which a second end of one tape includes a retaining box, and the connector is an elastic hook configured to connect to the retaining box in a removable manner.

[0092] Example 5. A slide fastener sealing system of any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples, wherein the sealing member is configured such that when the connector connects the sealing member to the slide fastener, the sealing body is positioned adjacent to the first and second side seals within the sealing zone.

[0093] Example 6. A slide fastener sealing system of any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples, in which the sealing actuator extends in a sliding manner through the sealing body.

[0094] Example 7. A slide fastener sealing system of any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples, in which the sealing actuator includes a thicker portion configured to expand the sealing body when slid into the sealing body.

[0095] Example 8. A slide fastener sealing system of any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples, further including a pull configured to extend beyond the passage, wherein the sealing actuator further includes a pull.

[0096] Example 9. A slide fastener sealing system of any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples, wherein the sealing material has a Shore hardness in the range of OO-30 to Shore D-65, including OO-30 to Shore D-65.

[0097] Example 10. A slide fastener sealing system of any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples, wherein the materials of the first and second side seals have a Shore A hardness in the range of 50 to 70.

[0098] Example 11. Any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples of a slide fastener sealing system, wherein, when a sealing member is placed in a sealing zone and the fastening element of a first tape is engaged with the fastening element of a second tape, the slide fastener sealing system is configured to prevent a fluid at a pressure of at least 1 PSI (6894.76 Pa) from penetrating through the sealing zone for at least 20 seconds.

[0099] Example 12. (a) A separation slide fastener comprising (i) a first tape and a second tape, each tape comprising a first end, a second end and fastening elements positioned along each tape, (ii) the first end of the first tape overlapping and fastening to the second end of the first tape, and the first end of the second tape overlapping and fastening to the second end of the second tape, with a sealing zone located between the overlapping ends of the first and second tapes, (iii) a slider configured to engage and disengage the fastening elements of the first and second tapes, the first tape being separable from the second tape when the fastening elements are disengaged, and (iv) the sealing zone being between the first and second tapes A slide fastener sealing system comprising (v) a passage enclosed on the sides of the passage by a first tape and a second tape, and including a first side seal located between a first end and a second end of the first tape within the sealing zone and a second side seal located between a first end and a second end of the second tape within the sealing zone, and (b) a sealing member configured to be fixed to the slide fastener in a removable manner so that at least a portion of the sealing member is placed in the sealing zone and seals the passage, and including (i) a sealing body and (ii) a connector configured to connect the sealing member to the slide fastener.

[0100] Example 13. A sealing member for a slide fastener sealing system, comprising: (a) a deformable seal; (b) a connector attached to the seal, the connector including an elastic hook configured to connect the sealing member to a slide fastener; and (c) a sealing actuator configured to deform and expand the seal when operated, the sealing actuator extending in a sliding manner through the seal.

[0101] Example 14. A sealing member of any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples, wherein the sealing material has a Shore A hardness in the range of 0 to 10.

[0102] Example 15. A method for sealing a multi-piece article, comprising (a) fastening a first piece and a second piece of the multi-piece article to each other with a slide fastener, (b) connecting a sealing member to the slide fastener, and (c) operating a sealing actuator to expand the sealing member and seal a sealing zone, wherein the slide fastener comprises (i) a first tape coupled to a first piece of the article and a second tape coupled to a second piece of the article, each tape comprising a first end, a second end and fastening elements arranged along each tape, (ii) the first end of the first tape overlapping and fastening to the second end of the first tape, and the first end of the second tape overlapping and fastening to the second end of the second tape, the sealing zone being located between the overlapping ends of the first and second tapes, and the sealing member comprising (i) a sealing body, (ii) a connector configured to connect the sealing member to a slide fastener, and (iii) a sealing actuator.

[0103] Example 16. (a) A slide fastener comprising (i) first and second tapes, each tape comprising a first end, a second end, and fastening elements positioned along each tape, (ii) the first end of the first tape overlapping and fastening to the second end of the first tape, and the first end of the second tape overlapping and fastening to the second end of the second tape, with a sealing zone located between the overlapping ends of the first and second tapes; and (b) a sealing member configured to be fixed to the slide fastener in a removable manner such that at least a portion of the sealing member is positioned in the sealing zone, and (c) a slide fastener sealing system configured to prevent a fluid at a pressure of 1 PSI (6894.76 Pa) from penetrating through the sealing zone for 20 seconds when the sealing member is positioned in the sealing zone and the fastening elements of the first tape are engaged with the fastening elements of the second tape.

[0104] Example 17. Any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples of a slide fastener sealing system, configured to prevent a fluid at a pressure of 4 PSI (27579 Pa) from penetrating through the sealing zone for 20 seconds, with a sealing member positioned in the sealing zone and the fastening element of the first tape engaged with the fastening element of the second tape.

[0105] Example 18. Any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples of a slide fastener sealing system, configured to prevent a fluid at a pressure of 6.5 PSI (44815.9 Pa) from penetrating through the sealing zone for 20 seconds, when a sealing member is placed in the sealing zone and the fastening element of the first tape is engaged with the fastening element of the second tape.

[0106] Example 19. A slide fastener sealing system of any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples, further comprising a slide fastener comprising a first side seal located between a first end and a second end of a first tape within the sealing zone, and a second side seal located between a first end and a second end of a second tape within the sealing zone, wherein the first and second side seals each comprise a material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 30 to 90.

[0107] Example 20. A slide fastener sealing system of any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples, wherein the materials of the first and second side seals have a Shore A hardness in the range of 50 to 70.

[0108] Example 21. A slide fastener sealing system of any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples, wherein the sealing member further comprises a sealant, the sealant comprising a material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 0 to 30.

[0109] Example 22. A slide fastener sealing system of any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples, wherein the sealing material has a Shore A hardness in the range of 0 to 10.

[0110] Example 23. A slide fastener of any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples, further comprising a first side seal located between a first end and a second end of a first tape in a sealing zone, and further comprising a second side seal located between a first end and a second end of a second tape in a sealing zone, wherein the first and second side seals each comprise a material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 30 to 90, and the sealing member further comprises a sealant, the sealant comprising a material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 0 to 30.

[0111] Example 24. A slide fastener is any preceding or succeeding example or combination of examples, including a detachable slide fastener.

[0112] The above description is provided solely to illustrate some non-limiting embodiments of slide fastener sealing systems and related methods. Additions, deletions, substitutions, and other modifications to slide fastener sealing systems and related methods can be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the inventions claimed in this and related patents. In other words, the embodiments described above are merely possible examples provided for a clear understanding of the principles of this disclosure. Many changes and modifications can be made to the embodiments described above without substantially departing from the spirit and principles of this disclosure. All such changes and modifications are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure, and all possible claims for individual embodiments or combinations of elements or steps are intended to be supported by this disclosure. Furthermore, certain terms are used herein and in the following claims, but they are used only in a general and descriptive sense and are not intended to limit the inventions described or the following claims.

Claims

1. (a) Separation slide fastener, (i) A first tape and a second tape, each tape comprising a first end, a second end, and fastening elements arranged along each tape, (ii) The first end of the first tape is fixed to overlap the second end of the first tape, and the first end of the second tape is fixed to overlap the second end of the second tape, and the sealing zone is located between the overlapping ends of the first and second tapes. (iii) A slider configured to engage and disengage the fastening elements of the first and second tapes, wherein the first tape is separable from the second tape when the fastening elements are disengaged. (iv) The sealing zone includes a passage whose sides are surrounded by the first and second tapes, a separation slide fastener, (b) A sealing member, wherein at least a portion of the sealing member is positioned in the sealing zone and is fixed to the slide fastener in a removable manner, (i) Encapsulation and, (ii) A connector configured to connect the sealing member to the slide fastener, (iii) A sealing actuator configured to expand the sealing body and A sealing member including A slide fastener sealing system including a slide fastener.

2. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 1, further comprising a first side seal located between the first end and the second end of the first tape within the sealing zone, and a second side seal located between the first end and the second end of the second tape within the sealing zone.

3. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 2, wherein the connector is configured to connect to the second ends of the first and second tapes.

4. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 3, wherein one end of the tape includes a retaining box, and the connector is an elastic hook configured to connect to the retaining box in a removable manner.

5. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 3, wherein the sealing member is configured such that when the connector connects the sealing member to the slide fastener, the sealing body is positioned adjacent to the first and second side seals within the sealing zone.

6. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 2, wherein the sealing actuator extends through the sealing body in a sliding manner.

7. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 6, wherein the sealing actuator includes a thicker portion configured to expand the sealing body when it slides into the sealing body.

8. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 6, further comprising a pull configured to extend beyond the passage of the sealing actuator.

9. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 2, wherein the material of the sealing body has a Shore hardness in the range of OO-30 to Shore D-65, including OO-30 to Shore D-65.

10. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 2, wherein the material of the first and second side seals has a Shore A hardness in the range of 50 to 70, including 50 to 70.

11. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 2, wherein when the sealing member is placed in the sealing zone and the fastening element of the first tape is engaged with the fastening element of the second tape, the slide fastener sealing system is configured to prevent a fluid at a pressure of at least 1 PSI (6894.76 Pa) from penetrating through the sealing zone for at least 20 seconds.

12. (a) Separation slide fastener, (i) A first tape and a second tape, each tape comprising a first end, a second end, and fastening elements arranged along each tape, (ii) The first end of the first tape is fixed to overlap the second end of the first tape, and the first end of the second tape is fixed to overlap the second end of the second tape, and the sealing zone is located between the overlapping ends of the first and second tapes. (iii) A slider configured to engage and disengage the fastening elements of the first and second tapes, wherein the first tape is separable from the second tape when the fastening elements are disengaged. (iv) The sealing zone includes a passage whose sides are surrounded by the first and second tapes, (v) A separation slide fastener including a first side seal located between the first end and the second end of the first tape within the sealing zone, and a second side seal located between the first end and the second end of the second tape within the sealing zone, (b) A sealing member, wherein the sealing member is configured to be fixed to the slide fastener in a removable manner such that at least a portion of the sealing member is positioned in the sealing zone and seals the passage, and the sealing member is (i) Encapsulation and, (ii) A connector configured to connect the sealing member to the slide fastener A sealing member including A slide fastener sealing system including a slide fastener.

13. (i) comprising a first tape and a second tape, each tape comprising a first end, a second end, and fastening elements arranged along each tape, (ii) The first end of the first tape is fixed to overlap the second end of the first tape, and the first end of the second tape is fixed to overlap the second end of the second tape, and the sealing zone is located between the overlapping ends of the first and second tapes. (iii) A slider configured to engage and disengage the fastening elements of the first and second tapes, wherein the first tape is separable from the second tape when the fastening elements are disengaged. (iv) The sealing zone is a sealing member for sealing the passage by being positioned in the sealing zone of a separation slide fastener that includes a passage whose sides are surrounded by the first and second tapes, (a) A deformable seal, (b) A connector attached to the sealing body, comprising an elastic hook configured to connect the sealing member to a slide fastener, (c) A sealing actuator configured to deform and expand the sealing body when in operation, comprising a sealing actuator that extends through the sealing body in a sliding manner A sealing member including a sealing member.

14. The sealing member according to claim 13, wherein the material of the sealing body has a Shore A hardness in the range of 0 to 10, including 0 to 10.

15. A method for sealing multiple pieces of an article, The method includes (a) fastening a first piece and a second piece of the plurality of pieces of the article together with a slide fastener, the slide fastener is (i) A first tape attached to a first piece of the article and a second tape attached to a second piece of the article, each tape including a first end, a second end, and fastening elements arranged along each tape, (ii) The first end of the first tape is fixed to overlap the second end of the first tape, and the first end of the second tape is fixed to overlap the second end of the second tape, and the sealing zone is located between the overlapping ends of the first and second tapes. The method described above includes (b) connecting the sealing member to the slide fastener, wherein the sealing member is (i) Encapsulation and, (ii) A connector configured to connect the sealing member to the slide fastener, (iii) Encapsulating actuator and Includes, The method comprises (c) activating the sealing actuator to expand the sealing body and seal the sealing zone.

16. (a) A slide fastener, (i) A first tape and a second tape, each tape comprising a first end, a second end, and fastening elements arranged along each tape, (ii) A slide fastener, wherein the first end of the first tape is fixed to overlap the second end of the first tape, and the first end of the second tape is fixed to overlap the second end of the second tape, and the sealing zone is located between the overlapping ends of the first and second tapes, (b) A sealing member, wherein the sealing member is configured to be fixed to the slide fastener in a removable manner such that at least a portion of the sealing member is positioned in the sealing zone, and the sealing member is (i) Encapsulation and, (ii) A connector configured to connect the sealing member to the slide fastener A sealing member including Includes, (c) A slide fastener sealing system, wherein when the sealing member is placed in a sealing zone and the fastening element of the first tape is engaged with the fastening element of the second tape, it is configured to prevent a fluid at a pressure of 1 PSI (6894.76 Pa) from penetrating through the sealing zone for 20 seconds.

17. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 16, wherein when the sealing member is placed in the sealing zone and the fastening element of the first tape is engaged with the fastening element of the second tape, the slide fastener sealing system is configured to prevent a fluid at a pressure of 4 PSI (27579 Pa) from penetrating through the sealing zone for 20 seconds.

18. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 17, wherein when the sealing member is placed in the sealing zone and the fastening element of the first tape is engaged with the fastening element of the second tape, the slide fastener sealing system is configured to prevent a fluid at a pressure of 6.5 PSI (44815.9 Pa) from penetrating through the sealing zone for 20 seconds.

19. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 17, wherein the slide fastener further includes a first side seal located between a first end and a second end of the first tape within the sealing zone, and the slide fastener further includes a second side seal located between a first end and a second end of the second tape within the sealing zone, and the first and second side seals each include a material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 30 to 90.

20. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 19, wherein the material of the first and second side seals has a Shore A hardness in the range of 50 to 70, including 50 to 70.

21. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 17, wherein the sealing member further comprises a sealing body, the sealing body comprising a material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 0 to 30.

22. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 21, wherein the material of the sealing body has a Shore A hardness in the range of 0 to 10, including 0 to 10.

23. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 17, further comprising a first side seal located between a first end and a second end of the first tape within the sealing zone, the slide fastener further comprising a second side seal located between a first end and a second end of the second tape within the sealing zone, the first and second side seals each comprising a material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 30 to 90, the sealing member further comprising a sealing body, the sealing body comprising a material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 0 to 30.

24. The slide fastener sealing system according to claim 23, wherein the slide fastener includes a separation slide fastener.

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