Coil-Type Fluid-Impervious Zipper for Repeated-Use Seam Integrity
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waterproof zippers suffer from water infiltration through the center gap due to the widening of the dividing seam after multiple closing-and-opening operations, compromising their waterproof function.
Innovation Solution
A coil-type fluid-impervious zipper design featuring a pair of chains with filler structures made of thermoplastic elastomer and an extension strip attached to one filler structure, which engages with the other filler structure when zipped up to minimize the gap between them, enhancing fluid-impervious performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a waterproof zipper uses a dividing seam to minimize the path of fluid infiltration, then waterproof function is improved, but after multiple closing-and-opening operations the dividing seam widens and waterproof function deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning the extension strip on one filler structure before the zipping operation begins. This extension strip protrudes into the central gap and is designed to engage with the other filler structure in advance, preventing the widening of the dividing seam that would otherwise occur during repeated closing-and-opening operations. The preparatory placement of the extension strip ensures that the dividing seam remains minimized from the start of each zipping cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the extension strip a movable element that dynamically engages with the other filler structure during the zipping operation. The extension strip is positioned to protrude into the central gap and automatically engages with the opposing filler structure as the zipper closes, adapting to the movement and compression that occurs during repeated operations. This dynamic engagement maintains the minimizing effect on the dividing seam throughout the zipper's operational cycles.
2Reliability
If the zipper uses continuous coupling elements to provide waterproof function, then fluid imperviousness is improved, but the caulking part becomes detached and edges become irregular after multiple operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing the extension strip as a mediating element between the two filler structures. This extension strip acts as a buffer and connector that maintains the integrity of the caulking part while allowing for the natural movement and compression that occurs during repeated zipping operations. The extension strip prevents direct stress concentration on the caulking part edges, thereby preventing detachment and irregular edge formation.
3Reliability
If the zipper minimizes the path of fluid infiltration by reducing the central gap, then waterproof performance is improved, but the engagement depth of coupling elements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a localized engagement zone with the extension strip that protrudes into the central gap. This extension strip provides a focused area of engagement that maintains waterproof performance without requiring a reduction in the overall engagement depth of the coupling elements. The local addition of the extension strip allows the zipper to maintain both deep engagement and minimized fluid infiltration path.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design significantly reduces the gap between filler structures, improving the zipper's waterproof performance and maintaining seam integrity even after repeated use, without the need for additional water-repellant treatments.
Implementation Method 1
when the coil-type fluid-impervious zipper is zipped up, the extension strip and a second one of the pair of filler structures are compressed to engage with each other within a first gap formed between the pair of filler structures
Data Source
AI summary
A coil-type fluid-impervious zipper including a pair of chains connected with a pair of supporting fabric tapes, where a pair of filler structures made of a first thermoplastic elastomer are formed within the pair of chains correspondingly, an extension strip made of a second thermoplastic elastomer is connected to a free edge surface of a first one of the pair of filler structures, and when the coil-type fluid-impervious zipper is zipped up, the extension strip and a second one of the pair of filler structures are compressed to engage with each other within a first gap formed between the pair of filler structures, so as to minimize a second gap between the extension strip and the second one of the pair of filler structures.