Conductive Zipper Slider for Reliable State Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing zip closure monitoring devices face issues with false contact detection, reliability, and durability due to the arrangement of connectors at the same level and the need for complex electrical connections to teeth, which can lead to degradation and complications in installation.
Innovation Solution
A monitor device with conductive strips secured to a tape and a conductive slider that moves to couple and uncouple the strips, allowing for reliable detection of the zip closure state without false contacts, and a compact design with reduced risk of degradation by arranging all components on one side of the closure system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If connectors are arranged at the same level along the zip closure to detect the closed state, then the detection function is achieved, but there is a risk of false contact between connectors even when the zip closure is not closed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional arrangement where connectors are at the same level to a three-dimensional arrangement where connectors are at different levels along the longitudinal axis. This dimensional change eliminates false contact while maintaining detection accuracy through the use of a conductive slider that bridges connectors at different positions.
2Reliability
If connectors are electrically connected to teeth of the zip closure to monitor the closure state, then the monitoring function is achieved, but the connection degrades quickly due to frequent operation of the zip closure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a conductive slider as an intermediary element that moves along the zip closure teeth without being permanently attached. This slider makes temporary contact with the teeth during movement, eliminating the need for permanent electrical connections that would degrade from frequent operation, while still enabling monitoring of the closure state.
3Reliability
If electrical connection wires are passed all around the trousers to connect connectors on opposite sides of the zip closure, then the electrical circuit is completed, but the installation becomes complicated and the device is more prone to degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical connection path with the mechanical structure of the zip closure itself. The conductive slider moves along the existing teeth of the zip closure, using the closure's own structure as the electrical circuit path, thereby eliminating the need for separate wires that would complicate installation and increase degradation risk.
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 solution provides reliable detection of the zip closure state with reduced risk of false contacts and increased durability, allowing for easy installation and compact design suitable for various articles with zip closure systems.
Implementation Method 1
a slider made of electrically conductive material, referred to a conductive slider, the conductive slider being arranged with the series of members in such a manner as to enable the members of the two series to be coupled together by moving in one direction along said series of members
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a monitor device for monitoring the state of a zip closure system comprising an electrically conductive slider (4), a first tape (1), and a second tape (2), each provided with a series of members (3), such as teeth or spiral turns, that can be coupled and uncoupled with the series of corresponding members (3) by moving said slider. Two strips (5, 6) of electrically conductive material, referred to as conductive strips, that are secured to the first tape (1) and that are arranged transversely, preferably perpendicularly, relative to the longitudinal axis of the first tape (1). Said strips (5, 6) and the slider (4) are configured in such a manner that the two strips (5, 6) are electrically connected together by the slider (4) when said slider (4) is moved level with said strips (5, 6). Said device further comprises a detector system (8) configured to detect the state of electrical continuity between the two strips (5, 6).