One-Sided Rail Slider for Watertight Zipper
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior art sliders for watertight reclosable zippers create a leak path due to their S-shape design, which impairs the watertight configuration by allowing a path from one side of the zipper to the other.
Innovation Solution
A one-sided rail slider with a C-shaped cross section that engages one rail of the zipper profile, eliminating the bridging element and using angled elements to reduce friction and force required for opening and closing, while a cutout region allows the slider to park in the closed position, enhancing the watertight characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an S-shaped slider with bridging elements is used to engage both sides of the zipper, then the ease of operation is improved, but a leak path is created that impairs the watertight configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The slider is divided into two independent one-sided sliders, each engaging only one rail of the zipper profile. This segmentation eliminates the bridging element that connected both sides, thereby eliminating the leak path while maintaining the ability to open and close the zipper through independent slider movement
Solution Approach 2:
The bridging element that connected the two sides of the S-shaped slider is completely removed. The invention extracts only the necessary functional element (one-sided rail engagement) and discards the problematic bridging structure that created the leak path, achieving both watertight sealing and operational functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If a slider engages both sides of the zipper profile, then the functionality of opening and closing is achieved, but a path from one side to the other is created
Solution Approach 1:
The single bilateral slider is segmented into two separate unidirectional sliders, each confined to one side of the zipper profile. This physical separation ensures that no continuous path exists between sides, eliminating the leak hazard while preserving the zipper's opening and closing functionality through coordinated slider movement
Solution Approach 2:
The slider design transitions from symmetric S-shape engaging both sides to asymmetric C-shape engaging only one side. This asymmetric configuration inherently prevents the creation of a symmetric leak path, as each slider operates independently on its designated side of the zipper profile
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 maintains a watertight configuration without creating a leak path and reduces the force needed to operate the zipper, thereby enhancing its sealing performance.
Implementation Method 1
The angled element reduces friction and the force required to move the slider
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a slider and a reclosable zipper, particularly a zipper with first and second profiles for watertight vessels, packages or similar devices. The slider is generally C-shaped with an upper arm, a lower arm, and a support wall in between. The support wall includes a groove which captures a rail formed on the first profile so that the slider can slidably move along the rail, riding the first profile. The lower arm includes separator blades which separate the first and second profiles when the slider is moved in the opening direction so as to urge the second profile between the upper and lower arms. When the slider is moved in the closing direction, the second profile travels between the upper and lower arms and is urged into engagement with the first profile by the upper arm. At the final closing position, the slider is stabilized or parked within a cut-out portion of the second profile.