Slide Fastener Chain Element Design for Flexibility and Strength
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slide fastener chains lack detailed dimension specifications, making it uncertain whether they can be smoothly bent with a small radius and possess sufficient flexibility and strength.
Innovation Solution
A slide fastener chain design with elements fixed on fastener tapes at a predetermined pitch, where the thickness and pitch of elements satisfy specific equations, ensuring flexibility and strength, allowing for smooth bending with a small curvature radius and adequate load-bearing capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If elements are made thinner to improve flexibility and reduce form thickness, then flexibility is improved, but strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the thickness-to-length ratio (t/l ≤ 60%) and the edge portion thickness ratio (Rt ≥ 40%). These parameter specifications optimize the balance between flexibility and strength, allowing elements to be thin enough for flexibility while maintaining sufficient strength through controlled thickness distribution, particularly concentrating thickness at the edge portions where structural integrity is needed.
2Strength
If elements are made with larger dimensions to improve strength, then strength is improved, but flexibility and design thinness are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating non-uniform thickness distribution within the element structure. The edge portions (lateral surfaces) are designed with greater thickness compared to the central portion, as indicated by the requirement that Rt (ratio of edge portion thickness to element thickness) be 40% or more. This local thickening at critical structural locations provides enhanced strength where needed while allowing the overall element to maintain a thin profile for flexibility.
3Manufacturing precision
If detailed dimension specifications are provided to ensure performance, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by establishing specific quantitative thresholds for critical dimensions: the thickness-to-length ratio (t/l ≤ 60%) and the edge portion thickness ratio (Rt ≥ 40%). These parameter specifications provide clear manufacturing guidelines that ensure consistent performance without requiring overly complex design documentation. The parameters focus control on the most critical dimensional relationships rather than specifying every possible dimension.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a side fastener chain. A plurality of elements are fixed on each of opposing edge portions of a pair of fastener tapes at a predetermined pitch. The elements include a base portion and a head portion. A ratio (Rt) of the sum dimension of a first partial thickness, which is measured from an upper surface of each element to an upper surfaces-side apex of the respective edge portion, and a second partial thickness, which is measured from a lower surface of the element to a lower surface-side apex of the edge portion, to a thickness of the element satisfies the following equation: 40%≤Rt. A ratio (Rtl) of the thickness of the element to the entire length of the element satisfies the following equation: 0<Rtl<60%.