Track Zipper with Sliding Core for Load Capacity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing zippers are prone to failure due to damage of individual teeth, have limited load capacity, and can be easily separated by foreign materials, leading to incomplete interlocking and reduced functionality.
Innovation Solution
A track zipper design featuring a zipper core that slides between two tracks, providing a slidably connecting structure that prevents separation in perpendicular directions, enhancing load capacity and resistance to damage, with protrusion-recess structures for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional zipper teeth are used for interlocking, then the zipper can be closed and opened, but the zipper is prone to failure when individual teeth are damaged or separated by foreign objects
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional single-row interlocking mechanism is divided into dual-row interlocking structures. The zipper now has two rows of teeth that interlock with each other, and the slider engages both rows simultaneously. This segmentation ensures that damage to one row does not cause complete failure, as the other row maintains the connection.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the zipper structure are given different functions. The teeth are designed with specific engagement geometries, while the slider incorporates protective features. The dual-row configuration provides localized reinforcement at critical interlocking points, making the overall structure more resistant to foreign object intrusion and tooth damage.
2Ease of operation
If the zipper head separates interlocked teeth during opening, then the zipper can be opened, but the separated teeth cannot be perfectly interlocked again, rendering the zipper useless
Solution Approach 1:
The slider is designed with guiding surfaces and engagement features that prepare and align the teeth before separation occurs. During the opening process, the slider gradually disengages the teeth while maintaining their relative positions, preventing misalignment that would occur with traditional zippers. This preliminary alignment action ensures teeth remain ready for re-engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The slider acts as an intermediary mechanism that mediates the separation and re-engagement of teeth. It controls the separation process to prevent damage and maintains proper tooth alignment throughout the opening cycle. The slider's design ensures that teeth are separated in a controlled manner, preserving their ability to interlock perfectly on subsequent closures.
3Weight of moving object
If the zipper uses thin material in some parts to reduce weight, then the zipper is lighter, but the load capacity of the zipper is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The zipper employs composite construction combining different materials with complementary properties. The teeth and structural components use high-strength materials to maximize load-bearing capacity, while non-critical areas use lighter materials to reduce overall weight. This composite approach allows the zipper to achieve optimal strength-to-weight ratio, maintaining high load capacity without excessive weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The zipper structure is segmented into critical load-bearing components and non-critical components. Critical areas such as the teeth, slider body, and engagement surfaces use stronger, heavier materials to ensure load capacity. Non-critical areas such as decorative elements or non-load-bearing sections use lighter materials. This segmented material selection optimizes the overall weight-strength balance.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a track zipper and a connecting structure having a track zipper. The track zipper includes a first track, a second track, and a zipper core connecting the first and second tracks. The first track and a first side of the zipper core are provided with a first slidably connecting structure. The second track and a second side of the zipper core are provided with a second slidably connecting structure. When the track zipper is in a closed position, the zipper core is positioned between the first and second tracks and holds the first and second tracks together. The track zipper of the present disclosure is advantageous in that it can prevent foreign material from being caught by the zipper, and that it has a much stronger bearing capacity.