Waterproof Interlocking Zipper Sealing Zone Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing zipper closure sealing mechanisms are complex, prone to material fatigue, and uncomfortable to wear, especially in applications involving liquids or gases, as seen in the Kallionpaa reference.
Innovation Solution
A method using a waterproof interlocking zipper fastener with interlocking teeth and a sliding mechanism, where at least one waterproof element is a zipper segment, and one or more sealing elements are placed between the elements to create a sealing zone, preventing leakage, and can be adapted for linear zipper configurations by using a sealing zone base.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sealing mechanism is added to a zipper closure to prevent leakage, then waterproofing reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sealing function with the zipper fastener structure itself. The interlocking teeth of the zipper create overlapping engagement that forms the sealing zone, eliminating the need for separate complex sealing mechanisms. The waterproof elements are integrated into the zipper components, merging fastening and sealing functions into a single unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the sealing function from complex mechanical sealing mechanisms and implements it through the geometric arrangement of the zipper teeth and waterproof elements. By removing unnecessary intermediate sealing components and relying on the inherent overlapping structure of engaged zipper teeth, the design achieves waterproofing with minimal additional complexity.
2Reliability
If material is added around the sealing mechanism to enhance sealing, then waterproofing reliability is improved, but material fatigue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible waterproof elements (such as waterproof fabric or film) that conform to the zipper structure and provide sealing through their flexibility and conformability. These thin film-like materials reduce stress concentration and prevent the material fatigue that occurs with rigid sealing components, thereby extending the service life while maintaining waterproofing reliability.
3Reliability
If a bulk sealing mechanism is added to the zipper, then waterproofing reliability is improved, but wearability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs thin, flexible waterproof elements that add minimal bulk to the zipper assembly. These elements can conform to the body or application surface without creating significant discomfort, while still providing effective waterproofing. The flexibility allows the sealing mechanism to move with the wearer, maintaining wearability.
4Ease of operation
If a waterproof interlocking zipper fastener is used, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the waterproof zipper system into separate modular components: the waterproof interlocking zipper fastener, the waterproof elements, and the sealing zone structure. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard processes, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining ease of operation through the simple interlocking mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of sealing a zipper closure has a first waterproof element in the form of a sealing zone base and a second waterproof element in the form of a waterproof interlocking zipper fastener. The first waterproof element and the second waterproof element are placed in overlapping engagement to define a sealing zone. One or more sealing elements are placed in the sealing zone to prevent leakage.