Zipper Sealing Zone With Interlocking Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing zipper sealing mechanisms are complex, prone to material fatigue, uncomfortable to wear, and not ideal for applications involving liquids or gases, as they require additional bulk and are not easily adaptable to different sizes or configurations.
Innovation Solution
A method and assembly that utilize overlapping zipper segments with a sealing element positioned between them to prevent leakage, featuring various types of sealing elements such as resiliently deformable, expandable, or plug-based designs, which can be easily integrated into different zipper configurations, including circular and linear arrangements, to create a sealed zone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional sealing mechanism is used for zipper closures, then sealing effectiveness is achieved, but the device becomes complicated and material fatigue occurs leading to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sealing function from a complex mechanical sealing mechanism and implements it through a simple sealing member (such as a plug, wedge, or deformable element) that is inserted or positioned into the sealing zone created by overlapping zipper segments. This eliminates complicated mechanisms while maintaining sealing effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies sealing force or sealing action locally at the sealing zone where the first and second zipper segments overlap, rather than using a complex mechanism distributed throughout the zipper structure. The sealing member is positioned specifically at the critical leakage point to provide effective sealing with minimal complexity.
2Reliability
If a traditional sealing mechanism is used for zipper closures, then sealing effectiveness is achieved, but the material around the sealing mechanism becomes fatigued eventually leading to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the sealing function from the main zipper structure and materials, introducing a separate sealing member that does not rely on the fatigue resistance of the zipper materials. This separation prevents material fatigue accumulation in the zipper components while maintaining sealing effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing member acts as a cushioning element that absorbs sealing forces and prevents stress concentration on the zipper materials. By positioning the sealing member in the sealing zone, it protects the surrounding materials from fatigue caused by repeated sealing operations.
3Reliability
If a traditional sealing mechanism is used for zipper closures, then sealing effectiveness is achieved, but the bulk of the sealing mechanism becomes uncomfortable to wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sealing function from a bulky traditional sealing mechanism and implements it with a compact sealing member that fits within the sealing zone created by the overlapping zipper segments. This eliminates unnecessary bulk while maintaining sealing effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing member is nested within the sealing zone formed by the overlapping first and second zipper segments. This nesting arrangement allows the sealing mechanism to be compact and integrated into the zipper structure without adding significant bulk or discomfort.
4Reliability
If a traditional sealing mechanism is used for zipper closures, then sealing effectiveness is achieved, but the mechanism is not easily adaptable to different sizes or configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal sealing solution where the sealing member can be used with various zipper configurations (linear, circular, different sizes) by simply positioning it in the sealing zone created by overlapping zipper segments. The sealing mechanism itself does not need to be redesigned for different applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic sealing approach where the sealing member can be inserted, positioned, and removed as needed, rather than being fixed to a specific zipper configuration. This allows the same sealing mechanism to adapt to different zipper sizes and configurations by simply changing the position or type of sealing member used.
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 is simpler to use, less expensive to manufacture, more comfortable to wear, less prone to material fatigue, and adaptable to various zipper brands and styles, providing effective sealing with adjustable overlap and optional air transfer capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
One sealing element is a resiliently deformable sealing element that is compressed within the sealing zone
Implementation Method 2
Another sealing element is an expandable sealing element that expands to occupy the sealing zone
Implementation Method 3
Yet another sealing element is a plug that is wedged into the at least one sealing zone
Implementation Method 4
Yet another sealing element is plug that can be compressed lengthwise via an internal screw tensioner
Data Source
AI summary
A sealed zipper assembly includes a first zipper segment and a second zipper segment in overlapping relation to create a sealing zone. A sealing element is positioned in the sealing zone to prevent leakage between the first zipper segment and the second zipper segment.