Zipper Slider Geometry to Prevent Terminal Means Collision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing zippers face difficulties in closing due to collisions between the first tape and the terminal means that extend beyond the end face of the second tape, making it challenging to fully close the zipper.
Innovation Solution
The zipper design incorporates a difference in distances between the tape-facing plane of the slider's upper shield and the first tape at the ends of the terminal means, causing the first tape to bend away from the trajectory of the second terminal means, reducing the risk of collision by ensuring the first tape moves out of its path during closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the second terminal means extends beyond the end face of the first tape in the closed state, then the zipper structure is stabilized and the slider can abut against the stopper, but the first tape collides with the second terminal means during closing
Solution Approach 1:
The first terminal means is designed with an inclined surface that causes the first tape to bend in a curved path during closing, moving it away from the trajectory of the second terminal means and eliminating collision while maintaining structural stability
Solution Approach 2:
The solution introduces a spatial dimension by inclining the surface of the first terminal means, which creates a three-dimensional bending path for the first tape, moving it out of the collision plane with the second terminal means
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a zipper, comprising a first tape with a first row of engaging elements, a second tape with a second row of engaging elements, a slider having an upper shield and a lower shield, a first terminal means behind the last engaging element on the first tape in a closing direction of the slider, and a second terminal means behind the last engaging element on the second tape in the closing direction of the slider, wherein in the closed state of the zipper, said second terminal means extends beyond the end face of the first tape facing the second tape. According to the invention, in the closed state of the zipper, the distance of the tape-facing plane of the upper shield of the slider from the first tape at the end of the first terminal means facing the first row of engaging elements is different from the respective distance at the opposite end of the first terminal means.