• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
  • 权利要求
  • 类似技术
  • 同族专利
  • 引用文献
  • 法律状态
  • 优先权
    • 专利摘要:
    SELF-ALIGNABLE Zipper This is a self-aligning zipper that allows one-handed operation by anyone who would otherwise use a zipper or it is the use of the self-aligning zipper for those with physical or developmental limitations or equipment, such as gloves for the cold or gloves. Proper alignment of each half of the self-aligning zipper is achieved by means of magnets of opposite polarity together with structural guide elements to ensure proper alignment and operation of the zipper.
    公开号:BR112014005633B1
    申请号:R112014005633-1
    申请日:2012-09-11
    公开日:2021-01-05
    发明作者:Scott Lawrence Peters；David Whitney Lyndaker；Nancy Elizabeth Peters
    申请人:Scott Lawrence Peters；David Whitney Lyndaker；Nancy Elizabeth Peters；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    [0001] This application claims the priority of United States Patent Application Serial Number 61 / 533,774, filed on September 12, 2011, entitled “Self-aligning zipper” by Peters et al. and United States Patent Application Serial Number 13 / 608,469, filed on September 10, 2012, entitled “Self-aligning zipper”, the complete descriptions of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Technique Field
    [0002] The present invention generally relates to fixing devices and, more particularly, to a self-aligning zipper that allows alignment and closing with one hand. Prior Art
    [0003] The common zipper was invented more than 100 years ago. In 1851, Elias Howe, who also invented the sewing machine, United States Patent received 8,540 for an “Automatic Continuous Clothing Closure” (Automatic Continuous Clothing Closure). Due to a lack of marketing, Howe's closing device won little acceptance. Years later, Whitcomb Judson marketed a “clasp locker” (United States patents 504,038 and 504,037) and started the Universal Fastener Company, but the product again encountered little commercial success. Then, in 1906 Gideon Sundback, an American-Swedish electrical engineer, was hired by the Universal Fastener Company. In 1913 he designed what would become known as the modern zipper. The patent for its “Separable Fastener” was issued in 1917 as United States Patent 1,219,881.
    [0004] The term “Zipper”, however, was popularized by B.F. Goodrich Company when they used Sundbacks fasteners in a new type of rubber boot. For almost twenty years, the zipper has been used primarily for rubber boots and closures on tobacco packaging. It wasn't until the 1930s that the zipper became popular in clothing. Today the zipper is by far the most popular fastener. The zipper is found on clothes such as jackets, luggage, bags, camping equipment and many other objects. Zippers can be found on all types of clothing such as pants, dresses and jackets, on boots such as bags and luggage, and on items such as sleeping bags and tents. In addition to serving as decoration, zippers can join two sides of a garment, as in the operation of a dress, and can serve as a means of removably attaching two pieces of fabric, such as when attaching a removable hood to a jacket.
    [0005] Fixing devices such as zippers can be separating or non-separating devices and can be single-way or two-way devices. In a separation zipper, each of the two rails of the zipper, comprising the tape and the clamped teeth, is connected to the different elements that are primarily joined by the teeth of the interlock zipper. In a non-separating zipper, both rails of the zipper are connected to a single element such that by interlocking and unlocking the teeth of the zipper an opening is created in this element. A two-way zipper comprises two sliding bodies that work together or separately to interlock and unlock the zipper teeth. A single-way zipper comprises a single sliding body as well as a pin and box assembly that aligns the zipper teeth contained in at least one of the zipper tracks.
    [0006] In the simplest form, single-way zippers are made up of relatively few parts, including: a creation assembly with a pin and a retaining body at the lower limit of each row of zipper teeth; two pieces of tape that are attached to the fabric on one side and contain zipper teeth on the other; a sliding body with a tab for pulling; and two top stops at the upper limit of each row of teeth.
    [0007] To attach two pieces of fabric, the operator inserts the pin from the lower limit of one row of teeth into the retainer box at the equivalent lower limit of the other row of teeth. This aligns the teeth in an operable interlock format. Once aligned, the operator pulls the engagement mechanism, called the sliding body, along the tooth track. The wedges inside the sliding body force the teeth of each rail to interact. If the teeth are aligned, the hook of each tooth rests on the void of an opposite tooth. The operator can continue to pull the sliding body and interlock the teeth until the slider ends at the top stops located at the upper limit of each row of teeth.
    [0008] To release the pieces of fabric, the operator pulls the sliding body back along the closed rail. The wedges inside the sliding body force the interlocking teeth on each side and separate the zipper closure.
    [0009] Despite the ease with which zipper closures operate, many individuals find it difficult to tie the pin and the body together. Others may have difficulty grasping the small sliding body or pulling it along the zipper teeth. Examples of individuals who often encounter these difficulties include young children, people who wear protective gloves, the elderly, and people with poor eyesight, with macular degeneration or cataracts. Additionally, people with disabilities such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, invasive developmental diseases, Down syndrome, ataxia, diabetes with neuropathy, infarction (CVA), paraplegic, with Lou Gehrig's disease, Parkinson's, and other disorders they may also find the operation of the zippers difficult.
    [0010] There has been very little advancement in technologies related to zippers since its first introduction more than 100 years ago. United States Patent 8,146,214 to Peters et al. describes a zipper that is perfected with Gideon Sundback's basic zipper design, the entire description of this published application, and any all continuations, divisions, part continuations and issued patents resulting from it are incorporated herein by reference, in their wholeness.
    [0011] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved zipper that allows for easy alignment and closure. It is another object of the present invention to provide an improved zipper for one-handed operation. It is another object of the present invention to provide an improved zipper for use by individuals with limited dexterity. It is another object of the present invention to provide an improved zipper that can be worn while wearing gloves or half-gloves. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide an improved zipper that can be easily operated by young children. These and other objects of the present invention are not to be considered comprehensive or exhaustive, but instead are examples of the objects that can be verified after reading this specification with the attached drawings and claims. Description of the Invention
    [0012] According to the present invention, a fixing device is provided, the fixing device comprising a first lower body having a first magnet, a male retaining element and a first extension; a second lower body having a second magnet, a female retaining element and a second extension; the female retaining element of the second lower body having a notch for receiving the male retaining element of the first lower body and an angled face for guiding the female retaining element of the second lower body for proper alignment with the male retaining element of the first lower body through the attraction force of the first magnet and the second magnet.
    [0013] The preceding paragraph was provided by way of introduction and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention as described by this specification, the claims and the attached drawings. Brief Description of the Drawings The invention will be described by reference to the drawings below, in which the numerical references refer to the same elements, and in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of the self-aligning Zipper before the joining; Figure 2 is a perspective view of the self-aligning zipper once joined; Figure 3 is a perspective view of the self-aligning Zipper during closing; Figure 4 is a plan view of the self-aligning zipper before joining; Figure 5 is a perspective view of the self-aligning zipper with a closed zipper pull; Figure 6 is a perspective view of the self-aligning zipper with a closed zipper pull; Figure 7 is a plan view of the closed zipper handle; Figure 8 is a perspective view of the closed zipper handle; Figure 9 is a side view of the self-aligning zipper with a closed zipper pull; Figure 10 is a perspective view of the self-aligning zipper with an open zipper pull; Figure 11 is a plan view of the open zipper handle; Figure 12 is a perspective view of the open zipper handle; Figure 13 is a perspective view of the self-aligning zipper with an articulated zipper pull; Figure 14 is a perspective view of the hinged zipper pull; Figure 15 is a plan view of the hinge zipper pull; Figure 16 is a perspective view of the hinge zipper pull in an hinge position; Figure 17 is an end view of the top of the second lower body; Figure 18 is a perspective view of the second lower body; Figure 19 is a plan view of the second lower body; Figure 20 is a side view of the magnet of the second lower body; Figure 21 is an alternative plan view of the second lower body; Figure 22 is a bottom end view of the second lower body; Figure 23 is an end view of the top of the first lower body; Figure 24 is a perspective view of the first lower body; Figure 25 is a plan view of the first lower body; Figure 26 is a side view of the magnet of the second lower body; Figure 27 is an alternative plan view of the first lower body; Figure 28 is a bottom end view of the first lower body; Figure 29 is a plan view of the first magnet; in perspective of the second magnet; Figure 31 is a perspective view of a grooved magnet; Figure 32 is a plan view of the grooved magnet of Figure 31; Figure 33 is a side view of the grooved magnet of Figure 31; Figure 34 is a perspective view of the first lower body having clips for retaining a grooved magnet; Figure 35 is a plan view of the first lower body of Figure 34; Figure 36 is a side view of the first lower body of Figure 34; Figure 37 is a perspective view of the second lower body having clips for retaining a grooved magnet; Figure 38 is a plan view of the second lower body of Figure 37; Figure 39 is a side view of the second lower body of Figure 37; Figure 40 is a perspective view of a U-clamp; Figure 41 is a plan view of the U-clamp in Figure 40; Figure 42 is a perspective view of the second lower body having a receiving structure for a U-clip; Figure 43 is a side view of the second lower body of Figure 42; Figure 44 is an opposite side view of the second lower body of Figure 42; Figure 45 is a perspective view of the first lower body having a receiving structure for a U-clip; Figure 46 is a side view of the first lower body of Figure 45; Figure 47 is an opposite side view of the first lower body of Figure 45; Figure 48 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the first lower body; Figure 49 is an exploded view of the first lower body of Figure 48; Figure 50 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the second lower body; Figure 51 is an exploded view of the second lower body of Figure 50; and Figure 52 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the self-aligning Zipper once joined (zipper pull not shown for clarity).
    [0014] The present invention will be described in connection with a preferred embodiment, however, it will be understood that there is no intention to limit the invention to the described embodiment. Instead, the intention is to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents as they may be included in the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by this specification, claims and attached drawings. Best Way to Carry Out the Invention
    [0015] For a general understanding of the present invention, reference has been made to the drawings. In the drawings, numerical references were used throughout the document to designate identical elements.
    [0016] The present invention will be described by way of example and without limitation. The modifications, improvements and additions to the invention described herein can be determined after reading this specification and viewing the drawings; such modifications, improvements and additions are considered included in the spirit and broad scope of the present invention and its various modalities described or imagined in the present.
    [0017] Referring to the present invention in detail, Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the self-aligning Zipper before joining. Proper alignment of each half of the zipper is achieved by means of magnets of opposite polarity together with structural guide elements to ensure proper zipper alignment such that the zipper can be closed with one hand or by an individual with limited physical capabilities. The self-aligning zipper 100 can be seen in Figure 1 together with a first lower body 101 and a second lower body 103. The first lower body 101 has a first magnet 127 and a male retaining element 117. Male retaining element 117 can be seen as a flap or protuberance on each side of the first lower body 101. The male retaining element 117 and the related notch of the female retaining element 125 may be generally triangular, or in some embodiments of the present invention, may be rounded. The second lower body 103 has a second magnet 129 and a female retaining element 125. The female retaining element 125 has a notch on either side of the second lower body 103 for receiving the male retaining element 117 of the first lower body 101 and a angled face 123 to guide the female retaining element 125 into proper alignment with the male retaining element 117 through the attraction force of the first magnet 127 and the second magnet 129.
    [0018] The fixture of the present invention comprises a first lower body 101 comprising a first magnet 127, a male retaining element 117 and a first extension 301 (see Figure 3); a second lower body 103 comprising a second magnet 129, a female retaining element 125 and a second extension 119; the female retaining element 125 of the second lower body 103 is having a notch for receiving the male retaining element 117 of the first lower body 101 and an angled face 123 for guiding the female retaining element 125 of the second lower body 103 for proper alignment with the male retaining element 117 of the first lower body 101 through the attraction force of the first magnet 127 and the second magnet 129.
    [0019] To further assist with the alignment and orientation of the self-aligning Zipper while in use, several additional alignment features can be seen in Figures 18 and 24, and will be further described in the present. The first magnet 127 and the second magnet 129 can be ferrite magnets, alnico magnets, rare earth magnets (Neodymium, Samarium-cobalt, for example), or the like. In some embodiments of the present invention, one of the magnets can be replaced with a ferromagnetic material or at least partially made of a ferromagnetic material. In some embodiments of the present invention, the magnet may contain a ferromagnetic layer, plate or component. In addition, in some embodiments of the present invention, magnets can be electromagnets that use a power source such as a power extractor, a battery, an ultracapacitor, or the like. Electromagnets can additionally be integrated with smart clothes that contain sensors, processors, or the like. In use, the opposite poles are facing each other to provide an attractive force that serves to join each half of the zipper. In some embodiments of the present invention, magnets may have manipulated or otherwise manufactured handling features in the corresponding magnets and handling features in the first lower body and the second lower body to provide magnet retention and also to ensure that the proper polarity observed when the magnets are installed in the lower bodies. Magnets can be installed on the lower bodies using adhesives or mechanical fastening techniques or a combination of them. Mechanical fastening techniques include, but are not limited to, lower side cuts, locking features, separate retaining parts, handling features on the magnet and lower body, or the like. The magnets can also be completely embedded in the first lower body or the second lower body, or both the first lower body and the second lower body. The first lower body 101 is attached to a first rail of the zipper 105 and the second lower body 103 is attached to a second rail of the zipper 107. Both the first rail of the zipper 105 and the second rail of the zipper can be made using conventional techniques, such as that of construction of metal teeth or molded of plastic, of construction of spiral, and the like. The first zipper rail 105 is attached to a first zipper tape 109 using an adhesive, heat, crimp, overmould, or the like. Similarly, the second zipper rail 107 is attached to a second zipper tape 111 using an adhesive, heat, crimp, overmould, or the like. The first zipper tape 109 and the second zipper tape 111 can be made of a material such as nylon fabric, nylon or polyester fabric, or the like. The first zipper tape 109 and the second zipper tape 111 are then used to attach the self-aligning zipper to the two fabric edges that must be temporarily joined by means of the self-aligning zipper. Common techniques for attaching the self-aligning Zipper to the two fabric edges include adhesives and stitching. The first lower body 101 and the second lower body 103 can be made from a metal, such as steel or brass, or they can be made from a plastic such as, for example, polyoxymethylene (also known as acetal, polyacetal , and polyformaldehyde) or polyethylene resin. Other parts of the self-aligning Zipper can be made of similar materials. The parts can be injection molded if they are made of plastic, or they can be cast, machined or stamped if they are made of metal. The second lower body also has a second extension 119 which serves to provide structural resistance to the general assembly, and also a starting tooth 121 that starts on the second zipper rail 107. Located on the first zipper rail 105 is a sliding body 113 which is similar to the sliding bodies used in many common zippers. The sliding body 113 has a pull tab 115 to secure a zipper pull. As can be clearly seen in Figure 1, the sliding body 113 engages with the second track of the zipper 107 on the starting tooth 121 and on the edge of the second extension 119.
    [0020] The self-aligning zipper for one-handed operation comprises a first lower body 101 comprising a first magnet 127, a male retaining element 117 and a first extension 301 (see Figure 3); a first zipper rail 105 having a plurality of teeth and attached to the first lower body 101; a sliding body 113 slidably connected to the first zipper rail 105; a second lower body 103 comprising a second magnet 129, a female retaining element 125 and a second extension 119; a second zipper rail 107 having a plurality of teeth and attached to the second lower body 103; the female retaining element 125 of the second lower body 103 is having a notch for receiving the male retaining element 117 of the first lower body 101 and an angled face 123 for guiding the female retaining element 125 of the second lower body 103 for proper alignment with the male retaining element 117 of the first lower body 101 through the attraction force of the first magnet 127 and the second magnet 129.
    [0021] In some embodiments of the present invention, the handling of the zipper can be switched by exchanging the appropriate parts from left to right or from right to left depending on whether a left-handed or right-handed zipper is desired during manufacture. This would include, for example, placing the sliding body 113 on the alternating zipper rail, placing a starter tooth on the alternative lower body, and the like.
    [0022] The engagement of each half of the self-aligning Zipper is facilitated by the magnets in each half and the alignment and orientation geometries are described in the present and depicted in the drawings. To start the fixing process with the Self Aligning Zipper, each half of the zipper is joined until the magnets in each half start to attract each other. As the magnets attract each half, bringing them together, the alignment and orientation geometries ensure proper alignment and the slider can then be pulled with a zipper pull, and the zipper will close.
    [0023] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the self-aligning zipper once joined. The male retainer 117 can be attached to the female retainer 125, and the sliding body 113 is ready to be dragged along the first zipper rail 105 and the second zipper rail 107 to close the self-aligning zipper. It should be noted that in some embodiments of the present invention, a male retaining element and a female retaining element are located on each side of the zipper.
    [0024] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the self-aligning zipper during closing. A first extension 301 can now also be seen as the slide is not obstructing its view as in Figure 1. The first extension 301 is attached to the first lower body 101 and provides structural strength and a mating surface. In Figure 3, the sliding body 113 has a pull tab 115 for attaching a zipper pull.
    [0025] Figure 4 is a plan view of the self-aligning zipper before joining. Various zipper pulls can be used with the present invention. Figures 5 to 16 depict three exemplary zipper pulls. The zipper pulls can be made of a metal like steel or brass, or a plastic like polyethylene, polypropylene, or the like. Methods of manufacturing zipper handles include injection molding for plastics, machining, casting, stamping and the like.
    [0026] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the self-aligning zipper 100 with a closed zipper pull 501. A retainer 505 can be seen, which provides the attachment of the closed zipper handle 501 to the pull tab 115 on the sliding body 113. Furthermore, a stop 503 can be seen to be a protruding feature on the rear side of the closed zipper handle that provides a slight shift to the closed zipper handle in its normal resting position on a garment or object. This allows the closed zipper handle to be easily grasped and operated and also prevents the lower base body from getting caught in the handle. Furthermore, in some embodiments of the invention, the closed zipper pull may have a curve or offset to make it easy to grip. Figure 6 is a plan view of the self-aligning zipper with a closed zipper handle. Figure 7 is a plan view of the closed zipper handle and Figure 8 is a perspective view of the closed zipper handle showing a stop 503 on either side of the closed zipper handle. Various geometries and structures can be used without separating from the spirit and the broad scope of the present invention and its various modalities described and depicted in the present. Figure 9 is a side view of the self-aligning zipper with a closed zipper pull showing the engagement of the 503 stop with the self-aligning zipper to create a slight displacement. The offset serves to provide space between the zipper pull and the self-aligning Zipper body so that the zipper pull does not interfere with the operation of the self-aligning Zipper.
    [0027] In another embodiment of the present invention, an open zipper pull is provided as shown in Figures 10 to 12. Figure 10 is a perspective view of the self-aligning Zipper with an open zipper pull. A retainer 1005 can be seen, which provides the attachment of the open zipper handle 1001 to the pull tab 115 on the slide body 113. Additionally, a stop 1003 can be seen to be a protruding feature on the rear side of the open zipper handle that provides a slight shift to the open zipper handle in its normal resting position on a garment or object. This allows the open zipper handle to be easily gripped and operated and prevents the lower base body from getting caught in the handle. Furthermore, in some embodiments of the invention, the open zipper pull may have a curve or offset to make it easy to grip. Figure 11 is a plan view of the open zipper handle and Figure 12 is a perspective view of the open zipper handle showing a stop 1003 on either side of the open zipper handle. Various geometries and structures can be used without separating from the spirit and the broad scope of the present invention and its various modalities described and depicted in the present.
    [0028] In another embodiment of the present invention, an articulated zipper pull is provided as depicted in Figures 13 to 16. Figure 13 is a perspective view of the self-aligning zipper with an articulated zipper pull 1301. The zipper pull hinge 1301 comprises an upper element 1303 and a lower element 1305 connected with a hinge with a hinge pin 1307 to allow the two elements to move freely, providing an easy handle grip. A retainer 1309 is also depicted in Figure 13 which provides the attachment of the hinged zipper handle 1301 to the pull tab 115 on the sliding body 113.
    [0029] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the articulated zipper pull. Figure 15 is a plan view of the hinged zipper pull and Figure 16 is a perspective view of the hinged zipper pull in an hinged position. Other zipper pulls can also be used with the self-aligning Zipper without departing from the spirit and the broad scope of the present invention, as described and depicted herein.
    [0030] For a complete understanding of how to make and use the self-aligning Zipper, a complete series of views of the first lower body 101 and the second lower body 103 will be depicted by means of Figures 17 to 28. The views do not include magnets or the rail and tape structures. The magnets during assembly are inserted in the first lower body and the second lower body such that the opposite poles are facing each other, providing an attractive force in each lower body respectively.
    [0031] Figures 17 to 22 depict views of the second lower body. Figure 17 is an end view of the top of the second lower body. Figure 18 is a perspective view of the second lower body. In Figure 18, an edge 1801 can be seen, which aligns and combines with a slot 2403 which can be seen in Figure 24. Also depicted in Figure 18 is a second alignment feature 1803 that cooperatively engages with a first feature of alignment 2405 depicted in Figure 24 to allow easy entry of the two halves of the zipper in use, and closes the space between the two halves of the zipper. The first alignment feature 2405 and the second alignment feature 1803 can, in some embodiments of the present invention, be locked or otherwise combined, for example, using angles or curves that fit when the two halves of the zipper are in the appropriate position . Figure 19 is a plan view of the second lower body. Figure 20 is a side view of the magnet of the second lower body. Figure 21 is an alternating plan view of the second lower body and Figure 22 is a bottom end view of the second lower body.
    [0032] Figures 23 to 28 depict views of the first lower body. Figure 23 is an end view of the top of the first lower body. Figure 24 is a perspective view of the first lower body. Figure 24 depicts a slot 2403 that engages with an edge 1801 as shown in Figure 18. In addition, a first alignment feature 2405 cooperatively engages with a second alignment feature 1803 as pictured in Figure 18 to allow easy entry of the two halves of the zipper in use. Figure 25 is a plan view of the first lower body. Figure 26 is a side view of the magnet of the first lower body. Figure 27 is an alternating plan view of the first lower body and Figure 28 is a bottom end view of the first lower body.
    [0033] Figure 29 is a plan view of the first magnet 127 and Figure 30 is a perspective view of the second magnet 129. As shown, the magnet is shown as a cylinder. Other geometries can also be used with appropriate modifications to the structures of the first lower body and the second lower body. The first magnet 127 and the second magnet 129 can be ferrite magnets, alnico magnets, rare earth magnets (Neodymium, Samarium-cobalt, for example), or the like. In use, the opposite poles are facing each other to provide an attractive force that serves to join each half of the zipper.
    [0034] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the first magnet and the second magnet have a groove such as the grooved magnet 3101 shown in Figures 31-33. Figure 31 is a perspective view of a grooved magnet, Figure 32 is a plan view of the grooved magnet of Figure 31, and Figure 33 is a side view of the grooved magnet of Figure 31. Groove 3101 is circumferential to the grooved magnet 3101. Slot 3101 interacts with various features in the first lower body and the second lower body to retain the grooved magnet 3101. In this example, the grooved magnet 3101 replaces the first magnet 127 and the second magnet 129 in the construction of the self-aligning Zipper. The advantage of a grooved or otherwise modified magnet is the interaction with the various features of the first lower body and the second lower body to facilitate the retention of the magnet. Examples include the use of clamps, dowels, rods and the like. For example, Figures 34 to 39 depict the use of internal fasteners to engage with the grooved magnet or otherwise mechanically retain it. Figure 34 is a perspective view of the first lower body having clips for retaining a grooved magnet. A first fastener 3401 can be seen in Figure 34, while a second fastener 3501 and the first fastener 3401 can be seen in Figure 35. Figure 35 is a plan view of the first lower body of Figure 34 and Figure 36 is a side view of the first lower body of Figure 34. The first fastener 3401 and the second fastener 3501 can be formed from the same material as the first lower body and the second lower body, or they can be of a different material. The first fastener 3401 and the second fastener 3501 can be rectangular, triangular, square, or the like, and can, in some embodiments of the present invention, be deformable, flexible, or otherwise elastic to allow the grooved magnet to be retained by such arrangement through contact with the groove on the magnet. The second lower body 103 can also employ a similar arrangement in which a first fastener 3701 and a second fastener 3703 are used to retain the grooved magnet, thereby allowing the magnet to engage during assembly and not come off. Figure 37 is a perspective view of the second lower body having clips for retaining a grooved magnet. Figure 38 is a plan view of the second lower body of Figure 37. Figure 39 is a side view of the second lower body of Figure 37. The first fastener 3701 and the second fastener 3703 can be formed from the same material as the second lower body and the first lower body, or they may be of a different material. The first fastener 3701 and the second fastener 3703 can be rectangular, triangular, square, or the like, and can, in some embodiments of the present invention, be deformable, flexible, or otherwise elastic to allow the grooved magnet to be retained by such arrangement through contact with the groove on the magnet. During assembly, the grooved magnet is pressed into the retaining magnet 2401 where the clamps pass through the circumference of the grooved magnet until they engage and are retained by the groove in the magnet.
    [0035] In another embodiment of the present invention, a U-clip is used to pass through the first lower body and then retain the magnet by retaining the U-clip through the groove in the grooved magnet. Such an arrangement can also be used with the second lower body. Grooved magnet 3101 can be seen in Figures 31 to 33. Figure 40 is a perspective view of a U-clamp 4001. The U-clamp can have edges, chamfers, grooves, or other features to engage with the openings in the first lower body or the second lower body. Figure 41 is a plan view of the U-clamp in Figure 40 showing each feature as well as a generally elevated and curvilinear feature in the U-shape of the clamp that serves to capture and retain the magnet. Figure 42 is a perspective view of the second lower body having a receiving structure for a U-shaped clamp. Pictured on one side of the second lower body is a slot where the U-shaped clamp passes during assembly. Figure 43 is a side view of the second lower body of Figure 42. Figure 44 is an opposite side view of the second lower body of Figure 42. On the opposite side of the second lower body 103 are a first U-clip holder 4401 and a second receiver for U-clip 4403 which are essentially holes that serve to retain the U-clip 4001. These holes can be square, rectangular, circular, or other such shapes that match the structure of the U-clip 4001 to facilitate retention . In a similar manner, the first lower body 101 can employ a U-clip for retaining the magnet. Figure 45 is a perspective view of the first lower body having a receiving structure for a U-clamp. A slot 4501 can be seen where the U-clamp passes during assembly. Figure 46 is a side view of the first lower body of Figure 45. Figure 47 is an opposite side view of the first lower body of Figure 45. On the opposite side of the first lower body 101 are a first U-clip receiver 4701 and a second receiver for U-clamp 4703 which are essentially holes that serve to retain the U-clamp 4001. These holes can be square, rectangular, circular, or other such shapes that match the structure of the U-clamp 4001 to facilitate retention . Although the U-clip 4001 is portrayed as being inserted from the side of each lower body, in some embodiments of the present invention it can be inserted from the bottom, from the top or from an angle.
    [0036] Other techniques for retaining the magnet include a secondary part that is molded or formed with each lower body and folds and fits in place, either by the back or front (contact) surface of the magnet. In addition, in some embodiments of the present invention, each lower body can be made into several pieces, with the magnet inserted between or in the pieces, and then each of the various pieces are joined using an adhesive, a solder, a fastener or the like. . For example, the first lower body and the second lower body can be made into two pieces, with features such as a guide and a guide receiver used to facilitate the joining of the two pieces. In Figures 48 to 52, an exemplary embodiment of such an arrangement of several pieces is shown. Figure 48 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the first lower body 101. In Figures 48 and 49, some of the attributes of the first lower body 101 have been rounded to provide a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. For example, the first extension 301 and the male retaining element 117 support rounded features, but are still within the spirit and the broad scope of the present invention, as described and imagined herein. Figure 49 depicts an exploded view of the first lower body 101 of Figure 48 in which a first section 4905 and a second section 4907 are depicted. The first section 4905 and the second section 4907 serve to retain the first magnet 127, and may have additional features such as a 4901 guide and a 4903 guide receiver that acts to join the first section 4905 and the second section 4907 during assembly (manufacture Final). The 4901 guide can be a rail-like structure that can have a beveled edge or several beveled edges to provide retention in the 4903 guide receiver. The 4903 guide receiver has features that are combined with the features in the 4901 guide, such as notched internal surfaces for if they match and receive the notched or beveled edges of the 4901 guide. If the notch is angled outwardly with respect to the opening of the guide receiver, the two parts (the first section 4905 and the second section 4907) are held together when assembled. Other guide structures such as the concentric raised feature shown in 4905 that combine with the opening of the magnet in the second section 4907 can also be employed in some embodiments of the present invention. In addition, fasteners, edges or other retention features can be employed on the guide, guide receiver, or the mating surfaces of the first section and the second section to allow retention and ensure the combination of each section during assembly and before assembly. application of additional joining techniques such as adhesives, thermal or plastic welding. Since the first section 4905 and the second section 4907 are assembled with the first magnet 127 retained in the two sections, they can be further joined using adhesives, fasteners, thermal or plastic welding. In some embodiments of the present invention, the first magnet 127 is additionally adhered to, fused or bonded to either one of the first section 4905, the second section 4907, or both.
    [0037] Figure 50 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the second lower body 103. Similar to those in Figures 48 and 49, some of the attributes of the second lower body 103 have been rounded to provide a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. For example, the second extension 119 and the female retaining element 125 support round features, but are still within the spirit and broad scope of the present invention, as described and imagined herein. Figure 51 depicts an exploded view of the second lower body 103 of Figure 50 in which a first section 5105 and a second section 5107 are depicted. The first section 5105 and the second section 5107 serve to retain the second magnet 129 when assembled, and may have additional features such as a 5101 guide and a 5103 guide receiver that acts to join the first section 5105 and the second section 5107 during assembly (final manufacture). The 5101 guide can be a rail-like structure that can have a beveled edge or several beveled edges to provide retention on the 5103 guide receiver. The 5103 guide receiver has features that are combined with the features on the 5101 guide, such as notched internal surfaces for if they match and receive the notched or chamfered edges of guide 5101. If the notch is angled outwardly with respect to the opening of the guide receiver, the two parts (the first section 5105 and the second section 5107) are held together when assembled. Other guide structures such as a concentric raised feature shown in 5105 that combine with the opening of the magnet in the second section 5107 can also be employed in some embodiments of the present invention. In addition, fasteners, edges or other retention features can be employed on the guide, guide receiver, or the mating surfaces of the first section and the second section to allow retention and ensure the combination of each section during assembly and before assembly. application of additional joining techniques such as adhesives, thermal or plastic welding. Since the first section 5105 and the second section 5107 are assembled with the second magnet 129 retained in the two sections, they can be further joined using adhesives, fasteners, thermal or plastic welding. In some embodiments of the present invention, the second magnet 129 is additionally adhered to, fused or bonded to either one of the first section 5105, the second section 5107, or both.
    [0038] Figure 52 is a perspective view of another modality of the self-aligning Zipper where the zipper pull is not shown for clarity. The self-aligning zipper 100 depicted in Figure 52 employs the first lower body 101 and the second lower body 103 depicted and described in Figures 48 to 51. A first zipper rail 105 and a second zipper rail 107 can be seen together with a body slide 113. Logically, a zipper pull like the zipper pulls previously described and depicted in the present would be attached to the sliding body 113 in use, but have been omitted from Figure 52 for clarity.
    [0039] To operate the self-aligning zipper, the two halves of the self-aligning zipper are placed close to each other such that the magnets on each of the two lower bodies attract and drag the two sides together. As the two lower bodies make contact, the alignment geometries such as the angled face, the male retaining element and the female retaining element form an appropriate and aligned fit of the two halves of the zipper, and the zipper pull is moved to along the length of the zipper, causing the zipper to close.
    [0040] It is, therefore, evident that, according to the various objects of the present invention, a self-aligning Zipper was provided. Although the various objects of this invention have been described in conjunction with her preferred embodiments, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be evident to those skilled in the art. In this way, it is intended to cover all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and the broad scope of the present invention as defined by this specification, claims and the attached drawings.
    权利要求:
    Claims (14)
    [0001]
    1. Fixing device (100) means fixing device (100) comprising: a first lower body (101) comprising a first magnet (127), a male retaining element (117) and a first extension (301); a second lower body (103) comprising a second magnet (129), a female retaining element (125) and a second extension (119), a first zipper track (105) having a plurality of teeth and attached to the first lower body (101), and a second zipper rail (107) having a plurality of teeth and attached to the second lower body (103); characterized by the fact that the female retaining element (125) of the second lower body (103) having a notch for receiving the male retaining element (117) of the first lower body (101) and an angled face (123) to guide the female retaining element (125) of the second lower body (103) for proper alignment with the male retaining element (117) of the first lower body (101) through the attraction force of the first magnet (127) and the second magnet (129 ).
    [0002]
    Fixing device according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally comprises a sliding body (113) slidably connected to the first zipper rail (105).
    [0003]
    Fixing device according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally comprises a sliding body (113) slidably connected to the second zipper rail (107).
    [0004]
    4. Fixing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first lower body (101) is made up of two sections where the first section (4905) and the second section (4907) are joined to retain the first magnet (127); and the second lower body (103) being made of two sections where the first section (5105) and the second section (5107) are joined to retain the second magnet (129).
    [0005]
    Fixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the first or second magnets (127, 129) comprise at least partially a ferromagnetic material.
    [0006]
    Fixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first or second magnets (127, 129) are grooved.
    [0007]
    Fixing device according to claim 6, characterized in that it additionally comprises a U-clip (4001) for retaining the first magnet (127).
    [0008]
    Clamping device according to claim 6, characterized in that it additionally comprises a U-clip (4001) for retaining the second magnet (129).
    [0009]
    Clamping device according to claim 6, characterized in that the first lower body (101) additionally comprises a first fastener (3401) and a second fastener (3501) for retaining the first magnet (127).
    [0010]
    Fixing device according to claim 6, characterized in that the second lower body (103) additionally comprises a first fastener (3701) and a second fastener (3703) for retaining the second magnet (129).
    [0011]
    Fixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the first lower body (101) additionally comprises a first alignment feature (2405).
    [0012]
    Fixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the second lower body (103) additionally comprises a second alignment feature (1803).
    [0013]
    Fixation device according to claim 2, characterized in that it additionally comprises a starting tooth (121) attached to the second lower body (103).
    [0014]
    Fixation device according to claim 3, characterized in that it additionally comprises a starting tooth (121) attached to the first lower body (101).
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    KR101835175B1|2018-03-07|
    JP6129842B2|2017-05-17|
    EP2755521A2|2014-07-23|
    CN103917124A|2014-07-09|
    EP2755521B1|2018-04-04|
    WO2013039902A3|2013-05-10|
    KR20140060356A|2014-05-19|
    WO2013039902A2|2013-03-21|
    US20130061436A1|2013-03-14|
    EP2755521A4|2016-03-16|
    BR112014005633A2|2017-03-28|
    US9027210B2|2015-05-12|
    CN103917124B|2017-06-13|
    JP2014526316A|2014-10-06|
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    法律状态:
    2018-12-11| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2019-11-05| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|
    2020-10-13| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2021-01-05| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 11/09/2012, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US201161533774P| true| 2011-09-12|2011-09-12|
    US61/533,774|2011-09-12|
    US13/608,469|US9027210B2|2011-09-12|2012-09-10|Self-aligning zipper|
    US13/608,469|2012-09-10|
    PCT/US2012/054647|WO2013039902A2|2011-09-12|2012-09-11|Self-aligning zipper|
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