ZIPPER ASSEMBLY LOOP END ATTACHMENT FOR A LUGGAGE CASE

A luggage case including a zipper loop mounted thereon, the luggage case including a first zip member having an elongated first tape member with first zipper teeth extending along an edge, the first zip member having first and second opposing ends, the first zip member attached along a first rim portion of a first shell; a second zip member having an elongated second tape member with second zipper teeth extending along an edge, the second zip member having third and fourth opposing ends, the second zip member attached along a second rim portion of a second shell, and wherein the first zip member and the second zip member include substantially the same number of zipper teeth; the first zip member and the second zip member are attached together by engaging the first and second zipper teeth, with the first opposing end laterally adjacent the third opposing end, and the second opposing end laterally adjacent the fourth opposing end; the first opposing end attached to the second opposing end by a first joining member; and the third opposing end attached to the fourth opposing end by a second joining member.

RELATED PATENT APPLICATION

The content of European patent application entitled “INJECTION MOLDED LUGGAGE CASE WITH INTEGRATED ZIPPER ASSEMBLY” filed concurrently with the present application and assigned to the assignee of the present application is hereby expressly incorporated into the present application by reference.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to luggage cases with zip closures and zip arrangements for such cases. One aspect of a luggage case is the zipper assembly, which includes a zipper mechanism. The zipper mechanism is central to opening and closing the luggage case; it impacts the appearance; and is a relatively expensive component affecting the cost of manufacture. The zipper mechanism is also subject to significant wear-and-tear during use and handling. There is a need for improved luggage cases with zip closures, and in particular injection molded luggage cases with an integrally attached zipper assembly or a zipper assembly attached by stitching. There is a need for zipper assemblies for use in luggage cases.

The present disclosure also relates to forming zipper loops from a cut-length of a zipper (or zip) member (including a zipper tape and zipper teeth) for use in attaching a zipper assembly to an injection molded luggage case. The current manners of attaching the ends of a zipper (or zip) member to form a zipper loop lack desired precision, repeatability and efficiency, which can result in the zipper loops being mismatched in length and cause the shells of a luggage case to be mis-aligned. There is a need for an improved attachment structure for precisely and repeatably connecting the ends of a zipper (or zip) member to form a zipper loop that addresses one or all of the noted shortcomings.

The present disclosure also relates to an expansion zipper assembly. Typically the number of expandable and non-expandable luggage cases produced are predetermined based on forecasted demand estimates, because the manufacturing process for each style is distinctly different. This may result in an over, or under, production of either style, which may not satisfy the market demand and result in lost sales or extra costs for additional production. There is a need for an improved expansion zipper assembly that addresses one or all of the noted shortcomings, such as providing the flexibility to convert a luggage case from non-expandable to expandable after a luggage shell is formed and the primary zipper attached, which would allow the production of the desired style of luggage case to be more responsive to market demand.

The present disclosure also relates to end clips that mount onto terminal ends of zippers. End clips are applied to the terminal ends of zipper assemblies to keep the zipper assembly from unintentionally unzipping. Typically one end clip is mounted on each of the opposing ends of a zipper assembly, which forms a gap between the adjacent end clips. The gap may allow access into the internal cavity of the luggage case, and is generally an unsightly feature of a luggage case. Many times the end clips and gap are covered by an aesthetic feature, such as a decorative panel, to cover over the gap. This adds an expense of material and labor. There is a need for an improved zipper end clip structure that addresses one or all of the noted shortcomings.

SUMMARY

A luggage case is disclosed. In one example, a zipper loop for mounting on a luggage case, and alternatively a luggage case having a zipper loop mounted thereon, is disclosed. The zipper loop includes a first zip member having an elongated first tape member with first zipper teeth extending along an edge, the first zip member having first and second opposing ends, a second zip member having an elongated second tape member with second zipper teeth extending along an edge, the second zip member having third and fourth opposing ends. The first zip member and the second zip member include substantially the same number of zipper teeth, the first zip member and the second zip member are attached together by engaging the first and second zipper teeth, with the first opposing end laterally adjacent the third opposing end, and the second opposing end laterally adjacent the fourth opposing end, the first opposing end attached to the second opposing end by a first joining member, and the third opposing end attached to the fourth opposing end by a second joining member. Additionally or alternatively, the first joining member may be injection molded onto the first opposing end and the second opposing end; and the second joining member may be injection molded onto the third opposing end and the fourth opposing end. Additionally or alternatively, the first joining member may be overmolded to one of the opposing surfaces of the opposing ends of the first tape member; and the second joining member may be overmolded to one of the opposing surfaces of the opposing ends of the second tape member.

Additionally or alternatively, the first joining member may be overmolded to one of the opposing surfaces of the opposing ends of the first tape member; and the second joining member is overmolded to one of the opposing surfaces of the opposing ends of the second tape member. Additionally or alternatively, a cut-out region is formed at each interior corner of the first and second tape members; and each of the first and second joining members extend around the respective cut-out region to define a central opening formed between the first and second zip members. Additionally or alternatively, the first joining member includes a beam extending in alignment with the first zipper teeth; and the second joining member forms a beam extending in alignment with the second zipper teeth, or the first joining member forms one beam at each of the opposing ends, such as for example near an end of the first zipper teeth, and the second joining member forms one beam at each of the opposing ends, such as for example near an end of the second zipper teeth. Additionally or alternatively, the first joining member includes at least one end clip end engaging the first zipper teeth and/or the second zipper teeth. Additionally or alternatively, a first zip member having an elongated first tape member with first zipper teeth extending along an edge, the first zip member having first and second opposing ends and including a first number of first zipper teeth; and the first opposing end attached to the second opposing end by a first joining member overmolded onto the first opposing end and the second opposing end. Additionally or alternatively, each opposing end defines a corner including a portion of the respective tape member and the zipper teeth associated with that portion; and wherein each of the corners is removed to form a cut-out region, and each of the first and second joining members extend around the respective cut-out region.

In another example, a modular expansion zipper assembly is described for use with a luggage case, and includes a first shell having a first zip portion attached along a first rim portion, and a second shell having a second zip portion attached along a second rim portion. The modular expansion zipper assembly includes first and second zip tape members, each including a tape defining zipper teeth extending along opposing outer and inner edges; a flexible gusset attached between the first and second zip tape members; an expansion zip formed by releasably engaging the zipper teeth on the inner edges, the expansion zip converting between a unexpanded position when the zipper teeth are engaged, and an expanded position when the zipper teeth are disengaged; and a first outer zipper edge defined by the zipper teeth on the outer edge of the first zip tape member; a second outer zipper edge defined by the zipper teeth on the outer edge of the second zip tape member; and the first outer zipper edge releasably engaging the first zip member; and the second outer zipper edge releasably engaging the second zip member. Additionally or alternatively, the first and second zip members each define opposing ends; and wherein the opposing ends are attached together by a first joining member overmolded onto the first opposing end and the second opposing end. Additionally or alternatively, the joining member is overmolded to one of the opposing surfaces of the opposing ends of the first and second zip members. Additionally or alternatively, the joining member may include a middle portion positioned along the opposing ends of the first and second zip members, and at least one protrusion extending away from the middle portion; the at least one protrusion forming an end clip on one of the first outer zipper edge, second outer zip edge, or the expansion zip. Additionally or alternatively, the joining member is positioned at least partially on a lower surface of the gusset. Additionally or alternatively, the joining member includes a first rail formed on the first zipper tape and a second rail formed on the second zipper tape, each rail extending from the middle portion at an angle towards the outer edge of the first and second zipper tape, respectively, when the expansion zip is in the expanded position. Additionally or alternatively, the middle portion extends when in the expanded position, and the middle portion folds when in the stowed position.

In another example, a method of making a modular expansion zipper assembly having coil zipper teeth is described, the method comprising the acts of providing a first modular zipper member with right hand coil teeth on a first edge, and a second edge, and a second modular zipper member with left hand coil teeth along a first edge, and a second edge, the first and second modular zipper members engaged along their first edges; separating the first and second modular zipper members; swapping the first and second modular zipper members side for side with the respective second edges adjacent one another; forming matched coil teeth along the adjacent second edges to create an expansion zipper; and attaching opposing portions of a gusset to the first modular zipper member and the second modular zipper member, respectively. Additionally or alternatively, the method may include the act of cutting the engaged first and second modular zipper members to a length, with the first and second modular zipper members having substantially the same number of zipper teeth. Additionally or alternatively, the method may include the act of mounting a slider onto the expansion zipper. Additionally or alternatively, the first and second modular zipper members are engaged together by the expansion zipper and formed into a loop with opposing ends attached together by a joining member, which may be an overmolded joining member. Additionally or alternatively, the method may include the act of engaging the zipper teeth on the first edge of the second modular zipper member with zipper teeth on a first shell of the luggage case; and engaging the zipper teeth on the first edge of the first modular zipper member with zipper teeth on a second shell of the luggage case.

In another example, a first end clip for securing the terminal end of a zipper assembly is disclosed, the end clip including a first end portion for receiving the terminal end of a zipper assembly; and a second portion extending from the first portion and defining an interlocking feature. Additionally or alternatively, the interlocking feature includes a first feature and a second feature symmetrically positioned about a long axis of the second end portion. Additionally or alternatively, the first feature is a protrusion, and the second feature is a through-passage. Additionally or alternatively, a height of the second portion is less than a height of the first portion. Additionally or alternatively, a second end clip having a first portion for receiving another terminal end of a zipper assembly, and a second end portion defining a second interlocking feature; and wherein the interlocking feature of the first end clip engages the second interlocking feature of the second end clip to secure the two end clips together. Additionally or alternatively, the second interlocking feature includes a first feature and a second feature; and the first feature on the first end clip engages the second feature on the second end clip, and the second feature on the first end clip engages the first feature on the second end clip to secure the two end clips together. Additionally or alternatively, when engaged together the first and second end clips form a unitary body.

In another example, a luggage case includes a zipper loop mounted thereon, the zipper loop including a first zip member having an elongated first tape member with first zipper teeth extending along an edge, the first zip member having first and second opposing ends, the first zip member attached along a first rim portion of a first shell; a second zip member having an elongated second tape member with second zipper teeth extending along an edge, the second zip member having third and fourth opposing ends, the second zip member attached along a second rim portion of a second shell, and wherein the first zip member and the second zip member include substantially the same number of zipper teeth, the first zip member and the second zip member are attached together by engaging the first and second zipper teeth, with the first opposing end laterally adjacent the third opposing end, and the second opposing end laterally adjacent the fourth opposing end; the first opposing end attached to the second opposing end by a first joining member overmolded onto the first opposing end and the second opposing end; and the third opposing end attached to the fourth opposing end by a second joining member overmolded onto the third opposing end and the fourth opposing end. Additionally or alternatively, the first joining member may be overmolded to one of the opposing surfaces of the opposing ends of the first tape member; and the second joining member may be overmolded to one of the opposing surfaces of the opposing ends of the second tape member. Additionally or alternatively, a cut-out region is formed at each interior corner of the first and second tape members; and each of the first and second joining members extend around the respective cut-out region to define an opening formed between the first and second zip members. Additionally or alternatively, the first joining member forms at least one beam extending from the first zipper teeth, and the second joining member forms at least one beam extending from the second zipper teeth; or the first joining member forms one beam at each of the opposing ends of the first zipper teeth, and the second joining member forms one beam at each of the opposing ends of the second zipper teeth. Alternatively or additionally, the first joining member includes at least one end clip engaging the first zipper teeth and/or the second zipper teeth.

Additionally or alternatively, the luggage case versions above may further include a modular expansion zipper assembly comprising a first and second zip tape members, each including a tape defining zipper teeth extending along opposing outer and inner edges; a flexible gusset attached between the first and second zip tape members; an expansion zip formed by releasably engaging the zipper teeth on the inner edges, the expansion zip converting between a unexpanded position when the zipper teeth are engaged, and an expanded position when the zipper teeth are disengaged; and a first outer zipper edge defined by the zipper teeth on the outer edge of the first zip tape member; a second outer zipper edge defined by the zipper teeth on the outer edge of the second zip tape member; and the first outer zipper edge releasably engaging the first zip member; and the second outer zipper edge releasably engaging the second zip member. Additionally or alternatively, the joining member may include a middle portion positioned along the opposing ends of the first and second zip tape members, and at least one protrusion extending away from the middle portion; the at least one protrusion forming an end clip on one of the first outer zipper edge, second outer zip edge, or the expansion zip. Additionally or alternatively, the joining member may be positioned at least partially on a lower surface of the gusset. Additionally or alternatively, the joining member includes a first rail formed on the first zip tape member and a second rail formed on the second zip tape member, each rail extending from the middle portion at an angle towards the outer edge of the first and second zip tape member, respectively, when the expansion zip is in the expanded position. Additionally or alternatively, the middle portion may extend when in the expanded position, and the middle portion folds when in the stowed position.

Additionally or alternatively, the luggage case versions may include a first end clip for securing the at least one first beam and the at least one second beam, the end clip including a first end portion for receiving the at least one first beam and the at least one second beam; and a second portion extending from the first portion and defining an interlocking feature. Additionally or alternatively, the interlocking feature includes a first feature and a second feature symmetrically positioned about a long axis of the second end portion. Additionally or alternatively, the first feature is a protrusion, and the second feature is a through-passage. Additionally or alternatively, a second end clip for securing the beams at the opposing ends of the first and second zipper teeth respectively, the second clip having a first portion for receiving the beams, and a second end portion defining a second interlocking feature; and wherein the interlocking feature of the first end clip engages the second interlocking feature of the second end clip to secure the two end clips together. Additionally or alternatively, the second interlocking feature includes a first feature and a second feature; and the first feature on the first end clip engages the second feature on the second end clip, and the second feature on the first end clip engages the first feature on the second end clip to secure the two end clips together.

An example of the invention described herein may relate to efficiently, precisely and repeatably attaching the opposing ends of the zipper loop so that each portion of the zipper loop has the intended number of zipper teeth for proper alignment and function.

An example of the invention described herein may relate to a modular expansion zipper assembly that may be implemented on a luggage case after the shells have been formed and the primary zipper (or zip) members attached.

An example of the invention described herein may related to end clips positioned on opposing ends of a zipper assembly that engage one another to form a reinforced end clip structure and reduce the size of or cover the hole that is typically formed at that location.

Additional embodiments and/or features are set forth in part in the description that follows, and will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the specification or may be learned by the practice of the disclosed subject matter. A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present disclosure may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and the drawings, which forms a part of this disclosure. One of skill in the art will understand that each of the various aspects and features of the disclosure may advantageously be used separately in some instances, or in combination with other aspects and features of the disclosure in other instances.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An improved injection molded luggage case as described herein may include a zipper assembly attached to each shell of the luggage case. The zipper assembly may be attached by stitching, or in some examples may be attached during the injection molding step. Attaching the zipper assembly during the injection molding step can simplify construction of the luggage case by eliminating the step of attaching the zipper assembly after the luggage shells are formed. This reduces the complexity and number of operations associated with assembling a luggage case.

An improved zipper loop is described herein, and may be useful in one example for attaching to an injection molded luggage shell by stitching, or alternatively it may be attached during the injection molding process. A zipper loop is formed from a cut-length of a zipper assembly or a zipper (or zip) member portion of a zipper assembly. The opposing ends of the cut-length of the zipper assembly may be attached together by overmolding a joining member onto the opposing ends. The overmolded joining member allows precise and secure positioning of the opposing ends to help insure the zipper loop is properly sized and may withstand the tension imparted during the manufacturing process, such as attaching the zipper loop to the injection molded shell. The overmolded joining member may be used on zipper assemblies intended for non-expandable luggage cases, as well as expandable zipper assemblies for expandable luggage cases.

Also described herein, separate from or in combination with other disclosures herein, is an expansion zipper assembly that is modular and may be applied to a luggage case after the shells are formed and the primary zipper assembly is attached to the shells, such as by stitching, or alternatively, by bonding a primary zipper (or zip) member to each shell when the shell is formed by injection molding. The modular nature of the expansion zipper assembly allows luggage shells styled as non-expandable to be converted to expandable luggage cases.

Also described herein, separate from or in combination with other disclosures herein, is an end clip that mounts onto each of the opposing terminal ends of a zipper assembly, and that interconnects the opposing ends of the zipper assembly. The end clip includes an interlocking feature, such that two end clips may be connected together with or by the interlocking feature on each end clip. The connected end clips form a reinforced end clip structure that eliminates or reduces the typical gap formed between adjacent end clips, and may provide a finished appearance.

FIG.1is an isometric view of a luggage article in a closed configuration according to some examples of the present disclosure. A luggage article100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a luggage case102formed from a plurality of walls or panels defining an internal compartment and storage volume in which to carry a user's belongings. As shown, the luggage article100includes a front panel104, opposing a rear panel106, a top panel108, opposing a bottom panel110, and a left panel112opposing a right panel114that collectively define a pair of opposing shells116,118and the outer structure of the luggage case102. As shown, a plurality of wheel assemblies120, which may be caster-type wheel assemblies, may be coupled to at least the bottom panel110, such as at the lower corner regions122.

The luggage article100may also include one or more carry handles124, typically on the top panel108and one of the side panels, such as112. The luggage article100may also include an extendable or telescopic tow handle126attached to at least one panel of the luggage case102, such as to the rear panel106.

With continued reference toFIG.1, the luggage case102in this example comprises two shells116,118secured by a zipper assembly130, for example a primary zipper assembly130(as referred to when used to selectively couple the shells116,118), extending across all or portions of at least the top panel108, left panel112, right panel114and bottom panel110. The primary zipper assembly130, or portions thereof, may be attached to a rim portion, such as a peripheral rim, formed on each shell by stitching, or in the alternative, during the injection molding process for forming the shell. A hinge structure (not shown) may be formed on the right panel114such that the two shells of the luggage case102may rotate about the hinge to access the interior volume of the luggage case102. The shells each may define an inner surface and an outer surface, and may be formed from materials used to construct injection molded hard-sided or rigid luggage cases, such as a plastic material, such as polypropylene, polycarbonate, polyethylene, or other thermoplastic materials.

FIG.2shows an enlarged portion of one example of the luggage case102of the present invention, where the rim portion132of the first shell116and the rim portion134of the second shell118are secured together by the primary zipper assembly130. The primary zipper assembly130may be attached to the rim portion132by stitching142(shown in dash inFIG.2), or in other examples may be attached during the injection molding of the first and second shells116,118. Each rim portion132,134defines a peripheral edge136,138and opposing inside (or inner)140and outside (or outer)143surfaces. The primary zipper assembly130may include a first primary zipper (or zip) member144and a second primary zipper (or zip) member146. The primary zip members144,146each include a respective elongated tape member148having opposing inner150and outer152edges defining a width, and also have opposing inner154and outer surfaces156. Zipper teeth158extend along one opposing edge of each tape member148, such as the inner edge150. Zipper teeth158may include individual teeth elements (plastic or metal), or coil structures, and are herein referred to generally as “zipper teeth”. The first and second primary zip members144and146, and their respective tape members148and zipper teeth158generally include the same structural features and function. Throughout, only one zip member and subcomponents may be described, with the understanding that the other zip member is symmetric and substantially identical unless otherwise noted.

As shown inFIG.2, the zipper teeth158are releasably secured together, such as by a slider159. Each of the first144and second146primary zip members may be attached by stitching142(shown in dash), or in other examples may be bonded by injection moulding to the rim portion132,134of the respective shell116,118. The bonding occurs during the injection molding formation of the shell, and is referred here throughout as in-mould-bonded or variants. In one example, as shown inFIG.2, each of the first144and second146primary zip member may be in-mould-bonded to the inside surface140of the respective rim portion132,134. In one example, all or a part of the outer surface156of the first and second tape members148may be in-mould-bonded to the inside surface140of the rim. In one example, all or part of the inner surface154of the tape member148may not be directly bonded to or attached with the respective rim portion132,134. In other examples, the primary zipper members144,146may be attached to the rim portions132,134by means such as adhesives, mechanical engagement or other types of fastening mechanisms.

As shown inFIG.2(with the rims132,134shown in dash for clarity), the tape member148of the zipper assembly130defines a first portion160and a second portion162across the width between the inner150and outer152edges. The first and second portions may extend along the entire length, or at least a part of the length, of the tape member. The first portion160of the tape member148is made of a first material or combination of materials (collectively the “first material”) that allow in-mould-bonding to the rim portion132,134of the luggage shell116,118during the injection molding process. The second portion162of the tape member148is made of second material or combination of materials (collectively the “second material”) that is selected for its resistance to abrasion, such as the abrasion caused by a zipper slider159moving along the second portion162of the tape member148. In some examples the second material, separately or in addition, may not facilitate in-mould-bonding to the respective rim portion132,134during the injection molding process. The second material may include material types in common with the first material, but includes other material types to make it sufficiently different than the first material such that the second material has abrasion resistance characteristics enhanced relative to the first material in the first portion160. As a result, the rim132,134may be in-mould-bonded to the first portion160of the tape member148, and the second portion162of the tape member148may withstand the wear and tear of the abrasion caused by the frictional contact of the slider159moving along the second portion162of the tape member148. The second material may not in-mould-bond, or may only partially bond, with the second portion162of the tape member148(if exposed to the mold material during the molding process). In one example, the first material making up the first portion160may include polypropylene, and the second material making up the second portion may include polyester. In another example, the first material making up the first portion160may include polypropylene and the second material making up the second portion may include polyester and polypropylene. The other tape member148of the zipper assembly130may be identically constructed with the same or similar features as described above.

As shown inFIG.2, in one example, at least part of one side of the tape member148is in-mould-bonded to the inner, or inside, surface140of the rim portion132, where the rim portion132overlays the tape member148. The other side of the tape member148may not be in-mould-bonded to the rim portion132. In this example, the one side that is in-mould-bonded is the outer surface156of the tape member148. In another example, at least part of the outer surface156of the tape member148is in-mould-bonded to the inside surface140of the respective rim portion132,134, where the rim portion132overlays at least the first portion160of the tape member148. In some examples, such as where the rim overlays only the first portion160, the in-mould-bond is created between the outer surface156of the tape member and the inside surface140of the respective rim portion132,134where the rim overlays the tape member.

The second material may be selected to have different characteristics than the first material. For example, the second material included in the second portion162may have a different characteristic in that it may have an enhanced resistance to abrasion relative to the first material. The abrasion-resistant characteristics may allow the second portion162to withstand the wear and tear of repeated frictional sliding contact with the slider159as it moves along the zipper teeth158to open and close the primary zipper assembly130. In another example, separately or in combination with the abrasive resistance, the second material may not bond to the material used to form the shell or shells by injection molding. Another optional characteristic, either separately or in combination with the other characteristics, of the second material may be that it is more water resistant, such as being less water absorptive, than the first material. In one example, the second portion162may include weft yarns that are the same as the first material, such as for example polypropylene. The warp yarns in the second portion162may be another material, such as for example polyester or nylon. The polyester or nylon material has a higher abrasion resistance than the first material and in combination with the weft yarns is more resistant to abrasion than the first material. Additionally or separately, this example may not in-mould-bond with the first material used in the injection molding process to form the luggage shell. The zipper teeth158may be made of POM (for the injection molded zipper teeth) or nylon or polyester (for the coil zipper teeth).

In another example of the tape member, each tape member148may be an extruded strip or strips of at least two different thermoplastic material or materials. A first portion160of each tape member148may be adjacent the first edge152of the tape member148, and a second portion162adjacent a second edge150of the tape member. The first portion160may be made of a first material, and the second portion162made be made of a second material.

In the molding process, the injection molding material flows over the surface of the tape member148that is exposed in the mold cavity. The mold material bonds to the surface of the tape member148as a result, and is referred to herein as in-mould-bonding. The in-mould-bonding may be created by a combination of chemical bonding and mechanical bonding. The chemical bonding may include adhesion (generally between two materials that are not the same), cohesion (generally between two materials that are the same or very similar), and/or other types of bonding that may otherwise occur between two materials in the environment of heat and pressure as a result of the injection mold process. Mechanical bonding may occur as the injection mold material at least partially penetrates into and forms around the weave pattern of the warp and weft yarns to which the mold material mechanically attaches/engages when cooled. The bonding is referred to as in-mould-bonding because it is accomplished within the mold components during the injection molding process to form the shell. The in-mould-bond is formed over an area of the surface of the tape member148that is exposed in the mold cavity to the mold material during the injection molding process. In one example, the outer surface156of the first portion160of the tape member148is exposed in the mold cavity, and is in-mould bonded to the rim134of the luggage shell116,118. In some example, the in-mould-bonding is limited to one side (for example, the outer side156) of the tape member148.

FIG.3shows a matched zipper loop380formed by a first primary zip member144and a second primary zip member146attached together by their respective zipper teeth158. The first primary zip member144forms a first primary loop381, and the second primary zip member146forms a second primary loop383. The matched zipper loop380may be formed by cutting a defined portion of matched first144and second146primary zip members and attaching the opposing free ends382,384together. The cut portion of the matched first144and second146primary zip members may be based on the number of teeth on each portion, or may be based on the length of each portion. In one example, the number of teeth on each of the first144and second146primary zip members are the same. Because the teeth158are generally of the same or similar size and are generally regularly spaced along the zip members, cutting the matched first144and second146primary zip members to the same length likely results in each zip member having the same number of teeth.

Referring toFIGS.4-6generally, the free ends of each primary zip member may be attached together when the first and second primary zip members144,146are attached by their respective teeth, or may be attached together after the primary zip members144,146are separated. As described herein, in one example the primary zipper tape members144,146, once formed into a loop380, may be separated from one another into first and second primary loops381and383, and each separately positioned in a separate mold cavity in order to be bonded to a respective shell116,118during the injection molding process. Also, each primary zip member144,146may be cut into a desired portion (for example defined by a desired number of zipper teeth) and formed into a loop independently from the other.

The free ends382,384of each primary zip member144,146may be attached directly together, with the respective free ends abutted or overlapping, by stitching, adhesives, ultrasonic welding, bonding, or by other means. The free ends382,384may also be attached together, with the respective free ends abutted, overlapping, or spaced apart, by one or more separate joining members.

Referring still toFIGS.4,5and6, each of the matched first and second primary zip members144,146may be paired for use together, each on its own luggage shell, in a luggage case102, or may be used interchangeably with other luggage shells including primary zip members144,146having the same or similar number of teeth. Each of the matched first and second primary zip members144,146may be bonded to their respective shell in the injection molding process. In other examples, each of the matched first and second primary zippers144,146may be attached by stitching to each shell after each shell is formed. Each shell may then be matched with any other shell having a corresponding zip member with the same or similar number of teeth. Each of the matched first and second zip members144,146include a respective first and second zipper tape member148and associated first and second zipper teeth158. As noted above, each of the first and second zipper tape portions144,146have the same or similar number of first and second zipper teeth158, respectively. Having the same or similar number of teeth on each zip member allows the zip members to adequately engage one another when respectively attached to a luggage shell, with the benefits described below. In one example, a luggage case having a zipper length of 225 cm includes approximately 1250 teeth on each zip member (each tooth is approximately 1.8 mm). The difference in the number of teeth between the first and second primary zip members144,146may be in a range of approximately 0.1% to 1% in one example, and approximately 0.1% to 0.3% in another example, and may be a particular value of 0.2% in another example. In another example, the difference in the number of teeth158on each of the first and second primary zip members144,146may be +/−2 teeth, or in other words approximately 0.16%.

Because the first and second zip members144,146have the same or substantially the same number of zipper teeth, and the zipper teeth are similarly sized and evenly spaced, the first and second zipper tape portions148may be the same or substantially the same length as one another.

The similarity in number of teeth of each of the matched first and second primary zip members144,146attached to paired luggage shells116,118in a luggage case102, whether by in-mould-bonding or in other examples via stitching142(shown dashed inFIG.6), is beneficial for many reasons. For example, when the luggage shells are connected together by the matched first and second primary zip members144,146, the luggage shells116,118may have little to no deformation relative to one another. Minimal deformation means that the luggage case does not appear mis-shaped or twisted, and/or the support members, such as the wheels, may each contact the support surface (e.g. floor) together. Additionally or independently, in some examples, where the first and second primary zip members144,146have substantially the same or similar number of teeth158, the engagement and disengagement of the zipper teeth by the slider to open and close the luggage case may occur more smoothly, and the zipper slider may more easily correct the occasional mismatched zipper teeth. In the same or other examples, such as where the primary zip members are attached to the shell by in-mould-bonding, the respective zipper tape portions of the first and second primary zip members144,146may stretch or expand approximately the same amount when being positioned in a respective mold cavity, and thus have the same or a similar level mold tension level prior to the injection molding step of their respective shell. They may also have the same or similar residual tension level after the respective shell is formed and shrinks after removal from the mold. A same or similar residual tension level aids in the zip members on two paired shells operating smoothly together over repeated use, and reduces the likelihood of inconvenient misalignments that may damage the zipper teeth and overall operation.

Continuing withFIGS.4-6, the opposing ends382,384of the first and second primary zip members144,146may be attached together by a joining member390to form the matched primary zipper loop380, made up of the first primary loop381and the second primary loop383. Alternatively, the respective opposing ends382,384of each of the primary first and second zip members144,146may be joined together to form individual zipper loops where the first and second zip members144,146are separated. As noted above, each primary zip member may include a tape member148with zipper teeth positioned along one edge. The joining member390may connect opposing ends382,384of one primary zip member144to form the first primary zipper loop381, with the structure and features being similar to or the same for connecting the opposing ends382,384of the other primary zip member146to form the second primary zipper loop383with a joining member391, unless otherwise noted.

Referring toFIGS.4,5, and6, the attachment by the joining member390of the opposing ends382,384of the first zip member144is shown. The joining member390is applied to each of the opposing ends382,384of the first zip member144and secures the opposing ends together. The joining member390may be attached to both ends of the first zip member144by stitching, adhesive, or bonding (such as by injection moulding) to engage each opposing end382,384and hold the ends in position relative to one another. The joining member390may sustain a tension load of approximately 200 N, which may occur as the first primary loop381is stretched prior to being positioned in a mould for an injection mould process. Once the respective shell116is formed, the opposing ends382,384of the first primary loop381are held in place by the in-mould-bond between the inner surface140of the rim portion132of the shell116and the outer surface156of the tape portion160. In one example, the joining member390is made of a thermoplastic injection molded material applied by an injection molding process. In one example the injection molding process may be overmolding. The joining member390may be applied to either or both of the opposing surfaces154,156of the first zipper tape member148. In the example shown herein the joining member390is applied to the outer surface156of the first zipper tape member148. The joining member390may cover all or part of the width of the tape member148.

Referring toFIG.4, in one example, the opposing ends382,384are shown prior to the joining member390being attached. A gap392is formed between the opposing ends382,384and the joining member will span the gap392and maintains its dimension. Alternatively, the opposing ends382,384of the primary zip member144may abut or overlap and be held in place by the joining member390. As shown, each interior corner394of each tape member148may define a notch396, in which the teeth158are removed, as well as some of the width of the tape member148. When configured together as a matched zipper loop390as shown, the notches396form a cut-out area398positioned along an inner edge of each tape member148.

Turning toFIG.5, the joining member390, in one example, may have a plate-like main body400with a first end402attached to the tape member148of the first opposing end382, and a second end404attached to the zipper tape member148of the second opposing end384. The first and second ends402,404of the main body400are positioned adjacent the zipper teeth158of the respective opposing end.

The main body400of the joining member390may define a cut-out406[add toFIGS.5and6] positioned along an inner edge and extending between the first402and second404ends. In one example the cut-out406results in the main body400having a C-shape, with a first leg410, a second leg412, and a main leg415extending between the first and second legs. The cut-out area406of the joining member390may match the cut-out area396in the first primary zip member144where the joining member390overlaps with the tape member148.

The first end402may include a first beam414extending longitudinally away from and in alignment with the teeth158on the first opposing end382. The first beam414may extend inwardly from the first leg410of the C-shape. The second end404may include a second beam416extending inwardly from the second leg412. The first beam414and the second beam416extend longitudinally away from and in alignment with the respective teeth158on the respective first382and second384opposing end. Each of the first and second beams414,416may define a lateral dimension that is less than the lateral dimension of the adjacent zipper teeth158.

With continuing reference toFIG.5, and as referenced above, the second primary zip member146may use a second joining member391to secure its opposing ends together to form the second primary loop381. As with the first joining member390, the second joining member391may be similar to the first joining member390, and may in some examples have a reverse orientation as shown. The second joining member391may include a main body420in a reverse C-shape, with a first end422defining a first leg424, a second end426defining in part a second leg428, and a main leg430extending between the first leg424and second leg428. A first beam432may extend from the first leg424in a direction away from and in alignment with the zipper teeth158. A second beam434may extend from the second leg428in a direction away from and in alignment with the zipper teeth158. Each of the first and second beams432,434of the second joining member391may define a lateral dimension that is less than the lateral dimension of the adjacent zipper teeth158.

The joining members390and391may be applied by injection molding to the opposing ends382,384of the respective primary zip member144,146, such as for example when the primary zip members are joined together to form the matched loop380, or when the primary zip members144,146are separated. In one example the injection molding is overmolding, which applies the joining member to the surface of the respective tape members148.

Referring toFIG.6, the matched first and second primary zip members144,146fromFIG.5may be separated before being in-mould-bonded with respective rim portion132,134of a respective luggage shell116,118. As a matched pair, the first and second primary loops381,383are aligned on their respective shells116,118so that the beams414and432on the first opposing ends382are adjacent one another to form a first lateral pair of beams436. Similarly, the beams416and434on the second opposing ends384may be adjacent each other to form second lateral pair of beams438. A slight space or gap is formed between the beams in each lateral pair to allow a slider to receive both beams and actuate the zipper teeth to mate or disengage as is desired.

Also referring toFIG.6, a mounting gap440may be formed between the first lateral pair of beams436and the second lateral pair of beams438to allow application of sliders, slider end clips, end caps, and/or other mechanisms442needed to operate the zipper, restrict the length of zipper slider actuation along the zipper assembly, and/or terminate the zipper, respectively. As shown inFIG.6, the first and second lateral pair of beams436,438may be located in the same plane, with the size of the mounting gap440insufficient to allow one of the mechanisms noted above to be mounted onto the teeth of the matched zipper loop380. A mechanism may be mounted by, for instance, deflecting one of the lateral pairs of beams downwardly, such as for example the second lateral pair of beams338(into the page ofFIG.6), to temporarily create sufficient space to apply the mechanism to the first lateral pair of beams336. Once the mechanism is applied, then the first lateral pair of beams336may be deflected downwardly to apply a mechanism to the second lateral pair of beams338in a similar manner.

Referring toFIGS.7,8a,8b, and9, one example of the modular expansion zipper is shown. In this example, the modular expansion zipper240may be configured in a zipper loop for attaching between the first primary144and second primary146zip members. The opposing ends450,452of the modular expansion zipper240may be secured together by overmolding a joining member454between the free ends, similar to the joining members390,391described above inFIGS.3-6. The first primary and second primary zip members144,146, in one example as shown inFIG.7, may be in-mould-bonded to their respective luggage shells116,118during the injection molding process forming the shells. The modular expansion zipper240may be used to convert an unexpandable luggage case into an expandable luggage case. The luggage articles with which the modular expansion zipper240may be used may include luggage cases with hard side shells, soft sided luggage cases, and hybrid luggage cases (combination of hard side and soft side construction). Additionally, the modular expansion zipper240may be used with duffle bags, backpacks, and other zippered items.

Referring toFIG.7, the modular expansion zipper assembly240is shown in the expanded position, with the gusset464in an extended position. The expansion zipper assembly240of this example includes a first460and second462modular zip tape member, and a gusset464extending between the first460and second462modular zip members. Each of the first and second modular zip members includes a respective modular zipper tape466,468. Each zipper tape defines inner and outer opposing side edges both having zipper teeth. The outer edge of the first modular zip member460defines the first outer zipper edge470of the modular zipper expansion assembly240. The outer edge of the second modular zip member462defines the second outer zipper edge472of the modular zipper expansion assembly240. The zipper teeth on the adjacent inner edges474of each modular zip member form the expansion zipper476to expand and stow the gusset464. Opposing edges of the gusset464may each be attached to a respective first466and second468modular zipper tapes by stitching. The gusset464may be of a flexible material that may fold and gather when in the stowed or unexpanded position, and extend to a full width when in an expanded position.

The modular expansion zipper assembly240is formed into a zipper loop for application between the first primary144and second146primary zip member of the luggage case102. The loop is formed of a length of the modular expansion zipper assembly cut to the same as or similar length of the first primary and second primary zip members144,146. This is beneficial so that when the expansion zipper assembly240is applied between the first primary144and second146primary zip member of the luggage case102, both the access zipper478and the construction zipper480open and close properly, as well as so the two shells of the luggage case are not warped or mis-aligned due to uneven zipper lengths.

The securing of the opposing ends450,452of the cut length of the modular expansion zipper240to form a zipper loop may be done by overmolding a joining member454between the opposing ends to secure them together. The opposing ends450,452may be overlapping, abutting, or spaced apart a desired amount (such as, for example, 1 to 3 mm). The joining member454may be made of an injection moldable plastic that bonds with the zipper tape466,468used in the modular expansion assembly240. For example, the plastic may be thermoplastic or thermo-set plastic. Examples of the plastic material include being the same as the first material, which would facilitate recycling of the luggage shell. Other examples of materials may include TPU. The opposing ends450,452of the cut length are positioned in an injection mold cavity in the configuration in which they are to be secured together, such as with a small gap482between the opposing ends best seen inFIG.9). The joining member454may be applied to the exterior surface of the modular expansion zipper assembly240. In another example, the joining member454may be applied to the exterior surface of the expansion zipper assembly and to the interior surface (facing the interior of the luggage case) of the gusset464as shown inFIG.9, and described in further detail below.

The joining member454may be injection molded onto the modular expansion zipper assembly to extend over and bond with at least an outer surface484of each of the opposing ends450,452of the zipper tapes466,468to secure them together. The joining member454may extend continuously or discontinuously from the outer edge470to the outer edge472and overlie the gap. The joining member454may include opposing end portions490and a middle portion492. The end portions490may each be adjacent an outer edge470,472, and may be in the form similar to the joining member390,391described above with respect toFIGS.5and6. The end portion490adjacent outer edge470may be aligned with joining member390formed on the first primary zip member144, and may have a structure similar to joining member391in order to match with the beams414and416(FIG.6) to form the lateral beam pairs needed to accept the mechanism442onto the matched zipper. Similarly, the opposing end portion490adjacent outer edge472may be aligned with joining member391formed on the second primary zip member146, and may have a structure similar to joining member390in order to match with the beams432,434(FIG.6) to form the lateral beam pairs needed to accept the mechanism442onto the matched zipper.

Continuing withFIG.7, the middle portion492of the joining member454may, in one example, define a central extension502generally aligned with the gap482, and having protrusions504extending outwardly away (in the direction of the zipper) from the central extension502of the middle portion492. The protrusions504may be spaced apart to allow the central extension502to bend or fold in between the protrusions504to collapse when the gusset is in the stowed or collapsed position (seeFIG.8a). Where a protrusion504extends over a terminal end of a zipper, such as the expansion zipper teeth positioned along edges474, the protrusion504may overmould the zipper teeth to form an integrated clip-end. One protrusion504may be formed over and encompass a terminal end506of the expansion zipper476to maintain the end of the expansion zipper in an engaged configuration. Opposing rails510may be formed as part of the joining member454, the rails510extending away from the central extension502and extending along opposing sides or the expansion zipper476. The opposing rails510may extend approximately 4 to 6 cms along each side of the expansion zipper476, and are bonded with the outer surface484of the zipper tapes466,468. The opposing rails510extend at an angle relative to the central extension502when the expansion zipper476is open and the gusset464at least partially expanded. The opposing rails510provide an outwardly directed lateral force on each side of the expansion zipper476to aid in the initial engagement of the slider with the expansion zipper when closing the expansion zipper to collapse the gusset464. Slits514, shown as triangular regions on either side of the terminal end506of the expansion zipper476are formed along a short length (for example approximately 3 to 5 cm) of each modular zipper member460,462. The laterally spaced slits514allow the zipper teeth on each side of the expansion zipper to move outwardly to expand the gusset while the terminal end of the expansion zipper506remains engaged. The gusset464is exposed through the slits514, which are triangular in shape when the gusset464is expanded.

FIG.8ashows the expansion zipper476in the unexpanded position with the gusset464collapsed in a stowed configuration. In the unexpanded configuration, the joining member454shortens in length as the expansion zipper476is closed. To shorten in length, the joining member454may fold in an accordion-like manner, such as is shown inFIG.8b, to accommodate the reduction of the lateral distance between the zipper teeth of the expansion zipper476. In one example, the middle portion492may fold in an accordion-line manner. In one example, the central extension502of the middle portion492bends or creases along its length in all or some of the spaces between the protrusions504. The joining member454, and for example the middle portion492(and central extension502), may be resiliently bendable such that upon expansion of the gusset, the central extension502of the middle portion492unfolds to extend and substantially its full width (seeFIG.7).

FIG.9shows the modular expansion zipper assembly240from the side of the gusset464with the expansion zipper476in the open and expanded configuration. The luggage shells are not shown in this view for clarity purposes. The joining member454may include an injection molded lower portion522that is applied to the expansion zipper assembly240on the lower surface520of the gusset464. The lower portion522of the joining member454on this lower surface520may be formed in discrete sections524and extend across the gap482to engage both opposing ends450,452. The lower portion522of the joining member454, for instance the discrete sections524, may be separate from the joining member454applied to the top surface of the expansion zipper assembly240, such as by being formed in a separate molding step, or may be connected with the joining member454such as being formed in the same molding step. The discrete sections524may also extend across the width of the gusset in general alignment with the middle portion492of the joining member454. Referring back toFIG.8b, the gaps526between the discrete sections524may fold or crease to allow the gusset to fold and allow the expansion zipper476to adapt the closed and unexpanded configuration. Alternatively, the lower portion522of the joining member454may be continuous across the gusset464and generally aligned with the gap482, with the lower portion522having thinner and thicker cross sections to allow the lower portion to fold up when the gusset464is in the stowed position.

Referring toFIGS.10A,10B,10C, and10D, where the zip members144,146include zipper teeth made of zipper coils, the assembly of the modular expansion zipper assembly240may ensure the appropriate orientation of the coil teeth orientation for desired zipper functioning. It may also allow for the appropriate number of teeth on the associated zippers so that the resulting luggage case102is not likely to be malformed, as noted above.

The structure of the example described here is similar to or the same as that shown inFIGS.7-9, with the same structural labels and reference numbers, except where indicated. In this example, the zip members described include zipper teeth made of coils. Zipper structures with coiled zipper teeth generally are matched to pair left-hand coiled zipper teeth with right-hand coiled zipper teeth because left hand coil teeth only mate with right hand coil teeth, and vice versa. The shells116,118of the luggage case102are not shown for clarity purposes.

As shown schematically inFIG.10A, the primary zipper assembly130includes the first primary zip member144and second primary zip member146. When the cut to a length, and the opposing ends attached, the primary zipper assembly forms a matched zipper loop380, including the first381and second383primary zipper loops. The first and second primary zipper loops381,383are in-mould-bonded to, respectively, the left shell116and the right shell118as described herein. In one example this may be done in a manner consistent with that described with respect toFIGS.5-6. Having coiled zipper teeth, the first primary zip member144(and first primary zipper loop381) may have left-hand coil teeth L, and the second primary zip member146(and second primary zipper loop383) may have right-hand coil teeth R such that they may engage when the primary zipper assembly130is closed.

The modular expansion zipper240assembly mates between the first primary zip member144on the first (left) shell116that has left-hand coiled teeth, and the second primary zip member146on the second (right) shell118that has right-hand coiled teeth, for example to convert a non-expanding luggage case into an expandable luggage case. To properly mate between the first shell116and second shell118, the modular expansion zipper assembly240may be assembled to have right-hand zipper teeth R along the first outer edge470(left side, seeFIG.7) and left-hand zipper teeth L along its opposing second outer edge472(right side, seeFIG.7). This is accomplished, as shown inFIG.10B, by starting with a matched zipper530including the first modular zipper member460with right-hand coil teeth R on edge532and no zipper teeth formed along edge534, and the second modular zipper member462with left hand coil teeth L formed along edge536, and no zipper teeth formed along edge538. The matched zipper530is then cut to length to have the same or similar number of teeth between the first modular zipper member460and the second modular zipper member462. This number of zipper teeth and resulting length is selected to match the number of teeth and length of the first primary and second primary zipper members144,146.

The first and second modular zipper members460,462are then separated and swapped side for side, as is shown inFIG.10C, so that edge534of modular tape member460is placed adjacent to edge538of modular tape member462. This re-orientation positions edge532having right-hand coil teeth R along the first outer edge470(left side, seeFIG.7) and edge536having left-hand coil teeth L along its opposing second outer edge472(right side, seeFIG.7). Matched coil teeth forming the expansion zipper476are then formed on edges534(left-hand coil teeth L) and538(right-hand coil teeth R) to releasably secure the edges together. Opposing edge portions of the gusset464may be attached to each of the respective first460and second462modular zipper tapes by stitching. This forms the modular expansion zipper assembly240. A slider may optionally be engaged with the expansion zipper476to allow it to open and close along its length. The modular expansion zipper assembly, with the expansion zipper in a closed configuration, may then be formed into a loop with its opposing ends450,452attached together, with the loop matching the number of teeth and length of both the first144primary and second146primary zip members. The opposing ends450,452of the zipper loop may be connected together in an abutted configuration, an overlapping configuration, or with a slight gap between the opposing ends. The application of an overmolded joining member454on the exposed side or on the interior side of the gusset464of the opposing ends450,452may be used, such as the example described herein with respect toFIGS.6to8, and more specifically with respect toFIGS.7,8, and9.

Zipper end clips442, such as inFIGS.6and7are engaged with the terminal ends of zipper assemblies. End clips block the movement of the slider beyond the end of the zipper assembly, as well as maintain engagement between the engaged zipper teeth to help keep them from separating. Zipper end clips are often separate from one another when mounted on their respective terminal zipper ends. Typically one end clip is mounted on both of the opposing ends of a zipper assembly, and a gap is formed between the adjacent end clips. The gap may allow access into the internal cavity of the luggage case, and is generally an unsightly feature of a luggage case. Many times the end clips and gap are covered by an aesthetic feature, such as a decorative panel, to cover over the gap.

The example inFIGS.11A,11B,11C,11D,11E, and11F, shows a zipper end clip600on one terminal end602of a zipper assembly604that is engaged with the zipper end clip606on the other terminal end608of the zipper assembly604. This engagement of end clips600and606may aid in covering or filling in a hole, gap, or aperture610between the terminal ends of the zipper assembly, as well as strengthening and stabilizing the opposing ends of the zipper assembly. The hole, gap, or aperture610may be similar to or the same as the cut-out area398shown inFIGS.4and5. Additionally and optionally, connected zipper end clips600,606may provide a finished appearance at the terminal ends of the zipper assembly604, which typically appear utilitarian and may be covered by an aesthetic fabric component to provide a finished look. With the engaged zipper end clips600,606filling in the gap610, a cover patch may not be needed. In one example, however, an aesthetic fabric component may still be applied for aesthetic or other purposes.

The zipper end clips600,606engage one another by an interlocking feature612, and in one example, such as shown inFIGS.11A and11B, may form a unitary body, which in one example has a parallel-piped shape (e.g. a rectangular block) when joined. The engaged end clips600,606may create other shapes as well. In one example, each end clip may be shaped such that it can be re-oriented to engage another end clip having the same shape and be connected together by the interlocking interface.

In one example, as shown inFIG.11B, end clips600and606have similar or identical interlocking interface in common with one another that allow them to be connected together. In one example the shape of each end clip600,606may not be similar to each other but for the interlocking feature612. In another example, as described herein, each end clip600,606may have a similar or identical overall shape and function to one another.

As shown inFIG.11BandFIG.11C, an end clip600may include a main body614having a first portion616and a second portion618. The first portion614may engage the terminal end602of the zipper assembly604, and may include adjacent tracks620each for receiving a respective length of zipper teeth. The second portion618may extend from the first portion616, and may define the interlocking feature612. A first end clip600and a second end clip606may be oriented with respect to each other such that the second portions618,618′ are positioned adjacent one another, with the interlocking features612,612′ of each end clip600,606engaging together to attach the first and second end clips together. In one example the second portions618,618′ may nest together and create a combined shape between the two end clips that appears integral and/or unitary (such as inFIG.11B). The interlocking features612,612′ may be releasable from one another to allow the two end clips600,606to separate, or the interlocking features may be relatively permanently connected to resist easy disengagement from one another.

In one example, such as that shown inFIGS.11C,11D,11E, and11F, the interlocking feature612formed on the end clip600may in include more than one interlocking feature, such as a protrusion622and an aperture624. The protrusion622may have a columnar shaped lower portion626with an enlarged tip portion628. In one example, such as shown inFIG.11D, the enlarged tip portion628includes a base630that extends outwardly from the columnar lower portion626, and a terminal end632that has a shape smaller than the width of the base630. In one example, the tip portion628may cone shaped. The aperture624may have a first region634with a first diameter and a second region636with a second diameter, the first diameter being smaller than the second diameter. The first region634may form a retaining collar638. The retaining collar638may have a sloped wall644. The second region636may form a cavity640. The aperture624may or may not extend all the way through the second portion. The protrusion622and aperture624are positioned symmetrically on the second portion618of the main body614so that when the second portion618of one end clip600is oriented to engage the second portion618′ of another end clip606, the interlocking features612,612′ are aligned to engage.

More particularly, the protrusion622and aperture624on one second portion618is aligned with the aperture624′ and protrusion622′, respectively, on the other second portion618′. With symmetrically positioned interlocking features612,612′, one shape of end clip may be used to engage two end clips together. The symmetry between the interlocking features112,112′ on each end clip600,606, allow the end clips to be re-oriented with respect to each other so the interlocking features engage. Alternatively, interlocking features having other designs may be used, such as for instance a protrusion on one end clip and an aperture on the other end clip, which may engage to secure the end clips together. This would require making two types of end clips, as opposed to a single end clip that may engage with another end clip having an identical interlocking feature.

In one example, such as that shown inFIGS.11E and11F, the second portions618,618′ of each of the two end clips600,606are oriented such that the protrusion622of the first end clip600is aligned with the aperture624′ of the second end clip606. Similarly, the protrusion622′ of the second end clip606is aligned with the aperture624of the first end clip600. The interlocking features612,612′ engage by moving the second portions618,618′ towards one another such that the enlarged tips628,628′ of the protrusions622,622′ pass through the retaining collar638,638′ and are received in the cavity640,640′, as shown inFIG.11F. With the interlocking features612,612′ engaged between the two clips, the second portions618,618′ are nested together and the combined end clips600,606are engaged together.

In the example shown here, the first portion616, may have the shape of a rectangular block, and may have a height, width and length. The second portion618, for example in the shape of a rectangular block, may also have a height, width and length. The height of the second portion618may be less than the height of the first portion616, and the width and length may be similar to or the same as those dimension of the first portion616. In one example the height of the second portion618is approximately ½ of the height of the first portion614. The interlocking feature612may be formed on the second portion618. In one example, and as shown inFIG.11D,11E, and11F, the protrusion622may extend from the recessed surface642of the second portion618, and the first region of the aperture624may be adjacent the recessed surface642of the second portion, with the cavity640adjacent the opposite face from the recessed surface642.

The zipper end clip600may be made of a deformable material to allow the first portion614to be deformed to clamp the portion of zipper teeth in the respective track620to retain the end clip600on the terminal end602,608of the zipper assembly604.

All relative and directional references (including: upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, side, above, below, front, middle, back, vertical, horizontal, and so forth) are given by way of example to aid the reader's understanding of the particular examples described herein. They should not be read to be requirements or limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use unless specifically set forth in the claims. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, joined, and the like) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a connection of elements and relative movement between elements. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other, unless specifically set forth in the claims.

It is possible to express at least some of the novel and inventive features of the present disclosure by reference to one or more of the following numbered clauses.