Patent Description:
The document <CIT> discloses a slider according to the preamble of claim <NUM>.

The sliders for zip fasteners comprise a main body configured to slidably receive two arrays of teeth of a zip fastener.

To this end, the main body comprises, at a first end, two internal channels which converge, substantially at a central portion of the main body, into a single channel reaching the second longitudinally opposite end of the main body.

The teeth of a zip fastener are inserted into the first end of the main body in such a way that one row of teeth engages one channel and the other row of teeth engages the other channel.

By sliding the main body along a first direction, the two rows of teeth converge into the central portion of the main body (where the two channels converge into a single channel) coupling each other in such a way that the teeth of one row fit between the teeth of the other row, closing the zip.

By sliding the main body in a second direction opposite to the first one, the two rows of teeth coupled together enter the second end of the main body (where a single channel is present) and are split near the central portion of the main body where the single channel splits in two, causing the zip to open.

In order to allow the movement of the main body a pull tab, i.e., an element that can be grasped by a user, is usually provided, the pull tab being connected to the main body of the slider to allow the movement of the slider as a whole in the desired direction.

Some sliders for zip fasteners, so-called "self-locking", are provided with a lock mechanism for locking the sliding movement of the slider in the opening direction of the zip fastener, so as to prevent an unwanted opening of the zip fastener when a user is wearing, for example, an item of clothing or footwear.

To this end, these so-called "self-locking" zip sliders are in particular, provided with a lock mechanism of the sliding movement of the slider comprising a movable stop element of the sliding movement of the slider in a longitudinal direction and in the opening direction of the zip fastener, and with a pull tab provided at one end with an eyelet that defines a portion, generally semi-annular, configured to interact with the movable stop element.

A very popular type of so-called "self-locking" zip sliders provides for a bridge to be associated with the main body of the slider, the bridge housing the aforesaid movable stop element and at the same time links the eyelet to the main body.

Specifically, this bridge of the slider is located at the upper surface of the main body of the slider and is bound to a pair of appendices which protrude from the upper surface of the main body.

The bridge, extending between the two appendices, defines, in combination with the upper surface of the main body, a through opening. This through opening is engaged by the eyelet of the pull tab, so that the latter can rotate with respect to the main body and also transfer the action exerted by the user to move the central body.

By means of this configuration, by lifting the pull tab and by moving the same in the opening direction of the zip fastener the movable stop element is also moved away from the teeth of the zip fastener, allowing the slider to slide and, consequently, the zip to open.

The Applicant has found that, on occasion, the pull tab of the zip fasteners may be moved unintentionally during use of the article on which the zip fastener is applied and may cause an unwanted opening of the zip fastener.

The applicant also found that the presence of the pull tab and, above all, of the elements of the slider which protrude from its visible surface (the bridge which houses the aforesaid movable stop element and the appendices to which it is bound) does not always match with the aesthetic characteristics which it would be desirable to impart to the slider of the zip fastener.

For example, for certain fashion styles, it would be desirable to be able to apply a logo, such as the one of the fashion house, or another decorative element to the slider of the zip fastener which logo, for example, reflects the style of the moment or complements a certain line of clothing or footwear.

The slider of the zip fasteners so-called "self-blocking" of the type described above do not, however, allow this need to be satisfied.

In this context, the Applicant has perceived that in order to avoid undesired openings of the zip fastener and to achieve these desirable aesthetic characteristics, it is necessary to rethink the overall structure of the slider so as to maintain "self-locking" characteristics, but at the same time to allow logos or decorative elements to be applied on the upper portion (the visible portion) of the slider body, if desired.

In this respect, the Applicant has perceived that in order to achieve the aforesaid desirable characteristics, it is necessary, firstly, to eliminate the operating pull tab of the movable stop element of the lock mechanism of the sliding movement of the slider and, secondly, to suitably configure the slider body in order to be able to house both the aforesaid lock mechanism and the relevant operating elements.

The present invention therefore relates to a slider for zip fasteners as defined in the appended claim <NUM>.

More particularly, the present invention relates to a zip slider comprising:.

Advantageously, thanks to the aforesaid combination of features, the slider according to the invention allows to effectively prevent that any movement, even the most abrupt one, of the article to which the zip fastener is applied can lead to an accidental opening of the zip fastener itself.

The absence of any operating pull tab configured to interact with the lock mechanism and the presence in its place of a release button, slidably mounted in the slider body, allows to prevent any accidental movement of the control element of the movable stop element, i.e., of the release button.

As a matter of fact, the zip fastener can only be opened by manually operating the release button, which is slidably mounted in the slider body in a longitudinal direction, and requires an intentional action by the user, in this case exerting a pressure on the release button in the opening direction of the zip fastener.

Only in this way the slider body can longitudinally slide to open the zip fastener, thereby substantially eliminating the possibility that the movable stop element of the lock mechanism of the sliding of the slider may be unintentionally operated as a result of an accidental contact with the operating element thereof or of an occasional movement of the article to which the zip fastener is applied.

In relation to the slider of the invention, it should be specified that, in order to meet particular application and/or aesthetic needs, a pull tab may possibly be envisaged, provided that it is not configured to interact with the movable stop element of the lock mechanism of the sliding movement of the slider.

Advantageously, the slider of the invention further allows the lock mechanism of the sliding movement to be unlocked on command in a convenient and reliable manner over time.

In addition, the release button can be integrated in the slider in an aesthetically unobtrusive manner so that a good portion of the surface exposed to the outside of the slider body can be used for aesthetic purposes.

In certain cases, it is even possible to integrate the release button in the slider's own aesthetics so as to achieve an unusual aesthetic effect.

In the present description and in the subsequent claims, the term "body" means a single mechanical element made in a single piece or a plurality of parts made integral with each other in a reversible or irreversible manner.

The slider body slides along a zip fastener in a longitudinal direction. This longitudinal direction is the main reference axis for the elements forming part of the slider according to the present invention; indications of directions such as "longitudinal" and "longitudinally" will be referred thereto.

The slider body is configured to couple two teeth arrays of a zip fastener in a specific side-by-side configuration. This side-by-side arrangement identifies a horizontal plane parallel to the longitudinal direction. With reference to the longitudinal direction, the terms "forward" and "advanced" refer to the direction along which the movement of the slider closes the zip fastener. Similarly, terms such as "backward" and "retracted" refer to the direction along which the movement of the slider opens the zip fastener.

A vertical axis is defined as an axis perpendicular to the aforesaid horizontal plane and to the aforesaid longitudinal direction. The spatial references such as "vertical", "vertically", "above", "upper", "below", "lower" will be defined with respect to the latter.

A transverse axis is defined as perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and to the vertical axis. The spatial references such as "transversal", "transversely", "lateral", "laterally" will be defined with respect to these axes.

The present invention may have one or more of the preferred features described in the following detailed description. In particular, these preferred features can be combined with each other at will according to application needs.

Additional features and advantages of the present invention will be more clearly apparent from the following detailed description of a possible preferred embodiment, illustrated by way of non-limiting example in the accompanying drawings, wherein:.

A slider for zip fasteners according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is indicated with the numerical reference <NUM> in the appended figures.

According to the invention, the slider <NUM> illustrated in the accompanying figures is of the so-called "self-locking" type.

The slider <NUM> comprises a slider body <NUM>, illustrated in more detail in <FIG>, comprising a first end <NUM> at which two longitudinal slide channels <NUM> for teeth of a zip fastener open and a second end <NUM> at which a single longitudinal sliding channel <NUM> for the teeth of a zip fastener opens.

In a way known per se, the two channels <NUM> join in the single channel <NUM> in the slider body <NUM>.

The slider body <NUM> is configured to longitudinally slide along two rows of teeth of a zip fastener. The longitudinal direction is indicated in the attached figures by the X axis.

The slider body <NUM> longitudinally extends from the first end <NUM> to the second end <NUM> and comprises a lower portion <NUM> and an upper portion <NUM> that is opposite to the lower portion <NUM> along a vertical direction (see for example, <FIG>, <FIG>).

The vertical direction is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction and is indicated in the attached figures by the Z axis.

The lower portion <NUM> and the upper portion <NUM> both extend from the first end <NUM> to the second end <NUM>.

The lower portion <NUM> comprises a pair of vertically extending lower lateral flanges <NUM>. The upper portion <NUM> comprises a pair of upper lateral flanges <NUM> vertically extending towards the lower lateral flanges <NUM>.

A nose portion <NUM> connects the lower portion <NUM> to the upper portion <NUM> (see for example <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>).

The nose portion <NUM> is arranged between the upper portion <NUM> and the lower portion <NUM> and longitudinally extends from the first end <NUM> to an intermediate point <NUM> between the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM>.

The two longitudinal sliding channels <NUM> open on the first end <NUM>, each sliding channel <NUM> being configured to receive a single array of teeth of the zip fastener. The two channels <NUM> are inferiorly delimited by the lower portion <NUM> and superiorly delimited by the upper portion <NUM>. The nose portion <NUM> laterally separates the two channels <NUM>.

Each of the two channels <NUM> is delimited, at the opposite side with respect to the nose portion <NUM>, by one of the lower lateral flanges <NUM> of the lower portion <NUM> and by one of the upper lateral flanges <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

In this way, each gap between the lower side flange <NUM> and the upper side flange <NUM> can be traversed by a piece of fabric of the zip fastener on which the array of teeth sliding in the channel <NUM> is installed.

The two channels <NUM> longitudinally extend from the first end <NUM> towards the second end <NUM> and converge into the intermediate point <NUM>.

The single longitudinal sliding channel <NUM> for the two arrays of teeth of the zip fastener opens on the second end <NUM>. The single channel <NUM> extends from the second end <NUM> towards the first end <NUM> until it joins with the two channels <NUM> at the intermediate point <NUM>.

The single channel <NUM> is thus inferiorly delimited by the lower portion <NUM>, superiorly delimited by the upper portion <NUM> and laterally delimited by the lower lateral flanges <NUM> and by the upper lateral flanges <NUM>.

The slider body <NUM> is therefore internally provided with a cavity formed by the two channels <NUM> and by the single channel <NUM> which join at the intermediate point <NUM>.

The slider body <NUM> can be mounted in a zip fastener (not illustrated) so that the two arrays of teeth of the zip fastener go through the single channel <NUM> and each array goes through one of the two channels <NUM>.

The lower portion <NUM> is configured to be arranged at a side of the zip fastener that is, in use, unexposed or concealed, for example the inner side of an article, such as an item of clothing or footwear.

On the other hand, the upper portion <NUM> is configured to be arranged at a side of the zip fastener that is, in use, exposed or otherwise visible, for example the outer side of the article.

By sliding the slider body <NUM> along a first longitudinal sliding direction, the two rows of teeth converge into the point where the two channels <NUM> converge into the single channel <NUM> and couple to each other in such a way that the teeth of one row fit between the teeth of the other row, closing the zip fastener.

By sliding the slider body <NUM> in a second longitudinal sliding direction that is opposite to the first one, the two mutually coupled rows of teeth enter the single channel <NUM> and are split near the intermediate point <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> where the single channel <NUM> splits in two, causing the zip to open.

Preferably, the upper portion <NUM> comprises a support base <NUM>, integrally connected by means of the nose portion <NUM> with the lower portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>, and a protruding element <NUM> vertically extending from the support base <NUM>.

The support base <NUM> and the protruding element <NUM> are therefore facing upwards, i.e., towards the outside of the slider <NUM> in the conditions of use in a zip fastener.

Preferably, the support base <NUM> is configured to support the protruding element <NUM>.

To this end, the support base <NUM> is preferably substantially plate-like and has an upper face <NUM>, perpendicular to the vertical direction and a side wall <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Preferably, the side wall <NUM> is vertical.

Preferably, the support base <NUM> defines with the lower portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> a plurality of fins, for example a pair of fins <NUM>, laterally extending at the second end <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> (see <FIG> and <FIG>).

Preferably, the fins <NUM> are integral with the support base <NUM> so that they laterally extend from the slider body <NUM> in a plane perpendicular to the vertical direction.

In this preferred embodiment, therefore, each fin <NUM> comprises an upper face forming part of the upper face <NUM> of the support base <NUM> and a side wall forming part of the side wall <NUM> of the support base <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the fins <NUM> are arranged at opposite sides of the support base <NUM> with respect to the X axis.

Preferably, the support base <NUM> has a plurality of holes <NUM> made in the fins <NUM>.

In particular, at least two fins <NUM> each have at least one hole <NUM>.

Advantageously, the holes <NUM> made in the fins <NUM> can be easily made and accessible.

Preferably, the holes <NUM> extend in a vertical direction and are through holes, i.e., extending through the entire vertical extension of the respective fin <NUM>.

Preferably, the protruding element <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> is structurally independent from the support base <NUM> and is mechanically rigidly fixed, reversibly or, more preferably, irreversibly, to the support base <NUM>.

As illustrated above, in this preferred embodiment of the slider <NUM> the protruding element <NUM> always remains exposed towards the outside of the slider of the zip fastener <NUM> to achieve, for example, a desired aesthetic effect.

Within the framework of the present description and of the subsequent claims, the expression "mechanically and rigidly coupling" and the like means that the protruding element <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body is coupled to the remaining portion of the slider body <NUM> by means of operations of mechanical interaction of parts, for example by plastic deformation.

In this sense, therefore, there is a mechanical and rigid coupling of parts without glues or adhesives being used.

In this way, the slider body <NUM> and the protruding element <NUM> can each be made according to the most suitable production process. The slider body <NUM> can be made by means of the production process that is best suited to its shape and its mechanical requirements, for example by moulding, and the protruding element <NUM> can be made by means of the most economical and flexible production process, which allows to easily modify the shape and the aesthetic appearance, for example by moulding or by one or more mechanical machining operations with chip removal.

Preferably, the protruding element <NUM> is mechanically fixed in a rigid and preferably irreversible manner, to the support base <NUM> for example and preferably by means of a coupling assembly <NUM> which will be described in more detail below.

Preferably, the protruding element <NUM> has a lower face <NUM> abutting against the support base <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Preferably, the protruding element <NUM> has an upper face <NUM> opposite to the lower face <NUM> along a vertical direction.

Preferably, the protruding element <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> is provided with a side wall <NUM> extending from the lower face <NUM> to the upper face <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment, the side wall <NUM> of the protruding element <NUM> and, thus of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>, has a substantially cylindrical or frusto-conical shape and is oriented along a substantially vertical or slightly oblique direction with respect to the vertical direction.

Preferably, the side wall <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> comprises a pressure portion <NUM> suitably shaped to allow a finger of the user to be placed thereon and to allow the user to exert a longitudinally directed pressure on the slider body <NUM> and in a direction opposite to the opening direction of the zip fastener.

Preferably, the pressure portion <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> is configured to allow the ergonomic positioning thereon of a finger of the user so as to exert on the upper portion <NUM> and, specifically, on the protruding element <NUM> thereof, a force that is directed substantially perpendicularly to the pressure portion <NUM>.

"Ergonomic positioning" means that at least <NUM>% of the fingertip can adhere to the pressure portion <NUM> while exerting this force, preferably at least <NUM>%. Still more preferably at least <NUM>%.

Preferably, the pressure portion <NUM> is substantially perpendicularly oriented to the longitudinal sliding direction of the slider <NUM>.

Preferably, the pressure portion <NUM> has a flat or concave region configured to best accommodate a finger of the user (e.g., the thumb or the index finger).

In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the pressure portion <NUM> is part of the side wall <NUM>.

In a preferred embodiment, the protruding element <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> comprises a decorative element <NUM>, for example, a logo, or it is itself configured as a three-dimensional decorative element.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the figures, said decorative pattern <NUM> is applied at the upper wall <NUM> of the protruding element <NUM> so that in the use configuration of the slider <NUM> said decorative pattern <NUM> may be facing outwards with respect to the article on which the slider <NUM> is applied, so as to be easily visible.

Preferably, the protruding element <NUM> has a geometric three-dimensional shape, such that the protruding element <NUM> as a whole has at least a dimension substantially of the same order of magnitude as the lower portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the figures, the protruding element <NUM> has a dimension greater than that of the lower portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

In this way, it is advantageously possible to achieve the most varied aesthetic characteristics of the slider <NUM> as a whole.

Preferably, the protruding element <NUM> completely covers the support base <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

In other words, the protruding element <NUM> is advantageously configured to cover the slider body <NUM> when the latter is applied on a zip fastener of an article, so as to expose the decorative pattern <NUM> instead of the slider body <NUM> and of other functional components of the slider <NUM>.

As illustrated above, the slider <NUM> preferably comprises a coupling assembly <NUM> configured to mechanically and rigidly couple, preferably irreversibly, the protruding element <NUM> to the support base <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

Preferably, the coupling assembly <NUM> acts between the lower face <NUM> of the protruding element <NUM> and the support base <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> to clamp them against each other.

Preferably, the coupling assembly <NUM> is configured to mechanically couple the protruding element <NUM> to the support base <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> at the fins <NUM> described above and defined by the support base <NUM> with the lower portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

In this way, it is advantageously possible to have an easy access to the part of the slider <NUM> where the coupling assembly <NUM> acts.

Preferably, the coupling assembly <NUM> comprises a plurality of pegs each configured to engage a respective housing hole.

In the figures, the pegs of the coupling assembly <NUM> are indicated by reference <NUM>.

In preferred embodiments, the pegs <NUM> may integrally extend from one among the slider body <NUM> and the protruding element <NUM> and respective housing holes made in the other among the slider body <NUM> and the protruding element <NUM>.

The pegs <NUM> and the holes can be made on the support base <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> and on the protruding element <NUM> after they have been made and independently of the mechanical operations adopted to produce them.

Preferably, the pegs <NUM> are mechanically fixed to the other among the support base <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> and the protruding element <NUM> in an irreversible manner, for example by plastic deformation in the respective housing holes.

The plastic deformation of the pegs allows a rigid and irreversible coupling between the protruding element <NUM> and the remaining part of the slider body <NUM>, which is able both to guarantee the required strength and rigidity and to ensure that the protruding element <NUM> is stably an integral part of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> over time.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the figures, the pegs <NUM> are integral with the protruding element <NUM> and protrude from the lower face <NUM> of said protruding element <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the figures, the holes <NUM> are through holes formed in the fins <NUM>, while the pegs <NUM> are mechanically fixed to the slider body <NUM> by plastic deformation of a respective free end portion <NUM> thereof protruding from the through holes <NUM>.

When making the preferred embodiment of the slider <NUM> illustrated in the figures, it is therefore sufficient to arrange the protruding element <NUM> and the support base <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> next to each other and subsequently to deform the free end portion <NUM> of the pegs <NUM>.

In an alternative preferred embodiment, the pegs <NUM> may be mechanically fixed to the slider body <NUM> in an irreversible manner by plastic deformation of a free end portion <NUM> of the pegs <NUM> within the through holes <NUM>.

In other words, according to this preferred embodiment of the invention, the pegs <NUM> are subjected to an irreversible mechanical deformation subsequent to their insertion inside the holes <NUM> so as to irreversibly engage the slider body <NUM>.

According to an alternative preferred embodiment, not illustrated, the holes <NUM> are blind holes whereas the pegs <NUM> are plastically deformed inside the holes <NUM>.

In both of the aforesaid coupling modes, each peg <NUM> cannot therefore disengage from the hole <NUM> unless there are structural breakages or failures.

According to an alternative embodiment, the pegs <NUM> are coupled by interference to the respective holes <NUM>.

In this case, each peg <NUM> has a larger cross-sectional area than the respective hole <NUM> and is inserted therein thanks to a temperature difference with the hole <NUM> which reduces its relative dimension. The natural reduction in temperature difference normalises the dimensions of the peg <NUM> and of the hole <NUM> and makes their mutual engagement irreversible.

According to a non-illustrated embodiment, the coupling assembly <NUM> comprises pegs that protrude from the support base <NUM> to engage respective holes made in the protruding element <NUM>.

According to an embodiment not illustrated, the coupling assembly <NUM> comprises a plurality of threaded members, which go through respective through holes <NUM> made in the support base <NUM>, and in screwing engagement in respective further holes, preferably blind holes, made in the protruding element <NUM>.

Preferably, such threaded members consist of screws.

The aforesaid further holes may have a nut screw configured to couple with the threaded members.

Alternatively, the threaded members may comprise self-tapping screws in order to establish a threaded coupling with the further holes lacking a nut screw.

The through holes <NUM> can be made at the fins <NUM> in a similar manner as described and illustrated above.

This allows an access to the screw heads from below.

Preferably, the threaded coupling between the threaded members and the further holes is irreversible. The irreversibility can be obtained by means of a subsequent mechanical processing on the head of the screw or on the insert thereof so that unscrewing is made impossible.

According to the invention and as illustrated above, the slider <NUM> comprises a lock mechanism <NUM> of the sliding movement of the slider <NUM> that is positioned in the slider body <NUM> and comprising a movable stop element <NUM> of the sliding movement of the slider <NUM> in a longitudinal direction and in the zip fastener opening direction and illustrated in greater detail below with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>.

According to the invention, the slider <NUM> further comprises a release button <NUM> for unlocking the lock mechanism <NUM>, slidably mounted in the slider body <NUM> and manually operable to unlock the lock mechanism <NUM>.

The release button <NUM> is in particular configured to cooperate with the movable stop element <NUM> of the lock mechanism <NUM> and to move the movable stop element <NUM> from an operative position (illustrated in <FIG>), wherein the movable stop element <NUM> engages one of the channels <NUM>; <NUM> for locking a slider <NUM> sliding along the opening direction of the zip fastener, to a non-operative position (illustrated in <FIG>) wherein the movable stop element <NUM> does not engage any of the aforesaid channels <NUM>; <NUM>.

Preferably, the release button <NUM> is mounted in the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>, more preferably in the protruding element <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM>, at a longitudinally opposite part with respect to the above-described pressure portion <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> (see <FIG> and <FIG>).

In this way, it is advantageously possible to manually grasp in a very easy way the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>, specifically the protruding element <NUM> thereof, and to exert in an equally easy way such an action of manual pressure which allows to operate - only when desired - the release button <NUM>.

In order to optimise such a technically advantageous effect and as best illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the release button <NUM> preferably comprises a respective pressure portion <NUM>, and is configured such that the pressure portion <NUM> of the side wall <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>, specifically of the protruding element <NUM> thereof, and the pressure portion <NUM> of the release button <NUM> are aligned along a longitudinal sliding direction of the slider body <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the protruding element <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> comprises a cavity <NUM> formed above the support base <NUM> and configured to at least partially house the lock mechanism <NUM> of the sliding of the slider <NUM> (see <FIG>).

In this way, it is advantageously possible both to protect the lock mechanism <NUM> while preserving as much as possible its proper functioning, and to conceal said lock mechanism <NUM> from view while preserving the aesthetic characteristics conferred to the slider <NUM> by the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>, in this case by the protruding element <NUM> thereof.

More specifically, the cavity <NUM> is made in the lower part of the protruding element <NUM> so as to open in the lower surface <NUM>.

Preferably, the cavity <NUM> extends in the longitudinal direction.

Preferably, the release button <NUM> is partially housed in said cavity <NUM> so that the respective pressure portion <NUM> protrudes from a driving opening <NUM> provided in the protruding element <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

In this way, it is advantageously possible both to protect the release button <NUM> from damages and to have available as needed the part of said release button <NUM> that must be pressed manually to unlock the lock mechanism <NUM> minimising, if not eliminating, the possibility of an accidental operation.

Preferably, the driving opening <NUM> opens into the cavity <NUM>.

Preferably, the driving opening <NUM> is made in the side wall <NUM> of the protruding element <NUM>, in particular at a position opposite to the pressure portion <NUM>.

Preferably, the driving opening <NUM> is located at a longitudinal end of the cavity <NUM>.

Preferably, the cavity <NUM> is longitudinally delimited by a rear wall <NUM> opposite to the driving opening <NUM>.

Preferably, the pressure portion <NUM> is arranged at the rear wall <NUM> at an opposite side with respect to the cavity <NUM>.

Preferably, the release button <NUM> protrudes from the driving opening <NUM> for a length lower than <NUM>, preferably said length being comprised between <NUM> and <NUM> and still more preferably between <NUM> and <NUM>.

In this way, it is possible to optimise the technical effects described above of protecting the lock mechanism <NUM> and of reducing the possibility of an unintentional operation to the benefit of the operating reliability of the slider <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the cavity <NUM> formed in the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>, in this case in the protruding element <NUM> thereof, is configured to guide a sliding, preferably longitudinal, of the release button <NUM> in the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

In this way, it is advantageously possible to guide in a protected manner the release button <NUM> while ensuring an optimal operating reliability of the slider <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the cavity <NUM> comprises at least one lateral recess <NUM>, more preferably two lateral recesses <NUM>, extending in a transverse direction at opposite sides with respect to the longitudinal X axis (see <FIG>).

The transverse direction is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction and to the vertical direction and is indicated in the attached figures by the Y axis.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the cavity <NUM> provided with the lateral recesses <NUM> has substantially an elongated cross shape.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the attached figures and for a greater sliding stability, the release button <NUM> comprises at least one lateral protrusion <NUM>, more preferably two lateral protrusions <NUM>, extending in opposite directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, each inserted into a respective lateral recess <NUM> of the cavity <NUM> (see <FIG>).

In this way, an end-stop of the release button <NUM> is advantageously defined in the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

In other words, each lateral protrusion <NUM> is movable in its respective lateral recess <NUM> when the release button <NUM> moves between a non-operative position thereof and an operative, or pressed, position thereof and is configured to abut against a wall of the lateral recess <NUM> when the release button <NUM> reaches the non-operative position.

This also advantageously limits the maximum excursion of the release button <NUM> in the slider body <NUM> and prevents the release button <NUM> from completely exiting from the cavity <NUM>.

As can be seen from the figures, in this preferred embodiment, the protruding element <NUM> is moved close to the support base <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> in the assembly phase of the slider <NUM> so as to partially occlude the cavity <NUM>.

In this way, the components to be housed in the cavity can be inserted therein before the coupling of the protruding element <NUM> to the support base <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> and, subsequently, the coupling of the protruding element <NUM> to said support base <NUM> partially occludes the cavity <NUM>, enclosing the various components of the slider <NUM> present therein.

Preferably, the support base <NUM> inferiorly occludes the cavity <NUM> so that, in the assembled configuration of the slider <NUM>, the driving opening <NUM> is the only access to the cavity <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the lock mechanism <NUM> comprises a driving element <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM>, which will be described in more detail below with reference to <FIG>, longitudinally interposed between the release button <NUM> and the movable stop element <NUM>.

As will be described in more detail below, the driving element <NUM> is translationally driven along the longitudinal direction (i.e., along the X axis) by the release button <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the movable stop element <NUM> of the lock mechanism <NUM> of the sliding movement of the slider <NUM> is arranged on the support base <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

As illustrated above, the movable stop element <NUM> may be driven by the release button <NUM> and is configured to stop the sliding of the slider <NUM> in the opening direction of the zip fastener and to prevent the unintentional opening of the latter.

Preferably and as better illustrated in <FIG>, the movable stop element <NUM> is substantially bridge-shaped and comprises:.

Preferably, the engagement portion <NUM> of the driving element <NUM> is configured to cooperate with said abutment portion <NUM> to move the movable stop element <NUM> from its operative position to its non-operative position.

More particularly, the abutment portion <NUM> and the engagement portion <NUM> of the driving element <NUM> are configured to slide against each another so as to lift a second end <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> with respect to a first end <NUM> (and thus a rotation of the movable stop element <NUM>) during the translation of the driving element <NUM> from an advanced position to a retracted position.

Preferably, the engagement portion <NUM> is configured to interpose between the abutment portion <NUM> and a ramp portion <NUM>, extending from the support base <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>, and to move them away from each other during the translation of the driving element <NUM> from the advanced position to the retracted position.

In this way, it is advantageously possible to move the movable stop element <NUM> safely and reliably to its non-operative position by means of a guided translation of the release button <NUM> and of the driving element <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the abutment portion <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> has a sliding surface 219a, facing the longitudinal sliding channels <NUM>, <NUM> of the teeth of the zip fastener and inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction.

Advantageously, this configuration of the movable stop element <NUM> facilitates its movement towards its non-operative position by the release button <NUM> and the driving element <NUM>.

To optimise such a movement, the engagement portion <NUM> of the driving element <NUM> is preferably configured to slide against the sliding surface 219a during a longitudinal translation of the engagement portion <NUM> towards the second end <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> along the X axis so as to effectively move the movable stop element <NUM> from its operative position to its non-operative position.

Advantageously, such a movement of the movable stop element <NUM>, is further optimised by the ramp portion <NUM> extending from the support base <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

Advantageously, the ramp portion <NUM> guides along a vertical direction the displacement of the engagement portion <NUM> of the driving element <NUM> away from the support base <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

Preferably, the engagement portion <NUM> of the driving element <NUM> is configured to slide against the ramp portion <NUM> so as to move away from the support base <NUM> during a longitudinal translation along the X axis of the driving element <NUM> towards the second end <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> (i.e., in the opening direction of the zip fastener).

In this way, the reliability and the repeatability of movement of the movable stop element <NUM> are advantageously optimised.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the recess <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> defines a through opening between the movable stop element <NUM> and the support base <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

In this preferred embodiment, the engagement portion <NUM> of the driving element <NUM> configured to move the movable stop element <NUM> is conveniently housed in this through opening.

Preferably, the recess <NUM> is formed in the body of the movable stop element <NUM> adjacent to the abutment portion <NUM> and is longitudinally interposed between at least one hooking portion <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> to the slider body <NUM> and the abutment portion <NUM> (see <FIG>).

In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the movable stop element <NUM> extends from a first end <NUM> to a second end <NUM> opposite to the first end <NUM> and further comprises:.

Preferably, in the assembled configuration of the slider <NUM> the stop tooth <NUM> extends in a substantially vertical downward direction. In the locking position of the slider <NUM> (corresponding to the operative position of the movable stop element <NUM>), the stop tooth <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> engages the channel <NUM>; <NUM> through a through hole <NUM> made in the support base <NUM> so as to prevent a sliding of the slider <NUM> on the zip fastener along at least one longitudinal direction.

Preferably, the through hole <NUM> is configured to house the aforesaid stop tooth <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM>.

Preferably, the through hole <NUM> vertically extends from the support base <NUM> towards one of the channels <NUM>, <NUM>, in this case towards the channel <NUM>.

Preferably, the through hole <NUM> is placed aside the ramp portion <NUM>. In particular, the stop tooth <NUM> in the locking position is configured to prevent a backward sliding of the slider <NUM> and to allow a forward sliding of the slider <NUM> i.e., in the opening direction of the zip fastener.

In a preferred embodiment, the stop tooth <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> is also configured not to prevent a forward sliding of the slider <NUM>, that is, in the closing direction of the zip fastener. This, thanks to a particular geometric shape of the tooth itself, as known to those skilled in the art.

In this way, the slider <NUM> can be advantageously moved in the zip closing direction without necessarily having to actuate the release button <NUM>, thus increasing the ease of use of the slider <NUM>.

In the non claimed embodiment illustrated, the driving element <NUM> is substantially U-shaped and comprises two longitudinally extending arms <NUM> substantially parallel to each other, and a joining section <NUM> extending between said parallel arms <NUM>.

Preferably, the engagement portion <NUM> of the driving element <NUM> is arranged at said joining section <NUM>.

This preferred configuration of the driving element <NUM> is particularly effective in ensuring a reliable movement of the movable stop element <NUM> taking into account its preferred fixing configuration to the slider body <NUM> as described in more detail hereinbelow.

Specifically, the slider body <NUM> preferably comprises a first coupling portion <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> to the slider body <NUM> protruding from the support base <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> next to the first end <NUM> of the slider body.

Preferably, the first coupling portion <NUM> protrudes upwards, i.e., substantially perpendicularly to the support base <NUM> itself.

Preferably, the first coupling portion <NUM> comprises at least one first hooking portion <NUM>, preferably two first hooking portions <NUM>, protruding from the support base <NUM> and defining at least one housing seat <NUM> of the aforementioned hooking portion <NUM> formed at one end of the movable stop element <NUM>, preferably a pair of housing seats for a pair of hooking portions <NUM> (see <FIG>), the operation of which will be described in detail hereinbelow.

Preferably, the first coupling portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> comprises a retaining portion <NUM> at the at least one first hooking portion <NUM>, preferably protruding from the support base <NUM> between the two first hooking portions <NUM>.

Preferably, the slider body <NUM> comprises a cavity <NUM> formed in the support base <NUM> adjacent to the first coupling portion <NUM>.

Preferably, the slider body <NUM> also comprises at least one first stop portion <NUM> for stopping the movable stop element <NUM>, preferably two first stop portions <NUM>, protruding from the support base <NUM> in a position that is longitudinally opposite to the first coupling portion <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Advantageously, the first stop portions <NUM> are configured to limit the lifting movement of the movable stop element <NUM> with respect to the support base <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> (i.e., the movement of the movable stop element <NUM> towards its non-operative position illustrated in <FIG>).

Preferably, the ramp portion <NUM> described above protrudes from the support base <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> between the at least one first hooking portion <NUM> and the at least one first stop portion <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Preferably, the ramp portion <NUM> comprises a sliding surface 131a obliquely oriented with respect to the upper face <NUM> of the support base <NUM> to define an inclined sliding track (i.e., for lifting) in a longitudinal and backward direction (i.e., in the direction from the first end <NUM> towards the second end <NUM> that corresponds to the opening direction of the zip fastener).

Preferably, the through hole <NUM> for housing the stop tooth <NUM> is arranged at the first stop portion <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM>.

In the non claimed embodiment illustrated and as explained above, the movable stop element <NUM> is maintained in its operative position by the action of its elastic portion <NUM> which exerts a force directed to push the stop tooth <NUM> towards one of the channels <NUM>, <NUM>, in particular towards the single channel <NUM>, through the hole <NUM>.

Preferably, the elastic portion <NUM> is an integral part of a suitably shaped coupling portion <NUM> and extends from the bridge-shaped structure of the movable stop element <NUM> at its first longitudinal end <NUM> (see <FIG>).

In particular, the coupling portion <NUM> is configured to couple the movable stop element <NUM> to the first coupling portion <NUM> that is protruding from the support base <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

In the non claimed embodiment illustrated, the elastic portion <NUM> is conveniently formed by a flexible curved portion, preferably made of spring steel, of the coupling portion <NUM>, which portion joins the bridge-shaped structure of the movable stop element <NUM> with an abutment tooth <NUM> formed at a free end of the coupling portion <NUM>.

Preferably, the elastic portion <NUM> is configured to surround and cooperate in abutment relationship with the retaining portion <NUM> of the first coupling portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> to associate the movable stop element <NUM> with the latter such that the elastic portion <NUM> develops an elastic force on the bridge-shaped structure of the movable stop element <NUM> which is directed to maintain the latter in its operative position illustrated in <FIG>.

In this position, the stop tooth <NUM> is pushed towards one of the channels <NUM>; <NUM>, in particular towards the single channel <NUM> thanks to the cooperation of the elastic portion <NUM> with the coupling portion <NUM> that protrudes from the support base <NUM>.

More particularly, thanks to such a cooperation, a rotation hinge is defined between the movable stop element <NUM> and the slider body <NUM> which is configured to allow a rotation of the movable stop element <NUM> with respect to the slider body <NUM> around a rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the sliding axis X of the slider <NUM>.

Preferably, the first coupling portion <NUM> protruding from the support base <NUM> and the second coupling portion <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> are housed in the cavity <NUM> of the protruding element <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

In this way, as illustrated above, an advantageous protection is achieved of the mechanical components of the lock mechanism <NUM> which allow the rotation of the movable stop element <NUM> while preserving the operating reliability thereof over time.

In addition, the mechanical components of the lock mechanism <NUM> are also advantageously hidden from the user's view.

The movable stop element <NUM> is rotatable about the rotation axis of the rotation hinge with respect to the slider body <NUM> between its operative locking position of the sliding of the slider <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>) and its non-operative releasing position of the sliding of the slider <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>).

Preferably, the abutment tooth <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> engages the cavity <NUM> adjacent to the first coupling portion <NUM> to define a fixed abutment to the elastic portion <NUM>.

Preferably, the coupling portion <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> further comprises at least a second hooking portion <NUM> formed at the first end <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> and preferably extending, in the mounting configuration of the slider <NUM>, from the bridge-shaped structure of the movable stop element <NUM> towards the first end <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> (see <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>).

The coupling portion <NUM> preferably comprises a pair of such second hooking portions <NUM>.

Preferably, the elastic force developed thanks to the cooperation between the elastic portion <NUM> and the first coupling portion <NUM> that protrudes from the support base <NUM> is capable to keep the second hooking portions <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> within their own housing seats formed in the first hooking portions <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

Preferably, the movable stop element <NUM> comprises at least one longitudinally extending projection <NUM>, preferably a pair of longitudinally extending projections <NUM>, arranged at its second end <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Said projection <NUM> cooperates with the at least one first stop portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> protruding from the support base <NUM> to stop the rotation of the movable stop element <NUM> around the rotation axis of the rotation hinge.

Preferably, the movable stop element <NUM> comprises two projections <NUM>, each of which cooperates with a respective first stop portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

As illustrated above, the movable stop element <NUM> comprises an abutment portion <NUM>. Preferably, the abutment portion <NUM> is arranged between the at least one second hooking portion <NUM> and the at least one projection <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Preferably, the abutment portion <NUM> is arranged at the ramp portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM>.

Preferably, the ramp portion <NUM> extending from the support base <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> is received in a recess defined in the bridge-shaped structure of the movable stop element <NUM> between the projections <NUM>.

Preferably, the movable stop element <NUM> is housed in the cavity <NUM>, except for the stop tooth <NUM> that is inserted in the through hole <NUM> and for the abutment tooth <NUM> that may be partially inserted into the cavity <NUM>.

Preferably, the movable stop element <NUM> is made in a single piece.

In the non claimed embodiment illustrated, the driving element <NUM> is conveniently substantially U-shaped and comprises two longitudinally extending arms <NUM> substantially parallel to each other and a joining section <NUM> extending between the parallel arms <NUM>.

Preferably, the parallel portions are oriented in the longitudinal direction.

Preferably, the joining section <NUM> is oriented in a transverse direction.

In the non claimed embodiment illustrated, the engagement portion <NUM> of the driving element <NUM> is arranged at said joining section <NUM> and is even more preferably formed by a central portion of the joining section <NUM>.

Preferably, the driving element <NUM> is slidably mounted on the support base <NUM> and is movable in a longitudinal direction between an advanced position (illustrated in <FIG>), corresponding to the operative position of the movable stop element <NUM> of the lock mechanism <NUM>, and a retracted position (illustrated in <FIG>), corresponding to the non-operative position of the movable stop element <NUM>.

Preferably, the translation of the driving element <NUM> from the advanced position to the retracted position is directed in a longitudinal backward direction (i.e., in the direction from the first end <NUM> towards the second end <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> which corresponds to the opening direction of the zip fastener).

In the non claimed embodiment illustrated, the ramp portion <NUM> extending from the support base <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> is housed in a space <NUM> defined between the arms <NUM> of the driving element <NUM>.

In the non claimed embodiment illustrated, also the second end <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> is similarly housed in the space <NUM>.

In this way, it is advantageously possible to achieve a correctly guided sliding movement of the driving element <NUM> in the longitudinal direction.

Preferably, the driving element <NUM> is housed in the cavity <NUM> of the protruding element <NUM> and the cavity <NUM> is configured to further guide the longitudinal sliding of the driving element <NUM> from the advanced position to the retracted position.

Preferably, the parallel sections <NUM> of the "U" shape are arranged so as to slide against respective longitudinal walls of the cavity <NUM> to guide this longitudinal sliding.

Preferably, the driving element <NUM> is configured to be moved:.

In particular, the elastic force exerted by the elastic portion <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> is capable to displace the movable stop element <NUM> from its non-operative position towards its operative position thereby causing the displacement of the abutment portion <NUM> towards the ramp portion <NUM> and a simultaneous displacement of the engagement portion <NUM> which slides on the sliding surface 219a thereof from the retracted position towards the advanced position.

Preferably, the stop tooth <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> is housed in the space <NUM> defined between the parallel arms <NUM> of the driving element <NUM> so as not to hinder the translation of the driving element <NUM> between the advanced position and the retracted position.

Preferably, the driving element <NUM> further comprises at least one abutment end <NUM> configured to abut against the rear wall <NUM> of the protruding element <NUM> so as to create an end-stop of the driving element <NUM> in the retracted position.

More preferably, the driving element <NUM> comprises two abutment ends <NUM>, each arranged at a longitudinal end of a respective parallel arm <NUM> of the "U" shape.

Preferably, the driving element <NUM> is made in a single piece.

As illustrated above, the release button <NUM> is movable between a non-operative position, corresponding to the operative position of the movable stop element <NUM> of the lock mechanism <NUM>, and an operative or pressed position, corresponding to the non-operative position of the movable stop element <NUM>.

Preferably, the release button <NUM> comprises a main body <NUM>.

As illustrated above, the release button <NUM> has a pressure portion <NUM> facing the opposite direction with respect to the pressure portion <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> and is movable from its non-operative position to its operative position by a pressure of a first finger on the pressure portion <NUM> and a simultaneous and opposite pressure of a second finger on the pressure portion <NUM>.

Preferably, the pressure portion <NUM> is arranged on the main body <NUM> at a longitudinal end of the release button <NUM>.

Preferably, the pressure portion <NUM> is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

The pressure portion <NUM> has a pressure surface onto which a user's fingertip can be placed to ergonomically press the release button <NUM>.

Preferably, this pressure surface has an extension equal to at least <NUM>% of a normal fingertip, still more preferably equal to at least <NUM>%. Still more preferably at least <NUM>%. In this way, the pressure portion <NUM> allows the release button <NUM> to be ergonomically pressed.

Preferably, the pressures of the first finger and of the second finger are oriented longitudinally, i.e., along the X axis, and have directions opposite to each other.

Preferably, the cavity <NUM> formed in the protruding element <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> of the slider body <NUM> is configured to guide a sliding of the release button <NUM> between its non-operative position and its operative or pressed position.

Preferably, such a sliding is longitudinal.

Preferably, the release button <NUM> is arranged in abutment relationship against the driving element <NUM> so as to move the latter from its advanced position to its retracted position (and consequently, to move the movable stop element <NUM> from its operative position to its non-operative or raised position in contrast to the elastic force exerted by the elastic portion <NUM>) during the translation of the release button <NUM> from its non-operative position to its operative or pressed position.

Preferably, when the pressure portion <NUM> is not pressed, the release button <NUM> is moved from its operative position to the non-operative position by the force exerted by the elastic portion <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> which, as described above, causes the translation of the driving element <NUM> from the retracted position to the advanced position and a simultaneous rotation of the movable stop element <NUM>.

It should be recalled that the driving element <NUM> is in abutment against the release button <NUM> so that it causes a corresponding translation of the release button <NUM> from its operative or pressed position to its non-operative position.

Preferably, the release button <NUM> comprises a substantially fork-shaped end portion <NUM> comprising two arms <NUM> extending longitudinally and substantially parallel to each other (see <FIG>).

In this non claimed embodiment, the arms <NUM> of the release button <NUM> are arranged in abutment against the driving element <NUM> at respective longitudinal ends.

Preferably, the parallel arms <NUM> of the release button <NUM> are oriented in the longitudinal direction.

Conveniently, the parallel arms <NUM> therefore transmit motion in the longitudinal direction from the release button <NUM> to the driving element <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM>.

In possible alternative non claimed embodiments, not illustrated, the parallel arms <NUM> may protrude from the driving element <NUM> to abut against the release button <NUM> (in which case the driving element <NUM> may have an "H" shape), or they may protrude both from the release button <NUM> towards the driving element <NUM> and from the driving element <NUM> towards the release button <NUM> so as to be arranged in mutual abutment.

Preferably, the second coupling portion <NUM> and the elastic portion <NUM> of the movable stop element <NUM> are arranged in a space <NUM> defined between the parallel arms <NUM> so as not to interfere with the translation of the release button <NUM> between the non-operative position and the operative or pressed position.

Preferably, the main body <NUM> of the release button <NUM> has a thickness measured in the vertical direction that is greater than that of the parallel arms <NUM>, preferably at least the double or triple.

In this way, it is advantageously possible both to confer adequate strength characteristics to the release button <NUM> in its part subjected to the pressing action of the user, and to create an extension of the pressure portion <NUM> sufficient to guarantee its ergonomics.

Preferably, the cavity <NUM> of the protruding element <NUM> comprises, at the driving opening <NUM>, an end portion having a dimension designed to house the main body <NUM>.

Preferably, the release button <NUM> is made in a single piece.

From what has been illustrated above, the operation of the slider <NUM> in the opening and closing operations of the zip fastener is quite evident and will not be repeated for economy of exposition.

It goes without saying that a person skilled in the art may make numerous modifications and variations to the above-described slider in order to meet specific and contingent requirements, all of which are within the scope of protection of the present invention as defined by the following claims.

Thus, for example, in the slider <NUM> of the invention, a pull tab not configured to interact with the movable stop element <NUM> of the lock mechanism <NUM> may possibly be provided to meet particular application and/or aesthetic needs.

Claim 1:
A slider (<NUM>) for zip fasteners comprising:
- a slider body (<NUM>) comprising a first end (<NUM>) at which two longitudinal sliding channels (<NUM>) for teeth of a zip fastener open and a second end (<NUM>) at which a single longitudinal sliding channel (<NUM>) for the teeth of the zip fastener opens, the two channels (<NUM>) joining in said single channel (<NUM>) in said slider body (<NUM>);
- a lock mechanism (<NUM>) of the sliding of the slider (<NUM>) positioned in the slider body (<NUM>) and comprising a movable stop element (<NUM>) of the sliding of the slider (<NUM>) in a longitudinal direction and in an opening direction of the zip fastener;
- a release button (<NUM>) of the lock mechanism (<NUM>), slidably mounted in the slider body (<NUM>) and manually operable to unlock the lock mechanism (<NUM>);
wherein the slider (<NUM>) lacks any operating pull tab configured to interact with the lock mechanism (<NUM>); the slider being characterized in that the release button (<NUM>) is configured to cooperate with the movable stop element (<NUM>) of the lock mechanism (<NUM>) and move the movable stop element (<NUM>) from an operative position, wherein the movable stop element (<NUM>) engages one of said channels (<NUM>; <NUM>) for locking a sliding of the slider (<NUM>) along an opening direction of the zip fastener, to a non-operative position wherein the movable stop element (<NUM>) does not engage any of said channels (<NUM>; <NUM>).