US2788557A - Spring slider and release mechanism for slide fasteners - Google Patents

Description

April 16, 1957 H. M. GARSSON 2,788,557

SPRING SLIDER AND RELEASE MECHANISM FOR SLIDE FASTENERS Filed Nov. 10, 1953 I 2 Sheets-Shee 1 ATTOP/Vf) A ril 16, 1957 H. M. GARSSON SPRING SLIDER AND RELEASE MECHANISM FOR SLIDE FASTENERS Filed NOV. 10, 1953 2 Sheets-Sheet 2 INVENTOR.

Haw) M 644 .550

ATTORNEY United States Patent SPRINGSLIDER AND RELEASE MECHANISM FOR SLIDE FASTENERS Henry M. Garsso'n, New York, N. Y., asslgnor to The Elmcroft Corporation, New York, N. Y., a corporation of New York Application November 10, 1953, Serial No. 391,243 12 Claims. (Ci. 24-205..15)

This invention relates to slide fasteners, in which two rows of interlocking fastener elements, each attached to a tape are employed, and is particularly directed to a slider for use in conjunction with such slide fasteners.

This application is directed primarily to a slider, which may readily be released in order to free the slide fastener elements when they become jammed, and also a mechanism for completely disengaging the slider from the slide fastener elements to enable the slider to be readily removed therefrom.

With the conventional type of slider if the slide fastener elements become jammed for any reason, as when foreign matter or any other obstruction is introduced between the slide fastener elements, the slider cannot be moved longitudinally rearward or forward relative to the slide fastener elements, thus preventing the interlocking or disengaging of the slide fastener elements.

It is further directed to a slider, in which a pair of channel plates formed of a single sheet of spring material, is employed for guiding the slide fastener elements, the channel plates and the connecting neck therebetween being so constructed that the channel plates will automatically angularly separate to a great enough extent to readily release the slide fastener elements if they become jammed for any reason, as when an obstruction or foreign matter is introduced between the slide fastener elements to prevent their normal operation, the angular separation of the channel plates allowing the slider to pass any obstruction lodged between the slide fas tener elements, after which the slider may be moved longitudinally rearward and forward relative to the slide fastener elements, until the fastener elements are realigned into their normal operative position, the operator removing any obstruction or foreign matter lodged therebetween.

The application is further directed to a mechanism incorporated in conjunction with the channel plates, by means of which the channel plates may be angularly separated far enough so that the slider may be readily completely removed from the slide fastener elements, to enable a replacement slider to be substituted for a slider which may become damaged for any reason, or to install a slider of this type in place of the conventional type of slider.

This application represents an improvement of my co-pending application for Letters Patent, Serial No. 385,797 filed in the United States Patent Ofiice on the 13th day of October, 1953, covering a Combination Locking and Release Slider for Slide Fasteners.

The primary object of my invention is to provide a slider for use in conjunction with the conventional type of interlocking slide fastener elements, the slide fastener element guiding channel plates of which are formed of a sheet spring material, the channel plates and the neck connecting them being so constructed that the channel plates will automatically readily angularly separate far enough to enable the slider to be moved relative to the slide fastener elements, when they become jammed for 2,788,557 Patented Apr. 16, 1-957 any reason, and to enable the operator to remove any foreign matter, which may become lodged therebe'tween, and in that manner prevent the normal operation thereof, the slide fastener elements being normally realigned into their operative position by repeatedly nioviii ;v the s1 er longitudinally rearward and forward relative to the slide fastener elements for a short nine interval, junti'l thefas- 'tener elements are realigned into the r rel tive positi s, required for normal operation, the channel plat s being automatically restored to their normal operating p ition, relative to the slide fastener elements, after "th slide fastener elements are restored to their operative relation to, one another. 7

Another feature of the invention resides in the provision of a release mechanism in conjunction with the spring type channel plates, which enables anoperator to separate the channel plates far enough, so they can be completely removed from the slide fastener elements, in order to enable a new slider to be substituted for one which is damaged for any reason, or to substitute the spring type of release slider for the conventional type of slider.

The accompanying drawings, illustrative of one embodiment of. my invention, and several modification thereof, together with the description of their construction and the method of installation, operation and utilization thereof, will serve to clarify further objects and advantages of my invention.

In the drawings:

Fig. 1 represents a vertical section through a air of spring-type integral channel plates, titted to the slide fastener elements, shown in Fig. 3, and a partial section through the control shaft and the channel plate elevat} ing bar attached thereto, with the channel plates in their normal operating position relative to the slide fastener elements, taken at 1--1, Fig.

Fig. 2 is a vertical section through the channel plates, shown in Fig. l, the control shaft and elevating bar being rotated through approximately to raise the upper channel plate into a canted position, free of the slide fastener elements, in order to enable the slider to be completely removed from the slide fastener elements.

Fig. 3 represents a schematic cross-section through the slider, shown in Figs. 1 and 2, With the upper channel plate of the one-piece spring-type channel plates, shown in Fig. 1, removed, and a plan view of the slide fastenei' elements, also a cross-section through one embodiment of the control shaft and the elevating bar, shown in Fig. l, with the elevating bar located in the slide fastener element operating position to enable the slider to be readily moved longitudinally relative to the slide fastener elements in its normal manner, taken at 3 3, Fig. 2.

Fig. 4 is a cross-section through the control shaft and the elevating bar, shown in Fig. 1, taken at 4-4, Fig. 1.

, Fig. 5 is a vertical section, similar to Fig. 1, through a pair of channel plates, similar to those shown in Fig. 1, and a side elevation of a modification of the control shaft, fitted with an elevating, cam, with the channel plates in their normal slide fastener element operating position, showing a pull key fitted to the head of the control shaft.

Fig. 6 is a vertical section, similar to Fig. 2, through the channel plates shown in Fig. 5, the control shaft and the elevating cam attached thereto being rotated through approximately 180 to raise the upper channel plate into a canted position, free of the slide, fastener element's.

Fig. 7 is a cross-section through the control shaft and of the control shaft, shown in Fig. 5, with a pull key fitted thereto, and a partial plan view of the pull key, taken at 8-8, Fig. 5.

Fig. 9 is a plan view of the slider, shown in Fig. 1, with a pullattached to the head of the control shaft.

Fig. 10 is a vertical section through a modification of the channel plates, shown in Fig. 1, with a pair of projecting ears integral with the upper channel plate, and a pull attached to the upper channel plate ears, taken at 1o-10, Fig. 12.

Fig. 11 is a vertical section through the channel plates, shown in Fig. 10, with the upper and lower channel plates moved into a canted position to clear an obstruction lodged between the slide fastener elements.

Fig. 12 is a plan view of the channel plates, shown in Fig. 10, with a pull attached to the upper channel plate.

Fig. 13 is a vertical section through a modification of the channel plates, shown in Fig. 10, with a headed pin attached to the upper channel plate, and a pull attached to the head of the pin.

It will be understood that the following description of the construction and the method of installation, operation and utilization of the slider release mechanism for slide fasteners, is intended as explanatory of the invention and not restrictive thereof.

In the drawings, the same reference numerals designate the same parts throughout the various views, except where otherwise indicated.

One embodiment of the slider construction, shown in Figs. 1, 2 and 3, comprises an upper and a lower channel plate 15 and 16, formed of a single piece of sheet spring material, the rear end of the channel plates being connected by an integral neck 17, the rear section of each of the channel plates being integrally connected to the neck 17 by a connecting section 19 or 20 of arcuate crosssectional contour, as indicated in Figs. 1 and 2, the arcuate connecting section enhancing and regulating the spring action of the slider channel plates, and the connecting neck section thereof.

In their normal operating position, the flat plate sections of the channel plates are held substantially parallel to one another in the position shown in Fig. 1, the spring action ofthe material of which the channel plates are made controlled by the heat treatment and tempering of such material, as well as the spring neck section and the arcuate connecting section thereof restoring the channel plates to this position relative to the fastener elements, when they are canted to approximately the position shown in Fig. 2, or otherwise angularly displaced for any reason.

As indicated in Figs. 1, 2 and 3, each channel plate has a pair of flanges 22 and 22a, or 23 integral therewith, the fianges being substantially perpendicular to the fiat plate section of the respective channel plates in the relative positions indicated in Fig. 3.

The forward portion of the flanges 22, 22a and 23 are substantially parallel to one another, as indicated in Fig. 3, to guide the slide fastener elements when they are in their interlocked position.

Beyond the parallel portion of each of the flanges 22 and 23 an integral sloping section 24 or 25 is incorporated with each of the flanges, the angular position of the sloping section of each of the flanges being controlled by the angular position required to disengage the fastener elements 27 and 28, located at opposite sides of the slider channel plates, or guide the slide fastener elements into their interlocking position relative to one another, depending upon the longitudinal direction the slider is moved relative to the slide fastener elements, the slide fastener elements 27 or 28 on each side being attached to an individual tape (not shown) in the conventional manner.

A substantially cylindrical control shaft 30 is angularly positioned between the channel plates 15 and 16, the control shaft being located substantially on the longitudinal center line of the channel plates, the axis of the control shaft being angularly located relative to the channel plates in a plane perpendicular to the fiat plate sections of the channel plates 15 and 16.

The lower end of the control shaft 30 is trunnioned in an opening through the lower channel plate 16, the upper end of the control shaft clearing an angular opening 31 of oval cross-section, cut through the fiat plate section of the upper channel plate to allow the upper channel plate to be moved to the canted position 15a, shown in Fig. 2, by rotating the control shaft through approximately in a manner hereinafter described in greater detail.

An elevating bar 32, of substantially rectangular crosssection, is inserted through a slot of a mating cross-section cut through the center of the sloping control shaft, along a line substantially parallel to the plane through the longitudinal axis of the channel plates, in the'position shown in Fig. 1, the elevating bar being either substantially perpendicular to the control shaft rotational axis, or at an angle thereto, depending upon the length of the elevating bar 32 and the position of the left and right-hand projections 32a and 3212, Fig. 1, of the elevating bar 32, relative to the upper channel plate 15.

In the elevating bar operating position, shown in Fig. 1, relative to the channel plates, the right-hand or upper projecting end 3212, Fig. 1, is shorter than the lefthand or lower projecting end 32a thereof, to enable the upper corner of the right-hand projecting end 321; of the elevating bar to clear the lower face of the upper channel plate 15, when the upper channel plate is located in the slide fastener element operating position, shown in Fig. 1, substantially parallel to the lower channel plate 16. A substantially cylindrical pin 33 is inserted through the walls of the central slot therethrough and through the elevating bar 32, to positively locate the elevating bar relative to the control shaft, or the elevating bar 32 may be soldered, welded, brazed or otherwise attached to the control shaft 30.

A countersunk frusto-conical head 34 is formed integral with the lower end of the control shaft 32, the frusto-conical head 34 being seated in a mating countersink 35, cut into the bottom face of the lower channel plate, the angular countersunk surface being centered on the longitudinal axis of the control shaft 32, in its angular position, to enable the countersunk head 34 of the control shaft to be rotated from the normal control shaft position, shown in Fig. 1, to the upper channel plate elevating position, shown in Fig. 2.

In the normal control shaft position, shown in ,Fig. 1, the horizontal portion 36 of the bottom surface of the frusto-conical head 34, is either in alignment with the bottom surface of the lower channel plate, or it extends slightly beyond the lower channel plate bottom surface. The right-hand portion 36a of the bottom surface of the frusto-conical head 34 is cut back in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the control shaft, so that when the control shaft is rotated into the upper channel plate elevating position shown in Fig. 2, the axially perpendicular portion 36a of the bottom surface of the control shaft head, projects only slightly below the bottom surface of the lower channel plate. A tubular collar 37 of circular cross-section, is fitted to the outer diameter of the control shaft, above the upper surface of the lower channel plate, a corner of the bottom face of the tubular collar 37 being located in engagement with the upper surface of the lower channel plate 16, the upper surface of the collar abutting the lower edge of the elevating bar 32, thus positively locating the control shaft 30 relative to the lower channel plate 16, between the frusto-conical head 34 and the tubular collar 37, while enabling the control shaft 30 to be rotated through approximately 180 from the slide fastener element operating position, shown in Fig. l, to the upper channel plate elevating position, shown in Fig. 2,

The. upper end of the control shaft, beyond the upper channel plate 15, may be reduced in diameter 40, a substantially cylindrical hollow head 41 being pressed on, or otherwise attached to the reduced diameter upper end of the control shaft. A substantially cylindrical pin 42, or other suitable locking means may be inserted through the head 41 and the reduced diameter upper end 40 of the control shaft 30 to positively locate the head 41 relative to the control shaft. A'pair of aligned diametral openings 42:: substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal control shaft axis is cut through the outer wall of the control shaft head 41, the openings receiving the prongs 43 of a pull 44, such as that shown in Figs. 1 and 9.

The pull 44 of the conventional type such as that shown in Figs. 1 and 9, having a pair of aligned prongs 43, substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal pull axis may be attached to the head 41 of the control shaft, the pull prongs being fitted to the diametral openings 42a through the control shaft head 41.

The control shalt head 41 is so located that the lower corner of the bottom face of the head clears the upper surface of the upper channel plate, thus allowing the upper channel plate 15 to be moved from the operating position, shown in Fig. 1, to the canted position, shown in Fig. 2.

A pair of aligned prongs 43 of a pull 44, such as that shown in Figs. 1 and 9 is pivotally fitted into the opposite the diametral openings 42a, through the control shaft head, the pull 44 being utilized to rotate the control shaft from the operating position, shown in Fig. l, to the upper channel plate elevating position, shown in Fig. 2.

The control shaft 30 and the elevating bar 32 attached thereto are located in substantially the plane through Iongitudinal channel plate axis, between the slide fastener elements 27 and 28, which are in their angularly disposed disengaged position, relative to the longitudinal channel plate axis, shown in Fig. 3, the control shaft 30- and the elevating bar clearing the slide fastener elements 27 and 28 at both sides thereof, in both control shaft positions shown, whether the control shaft is in the operating position, shown in Fig. 1, or rotated into the channel plate elevating position, shown in Fig. 2.

When the control shaft 30 is rotated from the slide fastener element operating position, shown in Fig. 1, to the upper channel plate elevating position, Fig. 2, by means of the pull 44, the longer projecting end 32a, of the elevating bar, which is located at the left-hand side of the control shaft, Fig. 1, is rotated into the right-hand 0 allel to the lower channel plate 16, as shown in Fig. 1,

to the canted position, shown in Fig. 2, about the neck 17, integral with the rear end of the channel plates. The longer projecting end 32a of the elevating bar is so located that it raises the upper channel plate 15 to a position completely clear of the slide fastener elements 27 and 28 in the canted upper channel plat-e position, shown in Fig. 2. This enables the slider to be completely removed from the slide fastener elements, so that a new slider can be readily substituted for a slider, which is badly distorted or damaged in any other manner, or to allow a slider of the type shown in Figs. 1, 2 and 3 to be readily substituted in place of the conventional type of slider on the same sizeof slider fastener elements.

When the slider channel plates are heat treated, the

channel plates 15 and 16, the neck 17 connecting the rear ends thereof, and the arcuate connecting sections 19 and 20 are tempered and adjusted in such a manner that the upper and lower channel plates 15 and] 16zare substantially parallel to one another, as indicated in Fig. l, and spaced from one another a distance somewhat greater than the height of the slide fastener elements 27 and 28, to enable the slider to be moved longitudinally rearward or forward relative to the slide fastener elements in'order to interlock or disengage the slide fastener elementsin the conventional manner.

The control shaft 30 and the elevating bar 32 in their operative positions, shown in Figs. 1 and 2 are located in a relation such as that shown in Fig. 3, with'the elevating bar 32 in substantial alignment with the plane through the longitudinal channel plate axis and completely clear of the slide fastener elements 27 and 28, which are located in their disengaged position, angularly disposed to the longitudinal channel plate axis.

in operating the slider, should any foreign matter be lodged between the mating slide fastener elements 27 and 28, or should the slide fastener elements become distorted or dislocated for any reason, in such a manner as to jam the slide fastener elements, while the control shaft and the elevating bar are located in the slide fastener element operating position, shown in Fig. l, the spring action of the neck 17 connecting the upper and lower channel plates 15 and 16, and the arcuate connecting sections 19 and 2% thereof, will allow the forward end of the channel plates to open angularly relative to one another, thereby angularly separating the upper and lower channel plates out of the parallel position, shown in Fig. l, the channel plates 15 and 16 assuming a canted position relative to one another, in substantially the position, shown in Fig. 11, the canted position of the upper and lower channel plates 15 and 16, allowing the slider to be moved longitudinal rearward and forward, relative to the slide fastener elements, the channel plates in their canted position clearing any obstruction which may be lodged between the fastener elements. The continued rearward and forward movement of the slider, relative to the slide fastener elements, realigns the fastener elements into their normal operative positions, after the operator removes any foreign matter, which may be lodged between them, following which the channel plates 15 and 16 would be automatically restored to their normal operating position, shown in Fig. 1, by the spring action of the channel plates, the neck connecting them, and the arcuate connecting sections thereof, so that the slider can be operated in its normal manner, to interlock or disengage the slide fastener elements.

In a modification of the construction, shown in Figs. 5 and 6, the slider channel plates 15 and 16 are substantially the same as those shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the channel plates being formed of a single sheet of spring material, with an integral neck 17 connecting the rear end of the chamiel plates and a connecting section 19 or 20 of arcuate cross-sectional contour interposed between each of the channel plates and the neck 17.

. The channel plate flanges 22 and 23 are substantially the same as those shown in Figs. 1, 2 and 3, the flanges 22, 22a and 23 integral with the channel plates being substantially the same as those shown in Figs. 1, 2 and 3 and hereinbefore described. The fastener elements 27 and Zr; of the slider are the same as those shown in Fig. 3,

the fastener elements being located in the same positions,

relative to the longitudinal channel plate axis.

A substantially cylindrical control shaft. 45 is angularly positioned between the channel plates, in the same manner and in the same position relative to the channel plates 15 and 16 as the control shaft shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the center line of the control shaft being located in a plane connecting the longitudinal channel plate axes,

The lower end of the control shaft 45 is'trunnioned in the lower channel plate 16 in the same manner,'a

position, shown in Fig. 5, to the upper channel plate elevating position, shown in Fig. 6. The bottom surface 48 of the frusto-conical head 46 of the control shaft is substantially perpendicular to the control shaft longitudinal axis, the major portion of the control shaft head being located above the bottom surface of the lower channel plate. An auxiliary counterbore 47a of a diameter larger than the control shaft head extends from the bottom of the lower channel plate 16 to the angular countersink 47, in substantially the same manner as that shown in Fig. l, and hereinbefore described. The upper end of the control shaft 45 clears an angular opening of oval cross-section cut through the upper channel plate to allow the upper channel plate to move into the canted position, shown in Fig. 6.

An elevating cam 49 of substantially oval cross-section is pressed on or otherwise attached to the control shaft, an opening 50 out along the axis of the elevating cam substantially perpendicular to the base thereof or at an angle thereto, fitting over the control shaft.

The ends of the elevating cam are of arcuate contour, the right-hand upper end 49b, Fig. 5, being located closer to the center line of the control shaft 45 than the lower or left-hand end 49a, shown in Fig. 5.

The elevating cam is located in a plane substantially perpendicular to the control shaft axis or at an angle thereto, depending upon the relation between the upper edges of the arcuate left and right-hand ends 49a and 49b of the elevating cam and the lower surface of the upper channel plate 15, the elevating cam edges being located in such a position that in the normal operating position, shown in Fig. 5, the upper corner of the righthand edge 49b of the elevating cam clears the inner face of the upper channel plate, thus allowing the upper channel plate to assume a position substantially parallel to the lower channel plate, as indicated in Fig. 5.

A substantially cylindrical pin 51, or other gripping means, is fitted through the parallel-faced section of the elevating cam, the pin fitting through an opening in the control shaft in the manner shown in Fig. 7. The elevating cam may also be soldered, threaded or otherwise attached to the control shaft, in order to locate the elevating cam in substantially the position, shown in Fig. 5, relative to the upper channel plate.

A tubular, collar 52, either integral with the elevating cam 49, or attached thereto, is fitted to the control shaft 45, above the upper surface of the lower channel plate 16, a corner of the bottom face of the tubular collar 52 being located in engagement with the upper surface of the lower channel plate, thus positively locating the control shaft 45 and the elevating cam 49 attached thereto, or integral therewith, vertically, relative to the lower channel plate, shown in Fig. 5, while enabling the control shaft to be rotated from the normal operating position, shown in Fig. 5, to the upper channel plate elevating position, shown in Fig. 6.

The upper end of the control shaft 45 may be reduced in diameter in the same manner as that shown in Fig. l, a substantially cylindrical head 53 being attached thereto in substantially the same manner.

A substantially cylindrical hollow head 53 is attached to the reduced diameter upper end of the control shaft in the same manner as that shown in Fig. l. The control ,shaft head 53 is so located that the lower corner of the bottom face thereof clears the upper edge of the upper channel plate 15 by a suflicient margin to enable the upper channel plate 15 to be moved from the normal operating position, Fig. 5, to the canted position, Fig.6.

A pair of diametral openings 54, substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal control shaft axis is cut through the outer wall of the control shaft head 53, the head openings 54 removably receiving a pair of prongs 55, of a pull key 56, in the manner shown in Figs. 5 and 8.

One embodiment of the pull key 56, shown in Figs. 5 and 8, comprises a pair of substantially parallel legs 59 and 59a, formed of spring wire of substantially circular cross-section, the lower end of the legs being connected by an integral circular or arcuate loop 60, which normally springs the legs 59 and 5911 into an angular free position, such as that shown in dot-dash lines, Fig. 8, the prongs 55 and 55a of the key pull clearing the outer circumference of the control shaft head 53. The prongs 55 and 55a of the key, are connected to the upper end of the legs 59 and 59a by a pair of integral connecting sections, each of which has an integral arcuate portion thereof connecting the arcuate connecting section with the corresponding prongs 55 or 55a, the prongs being substantially perpendicular to the legs 59 and 59a of the pull key.

The intermediate section of each of the legs 59 and 59a is flattened out, as indicated in Fig. 5, the outer edges 61 or 61a of the flattened sections of each of the legs sloping outward from the bottom thereof at the junction with the loop, to a point adjacent the upper connecting sec tion, the sloping outer edges 61 and 61a of the legs engaging the inner faces of the side walls 62 and 63 of a key control slide 64, which is slidably fitted over the legs to move the key legs from the face position, shown by dotdash lines, Fig. 8, to the operating position, shown in Fig. 8.

The control slide 64 of the pull key is of substantially rectangular hollow cross-section, the sidewalls 62 and 63 thereof being angularly positioned relative to the longitudinal pull key axis to clear the outer edges of the flattened portion of the pull key legs, when the key control slide is located in the free position, shown by dot-dash lines Fig. 8.

When the key slide 64 is moved upward from the dotdash position, Fig. 8, the angular slide walls 62 and 63 of the key slide engage the outer sloping surfaces 61 and 61a of the legs 59 and 59a of the key pull key, thereby moving the key legs from the angular free position, shown by dot-dash lines Fig. 8 to the parallel position, shown in Fig. 8, and in that manner retaining the key prongs in the openings in the head 53 of the control shaft, in the position shown in Fig. 8.

The control shaft 45 and the elevating cam 49 fixed thereto, are located in the same position relative to the slide fastener elements 27 and 28 as the control shaft 30, shown in Fig. 3, the control shaft and the elevating cam clearing the slide fastener elements 27 and 28, which are located in their angular disengaged position, relative to the longitudinal channel plate axis.

When the control shaft 45 is rotated from the slide fastener element operating position, shown in Fig. 5, to the channel plate elevating position, Fig. 6, by means of the pull key 56, the longer or left-hand arcuate end 49a of the elevating cam, which is shown at the bottom, Fig. 5, is rotated into the upper right-hand position, Fig. 6, due to the angular position of the control shaft 45, relative to the channel plates. The upper corner of the longer end 49a of the elevating cam, which is rounded, engages the bottom surface of the upper channel plate 15, thus angularly raising the upper channel plate from the fastener element operating position, shown in Fig. 5, to a position completely clear of the slide fastener elements, as indicated in Fig. 6. This enables the slider to be completely removed from the slide fastener elements 27 and 28, so that a new slider can be substituted therefor.

The rounded contour of the elevating cam provides a sweeper more uniform lift of the rapper channel plata'thus enabling the upper channel plate to be angularly elevated to a point high enough to completely clear the slide fastenor elements, thereby allowing the slider to be readily removed from the slide fastener elements in the canted position, shown in Fig. .6. The limit of the upward angular movement of the upper channel plate 15 is the degree of movement which will maintain the stresses in the neck 17 and the arcuate connecting section 19 of the upper channel plate Within the elastic limit of the spring material of which the channel plates are made, thus enabling the upper channel plate 15 to be restored to its normal operating position, shown in Fig. 5, when the control-cam 49 is again restored to its operatingposition,

shown in Fig. 5.

The channel plates, shown in Figs. and 6, are heat treated in the same manner as those shown in Figs. 1 and 2, and hereinbefore described, the oval angular opening through the upper channel plate 15, allowing the upper and lower channel plates to be angularly opened about the integral neck 17 to a canted position, similar to that shown in Fig. 11, when the slide fastener elements become jammed, or when any obstruction or foreign matter is introduced between the slide fastener elements.

The control shaft 45 and the elevating cam 49 in both operatingpositions are located in a position with the elevating cam 49 in substantial alignment with the longitudinal channel plate axis, such as that shown in Fig. 3, whether the control shaft is in its operating position, shown in Fig. 5, or in the channel plate elevating position, shown in Fig. 6, so that the elevating cam is completely clear of the slide fastener elements in both of the control shaft positions, the slide fastener elements being located in their disengaged position, angularly disposed to the longitudinal channel plate axis, as indicated in Fig. 3. i

The slider channel plates 15 and 16, shown in Figs. 5 and 6, are constructed, heat treated and operated in sub stant-iallythe same manner as those shown in Figs. 1 and 2 and herebefore described.

When the slide fastener elements become jammed or dislocated for any reason, or should'any obstruction or foreign matter be introduced between the slide fastener elements, the spring action of the neck 17 connecting the rear end of the channelpla-tes, and the arcuate connecting sections 19 and 20 thereof, allow the forward end of the channel plates to angularly separate in the same manner "as that shown: in Fig. l, the oval angular opening 33. in the upper channel plate, around the control shaft 45 allowing the upper and lower channel plates to assume canted positions approximating those shown in Fig. 11, thus allowing the slider to be moved longitudinally rearwardand forward,.relative to-tbe slide fastener elements, the channel plates in their canted positions, clearing any obstruction lodged between the slide fastener elements. The continued rearward andforward movement of the slider relative to the slide fastener elements normally realigns thefastener elements into their operative positions, after the operator removes any foreign matter, which may be lodged between them, after which the channel plates 15 and 16 would be automatically restored to their normal operating position, shown in Fig. 5, by the spring action of the channel plates, the neck connecting them, and the arcuate connecting sections thereof, so that the slider can be operated in its normal manner to interlock or disengage the slide fastener elements.

After the upper and lower channel plates 15 and to are in their partially canted position, shown in Fig. 11, due to an obstruction in the, slide fastener elements, which causes the channel plates to be canted relative to one an other, due to the spring action of the neck 17 and the channel plate connecting sections 19 and 20, the control shaft, 45 may be rotated from the fastener element operating: position, to theupper channel plate elevating position, shown in Figs. Zand 6, in substantially the same manner it) as the control shaft is rotated from the fastener element operating position, Fig. l, to the channel plate elevating position, Fig. 2.

After the upper channel plate 15 is elevated to the canted position, shown in 6, by rotating the control shaft and the elevating cam mounted thereon from the normal operating position, shown in Fig. 5, to the elevating position, shown in Fig. 6, the slider may be slid longitudinally relative to the fastener elements, which are cated in their normal interlocked position, or in the process of interlocking, such as that shown in Fig. 3, after which the control shaft 45 may again be rotated through approximately to the initial position, shown in Fig. 5, the elevating cam 49 being restored to the fastener element operating position, shown in Fig. 5, thus allowing the spring action of the neck and the arcuate connecting section of the upper channel plate to restore the upper channel plate to its operating position, shown in Fig. '5, following which the slider may be operated in its conventional manner relative to the slide fastener elements.

Another aspect of the channel plate construction, shown in Figs. 10 and 11, demonstrates with greater clarity the construction of the channel plates shown in Figs. 1 and 2, and further clarifies the operation of the spring action of the channel plates, the neck connecting them, and the arcuate sect-ion interposed between the neck and the rear end of each of the channel plates, which enables the upper and lower channel plates to angularly separate into the canted positions, shown in Fig. ll, when an obstruction is lodged between the slide fastener elements, or when the slide fastener elements are jammd for any other reason. This construction, shown in Figs. 10 and ll, will serve to clarify the intermediate step in the operation of the spring type of slider, in which the upper and lower channel plates are angularly separated to enable the slider to ride over an obstruction lodged between the slide fastener elements.

The spring type of slider, shown in Figs. 10 and ll, comprises an upper and a lower channel. plate 68 and 69, formed of a single piece of sheet spring material, similar to that shown in Fig. l, the rear end of the channel plates being connected by an integral neck 70, the rear section of each of the channel plates being integrally connected to the neck 7% by a connecting section 71 or 72 of arcuate cross-sectional contour, as indicated in Figs. 10 and ll, the arcuate connecting section accentua-ting and regulating the spring action of the slider channel plates, and the linking neck section thereof.

A pair of cars '73 and 73a is formed integral with the upper channel plate, the ears projecting upward beyond the upper face of the upper channel plate, as indicated in .Fig. 10, the ears being located at opposite sides of the channel plate longitudinal axis. An opening is cut through each of the channel plate ears, the prongs 75 and '75:: of a pull '76, such as that shown in Figs. 10 and 11, being pivotally supported by the ear openings, the prongs 75 and 75a being substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the pull 7d.

In their normal operating position, the fiat plate sections of the channel plates are held substantially parallel to one another in the position shown in Fig. 10, the spring action of the material of which the channel plates are made, controlled by the heat treatment and tempering of such material, as well as the spring neck section and the arcuate connecting section thereof, restoring the channel plates to this position relative to the slide fastener elements, after they have been canted to approximately the position, shown in Fig. 11, or otherwise angularly displaced for any reason.

As indicated in Figs. l0 and ll, each channel plate has a pair of flanges 77 or '78 integral therewith, the flanges being substantially perpendicular to the flat plate section of the respective channel plates in the relative positions, substantially the same as those indicated in Fig. 3. l

The forward portion of the flanges 77 and 78 are parallel to one another, substantially the same as those indicated in Fig. 3, to guide the slide fastener elements when they are in their interlocked position, shown in Fig. 3.

Beyond the parallel portion of each of the flanges 77 and 78, an integral sloping section is incorporated with each of the flanges, the angular position of the sloping section of each of the flanges being substantially the same as that shown in Fig. 3, and hereinbefore described, the channel plate flanges serving the same purpose as those shown in Figs. 1 and 3, and hereinbefore described.

The channel plate flanges '77 and 73 and the sloping sections thereof guide the slide fastener elements into their interlocking position relative to one another, or guide the slide fastener elements into their disengaging position, depending upon the longitudinal direction the slider is moved relative to the slide fastener elements, by means of the pull '76.

In operating the slider shown in Fig. 10, should any obstruction or foreign matter be lodged between the mating slide fastener elements 27 and 28, shown in Fig. 3, or should the slide fastener elements become distorted or dislocated for any reason, in such a manner as to jam the slide fastener elements, while the channel plates 6% and 69 are in their normal operating position, shown in Fig. 10, the spring action of the neck 70 connecting the upper and lower channel plates 63 and 69, and the arc'uate connecting sections 71 and 72 thereof, will allow the forward end of the channel plates to open angularly relative to one another, thereby angularly separating the upper and lower channel plates out of the parallel position, shown in Fig. 10, the channel plates 68 and 69 assuming a canted position relative to one another and to the slide fastener elements, as shown in Fig. 11, the canted position of the upper and lower channel plates 68 and 6?, relative to the slide fastener elements, allowing the slider to be moved longitudinally rearward and forward, relative to the slide fastener elements, the channel plates in their canted position clearing any obstruction which may be lodged between the slide fastener elements. The continued rearward and forward movement of the slider relative to the slide fastener elements under normal conditions, realigns the fastener elements into their normal operative positions and relation, after the operator removes any foreign matter, which may be lodged between them, following which the channel plates 68 and 69 would be automatically restored to their normal operating position, shown in Fig. 10, by the spring action of the channel plates, the neck connecting them, and the arcuate connecting sections thereof, so that the slider can be operated in its normal manner by means of the pull '76 to interlock or disengage the slide fastener elements, in substantially the same manner as the slider shown in Figs. 1 and 3 and hereinbefore described.

The pull 76 pivotally attached to the cars 73 and 73a integral with the upper channel plate 68 may be utilized to move the slider longitudinally rearward or forward relative to the slide fastener elements, whether the channel plates are located in their operating position, shown in Fig. 10, or in the canted position, Fig. 11.

In another modification of the channel plates shown in Fig. 13, the upper and lower channel plates ill) and 81 are substantially the same as those shown in Figs. and 11, and hereinbefore described. The rear end of the channel plates 80 and 31 are connected by an integral spring neck 82, an arcuate connecting section, similar to those shown in Figs. 1 and 2, being interposed between the neck and the rear end of each of the channel plates 8% and 81.

In place of the ears, shown in Figs. 10 and 11, a headed pin is attached to the upper channel plate St} on the iongitudinal axis thereof, the cylindrical body 33 of the pin being fitted through an opening in the upper channel plate. A substantially cylindrical upper head 34, integral with the upper end of the body 83'of the pinabuts the upper surface of the upper channel plate, a lower head 85 attached to or formed integral with the opposite end of pin body 83 by upsetting the end'of the body, engages the bottom surface of the upper channel plate, thereby gripping the upper channel plate between the upper and lower head 83 and 85 of the pin.

A diametral opening is cut through the cylindrical head 84 of the pin, a pair of prongs 86, integral with a pull 87, similar to that shown in Fig. 9 being pivotally fitted to the head openings, the legs of the pull, integral with the outer ends of the prongs 86 and 86a being located adjacent the outer circumference of the pin head 84 in the same manner as those shown in Fig. 9, and hereinbefore described.

The slider shown in Fig. 13, functions in substantially the same manner as that shown in Figs. 10 and 11, and hereinbefore described.

Under normal conditions, the slider is moved longitudinally rearward and forward relative to the slide fastener elements, to interlock or disengage the slide fastener elements, by means of the pull.

in operating the slider, should any obstructions or foreign matter be lodged between the mating slider fastener elements, while the channel plates are in their normal operating position, shown in Fig. 13, the spring action of the neck 82, connecting the upper and lower channel plates tit) and 81, and the arcuate connecting sections thereof, will allow the forward end of the upper and lower channel plates to be angularly separated out of the parallel position, shown in Fig. 13, the channel plates and 81 assuming a canted position relative to one another, simi lar to that shown in Fig. 11, the angular separation of the channel plates allowing the slider to pass any obstruction, which may be lodged between the slide fastener elements, after which the slider may be moved longitudinally rearward and forward relative to the slide fastener elements until the slide fastener elements are realigned into their normal operating position, the operator removing any obstruction, or foreign matter, which may be lodged therebetween, following which the channel plates 8% and 81 would be automatically restored to their normal operating position, shown in Fig. 13, by the spring action of the channel plates and the connecting sections thereof, so that the slider can be operated in its normal manner to interlock or disengage the slide fastener elements.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that my present invention is not limited to the specific details described above and shown in the drawings, and that various further modifications are possible in carrying out the features of the invention and the operation, actuation, and method of utilization thereof, without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

What I claim is:

1. A slider for use in combination with two rows of interlocking slide fastener elements, comprising an upper and a lower channel plate formed of a single piece of sheet spring material, integral spring means connecting one end of said channel plates, said channel plates being located in spaced relation to one another, said channel plates having integral flange means, which are operative to slidably engage and interlocking the mating slide fastener elements, when the slider is moved longitudinally rearwardly relative to the slide fastener elements, a substantially cylindrical control shaft rotatably supported by the lower channel plate extending through the upper channel plate, said control shaft being angularly positioned relative to the channel plates in a plane through the longitudinal channel plate axis, an elevating bar fixedly attached to the control shaft between the upper and lower channel plates, said elevating bar being angularly posi tioned relative to the lower channel plate, the ends of the elevating bar projecting beyond the control shalt outer circumference, the longer projecting end which synapses is normally angularly directed toward the lower channel plate extending further beyond the control shaft than the shorter projecting end thereof, the shorter projecting end of the elevating bar being so located as to clear the upper channel plate in the normal control shaft position, the longer projecting end of the elevating bar being operalive to engage the upper channel plate to elevate the upper channel plate into a canted position relative to the slide fastener elements to permit removal of the slider from the slide fastener elements when the control shaft is rotated through a predetermined angle from the normal control shaft operative position, the spring action of the upper and lower channel plates and the integral spring connecting means therebetween being operative to allow the channel plates to be angularly separated relative to one another, when an obstruction is lodged between the rows of slide fastener elements, thereby enabling the slider to be longitudinally moved relative to the slide fastener elements to realign the slide fastener elements, the spring action of said channel plates and the connecting means therebetween being operative to restore the channel plates to their normal operative position, when the slide fastener elements are realigned in their operating relation.

2. A slider for use in combination with two rows of inerlocking slide fastener elements, comprising an upper and a lower channel plate formed of a single sheet of spring material, an integral spring neck connecting one end 'of said channel plates, an integral arcuate connecting section interposed between the neck and each channel plate, said channel plates being located in spaced relation to one another and maintained in said relation by the spring action of the integral spring neck and connecting sections, said channel plates having integral flange means, which are operative to slidably engage and interlock the mating slide fastener elements when the slider is moved longitudinally rearwardly relative to the slide fastener elements a substantially cylindrical control shaft rotatably supported by the lower channel plate extending through the upper channel plate, means attached to the control shaft to longitudinally position the control shaft relative to the lower channel plate, the control shaft being located substautiallyina plane connecting the longitudinal channel plate axes and angularly positioned relative to the channel plates, an elevating member fixedly attached to the control shaft between the channel plates, the ends of said elevating member projecting beyond the control shaft circumference, one projecting end of the elevating member, which is angularly directed toward the lower channel plate in the normal control shaft position being longer than the opposite projecting end thereof, the longer projecting end of said elevating member being operative to engage the upper channel plate to angularly elevate the upper channel plate into a canted position clear of the slide fastener elements, to permit removal of the slider from the slide fastener elements when the control shaft is rotated through a predetermined angle from the normal control shaft operative position, the spring action of the upper and lower channel plates, the neck connecting said channel platesandthe arcuate connecting sections interposed therebetween being operated to allow the channel plates to be angularly separated relative to one another about the neck, when an obstruction lodges between the rows of slide fastener elements, thereby enabling the slider to be longitudinally moved relative to the slide fastener elements, to realign the slide fastener elements, the spring action of said channel plate neck and the connecting sections thereof being operative to restore the channel plates to their normal operative position, when the slide fastener elements are realigned to their operating relation.

3, A slider for, use in combination with two rows of interlocking slide fastenerelernents, comprising a pair Of channel plates, formed of a single sheet of spring material, an integral spring neck connecting one end of said channel plates, said channel plates being located inspaced relation to one another, the integral neck allowing each of said channel plates to be canted relative to the other, the spring material being operative to restore the canted channel plate to its initial position when the pressure there against is released, said channel plates having integral flange means, which are operative to slidably engage and interlock the mating slide fastener elements when the slider is moved longitudinally rearwardly relative to the slide fastener elements, a substantially cylindrical control shaft, rotatably supported. by the first of said channel plates extending through the second channel plate, said control shaft being angularly positioned relative to the channel plates, an elevating member fixedly attached to said control shaft, between the channel plates, said elevating member being angularly positoned relative to the channel plate facing surfaces, the ends, of the elevating member projecting beyond the control shaft circumference, said elevating member being positioned relativeto the control shaft so that the longer projecting end thereof, normally angularly directed toward the first channel plate extends further beyond the control shaft circumference than the shorter projecting end thereof, the shorter projecting endof said elevating member being positioned to clear the upper channel plate in the normal control shaft position, the longer projecting end of said elevating member being operative to engage the upper channel plate to elevate said upper channel plate into a cantedposition, relativeto the slide fastener elements, to permit removal of the slider from the slide fastener ele ments, when the control shaftis rotated into a position with the longer elevating member projecting end in engagement with the upper channel plate.

4. A slider for use in combination with two rows of interlocking slide fastener elements, comprising a pair of channel plates formed of a single sheet of spring material, an integral spring neck connecting one end of said channel plates, said channelplates being located inspaced relation to one another, said channel plates having integral flange means, which are operative to slidably engage and interlock the mating slide fastener elements when the slider is moved longitudinally rearwardly relative to the'slide fastener elements, a substantially cylindrical control shaft rotatabl-y supported by the first of said channel plates, extending through the second, channel plate, said control shaft being angularly positioned relative to the channel plates-in a plane through: the longitudinal channel plate axes, an elevating member attached to said con trol shaft, between the channel plates, said elevating member being angularly positioned relative to the second channel plate surface, one end of the elevating member projecting beyond the control shaft circumference, the pro jecting end of said elevating member being operative and located to engage the second channel plate to angularly elevate the second channel plate into a canted position relative to the slide fastener elements to permit removal of the slider from the slide fastener elements, when the control shaft is rotated through approximately from its normal operative position.

5. A slider for use in combination with two rows of interlocking slide fastener elements, comprising a pair of channel plates formed of a single sheet of spring mate rial, an integral spring neck connecting one end of said channelplates, said channel plates being located in spaced relation to one another, said channel plates having integral flange means, which are operative to slidably engage and interlock the mating slide fastener elements whenthe slider is moved longitudinally rearwardly relative to the slide fastener elements, a substantially cylindrical control shaft rotatably supported by the first of said channel plates extending through the second channel plate, said control shaft being angularly positioned relative to the channel plates in a plane through the longi tudinal channelplate axes, an elevating bar fixedly attached to said control shaft, between the channel plates said elevating bar being angularly positioned relative to the first channel plate, the ends of the elevating bar projecting beyond the circumference of the control shaft, the longer projecting end of the elevating bar, which is normally angularly directed toward the first channel plate extending further beyond the control shaft circumference than the shorter projecting end thereof, the shorter projecting end of said elevating bar being positioned to clear the second channel plate in the normal control shaft position, the longer projecting end of said elevating bar being operative to' engage the second channel plate to elevate said second channel plate into a canted position relative to the slide fastener elements, to permit removal of the slider from the slide fastener elements, when the control shaft is rotated through a predetermined angle from the normal control shaft operative position.

6. A slider for use in combintion with two rows of interlocking slide fastener elements, comprising an upper and a lower plate formed of a single sheet of spring material, an integral neck connecting one end of said channel plates, said channel plates being located in spaced relation to one another, said channel plates having integral flange means, which are operative to slidably engage and interlock the mating slide fastener elements when the slider is moved longitudinally rearwardly relative to the slide fastener elements, a substantially cylindrical control shaft rotatably supported by the lower channel plate extending through the upper channel plate, means attached to said control shaft longitudinally positioning said control shaft relative to the lower channel plate, said control shaft being located substantially in a plane connecting the longitudinal channel plate axes and angularly positioned relative to the channel plates, an elevating member attached to said control shaft, the ends of said elevating member projecting beyond the control shaft circumference, the longer projecting end of the elevating member, which is angularly directed toward the lower channel plate in the normal control shaft position being longer than the opposite projecting end thereof, the longer projecting end of said elevating member being operative to engage the upper channel plate to angularly elevate said upper channel plate into a canted position clear of the slide fastener elements, to permit removal of the slider from the slide fastener elements, when the control shaft is rotated through a predetermined angle from the normal control shaft operative position.

7. A slider for use in combination with two rows of interlocking slide fastener elements, comprising an upper and a lower channel plate formed of a single sheet of spring material, an integral neck connecting one end of said channel plates, an integral arcuate connecting section interposed between the neck and each channel plate, said channel plates having integral flanges, which are operative to slidably engage and interlock the mating slide fastener elements when the slider is moved longitudinally i rearwardly relative to the slide fastener elements, a substantially cylindrical control shaft rotatably supported by the lower channel plate extending through the upper channel plate, said control shaft being located substantially in a plane connecting the longitudinal channel plate axes, and angularly positioned relative to the lower channel plate, an elevating cam fixedly attached to said control shaft, said elevating cam being substantially perpendicular to the control shaft, the projecting ends of said elevating cam being of arcuate contour, said elevating cam being eccentrically positioned relative to the control shaft rotational axis, the longer projecting end of the control cam being downwardly angularly directed toward the lower channel plate in the normal control shaft position, the

shorter projecting end of said elevating cam clearing the the slider from the slide fastener elements, when the control shaft is rotated through a predetermined angle from the normal control shaft operative position.

8. A slider for use in combination with the two rows of interlocking slide fastener elements, comprising an upper and a lower plate formed of a single sheet of spring material, an integral neck connecting the rear end of said channel plates, said channel plates being located in spaced relation to one another, said channel plates having integral flange means, which are operative to slidably engage and interlock the mating slide fastener elements when the slider is moved longitudinally rearwardly relative to the slide fastener elements, a substantially cylindrical control shaft rotatably supported by the lower channel plate extending through the upper channel plate, said control shaft being located substantially in a plane connecting the longitudinal channel plate axes and angularly positioned relative to the channel plates in the channel'plate longitudinal axis plane, a substantially frusto-conical head integral with the end of the control shaft adjacent the lower channel plate, said frusto-conical head being seated in a countersunk seat of mating frusto-conical contour cut into the lower channel plate, an elevating member attached to said control shaft, one end of said elevating member projecting beyond the outer circumference of the control shaft, the projecting end of said elevating member being operative and located to engage the upper channel plate to angularly lift the upper channel plate into a canted position clear of the slide fastener elements to permit removal of the slider from the slide fastener elements, when the control shaft is rotated through approximately from the normal control shaft operative position, a collar attached to the control shaft adjacent the elevating member, the end of said collar, opposite the elevating member, being positioned to engage the lower channel plate, said control shaft collar and frusto-conical head being operative to longitudinally align the control shaft relative to the lower channel plate.

9. A slider for use in combination with two rows of interlocking slide fastener elements, comprising an upper and a lower channel plate formed of a single sheet of spring material, an integral neck connecting one end of said channel plates, an integral arcuate connecting section interposed between the neck and each channel plate, said channel plates having integral flanges, which are operative to slidably engage and interlock the mating slide fastener elements when the slider is moved longitudinally rearwardly relative to the slide fastener elements, a substantially cylindrical control shaft rotatably supported by the lower channel plate extending through the upper channel plate, said control shaft being located substantially in a plane connecting the longitudinal channel plate axes and angularly positioned relative to the lower channel plate in the longitudinal channel plate axis plane, a substantially frusto-conical head integral with the end of the control shaft adjacent the lower channel plate, said frustoconical head being seated in a mating frusto-conical countersink cut into the lower channel plate, an elevating member attached to said control shaft, one end of the elevating member projecting beyond the control shaft circumference, the projecting end of said elevating member being operative and located to engage the upper channel plate to angularly lift the upper channel plate clear of the slide fastener elements to permit removal of the slider from the slide fastener elements, when the control shaft is rotated through a predetermined angle from the normal control shaft position, locating means attached to the control shaft adjusted to engage the upper surface of the lower channel plate, opposite the control shaft frustoconical head, said control shaft locating means being posi- 17 otally attached to said control shaft upper head, said pull being operative to longitudinally move the slider.

10. A slider for use in con'lbination with two rows of interlocking slide fastener elements, comprising a pair of channel plates formed of a single sheet of spring material, an integral spring neck connecting one end of said channel plates, said channel plates being located in spaced relation to one another, said channel plates having integral flange means, which are operative to slidably engage and interlock the mating slide fastener elements when the slider is moved longitudinally rearwardly relative to the slide fastener elements, a substantially cylindrical control shaft rotatably supported by the first of said channel plates extending through the second channel plate, said control shaft being angularly positioned relative to the channel plates in a plane through the longitudinal channel plate axes, aligning means integral with one end of the control shaft adjacent the first channel plate rotatably seated in the first channel plate, an elevating bar attached to said control shaft, said elevating bar being angularly positioned relative to the channel plate facing surfaces, one end of said elevating bar projecting beyond the control shaft circumference, said elevating bar projecting end being normally angularly directed toward the first channel plate, the projecting end of said elevating bar being operative and located to engage the second channel plate to angularly lift the second channel plate clear of the slide fastener elements to permit removal of the slider from the slide fastener elements, when the control shaft is rotated through a predetermined angle from the normal control shaft position, locating means attached to the control shaft adjusted to engage the surface of the first channel plate opposite the control shaft aligning means, said control shaft locating means being positioned to coact with the control shaft aligning means to longitudinally position the control shaft relative to the first channel plate, a head attached to the control shaft adjacent the second channel plate, and means pivotally attached to the control shaft head operative to longitudinally move the slider relative to the slide fastener elements.

ll. A slider for use in combination with two rows of interlocking slide fastener elements, comprising an upper and a lower channel plate formed of a single sheet of spring material, an integral spring neck connecting one end of said channel plates, said channel plates having integral flanges, which are operative to slidably engage and interlock the mating slide fastener elements when the slider is moved longitudinally rearwardly relative to the slide fastener elements, a substantially cylindrical control shaft rotatably supported by the lower channel plate extending through the upper channel plate, said control shaft being located substantially in a plane connecting the longitudinal channel plate axes and angularly positioned relative to the lower channel plate, a substantially frustoconical head integral with the end of the control shaft adjacent the lower channel plate, said frusto-conical head being seated in a mating frusto-conical counter-sink cut itno the lower channel plate, an elevating member fixedly attached to said control shaft, one end of the elevating member projecting beyond the control shaft circumference, the projecting end of said elevating member being operative and located to engage the upper channel plate to angularly lift the upper channel plate clear of the slide fastener elements, when the control shaft is rotated through a predetermined angle from the normal control shaft position, a locating collar attached to the control shaft adjusted to engage the upper surface of the lower channel plate, said control shaft locating collar being positioned to coact with frusto-conical control shaft head to longitudinally align the control shaft relative to the lower channel plate, an upper head attached to the control shaft adjacent the upper channel plate, said upper head having a pair of aligned openings therethrough, and a pull key formed of a spring material removably attached to the control shaft upper head, said pull key having a pair of integral aligned prongs adjusted to removably fit the control shaft upper head openings, said pull key having a control slide slidably fitted thereto, operative to retain the pull key prongs Within the control shaft head openings, said pull key being operative to longitudinally move the slider.

12. A slider for use in combination with two rows of interlocking slide fastener elements, comprising a pair of channel plates formed of a single sheet. of spring material, integral spring means connecting one end of said channel plates, said channel plates being located in spaced relation to one another, said channel plates having integral flange means, which are operative to slidably engage and interlock the mating slide fastener elements when the slider is moved longitudinally rearwardly relative to the slide fastener elements, a substantially cylindrical control shaft rotatably supported by the first channel plate, extending through the second channel plate, said control shaft being angularly positioned relative to the channel plates in a plane through the longitudinal channel plate axes, an elevating member attached to said control shaft, said elevating member being angularly positioned relative to the second channel plate surface, one end of the elevating member projecting beyond the control shaft circumference, the projecting end of said elevating member being operative and located to engage the second channel plate to angularly elevate the second channel plate into a canted position relative to the slide fastener elements to permit removal of the slider from the slide fastener elements, when the control shaft is rotated through a predetermined angle from its normal operative position, the spring action of the channel plates and the integral spring connecting means therebetween being adjusted to allow the channel plates to be angularly separated relative to another, when an obstruction lodges between the rows of slide fastener elements, thereby enabling the slider to be longitudinally moved relative to the slide fastener elements to realign the slide fastener elements, the spring action of said channel plates and the integral connecting means therebetween being operative to restore the channel plates to their normal operative position, when the slide fastener elements are realigned in their operating relation.

References Cited in the file of this patent UNITED STATES PATENTS 2,575,187 Schaye Nov. 13, 1951 2,666,970 Grant Jan. 26, 1954 FOREIGN PATENTS 734,221 France of 1932 885,456 France of 1943 273,689 Switzerland of 1951

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