Re: the enigmatic zipper

Jan 20, 2024 Last reply: 2 years ago 3 Replies


I haven't yet met anyone who can explain the zipper.


>
>Equally baffling, is its malfunction. You know, suddenly
>the teeth won't mesh. You try to force the tracks together
>by hand, but nada, it's irreparable. How can a mechanism
>so simple fail?
>
>So simple, yet so inexplicable...
>
>Who invented this gadget? He deserves a monument -
>
>---
>Rich

I just sew a new one over the old, after cutting off the teeth.



A trick my brother (with six kids) taught me.



More useful on jackets or luggage than elsewhere.



My bike bags are nearing 40yrs old, winter parka 15yrs.



RL



RL


Looks like we've found our Cheapskate of the Year winner for 2024 already!

I just don't like shopping, or most new stuff of any kind.

When I try to replace stuff that I like and that has served well, they either don't make it anymore, or the entire retail operation is gone.

Beginning to think that my custom is the mark of doom for any retail operation . . .

RL

The book "how stuff works" gives a good explanation.

TLDR: a closed zipper in in a local energy minimum constrained by the tension band beside each row of teeth

Try harder.

The bands stretch or the teeth wear out, or become damaged in some other way.

Two american guys YCLIU, it seems they missed out.

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required