JP7593569B2 - Slider bag with detent - Google Patents

Description

This application is a continuation-in-part of pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/744,556, filed June 19, 2015, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/014,957, filed June 20, 2014, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/014,977, filed June 20, 2014.

The present invention relates generally to a sealing structure. More particularly, the present invention relates to a sealing structure having at least two pairs of interlocking side members and a slider for opening and closing the interlocking side members. The sealing structure of the present invention is often disposed on a pouch, such as, for example, a resealable thermoplastic storage bag.

Storage bags made of flexible plastic materials are well known. Such storage bags are made in a variety of sizes and can be used to contain a variety of items including food, utensils, clothing, tools, and the like. Such storage bags often include some type of zipper-like sealing closure mechanism that resealably seals the interior of the bag. Plastic storage bags with sealing closure mechanisms are sold by the assignee of the present application under the trademark ZIPLOC®.

Plastic storage bag seal closure mechanisms, often referred to as fastener structures or zippers, include interlocking seal side members at the top end of the bag. Seal closure mechanisms having a single pair of opposing elongated interlocking side members that are interlocked between a user's fingers to create a resealable seal are well known. Additionally, seal closure mechanisms having multiple pairs of elongated interlocking side members, such as opposing upper and lower interlocking side members that are pressed together by a user's fingers, can also be used to create a stronger, more secure seal than a single pair. It is also known to use sliders with seal structures having a single interlocking side member pair and multiple interlocking side member pairs to open and close the seal.

In one example, the closure assembly is sealed and opened by engaging and disengaging the interlocking side members in a pinch-sealing manner with the user's fingers. The user seals the bag by pressing the interlocking side members together with his/her fingers and opens the bag by pulling the side members apart with his/her fingers. The sealing structure has a first sealing strip member disposed on one bag wall and a second sealing strip member disposed on the opposing bag wall. Each of the first and second sealing strip members includes two parallel spaced apart interlocking side members disposed between two cushioning profiles, all of which extend from the same side of the backing flange. Additionally, one of the sealing strip members has a central side member disposed between the two interlocking side members.

In another example, the bag has a slider attached to a sealing structure having two pairs of interlocking side members that easily engage and disengage the seal. The slider has a top wall attached to two opposing side walls that engage both pairs of interlocking side members when the slider is slid along the sealing assembly in a closing direction. The slider also has a disengaging finger or plow extending downwardly between both pairs of interlocking side members that disengages both pairs of interlocking side members when the slider is slid along the sealing assembly in an opening direction. However, if the plow extends across the entire opposing interlocking side members, a gap or opening may develop around the plow, even when the entire slider is in a closed position on the sealing structure, resulting in a disruption of the seal and causing leakage of liquid, air, gas or particulate contents held within the bag.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,140,727

According to one aspect, the present invention provides a storage bag comprising a first side wall and a second side wall connected to the first side wall to form an interior of the bag with an opening to the interior. The storage bag includes a zipper side member disposed adjacent the opening of the bag. The zipper side member includes a first sealing component attached to the first side wall and a second sealing component attached to the second side wall and extending substantially parallel to the first sealing component. Both the first sealing component and the second sealing component extend along the length of the zipper side member between the first side of the zipper side member and the second side of the zipper side member. The first sealing component is configured to interlock with the second sealing component to form a seal at the opening of the bag. A slider is disposed in straddling relationship with the zipper side member. The slider includes at least a first opening member. The slider is configured to slide along the zipper side member to engage the first and second sealing parts of the zipper side member when the slider is slid in a first direction. The slider is further configured to slide along the zipper side member to disengage the first and second sealing parts of the zipper side member when the slider is slid in a second direction. At least one detent is disposed on at least one end of at least one of the first and second side walls. The at least one detent is disposed in an upper or lower area of the zipper side member on an inner surface of at least one of the first and second side walls. The at least one detent extends only partially through the inner surface of at least one of the first and second side walls in the upper or lower area of the zipper side member, and a first opening member of the slider is engageable with the at least one detent to provide a leak-resistant end seal.

According to another aspect, the present invention provides a storage bag comprising a first side wall and a second side wall connected to the first side wall to form an interior of the bag with an opening to the interior. The storage bag includes a first zipper side member disposed adjacent to the opening of the bag. The first zipper side member includes a first sealing component attached to the first side wall and a second sealing component attached to the second side wall and extending substantially parallel to the first sealing component. Both the first sealing component and the second sealing component extend along a length of the first zipper side member between a first side of the first zipper side member and a second side of the first zipper side member. The first sealing component is configured to interlock with the second sealing component to form a seal at the opening of the bag. The storage bag further includes a second zipper side member spaced apart from the first zipper side member. The second zipper side member includes a third sealing component attached to the first side wall and a fourth sealing component attached to the second side wall and extending substantially parallel to the third sealing component. Both the third sealing component and the fourth sealing component extend along the length of the second zipper side member between the first side of the second zipper side member and the second side of the second zipper side member. The third sealing component is configured to interlock with the fourth sealing component to form a second seal for the opening of the bag. A slider is disposed in straddling relationship with the first and second zipper side members. The slider includes at least a first opening member disposed in an area between the first and second zipper side members. The slider is configured to slide along the first and second zipper side members to engage the first and second sealing parts of the first zipper side member and the third and fourth sealing parts of the second zipper side member when the slider is slid in a first direction. The slider is further configured to disengage the first and second sealing parts of the first zipper side member and the third and fourth sealing parts of the second zipper side member when the slider is slid in a second direction. At least one detent is disposed on at least one end of at least one of the first and second side walls. The at least one detent is disposed in an area between the first and second zipper side members on an inner surface of at least one of the first and second side walls. The at least one detent extends only partially through an interior surface of at least one of the first and second side walls in an area between the first and second zipper side members, and the first opening member of the slider is capable of engaging the at least one detent to provide a leak-resistant end seal.

Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description, in which like structures have like or similar reference numerals.

FIG. 2 is a side view of a closed bag according to one embodiment of the present invention, with a slider positioned at the closed end of the bag (in this embodiment, the bag opening direction is left to right and the bag closing direction is right to left). FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the bag shown in FIG. 1 with the bag open and end stops added. 3A is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an elongated double zipper side member in an interlocking position taken along line 3A-3A of FIG. 1, with portions behind the plane of the section omitted for clarity; 3B is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the upper zipper side member of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 3A in the interlocking position. 3B is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the upper zipper side member of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 3A in the interlocking position. 3B is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the lower zipper side member of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 3A in the interlocking position. 3B is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the lower zipper side member of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 3A in the interlocking position. 3D is a partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an elongated double zipper side member in an interlocking position taken along line 3D-3D of FIG. 1, with portions behind the plane of the section omitted for clarity; 3E is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 3F taken along line 3E-3E of FIG. 1, illustrating one embodiment for attaching the double zipper side member to the side wall of the bag of FIG. 1. 4A is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 3A taken along line 4A-4A of FIG. 1, illustrating the closed end of one embodiment of a slider when operatively engaged with the double zipper side member of FIG. 3A, with portions behind the plane of the cross section omitted for clarity. 4B is a partial cross-sectional view of the double zipper of FIG. 3A taken along line 4B-4B of FIG. 2, illustrating one embodiment of the disengaging fingers of the slider of FIG. 4A disengaging the double zipper side members of FIG. 3A. 5A is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 3A taken along line 5A-5A of FIG. 1, showing one embodiment of the disengagement fingers of the slider of FIG. 4A biased downward. FIG. 5B is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 5B-5B of FIG. 2 of the double zipper side member of FIG. 3A showing the disengagement fingers of the slider of FIG. 5A being biased downwardly to first disengage the lower zipper side member of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 3A. FIG. 5C is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 5C-5C of FIG. 2 of the double zipper side member of FIG. 3A showing the disengagement fingers of the slider of FIG. 5A, where a downward bias disengages the upper and lower zipper side members shown in FIG. 3A. 6A is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 3A taken along line 6A-6A of FIG. 1, showing one embodiment of the disengagement fingers of the slider of FIG. 4A biased upwardly. 6B is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 6B-6B of FIG. 2 of the double zipper side member of FIG. 3A showing the disengagement fingers of the slider of FIG. 6A being biased upwardly to initially disengage the upper zipper side member of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 3A. FIG. 6C is a partial cross-sectional view of the double zipper side member of FIG. 3A taken along line 6C-6C of FIG. 2, showing the disengagement fingers of the slider of FIG. 6A, where an upward bias disengages the upper and lower zipper side members shown in FIG. 3A. 7A is a partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an elongated double zipper side member in an interlocking position taken along line 7A-7A of FIG. 1, with portions behind the plane of the cross-section omitted for clarity; 7B is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the lower zipper side member of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 7A in the interlocking position. 8A is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 8A-8A of FIG. 2 of another embodiment of an elongated double zipper side member with the profile ribs in a disengaged position. 8B is a partial cross-sectional view of the closed end of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 8A along line 8B-8B of FIG. 2, with the profile rib deformed. 9A is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 7A taken along line 9A-9A of FIG. 2, illustrating one embodiment of a slider in which disengagement fingers disengage the double zipper side member shown in FIG. 7A, with portions behind the plane of the cross section omitted for clarity. 9B is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper of FIG. 8A taken along line 9B-9B of FIG. 2, illustrating one embodiment of the disengaging fingers of the slider of FIG. 9A disengaging the double zipper side members of FIG. 8A. 9C is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper of FIG. 8B taken along line 9C-9C of FIG. 1, showing one embodiment of the slider of FIG. 9A in a closed position on the double zipper side member of FIG. 8B. FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of a slider with disengagement fingers in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 10B is a top view of the slider illustrated in FIG. 10A. FIG. 10B is a top view of the slider illustrated in FIG. 10A with an alternative embodiment of the disengagement fingers. FIG. 10B is a top view of the slider illustrated in FIG. 10A with an alternative embodiment of the disengagement fingers. FIG. 10B is a top view of the slider illustrated in FIG. 10A with an alternative embodiment of the disengagement fingers. 11 is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 7A taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 1, showing the slider of FIG. 10A operably engaged with the double zipper side member of FIG. 7A, with portions behind the plane of the cross section omitted for clarity. 10B is a partial side view of the bag of FIG. 1 including a detent at one end of the bag and the slider of FIG. 10A operably engaged on the double zipper side member of the bag of FIG. 1; 13 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a detent included on the bladder of FIG. 12 taken along line 13-13 of FIG. 12, with portions behind the plane of the cross-section omitted for clarity. 10B is a partial side view of the bag of FIG. 1 including a plurality of detents on each end of the bag and the slider of FIG. 10A operably engaged on the double zipper side member of the bag of FIG. 1; 15A is a partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an elongated double zipper side member taken along line 15A-15A of FIG. 2 in a disengaged position, with portions behind the plane of the section omitted for clarity; FIG. 13 is a partial side view of another embodiment of a bag having double zipper side members, the bag including an embodiment of a slider with disengagement fingers and tails operably engaged on the double zipper side members of the bag (in this embodiment, the opening direction of the bag is from right to left and the closing direction of the bag is from left to right). FIG. 15C is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 15C-15C of FIG. 15B at the open end of a slider with an elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 15A, showing an embodiment of the slider and disengagement finger of FIG. 15B operably engaged on the double zipper side member of FIG. 15A. FIG. 15D is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 15D-15D of FIG. 15B at the closed end of a slider having an elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 15A, showing an embodiment of the tail portion of the slider of FIG. 15B operably engaged onto the double zipper side member of FIG. 15A. 2 is a partial side view of the bag of FIG. 1 including another embodiment of a slider that operably engages on the double zipper side members of the bag of FIG. 1 to allow simultaneous opening and closing of the double zipper side members in the same vertical plane. 2 is a partial side view of the bag of FIG. 1 including another embodiment of a slider that operably engages on the double zipper side member of the bag of FIG. 1 to allow offset opening and closing of the double zipper side member. 2 is a partial side view of the bag of FIG. 1 including another embodiment of a slider that operably engages on the double zipper side member of the bag of FIG. 1 to allow offset opening and closing of the double zipper side member. 2 is a partial side view of the bag of FIG. 1 including another embodiment of a slider operably engaged on the double zipper side members of the bag of FIG. 1 and capable of multi-level slider retention. 2 is a partial side view of the bag of FIG. 1 including another embodiment of a slider operably engaging on the double zipper side members of the bag of FIG. 1 and capable of multi-level vertical slider retention. FIG. 13 is a side view of a closed bag according to another embodiment of the present invention, with a slider positioned at the closed end of the bag (in this embodiment, the bag opening direction is from left to right and the bag closing direction is from right to left). FIG. 20 is a top perspective view of the bag shown in FIG. 19 with the bag open and end stops added. 21 is a partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an elongated double zipper side member in an interlocking position taken along line 21-21 of FIG. 19, with portions behind the plane of the section omitted for clarity. 22F is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 21 taken along line 22F-22F of FIG. 19, illustrating one embodiment for attaching the double zipper side member to the side wall of the bag of FIG. 19. 22F is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 21 taken along line 22F-22F of FIG. 19, illustrating one embodiment for attaching the double zipper side member to the side wall of the bag of FIG. 19. 22F is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 21 taken along line 22F-22F of FIG. 19, illustrating one embodiment for attaching the double zipper side member to the side wall of the bag of FIG. 19. 22F is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 21 taken along line 22F-22F of FIG. 19, illustrating one embodiment for attaching the double zipper side member to the side wall of the bag of FIG. 19. 22F is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 21 taken along line 22F-22F of FIG. 19, illustrating one embodiment for attaching the double zipper side member to the side wall of the bag of FIG. 19. 22F is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 21 taken along line 22F-22F of FIG. 19, illustrating one embodiment for attaching the double zipper side member to the side wall of the bag of FIG. 19. FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a slider with a separation mechanism according to the present invention. FIG. 24 is a side perspective view of the slider illustrated in FIG. 23 with a portion of the slider removed to reveal features of the separation mechanism. 25 is a partial side view of the bag of FIG. 19 including the slider and separation mechanism of FIGS. 23 and 24 operably engaged with the double zipper side member of the bag of FIG. 19, with a portion of the slider removed for clarity. 26 is a partial cross-sectional view of the elongated double zipper side member of FIG. 21 taken along line 26-26 of FIG. 20, showing the slider of FIGS. 23 and 24 operatively engaged with the double zipper side member of FIG. 21, with portions behind the plane of the cross section omitted for clarity. 24 is a partial side view of the bag of FIG. 19 including a detent at one end of the bag and the slider of FIG. 23 operably engaged on the double zipper side member of the bag of FIG. 19 . 28 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a detent included on the bladder of FIG. 27 taken along line 28-28 of FIG. 27, with portions behind the plane of the cross-section omitted for clarity. 24 is a partial side view of the bag of FIG. 19 including a plurality of detents on each end of the bag and the slider of FIG. 23 operably engaged on the double zipper side member of the bag of FIG. 19 . FIG. 13 is a partial side view of another embodiment of a bag including a slider operably engaged on double zipper side members of the bag, at least one of the zipper side members being capable of audio/tactile feedback. FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of a sealing component of one of the unmodified zipper side members. FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of a sealing component of one of the zipper side members with a one-sided deformation. FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a sealing component of one of the zipper side members having a one-sided deformation. FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of a sealing component of one of the zipper side members having deformed sides. 18B operably engaged on a double zipper side member of the bag of FIG. 1 , the upper zipper side member of the double zipper side member enabling auditory and tactile feedback. FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the bag shown in FIG. 1 including the slider of FIG. 1 operably engaged on a double zipper side member of the bag of FIG. 1, wherein a plurality of recesses are provided on the outer and inner surfaces of the zipper side member. 23 is a partial side view of one side wall of the bag of FIG. 19 including a detent at one end of the bag and the slider of FIG. 23 disposed at the other end of the bag and operably engaged on the double zipper side member of the bag of FIG. 19 . 23 is a partial side view of one side wall of the bag of FIG. 19 including a detent at one end of the bag and the slider of FIG. 23 positioned near the detent and operably engaged on the double zipper side member of the bag of FIG. 19 . 23 is a partial side view of one side wall of the bag of FIG. 19 including a detent at one end of the bag and the slider of FIG. 23 disposed in the detent and operably engaged on the double zipper side member of the bag of FIG. 19 . FIG. 35A is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view taken along line 35A-35A of FIG. 34 of one side of a detent included on the bladder of FIGS. 34A-34C, with portions behind the plane of the cross-section omitted for clarity. FIG. 35B is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view taken along line 35B-35B of FIG. 34 of one side of a detent included on the bladder of FIGS. 34A-34C, with portions behind the plane of the cross-section omitted for clarity. FIG. 36 is a partial cross-sectional view of the detent of FIGS. 34A-34C taken along line 36-36 of FIG. 34B, showing the slider of FIG. 23 prior to engagement with the detent of FIGS. 34A-34C, with portions behind the plane of the cross section omitted for clarity. 37-37 of FIG. 34C of the detent of FIGS. 34A-34C, showing the slider of FIG. 23 operably engaged with the detent of FIGS. 34A-34C, with portions behind the plane of the section omitted for clarity.

The present invention relates to a sealing structure having at least two pairs of interlocking side members and a slider for opening and closing the interlocking side members. The present invention also relates to a storage bag including a sealing structure having at least two pairs of interlocking side members and a slider for opening and closing the interlocking side members. Features of the present invention thereby provide leak resistance, high external opening force, high internal burst strength, increased slider retention force including improved vertical slider retention, and audio/tactile feedback, as well as control of the opening and closing sequence of profiles using parallel multi-level opening or offset multi-level opening.

As will be apparent from the description herein, the term "bag" encompasses a wide range of structures designed to contain items, such as pouches, envelopes, packets, etc. In general, the term "bag" as used herein simply means a somewhat flexible container with an opening, capable of carrying any number of items.

Now referring to the drawings, Figures 1 and 2 are diagrams of a bag 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The bag 100 includes a first side wall 102 and a second side wall 104. The first side wall 102 and the second side wall 104 are connected along edges 106 and 108, and the first side wall 102 and the second side wall 104 are also connected at a bottom edge 110 of the bag 100. An opening 103 to the interior of the bag 100 is formed adjacent an edge 116 defined by zipper side members 112 and 114, as described below. The first side wall 102 and the second side wall 104 can be made of a substantially transparent plastic, such as the plastics described below, thereby allowing the contents of the interior of the bag to be easily determined. Alternatively, the first side wall 102 and the second side wall 104 can be made of a substantially opaque or completely opaque material.

1 and 2, the slider 120 operably engages the zipper side members 112 and 114 to open and close the opening 103 to the bag 100. Sliding the slider 120 toward the closed end (e.g., the left side of the bag 100 in FIG. 1) closes the opening 103 by bringing the opposing side walls 102, 104 together and interlocking the zipper side members 112, 114. Sliding the slider 120 toward the open end (e.g., the right side of the bag 100 in FIG. 1) opens the opening 103 by moving the opposing side walls 102, 104 apart and disengaging the zipper side members 112, 114. As shown in FIG. 2, at least one end stop 105 may be included at one or both of the closed and open ends of the bag 100 to prevent the slider 120 from disengaging from the ends of the zipper side members 112, 114.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the upper zipper side member 112 includes a first sealing part 200 and a second sealing part 202, and the lower zipper side member 114 includes a third sealing part 204 and a fourth sealing part 206. The first sealing part 200 and the third sealing part 204 are provided on a first backing member 210, and the second sealing part 202 and the fourth sealing part 206 are provided on an opposing second backing member 212. Such an arrangement of an upper zipper side member with a pair of sealing parts and a lower zipper side member with a second pair of sealing parts is often referred to as a double zipper. In one embodiment, the backing members 210, 212 are connected to the top edges of the side walls 102, 104, respectively, and in another embodiment, the backing members 210, 212 are simply extensions or portions of the side walls 102, 104. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3A, the first sealing part 200 and the fourth sealing part 206 have concave C-shaped interlocking side members, and the second sealing part 202 and the third sealing part 204 have convex double hook arrow-shaped interlocking side members. However, the specific shapes and structures of the individual sealing parts 200, 202, 204 and 206 can be modified without departing from the spirit of the invention. In other embodiments, for example, the zipper side members 112, 114 can include additional sealing parts and/or can include both a concave element on one side wall and a convex element on the opposing side wall to create a more secure and leak-resistant seal.

3A, a first isolation section 220 extends between the first sealing component 200 and the third sealing component 204 on the first backing member 210, and a second isolation section 230 extends between the second sealing component 202 and the fourth sealing component 206 on the second backing member 212. The first isolation section 220 and the second isolation section 230 include portions of the first backing member 210 and the second backing member 212, respectively, which do not include any type of sealing component and/or interlocking or non-interlocking elements. The first isolation section 220 and the second isolation section 230 can be thinner than the zipper side members 112, 114. By making the cross-sections of the first and second isolation sections 220, 230 thinner than the cross-sections of the sealing components of the zipper side members 112, 114, the first and second isolation sections 220, 230 provide flexibility to the backbone of the double zipper side member. In particular, if desired, the first and second isolation sections 220, 230 can have a cross-sectional area such that the bending stiffness in these sections is insufficient to disengage the lower profile 114 when a slider having disengagement fingers is placed in the area between the upper and lower zipper side members 112, 114. It has been found that with a center-to-center spacing of 200 mils between the sealing pieces of the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114, a thickness of less than 20 mils for the first and second isolation sections 220, 230 provides sufficient isolation such that any leverage applied by the disengagement fingers to the first and second sealing pieces 200, 202 of the upper zipper side member 112 is insufficient to open the third and fourth sealing pieces 204, 206 of the lower zipper side member 114. In particular, the thickness of the first and second isolation sections 220, 230 may be from about 1 mil to 15 mils, or more preferably from 5 mil to 10 mils. Additionally, the first isolation section 220 may have a different thickness than the second isolation section 230. For example, the first isolation section 220 may be approximately 15 mils thick and the second isolation section 230 may be approximately 5 mils thick, or vice versa. However, one skilled in the art will recognize that the specific thicknesses and/or tolerances of the first isolation section 220 and the second isolation section 230 may be varied without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Thus, the first isolation section 220 and the second isolation section 230 are provided such that the opening of the upper zipper side member 112 by the slider does not affect the opening of the lower zipper side member 114 by the slider, or vice versa. Specifically, the force applied by the slider to the upper zipper side member 112 is isolated from the force applied by the slider to the lower zipper side member 114 due to the inclusion of the first isolation section 220 and the second isolation section 230. Thus, the slider can open or disengage the upper zipper side member 112 while keeping the lower zipper side member 114 engaged, resulting in a completely sealed bag when the slider is in the closed position. Independent opening and operation of one zipper side member versus the other allows for leak resistance, high external opening force, high internal burst strength, and improved slider retention.

Figures 3B and 3C are enlarged partial cross-sectional views of the closure parts of the upper zipper side member 112 shown in Figure 3A. In particular, the first closure part 200 includes upper hooks 200A and lower hooks 200B, and the second closure part 202 also includes upper hooks 202A and lower hooks 202B. As shown in Figures 3B and 3C, the upper hooks 200A, 202A are configured to have aggressive hooking angles to provide a high external opening force. Aggressive hooking angles mean that the hooks are formed at a steep angle, and thus, for example, form an acute angle with respect to the portion of the closure part to which they are attached. In particular, the upper hook 200A of the first sealing part 200 forms a defined angle (θ _A ) with respect to the portion of the first sealing part 200 to which the upper hook 200A is attached (see, e.g., FIG. 3B ), and the upper hook 202A of the second sealing part 202 forms a defined angle (θ _B ) with respect to the portion of the second sealing part 202 to which the upper hook 202A is attached (see, e.g., FIG. 3C ). The upper hook 200A forms an angle of preferably 50 to 90 degrees, or more preferably 60 to 85 degrees, or most preferably 70 to 80 degrees with respect to the portion of the sealing part to which the upper hook 200A is attached. The upper hooks 202A are preferably at an angle of 45 degrees to 90 degrees, or more preferably at an angle of 50 degrees to 80 degrees, or most preferably at an angle of 57 degrees to 73 degrees, relative to the portion of the closure piece to which they are attached. By providing the upper hooks 200A, 202A at a steep angle, the upper hooks 200A of the first closure piece 200 aggressively mate or engage with the upper hooks 202A of the second closure piece 202. The aggressive mating of the upper hooks 200A, 202A relative to each other causes the upper hooks 200A, 202A to stick together when an external opening force is applied to the upper hooks 200A, 202A, i.e., when a user attempts to pull open the opening 103 of the bag 100 along the top edge 116. However, the lower hooks 200B, 202B are configured to have a less aggressive or steep hooking angle to provide easier in-opening (e.g., opening between the zipper side members) of the closure parts 200, 202 by the slider because a lower in-opening force between the zipper side members is required to open these hooks 200B, 202B. In particular, the lower hook 200B of the first closure part 200 makes a prescribed angle (θ _C ) with respect to the portion of the first closure part 200 to which the lower hook 200B is attached (see, e.g., FIG. 3B ), and the lower hook 202B of the second closure part 202 makes a prescribed angle (θ _D ) with respect to the portion of the second closure part 202 to which the lower hook 202B is attached (see, e.g., FIG. 3C ). For example, the lower hook 200B is preferably at an angle of 50 to 90 degrees, or more preferably at an angle of 60 to 85 degrees, or most preferably at an angle of 70 to 80 degrees, relative to the portion of the sealing part to which the lower hook 200B is attached. However, the lower hook 200B is preferably at an angle of 50 to 110 degrees, or more preferably at an angle of 70 to 110 degrees, or most preferably at an angle of 80 to 90 degrees, relative to the portion of the sealing part to which the lower hook 200B is attached. Thus, the lower hook 200B of the first sealing part 200 weakly mates or engages with the lower hook 202B of the second sealing part 202. Alternatively, if desired, the lower hook 202B of the second sealing part 202 and/or the lower hook 200B of the first sealing part 200 may be partially or completely removed.

Figures 3D and 3E are enlarged, partial cross-sectional views of the sealing parts of the lower zipper side member 114 shown in Figure 3A. In particular, the third sealing part 204 includes upper hooks 204A and lower hooks 204B, and the fourth sealing part 206 also includes upper hooks 206A and lower hooks 206B. In contrast to the sealing parts of the upper zipper side member 112, the upper hooks 204A, 206A shown in Figures 3D and 3E are configured with a less aggressive or steep hooking angle to provide easier opening by the slider. In particular, the upper hook 204A of the third sealing piece 204 forms a defined angle (θ _E ) with respect to the portion of the third sealing piece 204 to which the upper hook 204A is attached (see, e.g., FIG. 3D ), and the upper hook 206A of the fourth sealing piece 206 forms a defined angle (θ _F ) with respect to the portion of the fourth sealing piece 206 to which the upper hook 206A is attached (see, e.g., FIG. 3E ). For example, the upper hook 204A preferably forms an angle of 90 degrees to 180 degrees, or more preferably an angle of 135 degrees to 180 degrees, or most preferably an angle of 160 degrees to 180 degrees with respect to the portion of the sealing piece to which the upper hook 204A is attached. The upper hook 206A is preferably at an angle of 50 to 90 degrees, or more preferably at an angle of 60 to 85 degrees, or most preferably at an angle of 70 to 80 degrees, relative to the portion of the sealing part to which it is attached. Thus, the upper hook 204A of the third sealing part 204 weakly mates or engages with the upper hook 206A of the fourth sealing part 206. Alternatively, if desired, the upper hook 204A of the third sealing part 204 and/or the upper hook 206A of the fourth sealing part 206 may be partially or completely removed. However, the lower hooks 204B, 206B are configured to have an aggressive hooking angle to provide high internal burst strength. As discussed above, an aggressive hooking angle means that the hook is formed at a steep angle and thus, for example, the hook is at an acute angle relative to the portion of the sealing part to which it is attached. In particular, the lower hook 204B of the third sealing part 204 forms a defined angle (θ _G ) relative to the portion of the third sealing part 204 to which the lower hook 204B is attached (see, e.g., FIG. 3D ), and the lower hook 206B of the fourth sealing part 206 forms a defined angle (θ _H ) relative to the portion of the fourth sealing part 206 to which the lower hook 206B is attached (see, e.g., FIG. 3E ). The lower hook 204B preferably forms an angle of 37 degrees to 87 degrees, or more preferably an angle of 50 degrees to 80 degrees, or most preferably an angle of 57 degrees to 73 degrees, relative to the portion of the sealing part to which the lower hook 204B is attached. The lower hook 206B is preferably at an angle of 50 to 90 degrees, or more preferably at an angle of 60 to 85 degrees, or most preferably at an angle of 70 to 80 degrees, relative to the portion of the sealing piece to which it is attached. By providing the lower hooks 204B, 206B at a steep angle, the lower hook 206B of the third sealing piece 204 aggressively mates or engages with the lower hook 206B of the fourth sealing piece 206. The aggressive mating of the lower hooks 204B, 206B relative to one another causes the lower hooks 204B, 206B to stick together, thus applying an opening force to the lower hooks 204B, 206B, when an opening force is applied to the lower hooks 204B, 206B, i.e., when the contents in the bag 100 are pulled down or pushed out of the side walls 102, 104 of the bag 100.

By configuring the upper hooks 200A and 202A of the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower hooks 204B and 206B of the lower zipper side member 114 to mate aggressively, the external opening force required to pull open the hooks along the opening 103 of the bag 100, i.e., 200A and 202A, or to pull open the hooks along the interior of the bag 100, i.e., 204B, 206B, is higher. However, the internal opening force required to open the hooks between the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114, i.e., 200B, 202B, 204A, and 206A, is lower because these hooks are configured to mate weakly. Thus, the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114 shown in Figures 3A-3E open from the inside out, i.e., the inner hooks 200B, 202B, 204A, and 206A of the zipper side members disengage before the outer hooks 200A, 202A, 204B, and 206B of the zipper side members disengage.

In view of the above configuration, the upper hooks 200A and 202A of the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower hooks 204B and 206B of the lower zipper side member 114 are aggressively mated. This then requires a higher external opening force or burst strength to open these hooks, thereby providing a stronger, more leak-resistant seal along the opening of the bag as well as along the interior of the bag. Thus, a user cannot pull apart the opening 103 of the bag 100 without significant force, and the contents of the bag cannot pull apart the lower hooks 204B, 206B along the interior of the bag without high burst strength. In contrast, the internal opening force required to open the hooks between the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114, i.e., 200B, 202B, 204A and 206A, is configured to be weakly mated. Thus, the internal opening force or burst strength required to open these hooks is lower, which allows a slider with disengagement fingers to simply disengage the internal hooks when the user slides the slider in the open direction, as well as engage the internal hooks when the user slides the slider in the closed direction, as discussed in more detail below.

3F shows an alternative embodiment of the double zipper side member shown in FIG. 3A. In particular, the double zipper side member shown in FIG. 3F includes the first sealing part 200 and the second sealing part 202 of the upper zipper side member 112 shown in FIG. 3A, and the third sealing part 204 and the fourth sealing part 206 of the lower zipper side member 114 shown in FIG. 3A. The double zipper side member shown in FIG. 3F also includes the first isolation section 220 and the second isolation section 230 shown in FIG. 3A. However, the double zipper side member shown in FIG. 3F has removed the first backing member 210 and the second backing member 212 below the lower zipper side member 114. Thus, the double zipper side member shown in FIG. 3F can be an extension or part of the side walls 102, 104 of the bag 100, or can be connected to the top edges of the side walls 102, 104, respectively. In this regard, Figure 3G illustrates one embodiment for connecting the double zipper side member shown in Figure 3F to the side walls 102, 104 of the bag 100. Specifically, the side wall 104 of the bag 100 is connected to at least a portion of the lower zipper side member 114 via a first connection mechanism 280 (e.g., a hot melt glue strip, a contact adhesive, or a heat weld) that overlies the side wall 104 and at least a portion of the lower zipper side member 114. The side wall 102 of the bag 100 is connected to at least a portion of the lower zipper side member 114 and the upper zipper side member 112 via a second connection mechanism 290 (e.g., a hot melt glue strip, a contact adhesive, or a heat weld) that overlies the side wall 102 and at least a portion of the upper zipper side member 112 and at least a portion of the lower zipper side member 114. However, the specific shape and configuration of the first and second connection mechanisms 280, 290 may be varied without departing from the spirit of the invention and may include other types of connection mechanisms feasible for connecting the zipper side member(s) to the side walls, including, for example, hot melt glue strips, contact adhesives, heat welding, etc. In another embodiment, for example, the first and second connection mechanisms 280, 290 may be disposed between the double zipper side member and the side walls 102, 104, respectively, as shown in FIG. 3F.

One embodiment of the slider 120 shown in Figures 4A-6C includes opposing first and second side walls 122, 124 extending from a top wall 130 defining a channel therebetween capable of operably receiving a double zipper, such as the sealing pieces 200-206 of the zipper side members 112, 114 of Figure 3A. The slider 120 shown in Figures 4A-6C further includes shoulders 140, 142 at the ends of each side wall 122, 124 that respectively underlie the third and fourth sealing pieces 204, 206 of the lower zipper side member 114. The slider 120 also includes a disengagement finger 132 that extends from the top wall 130 of the slider 120 to a protrusion 134. The protrusions 134 of the disengagement fingers 132 engage the isolation sections 220, 230 to disengage the sealing components of the zipper side members 112, 114.

As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, as the slide moves from the closed end to the open end (e.g., from left to right in Figure 1), the protrusions engage the sealing components 200-206 of the zipper side members 112, 114. As shown in Figure 4A, the aggressive hooking angles of the sealing components 200-206 of the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114 as discussed above initially keep the sealing components 200-206 together despite the internal wedging action of the protrusions 134 of the disengagement fingers 132. However, as shown in FIG. 4B, when the protrusion 134 moves into the area of the first isolation section 220 and the second isolation section 230, whereby the peak width of the protrusion 134 is between the first sealing part 200 and the second sealing part 202, and between the third sealing part 204 and the fourth sealing part 206, the wedging action of the protrusion increases to the point where the less aggressive hooks of the sealing parts fail and allow the zipper side members 112, 114 to separate. In this way, the protrusion 134 of the disengagement finger 132 at its peak width separates the zipper side members 112, 114, completely opening and separating both zipper side members 112, 114.

The embodiment shown in Figures 4A and 4B is directed to the opening of the sealing parts 200-206 substantially simultaneously by the protrusions 134 of the disengagement fingers 132. In this regard, the protrusions 134 of the disengagement fingers 132 shown in Figures 4A and 4B are disposed in the areas between the first sealing part 200 and the second sealing part 202, and between the third sealing part 204 and the fourth sealing part 206 (e.g., between the first isolation section 220 and the second isolation section 230), such that the protrusions 134 are substantially parallel to the first closure 200 element and the second sealing part 202, as well as the third sealing part 204 and the fourth sealing part 206. However, FIGS. 5A-5C show an embodiment for opening the third sealing part 204 and the fourth sealing part 206 before opening the first sealing part 200 and the second sealing part 202, and FIGS. 6A-6C show an embodiment for opening the first sealing part 200 and the second sealing part 202 before opening the third sealing part 204 and the fourth sealing part 206. In particular, the protrusions 134 at the ends of the disengagement fingers 132 are biased slightly downwardly toward the third and fourth sealing parts 204, 206 in Figures 5A-5C, such that as the disengagement fingers 132 move from the closed to the open ends of the zipper side members 112, 114, the third and fourth sealing parts 204, 206 are disengaged via the protrusions 134 prior to disengagement of the first and second sealing parts 200, 202. Figure 5A shows the downwardly biased protrusions 134 of the disengagement fingers 132 of this embodiment prior to any disengagement of the sealing parts 100-106. FIG. 5B shows the downwardly biased protrusion 134 of the disengagement finger 132 first opening the third and fourth sealing parts 204 and 206 of the lower zipper side member 114, while the first and second sealing parts 200 and 202 of the upper zipper side member 112 remain engaged. However, at some point, such as when the peak width of the protrusion 134 becomes the area between the zipper side members 112 and 114, the less aggressive hooks of the first and second sealing parts 200 and 202 fail, allowing the first and second sealing parts 200 and 202 to separate, as shown in FIG. 5C.

The protrusions 134 at the ends of the disengagement fingers 132 are slightly biased upward in Figures 6A-6C, so that as the disengagement fingers 132 move from closed end to closed end of the zipper side members 112, 114, the first sealing part 200 and the second sealing part 202 are disengaged via the protrusions 134 prior to disengagement of the third sealing part 204 and the fourth sealing part 206. Figure 6A shows the upwardly biased protrusions 134 of the disengagement fingers 132 of this embodiment prior to disengagement of any of the sealing parts 100-106. FIG. 6B shows the upwardly biased protrusion 134 of the disengagement finger 132 first opening the first and second sealing parts 200 and 202 of the upper zipper side member 112 while the third and fourth sealing parts 204 and 206 of the lower zipper side member 114 remain engaged. However, at some point, for example when the peak width of the protrusion 134 is in the area between the zipper side members 112 and 114, the less aggressive hooks of the third and fourth sealing parts 204 and 206 fail, allowing the third and fourth sealing parts 204 and 206 to separate, as shown in FIG. 6C. Thus, varying the direction or bias and/or width of the protrusion 134 of the disengagement finger 132 can affect when and how the zipper side members are opened.

7A shows another embodiment of a double zipper side member. In this embodiment, the upper zipper side member includes a first sealing part 300 and a second sealing part 302, and the lower zipper side member includes a third sealing part 304 and a fourth sealing part 306. The first sealing part 300 and the third sealing part 304 are provided on a first backing member 303, and the second sealing part 302 and the fourth sealing part 306 are provided on an opposing second backing member 305. In one embodiment, the backing members 303, 305 are connected to the top edges of the side walls 102, 104, respectively, and in another embodiment, the backing members 303, 305 are simply extensions or portions of the side walls 102, 104. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A, the first sealing part 300 and the fourth sealing part 306 have concave C-shaped interlocking side members, and the second sealing part 302 and the third sealing part 304 have convex double hook arrow-shaped interlocking side members. However, the specific shapes and structures of the individual sealing parts 300, 302, 304 and 306 can be modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A, the zipper side member further includes a first rib member 310 and a second rib member 312. The first rib member 310 is, for example, a non-interlocking rib or ridge that does not interlock with the second rib member 312 or a complementary interlocking member. The first rib member 310 is disposed on the inner surface of the first backing member 303 and between the first sealing piece 300 and the third sealing piece 304, and the second rib member 312 is disposed on the inner surface of the second backing member 305 and between the second sealing piece 302 and the fourth sealing piece 306. As also shown in FIG. 7A, a first isolation section 320 extends between the first sealing component 300 and the first rib member 310 on the first backing member 303, and a second isolation section 330 extends between the second sealing component 302 and the fourth rib member 312 on the second backing member 305.

7B is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the sealing parts of the lower zipper side member of FIG. 7A. In particular, the third sealing part 304 includes an upper portion 304A, and the fourth sealing part 306 also includes an upper portion 306A. In contrast to the sealing parts of the lower zipper side member 114 shown in FIG. 3A, the upper portions 304A and 306A do not include hooks. In particular, the upper portions 304A and 306A are devoid of the upper hooks 204A and 206A of the sealing parts of the lower zipper side member 114 shown in FIGS. 3A, 3D and 3E. By removing the hooks from the upper portions 304A and 306A, the upper portions 304A and 306A are weakly mated, and therefore, as discussed above, a lower internal opening force is required to open the upper portions 304A and 306A of the third sealing part 304 and the fourth sealing part 306.

The zipper side members may further include means for maintaining the slider in a straddling relationship with the zipper side members. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A, the means include ridges 340, 350 provided on the outer surfaces of the first 303 and second 305 backing members, respectively. The ridges 340, 350 may engage shoulders provided on the slider, such that the shoulders of the slider grip the lower surfaces of the ridges 340, 350. The ridges 340, 350 may extend along the length of the outer surfaces of the first 303 and second 305 backing members at points below the first 310 and second 312 rib members. Furthermore, the ridges 340, 350 may be attached to the zipper side members by any desired means, such as by extrusion with the zipper side members, heating, gluing, or snapping into place. Additionally, ridges 340, 350 can be created as a result of the difference in thickness between the zipper side members on the bag.

8A shows another embodiment of a double zipper side member according to the present invention, with like structures being designated with like reference numerals. The double zipper side member shown in FIG. 8A includes a first rib member 314 disposed on the inner surface of the first backing member and a second rib member 315 disposed on the inner surface of the second backing member. The zipper side member also includes a first sealing part 300', a second sealing part 302', a third sealing part 304', and a fourth sealing part 306', with the first sealing part 300' and the fourth sealing part 306' having a concave C-shaped interlocking profile and the second sealing part 302' and the third sealing part 304' having a convex double hook arrow-shaped interlocking side member. However, the specific shapes and structures of the individual sealing parts 300', 302', 304', and 306' may be modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention. The first rib member 314 is, for example, a non-interlocking rib or ridge that does not interlock with the second rib member 315 or a complementary interlocking member. The first rib member 314 is disposed between the first sealing part 300' and the third sealing part 304', and the second rib member 315 is disposed between the second sealing part 302' and the fourth sealing part 306'.

8B is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the closed end of the double zipper side member shown in FIG. 8A. In particular, the first rib member 314 and the second rib member 315 shown in FIG. 8A are deformed at the closed end of the zipper side member, with the first deformed rib member 316 disposed on the inner surface of the first backing member and between the first sealing piece 300' and the third sealing piece 304', and the second deformed rib member 318 disposed on the inner surface of the second backing member and between the second sealing piece 302' and the fourth sealing piece 306'. The first deformed rib member 316 is, for example, a non-interlocking rib or ridge that does not interlock with the second deformed rib member 318 or a complementary interlocking member. The first and second deforming rib members 316, 318 allow the slider to rest on the closed end of the zipper side member without disengaging the lower zipper side member, as described in more detail below.

Various rib members can be formed by extruding a desired shaped profile onto the respective backing member. The shapes of the rib members in other embodiments can be various shapes such as round, oval, square or non-geometric shapes, and in still other embodiments, the rib members may be offset rather than in an opposing relationship.

9A illustrates one embodiment of the slider 120 shown in FIGS. 4A-6C, including opposing first and second side walls 122, 124 extending from a top wall 130 defining a channel therebetween that can operably receive the double zipper side member shown in FIG. 7A. The slider 120 further includes shoulders 140, 142 at the ends of the respective side walls 122, 124 that underlie the respective backing member ridges 340 and 350. The slider 120 also includes a disengagement finger 132 extending from the top wall 130 of the slider 120. The disengagement finger 132 engages a first rib member 310 of the zipper side member to disengage the zipper side member. Specifically, the first rib member 310 extends from the inner surface of the backing member to a point where the first rib member 310 intersects with the opposing side of the disengagement finger 132. The height of the first rib member 310 must exceed the range of motion of the zipper side member, so that the first rib member 310 extends the effective width of the disengagement finger 132 to allow the disengagement finger 132 to disengage the zipper side member. In this embodiment, the disengagement finger 132 can be configured with a narrow width so that the disengagement finger 132 does not have a force pushing outward against the sealing part. Thus, the interaction of the first rib member 310 with the disengagement finger 132 allows the disengagement finger 132 to reach the width required to disengage the sealing part of the zipper side member by a wedging action.

9B illustrates one embodiment of the slider 120 illustrated in FIGS. 4A-6C, including opposing first and second side walls 122, 124 extending from a top wall 130 defining a channel therebetween that can operably receive the double zipper side member illustrated in FIG. 8A. The slider 120 also includes disengagement fingers 132 that engage with first and second rib members 314, 315 of the zipper side member to disengage the zipper side member. Specifically, the first and second rib members 314, 315 extend from the inner surfaces of the respective backing members to a point where the first and second rib members 314, 315 intersect opposing sides of the disengagement fingers 132. The height of the first rib member 314 and the second rib member 315 must exceed the operating range of the zipper side member, so that the first rib member 314 and the second rib member 315 extend the effective width of the disengagement finger 132 to allow the disengagement finger 132 to disengage the zipper side member. In this embodiment, the disengagement finger 132 can still be configured with a narrow width, so that the disengagement finger 132 does not have a force pushing outward against the sealing part. Thus, the interaction of the first rib member 314 and the second rib member 315 with the disengagement finger 132 allows the disengagement finger 132 to reach the width required to disengage the sealing part of the zipper side member by a wedging action.

9C shows the closed end of the double zipper side member shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B. In particular, FIG. 9C shows the interaction of the first deformed rib member 316 and the second deformed rib member 318 with the disengagement finger 132 of the slider 120. As shown in FIG. 9C, at the closed end of the zipper side member, the first deformed rib member 316 and the second deformed rib member 318 extend from the inner surface of the respective backing member to the point where the first deformed rib member 316 and the second deformed rib member 318 intersect with the opposite sides of the disengagement finger 132. However, the height of the first deformed rib member 316 and the second deformed rib member 318 does not exceed the operating range of the zipper side member. Thus, the first deformed rib member 316 and the deformed rib member 318 do not extend the effective width of the disengagement finger 132 that allows the disengagement finger 132 to disengage the lower zipper side member. Because the disengagement fingers 132 are unable to disengage the lower zipper side member through interaction with the first deformed rib member 316 and the deformed rib member 318, the lower zipper side member remains engaged at the closed end of the zipper side member as shown in FIG. 9C. Disabling the wedging action of the disengagement fingers 132 at the closed end of the bag reduces leakage by keeping the lower zipper side member engaged at the closed end of the zipper side member.

10A-12 show an embodiment of a slider 400 including opposing first and second side walls 402, 404 extending from a top wall 401 defining a channel therebetween that can operably receive a double zipper side member, such as the zipper side member of FIG. 7A. The first opposing surface 402 includes an arcuate portion 403 that is filled with a material forming the slider. The second opposing surface 404 also includes a similar arcuate portion that is not shown in FIG. 10A. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10A, the arcuate portion 403 is filled, but alternatively, the arcuate portion 403 may be hollow or partially filled. Additionally, the arcuate portion 403 may be elliptical or egg-shaped, for example as shown in FIG. 10A. However, the specific shape and configuration of the opposing surfaces and/or arcuate portion can be modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention, so that the arcuate portion 403 can be of a different shape, such as, for example, a circle, a rectangle, a square, or any other polygonal shape.

10A and 10B, the slider 400 includes a central projection, such as a disengagement finger 410, extending from the top wall 401 into a channel spaced between the first and second opposing surfaces 402 and 404. The disengagement finger 410 includes a first end 420 and a second end 415, as well as a C-shaped recess 412 near the second end 415 of the disengagement finger 410. The C-shaped recess 412 results in a protrusion 414 on the side of the disengagement finger 410 opposite the C-shaped recess 412. The protrusion 414, also near the second end 415, gently separates the sealing parts of the double zipper side member. Specifically, in a preferred embodiment, the protrusion 414 gently separates the sealing parts of the lower zipper side member of the double zipper side member.

10C-10E show alternative embodiments of the disengagement finger 410 of the slider 400. In particular, FIG. 10C shows a disengagement finger 410 with two C-shaped recesses. As shown in FIG. 10C, the disengagement finger 410 includes the C-shaped recess 412 and opposing protrusions 414 shown in FIG. 10B, along with a second C-shaped recess 418 with opposing protrusions 416 near the second end 415. FIG. 10D shows a disengagement finger 410 with a Y-shaped protrusion with a first portion 422 and a second portion 424 extending from the disengagement finger 410 for separating the sealing parts of the double zipper side member. FIG. 10E shows an additional embodiment of the disengagement finger 410. As shown in FIG. 10E, the disengagement finger 410 includes a curved protrusion 425 resembling a hook shape capable of separating the sealing parts of the double zipper side member. In addition to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A-10E, the disengagement fingers 410 may be of different shapes, as the specific shape and configuration of the disengagement fingers 410 may be varied without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

11 shows one embodiment of the slider 400 shown in Figures 10A and 10B operably engaged on the double zipper side member shown in Figure 7A. As shown in Figure 11, the first sealing piece 300 and the second sealing piece 302 of the upper zipper side member are disposed below the top wall 401 of the slider 400. The disengagement finger 410 is disposed in the area between the first sealing piece 300 and the second sealing piece 302 of the upper zipper side member and between the third sealing piece 304 and the fourth sealing piece 306 of the lower zipper side member. In particular, the second end 415 of the disengagement finger 410 is disposed adjacent the first rib member 310 and the second rib member 312 such that the C-shaped recess 412 and/or protrusion 414 of the disengagement finger 410 interact with the first rib member 310 and the second rib member 312. However, the disengagement finger 410 does not extend to a point between or below the third and fourth sealing pieces 304, 306 of the lower zipper side member. The slider 400 may further include L-shaped shoulder portions 450, 460 that extend below the ridges 340, 350, respectively, of the lower zipper side member to maintain the slider 400 in a straddling relationship with the zipper side members. The first opposing surface 402 of the slider 400 extends from the top wall 401 to the first bottom portion 430, and the second opposing surface 404 of the slider 400 extends from the top wall 401 to the second bottom portion 440. L-shaped shoulders 450, 460 are attached to the first bottom portion 430 and the second bottom portion 440, respectively.

11, when the slider 400 is operatively moved along the zipper side members in an interlocking direction, i.e., toward the closed end, such as by a user sliding, the first closure bar 470 and the second closure bar 480 interlock the first sealing piece 300 and the second sealing piece 302, respectively. The L-shaped shoulders 450, 460 assist in interlocking the third sealing piece 304 and the fourth sealing piece 306. As the slider 400 is operatively moved in a disengagement direction, i.e., toward the open end, the first end 420 of the disengagement finger 410 extends between and disengages the first and second sealing parts 300, 302, and the second end 415 presses outward against the first rib member 310, separating the third and fourth sealing parts 304, 306. As discussed above, the interaction of the first rib member 310 with the disengagement finger 410 allows the disengagement finger 410 to reach the width required to disengage the third and fourth sealing parts 304, 306 of the zipper side members by a wedging action.

12 illustrates one embodiment of the slider 400 illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B operably engaged on the bag illustrated in FIG. 1. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the slider 400 maintains a straddle relationship with the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114, such that the engagement release finger 410 and the C-shaped recess 412 of the engagement release finger 410 are disposed in an area (e.g., an isolation section) between the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, a detent 500 is included at one end of the bag in the isolation section 320 (see, e.g., FIG. 13 ) between the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114. The detent 500 includes a recess that can engage with the C-shaped recess 412 of the engagement release finger 410. The engagement of the C-shaped recess 412 of the disengagement finger 410 with the detent 500 ensures that the C-shaped recess 412 of the disengagement finger 410 is not disposed in an isolated section between the upper and lower zipper side members 112, 114 such that the disengagement finger 410 disengages the lower zipper side member 114 at the end of the bag 100. In this manner, the engagement of the C-shaped recess 412 of the disengagement finger 410 with the detent 500 can provide an end seal to prevent leakage by ensuring that at least the lower zipper side member is fully engaged along the length of the bag. Thus, the detent 500 must be positioned at least a predetermined distance from the lower zipper side member 114 to ensure correct engagement of the C-shaped recess 412 of the disengagement finger 410. In one embodiment, the detent 500 is disposed at least about 60 mils to about 187.5 mils from the lower zipper side member 114. Additionally, in another embodiment, the detent 500 should be within 400 mils of the edge (e.g., 106) of the bag 100 to ensure proper engagement of at least the lower zipper side member 114 at the end of the bag 100. The engagement of the C-shaped recess 412 of the disengagement finger 410 with the detent 500 may further provide a tactile sensation and/or a clicking sound to the user, thus assuring the user that the bag is sealed closed. By further tapering the structure of the C-shaped recess 412 so that it is thinner near the bottom of the recess and thicker at the top of the recess, the engagement of the C-shaped recess 412 with the detent 500 maintains the structural integrity of the disengagement finger 410 while providing the user with the greatest auditory/tactile experience. While this embodiment has a detent 500 on only one end of the bag, the present invention also encompasses detents on either one or both ends of the bag.

13 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a detent 500 included on the bag shown in FIG. 12. As shown in FIG. 13, the detent 500 is disposed on the first isolation section 320 between the first sealing part 300 of the upper zipper side member and the third sealing part 304 of the lower zipper side member, so that the detent 500 partially deforms the first rib member 310 of the double zipper side member shown in FIG. 7A. By way of example, the detent 500 can be molded into the first isolation section 320 of the double zipper side member using a punch and die assembly. Alternatively, the detent 500 can be formed by cutting, cold stomping, ultrasonic stomping, molding, or any other method for deforming a thermoplastic material.

14 illustrates another embodiment of the slider 400 illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B operably engaged on the bag 100 illustrated in FIG. 1. As illustrated in FIG. 14, a plurality of detents 501, 502 are included in the area (e.g., isolation section) between the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114 at both ends of the bag 100. The detents 501, 502 include recesses that can engage with the C-shaped recesses 412 of the disengagement fingers 410. Additionally, the detents 501, 502 can provide a holding spot for the user while the user is sliding the slider 400 in either direction on the zipper side member of the bag 100. In particular, the detents 501, 502 can include various convexities, whereby one of the detents in the plurality of detents 501 can be a convex one that engages with the C-shaped recesses 412 of the disengagement fingers 410. However, other detents of the plurality of detents 501, 502 may be of opposing convexity, so that they do not engage with the C-shaped recess 412 of the disengagement finger 410, but provide a holding spot for the user when sliding the slider 400 over the bag 100. As discussed above, the engagement of the C-shaped recess 412 of the disengagement finger 410 with one of the detents in the plurality of detents 501 may provide an effective end seal, as well as a tactile sensation and/or a clicking sound to the user, thus reassuring the user that the bag is sealed closed. While this embodiment has three detents 501, 502 on both ends of the bag, the invention also encompasses any number of detents on either one or both ends of the bag. As discussed above, the detents 501, 502 may be formed using a punch and die assembly. Alternatively, the detents 501, 502 may be formed by cutting, ultrasonic stomping, molding, or any other method for deforming a thermoplastic material.

15A shows another embodiment of a double zipper side member. In this embodiment, the upper zipper side member includes a first sealing part 600 and a second sealing part 602, and the lower zipper side member includes a third sealing part 604 and a fourth sealing part 606. The first sealing part 600 and the third sealing part 604 are provided on a first backing member 620, and the second sealing part 602 and the fourth sealing part 606 are provided on an opposing second backing member 630. In one embodiment, the backing members 620, 630 are connected to the top edges of the side walls 102, 104, respectively, and in another embodiment, the backing members 620, 630 are simply extensions or portions of the side walls 102, 104. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 15A, the first sealing part 600 and the fourth sealing part 606 have a convex double hook arrow-shaped interlocking side member profile, and the second sealing part 602 and the third sealing part 604 have a concave C-shaped interlocking side member profile. However, the specific shapes and configurations of the individual sealing parts 600, 602, 604 and 606 can be modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 15A, the zipper side member further includes a first retaining member 610 and a second retaining member 612. The first retaining member 610 is disposed on an inner surface of the first backing member 620 and between the first sealing piece 600 and the third sealing piece 604, and the second retaining member 612 is disposed on an inner surface of the second backing member 630 and between the second sealing piece 602 and the fourth sealing piece 606. The first retaining member 610 and the second retaining member 612 are configured to retain a slider operably engaged on the double zipper side member, for example, by engagement with disengagement fingers provided on the slider, as shown in FIG. 15C.

15B illustrates one embodiment of a slider 700 operably engaged on another embodiment of a bag 650. The bag 650 of this embodiment also includes an upper zipper side member 660 and a lower zipper side member 670. As shown in FIG. 15B, the slider 700 includes a disengagement finger 710 (as shown in FIGS. 15C and 15D) having a protrusion 712 at an open end 705 of the slider 700 and a tail portion 720 at a closed end 706 of the slider 700. The slider 700 maintains a straddled relationship with the upper zipper side member 660 and the lower zipper side member 670 such that the protrusion 712 and the tail portion 720 of the disengagement finger 710 are disposed between the upper zipper side member 660 and the lower zipper side member 670.

15C shows a cross-sectional view of the slider 700 on the double zipper side member of FIG. 15A at the open end 705 of the slider 700. The slider 700 includes opposing first and second side walls 702 and 704 extending from a top wall 701 defining a channel therebetween that can operably receive the double zipper side member shown in FIG. 15A. The slider 700 also includes a disengagement finger 710 that extends from the top wall 701 of the slider 700 to a protrusion 712. The protrusion 712 of the disengagement finger 710 includes a first hook member 714 and a second hook member 715. The first hook member 714 and the second hook member 715 of the protrusion 712 interact with the first retention member 610 and the second retention member 612 of the double zipper side member to provide vertical retention of the slider.

15D shows a cross-sectional view of the slider 700 on the double zipper side member shown in FIG. 15A at the closed end 706 of the slider 700. The slider disengagement finger 710 includes a tail portion 720 at the closed end 706 of the slider 700. The tail portion 720 of the disengagement finger 710 includes a first hook member 724 and a second hook member 725. The first hook member 724 and the second hook member 725 of the tail portion 720 interact with the first retaining member 610 and the second retaining member 612 of the double zipper side member to provide vertical retention of the slider. By providing a set of hooks on both the open end 705 and the closed end 706 of the slider 700 that engage with the first retaining member 610 and the second retaining member 612 provided on the double zipper side member, the force required to remove the slider 700 from the bag can be increased.

16 shows another embodiment of a slider 800 operably engaged on the bag 100 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 16, the slider 800 maintains a straddle relationship with the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114 of the bag 100. The slider 800 of this embodiment is designed to simultaneously open and close the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114 in the same vertical plane. In particular, the slider 800 includes a disengagement finger 802 and a closure bar 804, both of which extend vertically from the top wall 801 of the slider 800. The disengagement finger 802 is vertically disposed, such that the disengagement finger 802 simultaneously opens the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114 in the same vertical plane. The closure bar 804 is also arranged vertically, so that the closure bar 804 simultaneously closes the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114 in the same vertical plane. The vertical orientation of both the disengagement finger 802 and the closure bar 804 allows for a simplified molding process. Furthermore, the disengagement finger 802 and the closure bar 804 extend vertically from the top wall 801 of the slider 800 to the bottom of the slider 800, so that the opening and closing functions are guaranteed even if there are positional variations of the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114, respectively, within the slider. Also, the horizontal distance between the disengagement finger 802 and the closure bar 804 can be expanded to achieve a more gentle spreading action to minimize deformation caused by creep.

17A and 17B show further embodiments of sliders 900 and 1000, respectively, operably engaged on the bag 100 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, the sliders 900 and 1000 maintain a straddle relationship with the upper and lower zipper side members 112 and 114 of the bag 100. The sliders 900 and 1000 of these embodiments are designed to provide offset opening and closing of the upper and lower zipper side members 112 and 114. Offset opening and closing of the zipper side members indicates that the opening and closing of the upper and lower zipper side members 112 and 114 occurs at different times along the same vertical plane or simultaneously in different vertical planes. By utilizing a slider configured to open and close the double zipper side members in an offset fashion, vertical slider retention can be improved, leakage from the bag can be reduced, slider stability can be increased, and the sequence of opening and closing the upper and lower zipper side members can be controlled.

17A is configured to sequentially open and close the zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114. In particular, the slider 900 includes a vertical disengagement finger 902 that extends vertically from a top wall 901 of the slider 900 to a horizontal disengagement finger 903 attached to a bottom end of the vertical disengagement finger 902. The vertical disengagement finger 902 and the horizontal disengagement finger 903 form an L-shaped configuration that allows the horizontal disengagement finger 903 to open the lower zipper side member 114 before the upper zipper side member 112. In particular, as the slider 900 moves toward the open end or right side of the bag 100, the horizontal disengagement finger 903 disengages the sealing part of the lower zipper side member 114 before the vertical disengagement finger 902 disengages the sealing part of the upper zipper side member 112. The horizontal disengagement finger 903 may be configured to penetrate only the upper zipper side member 112 and thus be disposed between the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114. In such a configuration, the horizontal disengagement finger 903 may include a convex portion (as shown in Figures 10A and 10B) or a C-shaped concave portion to open the lower zipper side member 114. Alternatively, a first rib member and/or a second rib member (as shown in FIGS. 7A and 8A ) can be included between the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114 to interact with the horizontal disengagement finger 903 and assist in disengaging the lower zipper side member 114.

The slider 900 of FIG. 17A further includes an upper closure bar 904 and a lower closure bar 905. The upper closure bar 904 is disposed on the upper zipper side member 112 to close the upper zipper side member 112, and the lower closure bar 905 is disposed on the lower zipper side member 114 to close the lower zipper side member 114. As shown in FIG. 17A, the upper closure bar 904 is horizontally spaced from the lower closure bar 905 to allow offset closure of the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114. In particular, as the slider 900 moves toward the closed end or left side of the bag 100, the upper closure bar 904 engages the sealing component of the upper zipper side member 112 before the lower closure bar 905 engages the sealing component of the lower zipper side member 114.

The slider 1000 of FIG. 17B is configured to sequentially open and close the zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114. In particular, the slider 1000 includes a vertical disengagement finger 1002 that extends vertically from a top wall 1001 of the slider 1000 to a horizontal disengagement finger 1003 attached to a bottom end of the vertical disengagement finger 902. Similar to the slider 900, the vertical disengagement finger 1002 and the horizontal disengagement finger 1003 of the slider 1000 form an L-shaped configuration. However, the horizontal disengagement finger 1003 of the slider 1000 is disposed between the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114. Additionally, the vertical disengagement fingers 1002 are wider along a portion disposed adjacent the upper zipper side member 112 and narrower along a portion disposed adjacent the lower zipper side member 114. The configuration of the vertical disengagement fingers 1002 allows the vertical disengagement fingers 1002 to open the upper zipper side member 112 before the lower zipper side member 114. In particular, as the slider 1000 moves toward the open end or right side of the bag 100, the horizontal disengagement fingers 1002 disengage the sealing part of the upper zipper side member 112 before the horizontal disengagement fingers 1003 disengage the sealing part of the lower zipper side member 113.

The slider 1000 of FIG. 17B further includes an upper closure bar 1004 and a lower closure bar 1005. The upper closure bar 1004 is disposed on the upper zipper side member 112 to close the upper zipper side member 112, and the lower closure bar 1005 is disposed on the lower zipper side member 114 to close the lower zipper side member 114. As shown in FIG. 17B, the upper closure bar 1004 is horizontally spaced from the lower closure bar 1005 to allow offset closure of the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114. In particular, as the slider 1000 moves toward the closed end or left side of the bag 100, the lower closure bar 1005 engages the sealing components of the lower zipper side member 114 before the upper closure bar 904 engages the sealing components of the upper zipper side member 112. Although the closure bars of sliders 900 and 1000 in FIGS. 17A and 17B are shown as two separate pieces of material disposed on the respective zipper side members, the closure bar may alternatively be a single triangular shaped closure bar disposed in position to close the upper zipper side member 112 first or the lower zipper side member 114 first. Additionally, the specific shapes and/or configurations of the disengagement fingers and closure bar may be modified to provide the desired sequential opening and closing of the sealing components of the double zipper side members without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

18A and 18B show further embodiments of sliders 2000 and 3000, respectively, operably engaged on the bag 100 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B, the sliders 2000 and 3000 maintain a straddle relationship with the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114 of the bag 100. The sliders 2000 and 3000 of these embodiments are designed to provide multi-level slider retention on a bag 100 having double zipper side members. Specifically, the slider 2000 of FIG. 18A includes a first opposing side wall 2002 and a second opposing side wall 2004 extending from a top wall, defining a channel therebetween that can operably receive a double zipper side member, such as the zipper side members 112, 114. The slider 2000 shown in Figure 18A further includes upper and lower retaining members 2010 and 2012 on the interior surface of the second opposing sidewall 2004, which respectively underlie the upper and lower zipper side members 112 and 114. The first opposing sidewall 2002 also includes similar upper and lower retaining members not shown in Figure 18A. The upper and lower retaining members 2010 and 2012 provide two levels of slider retention, thus increasing the vertical retention of the slider 2000 on the bag 100 and preventing the slider 2000 from pulling away from the zipper side members and rendering the bag 100 inoperable. The slider 2000 may further include end stops 2020 at one or both ends of the zipper side member that engage the slider 2000 and prevent the slider 2000 from falling off the end of the zipper side member, such as by including a detent mechanism that clips onto a disengagement finger of the slider 2000.

The slider 3000 of FIG. 18B also includes a first opposing sidewall 3002 and a second opposing sidewall 3004 extending from the top wall defining a channel therebetween that can operably receive a double zipper side member, such as zipper side members 112, 114. The slider 3000 shown in FIG. 18B further includes an upper retention foot 3010 and a lower retention foot 3012 on the interior surface of the second opposing sidewall 3004, which respectively underlie the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114. The first opposing sidewall 3002 also includes similar upper and lower retention feet that are not shown in FIG. 18B. The upper retention foot 3010 and the lower retention foot 3012 provide two levels of slider retention, thus increasing vertical retention of the slider 3000 on the bag 100 and preventing the slider 3000 from being pulled away from the zipper side members and rendering the bag 100 inoperable. The upper retention foot 3010 and the lower retention foot 3012 can each include multiple retention feet disposed along the interior surface of the respective opposed side walls. Alternatively, the upper retention foot 3010 and the lower retention foot 3012 can each include a single retention foot extending along a portion or the entire length of the interior surface of the respective opposed side walls of the slider 3000. The slider 3000 may further include end stops 3020 at one or both ends of the zipper side member that engage the slider 3000 and prevent the slider 3000 from falling off the end of the upper zipper side member 112, such as by including a detent mechanism that clips onto a disengagement finger of the slider 3000.

19 and 20 are diagrams of a bag 100' according to another embodiment of the present invention. The bag 100' includes a first side wall 102' and a second side wall 104'. The first side wall 102' and the second side wall 104' are connected along edges 106' and 108', and the first side wall 102' and the second side wall 104' are also connected at a bottom edge 110' of the bag 100. An opening 103' to the interior of the bag 100' is formed adjacent an edge 116' defined by zipper side members 112' and 114', as described below. The first side wall 102' and the second side wall 104' can be made of a substantially transparent plastic, such as the plastics described below, thereby allowing the contents of the interior of the bag to be easily determined. Alternatively, the first sidewall 102' and the second sidewall 104' can be made of a substantially opaque or completely opaque material.

As also shown in Figures 19 and 20, the slider 120' operably engages the zipper side members 112' and 114' to open and close the opening 103' to the bag 100'. Sliding the slider 120' toward the closed end (e.g., the left side of the bag 100' in Figure 19) closes the opening 103' by bringing the opposing side walls 102', 104' together and interlocking the zipper side members 112', 114'. Sliding the slider 120' toward the open end (e.g., the right side of the bag 100' in Figure 19) opens the opening 103' by moving the opposing side walls 102', 104' apart and disengaging the zipper side members 112', 114'. As shown in FIG. 20, one or both of the closed and open ends of the bag 100' may include at least one end stop 105' or side weld to prevent the slider 120' from disengaging from the ends of the zipper side members 112', 114'.

As shown in FIG. 21, one embodiment of a double zipper side member that may be included in the bag of FIG. 19 includes an upper zipper side member 112' having a first sealing part 200' and a second sealing part 202' and a lower zipper side member 114' having a third sealing part 204' and a fourth sealing part 206'. The first sealing part 200' and the third sealing part 204' are provided on a first backing member 210', and the second sealing part 202' and the fourth sealing part 206' are provided on an opposing second backing member 212'. The backing members 210' and 212' are substantially similar to those of the double zipper side member embodiment of FIG. 3A. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 21, the first sealing part 200' and the fourth sealing part 206' have concave C-shaped interlocking side members, the second sealing part 202' has convex double hook arrow-shaped interlocking side members, and the third sealing part 204' has convex single hook arrow-shaped interlocking side members. In one embodiment, the distance that each of the first sealing piece 200', second sealing piece 202', third sealing piece 204', and fourth sealing piece 206' extends from the respective backing strip 210', 212' to the distal end of the respective sealing piece is within the range of about 25 mils to about 40 mils, with a preferred distance for the first sealing piece 200' and second sealing piece 202' of the upper zipper side member 112' being about 28 mils and for the third sealing piece 204' and fourth sealing piece 206' of the lower zipper side member 114' being about 32 mils. Additionally, the portion of the backing strip 210', 212' behind each of the sealing pieces preferably has a thickness of about 5 mils to about 15 mils, or more preferably about 10 mils. Thus, in the interlocking position, the preferred range for the total thickness of both the interlocked sealing parts and the portion of the backing strip 210', 212' behind each interlocked sealing part is about 45 mils to about 75 mils, or more preferably about 50 mils to about 58 mils for each of the interlocked upper zipper side member 112' and the interlocked lower zipper side member 114'. In other words, in the interlocking position, the distance between the interlocked sealing parts from the back surface of the backing strip 210' to the opposite back surface of the backing strip 212' is about 45 mils to about 55 mils, or more preferably about 50 mils for the interlocked upper zipper side member 112' and about 52 mils for the interlocked lower zipper side member 114'.

The double zipper side member shown in FIG. 21 also includes a first isolation section 220' and a second isolation section 230' that are substantially the same as those of the embodiment of the double zipper side member of FIG. 3A. Thus, similar to the embodiment of FIG. 3A, the first isolation section 220' and the second isolation section 230' of FIG. 21 are provided so that the opening of the upper zipper side member 112' by the slider does not affect the opening of the lower zipper side member 114' by the slider, or vice versa. Furthermore, similar to the embodiment of FIG. 3A, the first isolation section 220' and the second isolation section 230' can be thinner than the zipper side members 112', 114'. By making the cross-section of the first isolation section 220' and the second isolation section 230' thinner than the cross-section of the sealing parts of the zipper side members 112', 114', the first isolation section 220' and the second isolation section 230' provide flexibility to the backbone of the double zipper side member. 3A embodiment, at a center-to-center spacing of approximately 200 mils between the sealing pieces of the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114', the thickness of the first and second isolation sections 220', 230' being less than 20 mils provides sufficient isolation such that any leverage applied by the disengagement fingers to the first and second sealing pieces 200', 202' of the upper zipper side member 112' is insufficient to open the third and fourth sealing pieces 204', 206' of the lower zipper side member 114'. In particular, the thickness of the first and second isolation sections 220', 230' may be approximately 1 mil to 15 mils, or more preferably 5 mil to 10 mils. Additionally, the first isolation section 220' may have a different thickness than the second isolation section 230'. For example, the first isolation section 220' may be approximately 15 mils thick and the second isolation section 230' may be approximately 5 mils thick, or vice versa. However, one skilled in the art will recognize that the specific thicknesses and/or tolerances of the first isolation section 220' and the second isolation section 230' may be varied without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

In the embodiment of FIG. 21, the length of the isolation sections 220', 230' is preferably about 190 to about 210 mils, or more preferably about 200 mils, with respect to the center-to-center spacing or distance between the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114'. However, the length of the isolation sections 220', 230', or the center-to-center spacing between the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114', can be greater than 200 mils, for example, up to about 350 mils, or from about 280 mils to about 300 mils. In this regard, a distance between the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114' of about 190 mils to about 210 mils allows for effective positioning of the slider 120' relative to the profiles 112', 114' using a separation mechanism described in more detail below. Additionally, the slider 120' is designed to function with the various profile dimensions discussed above, and thus the position and function of the slider is set by the design and dimensions of the profiles 112', 114'.

In the double zipper side member embodiment of Figure 21, a first closure part 200' is configured with upper hooks 200A' and lower hooks 200B' that are substantially the same as those in the embodiment shown in Figures 3B and 3C, and a second closure part 202' includes upper hooks 202A' and lower hooks 202B' that are substantially the same as those in the embodiment shown in Figures 3B and 3C. Thus, similar to the embodiment of Figures 3B and 3C, the upper hooks 200A', 202A' are configured with aggressive hooking angles (e.g., θ _A , θ _B in Figures 3B and 3C, respectively) to provide a high external opening force. The upper hooks 200A', 202A' in the embodiment of Figure 21 are preferably angled at 30 to 90 degrees, or more preferably at 40 to 90 degrees, 50 to 90 degrees, or 50 to 85 degrees, or most preferably at 60 to 80 degrees, relative to the portion of the sealing part to which the hooks are attached. By also providing the upper hooks 200A', 202A' at a steep angle, the upper hooks 200A' of the first sealing part 200' aggressively mate or engage with the upper hooks 202A' of the second sealing part 202'. The aggressive mating of the upper hooks 200A', 202A' relative to one another causes the upper hooks 200A', 202A' to stick together when an external opening force is applied to the upper hooks 200A', 202A', i.e., when a user attempts to pull open the opening 103' of the bag 100' along the top edge 116'. Similar to the embodiment of Figures 3B and 3C, the lower hooks 200B', 202B' of Figure 21 are configured to have a less aggressive or steeper hooking angle (e.g., θ C , θ D in Figures 3B and 3C, respectively) to provide easier internal opening (e.g., opening between the zipper side members) of the closure components 200', 202' by the slider, since a lower internal opening force between the zipper side members is required to open these hooks _200B ', _202B '. For example, the lower hooks 200B', 202B' are preferably at an angle of 90 degrees to 180 degrees, or more preferably at an angle of 100 degrees to 180 degrees, or most preferably at an angle of 110 degrees to 180 degrees, relative to the portion of the sealing part to which the hooks are attached. Thus, the lower hooks 200B' of the first sealing part 200' weakly mate or engage with the lower hooks 202B' of the second sealing part 202'. Alternatively, if desired, the lower hooks 202B' of the second sealing part 202' and/or the lower hooks 200B' of the first sealing part 200' may be partially or completely removed.

With respect to the sealing parts of the lower zipper side member 114' of Figure 21, the third sealing part 204' includes a lower hook 204B' that is substantially similar to the lower hook 204B of the embodiment shown in Figures 3D and 3E along with a non-hook portion 204A', and the fourth sealing part 206' includes both an upper hook 206A' and a lower hook 206B' that are substantially similar to those of the embodiment shown in Figures 3D and 3E. In contrast to the sealing parts of the upper zipper side member 112', the non-hook portion 204A' of the third sealing part 204' and the upper hook 206A' of the fourth sealing part 206' are configured to have less aggressive or steep hooking angles (e.g., θ _F , θ _E of Figures 3D and 3E, respectively) to provide easier opening by the slider. For example, the non-hook portion 204A' is formed without hooks or has hooks removed entirely, while the upper hooks 206A' are preferably at an angle of 90 to 180 degrees, or more preferably at an angle of 100 to 180 degrees, or most preferably at an angle of 110 to 180 degrees, relative to the portion of the sealing part to which the hooks 206A' are attached. Thus, the non-hook portion 204A' of the third sealing part 204' weakly mates or engages with the upper hooks 206A' of the fourth sealing part 206'. Alternatively, if desired, the upper hooks 206A' of the fourth sealing part 206' may be partially or completely removed. However, the lower hooks 204B', 206B' of the lower sealing piece 114' of Figure 21 are configured with aggressive hooking angles (e.g., θ _G , θ _H of Figures 3D and 3E, respectively) to provide high imperforate burst strength, similar to the embodiment of Figures 3D and 3E. As discussed above, an aggressive hooking angle means that the hooks are formed at a steep angle, and thus, for example, form an acute angle with respect to the portion of the sealing piece to which they are attached. The lower hooks 204B', 206B' preferably form an angle of 30 to 90 degrees, or more preferably an angle of 40 to 90 degrees, 50 to 90 degrees, or 50 to 85 degrees, or most preferably an angle of 60 to 80 degrees with respect to the portion of the sealing piece to which they are attached. By providing the lower hooks 204B', 206B' at a steep angle, the lower hooks 206B' of the third sealing part 204' aggressively mate or engage with the lower hooks 206B' of the fourth sealing part 206'. The aggressive mating of the lower hooks 204B', 206B' relative to one another causes the lower hooks 204B', 206B' to stick together and thus apply an opening force to the lower hooks 204B', 206B' when an opening force is applied to the lower hooks 204B', 206B', i.e., when the contents in the bag 100' are pulled down or pushed out of the side walls 102', 104' of the bag 100'.

3A-3E, the upper hooks 200A', 202A' of the upper zipper side member 112' of FIG. 21 and the lower hooks 204B', 206B' of the lower zipper side member 114' of FIG. 21 are configured to mate aggressively, such that a higher external opening force is required to pull open the hooks along the opening 103' of the bag 100', i.e., 200A' and 202A', or to pull open the hooks along the interior of the bag 100', i.e., 204B' and 206B'. However, because the hooks of the upper zipper side member 112', i.e., 200B' and 202B', and the hook and non-hook portions of the lower zipper side member 114', i.e., 206A' and 204A', are configured to be weakly mated, less internal opening force is required to open the hooks between the upper zipper side member 112' and of the lower zipper side member 114' in FIG. 21. Thus, the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114' shown in FIG. 21 open from the inside out, similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 3A-3C, i.e., the internal hooks and/or non-hook portions of the zipper side members, i.e., 200B', 202B', 206A' and 204A', disengage before the external hooks 200A', 202A', 204B' and 206B' of the zipper side members disengage.

21, the upper hooks 200A' and 202A' of the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower hooks 204B' and 206B' of the lower zipper side member 114' mate aggressively. This then requires a higher external opening force or burst strength to open these hooks, thereby providing a stronger, more leak-resistant seal along the opening of the bag as well as along the interior of the bag. Thus, a user cannot pull apart the opening 103' of the bag 100' without significant force, and the contents of the bag cannot pull apart the lower hooks 204B', 206B' along the interior of the bag without high burst strength. In contrast, the lower hooks 200B' and 202B' of the upper zipper side member 112' and the upper hooks 206A' and non-hook portions 204A' of the lower zipper side member 114' are configured to mate weakly. Thus, the internal opening force or burst strength required to open these hooks is lower, which allows a slider with disengagement fingers to easily disengage the internal hooks when the user slides the slider in the opening direction, as discussed in more detail below.

3A, the backing members 210', 212' may be connected to the top edges of the side walls 102', 104', respectively, or the backing members 210', 212' may simply be an extension or part of the side walls 102', 104'. In this regard, FIGS. 22A-22F show various embodiments for connecting the double zipper side members shown in FIG. 21 to the side walls 102', 104' of the bag 100'. Specifically, in FIG. 22A, the side wall 104' of the bag 100' is connected to at least a portion of the upper zipper side member 112' behind the first sealing piece 200' using a hot bar lamination 240, and the side wall 102' of the bag 100' is connected to at least a portion of the lower zipper side member 114' behind the fourth sealing piece 206' using a hot bar lamination 240. Alternatively, in the embodiment of Figure 22B, hot bar lamination 240 is used to connect side walls 102', 104' of bag 100' to at least a portion of lower zipper side member 114' that is below third sealing piece 204' and fourth sealing piece 206', respectively. In the embodiment of Figure 22C, side wall 104' of bag 100' is connected to at least a portion of upper zipper side member 112' that is behind first sealing piece 200' via a connection mechanism 250 (e.g., hot melt glue strip, contact adhesive, or heat weld) disposed between side wall 104' and at least a portion of upper zipper side member 112'. The side wall 102' of the bag 100' is connected to at least a portion of the lower zipper side member 114' behind the fourth sealing piece 206' via a connection mechanism 250 (e.g., hot melt glue strips, contact adhesive, or heat welding) disposed between the side wall 102' and at least a portion of the lower zipper side member 114'. Alternatively, in the embodiment of FIG. 22D, the connection mechanism 250 is used to connect the side walls 102', 104' of the bag 100' to at least a portion of the lower zipper side member 114' at or below the third sealing piece 204' and the fourth sealing piece 206', respectively. However, the specific shape and configuration of the first connection mechanism 250 of FIGS. 22C and 22D may be modified without departing from the spirit of the invention and may include other types of connection mechanisms feasible for connecting the zipper side member(s) to the side walls, including, for example, hot melt glue strips, contact adhesive, heat welding, and the like. In the embodiment of Figures 22E and 22F, the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114' include a first sealing part 200'', a second sealing part 202'', a third sealing part 204'' and a fourth sealing part 206'', which are flangeless, i.e., not attached to a backing strip (e.g., 210', 212'). In this regard, the first sealing part 200'' includes a base member 200A'', the second sealing part 202'' includes a base member 202A'', the third sealing part 204'' includes a base member 204A'', and the fourth sealing part 206'' includes a base member 206A''. In the embodiment of FIG. 22E, the base member 200A'' of the first sealing part 200'' and the base member 202A'' of the second sealing part 202'' of the upper zipper side member 112', and the base member 204A'' of the third sealing part 204'' and the base member 206A'' of the fourth sealing part 206'' of the lower zipper side member 114' are attached directly to the side walls 102', 104' of the bag 100'. Thus, no connecting mechanism or lamination is required in the embodiment of FIG. 22E. In the embodiment of FIG. 22F, the base member 202A'' of the second sealing part 202'' of the upper zipper side member 112' and the base member 206A'' of the fourth sealing part 206'' of the lower zipper side member 114' are attached directly to the side wall 102 of the bag 100', similar to the embodiment of FIG. 22E. However, the base member 200A'' of the first sealing part 200'' of the upper zipper side member 112' and the base member 204A'' of the third sealing part 204'' of the lower zipper side member 114' are attached directly to the film layer 265, which is attached to the side wall 104 of the bag 100' via a connection mechanism 260 (e.g., a hot melt glue strip, a contact adhesive, or a heat weld) disposed between the side wall 104' and at least a portion of the film layer 265. The film layer 265 is either an additional film layer prepared for attaching the profile to the side wall 104' of the bag 100' or a portion of the side wall 104' that has been completely or partially detached from the remainder of the side wall 104'. Alternatively, the film layer 265 may comprise a portion of the side wall 104 that is folded over the top edge 116' of the bag 100'. In the embodiments of Figures 22A-22F, no extended backing strips (e.g., 210', 212') beneath the lower zipper side member 114'' are required to attach the upper and lower zipper side members 112', 114' to the side walls 102', 104' of the bag 100'. Additionally, in the embodiments of Figures 22E and 22F, no backing strips of any type are required to attach the upper and lower zipper side members 112', 114' to the side walls 102', 104' of the bag 100'. However, each of these embodiments provides a means of attaching the zipper side members 112', 114' to the side walls 102', 104' of the bag 100' that provides greater seal strength while reducing the amount of material (e.g., plastic) required to create the zipper side members 112', 114'. For example, it is possible to provide a sealing strength that allows for the various burst strengths described above.

FIG. 23 illustrates one embodiment of a slider 120' that can be placed on the bag 100' of FIGS. 19 and 20. In this embodiment, the slider 120' includes a first opposing side wall 402' and a second opposing side wall 404' extending from a top wall 401' defining a channel therebetween that can operably receive a double zipper side member, such as the zipper side member of FIG. 21. The first opposing side 402' includes an arcuate portion 403' that is filled with a material that forms the slider. The second opposing side 404' also includes a similar arcuate portion that is not shown in FIG. 23. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 23, the arcuate portion 403' is filled, but alternatively, the arcuate portion 403 may be hollow or partially filled. Additionally, the arcuate portion 403' may be elliptical or egg-shaped, for example, as shown in FIG. 23. However, the specific shape and configuration of the opposing surfaces and/or arcuate portions may be modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention, so that the arcuate portions 403' may be of different shapes, such as, for example, circular, rectangular, square, or any other polygonal shape.

23 and 24, the slider 120' includes a support member 410' extending from the top wall 401' into a channel spaced between the first and second opposing surfaces 402' and 404'. The support member 410' includes a second zipper side member opening member 426 at a distal end of the support member 410'. The second zipper side member opening member 426 includes a first shoulder member 426A and a second shoulder member 426B (not shown) that extend perpendicular to the direction of slider movement along the zipper side member. The first shoulder member 426A and the second shoulder member 426B preferably include arcuate members that extend toward the third sealing component 204' and the fourth sealing component 206', respectively. The first shoulder member 426A and the second shoulder member 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 allow the distal end of the support member 410' to reach the width necessary to disengage the third sealing part 204' and the fourth sealing part 206' by a wedging action. In this embodiment, the second zipper side member opening member 426 preferably has a width (i.e., from an edge of the first shoulder member 426A to an edge of the second shoulder member 426B) of about 40 mils to about 160 mils, more preferably about 70 mils to about 128 mils, to effectively disengage the sealing parts of the lower zipper side member having the thickness described above and the center-to-center spacing from the upper zipper side member as described above. As shown in Figures 24 and 25, the support member 410 also includes a retaining member 428A that assists in retaining the slider on the zipper side member so that the user cannot simply pull the slider vertically out of the bag. The support member 410' preferably includes a similar retaining member (e.g., 428B) on the opposite side of the retaining member 428A, which is not shown in Figures 24 and 25.

24 and 25, the slider 120' also includes a zipper side member opening member 427 extending from the top wall 401' of the slider 120'. The first zipper side member opening member 427 extends vertically downward from the top wall 401' of the slider 120', and an extension member 427A is attached to the first zipper side member opening member 427 and extends parallel to the slider movement direction. The first zipper side member opening member 427 is configured to open only the first sealing part 200' and the second sealing part 202' by a wedging action. The extension member 427A is disposed in the area between the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114' (see, for example, FIG. 25), whereby the extension member 427A is configured to act as a retaining means. The extension member 427A also includes a retaining member 429, so that the retaining member 429, as well as the extension member 427A itself, assist in retaining the slider on the zipper side member so that the user cannot simply pull the slider vertically off the bag. The extension member 427A preferably includes a similar retaining member on the opposite side of the retaining member 429, which is not shown in Figures 24 and 25. As discussed above, the retaining member(s) 428A of the support member 410' and the extension member 427A and the retaining member(s) 429 of the extension member 427A assist in retaining the slider on the zipper side member. With respect to the slider 120' of Figures 23-25, the first zipper side member opening member 427 is attached directly to the top wall 401' of the slider 210' and the second zipper side member opening member 426 is attached to the support member 410' which is in turn attached to the top wall 401' of the slider 120' such that the slider 120' is constructed with a support member 410' having two separate members or disengagement fingers, namely the first zipper side member opening member 427 and the second zipper side member opening member 426. Alternatively, both the first zipper side member opening member 427 and the second zipper side member opening member 426 can each be attached to the support member 410' to create a unitary disengagement finger or separation mechanism constructed from a single member. Additionally, although the embodiment of the slider 120' in Figures 23-25 shows the support member 410' and the second zipper side member opening member 426 extending to an area outside the first opposing surface 402' and the second opposing surface 404', alternatively, the support member 410' and the second zipper side member opening member 426 can be disposed entirely within the first opposing surface 402' and the second opposing surface 404' of the slider 120'.

25 and 26 show an embodiment of the slider 120', support member 410', first zipper side member opening member 427', and second zipper side member opening member 426' shown in Figs. 23 and 24 operably engaged on the double zipper side member shown in Fig. 21. As shown in Fig. 25, the slider 120' is disposed on the bag 100' and maintains a straddling relationship with the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114', so that at least the second zipper side member opening member 426 is disposed in the area between the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114'. In the embodiment of Fig. 25, the first opposing surface 404' of the slider 120' has been removed to clearly illustrate the location of the support member 410', the first zipper side member opening member 427' and the second zipper side member opening member 426' on the bag 100'. As shown in Fig. 26, the first sealing piece 200' and the second sealing piece 202' of the upper zipper side member are disposed below the top wall 401' of the slider 120'. The support member 410' extending from the top wall 401' of the slider 120' is disposed in the area between the first sealing piece 200' and the second sealing piece 202' of the upper zipper side member 112' and between the third sealing piece 204' and the fourth sealing piece 206' of the lower zipper side member 114'. In particular, the second zipper side member opening member 426 of the support member 410' is disposed in the area between the first sealing part 200' and the second sealing part 202' of the upper zipper side member 112' and the third sealing part 204' and the fourth sealing part 206' of the lower zipper side member 114, i.e., the second zipper side member opening member 426 is disposed between the first isolation section 220' and the second isolation section 230'. By disposing the second zipper side member opening member 426 in this manner, the first shoulder member 426A and the second shoulder member 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 interact with the third sealing part 204' and the fourth sealing part 206' of the lower zipper side member by pressing against a portion of the first isolation section 220' and the second isolation section 230'. However, the support member 410' and the second zipper side member opening member 426 do not extend to a point between or below the third sealing part 204' and the fourth sealing part 206 of the lower zipper side member. The slider 120' may further include L-shaped shoulders 450', 460' that extend below the lower zipper side member to maintain the slider 120' in a straddling relationship with the zipper side member. The first opposing surface 402' of the slider 120' extends from the top wall 401' to the first bottom portion 430', and the second opposing surface 404' of the slider 120' extends from the top wall 401' to the second bottom portion 440'. The L-shaped shoulders 450', 460' are attached to the first bottom portion 430' and the second bottom portion 440', respectively.

25 and 26, when the slider 120' is operatively moved along the zipper side members in an interlocking direction, i.e., from right to left in FIG. 25, such as by a user sliding, the first closure bar 470' and the second closure bar 480' interlock the first sealing piece 200' and the second sealing piece 202', respectively. The L-shaped shoulders 450', 460' assist in interlocking the third sealing piece 204' and the fourth sealing piece 206'. When the slider 120' is operatively moved in a disengagement direction, i.e., from left to right in Figure 25, the first zipper side member opening member 427 expands between the first and second sealing parts 200', 202' of the upper zipper side member 112', wedging them together and thereby disengaging them, although the extension member 427A and the retaining member(s) 429 included to assist in retaining the slider on the zipper side members are configured not to interact with or disengage the upper zipper side member 112' or the lower zipper side member 114'. Thereafter, the first and second shoulder members 426A, 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426, which pulls back the first zipper side member opening member 427 in the disengaging direction, disengage the third and fourth sealing parts 204', 206' of the lower zipper side member 112 by pressing outwardly against a portion of the first and second isolation sections 220', 230', thereby moving the third and fourth sealing parts 204', 206' apart. As discussed above, the first and second shoulder members 426A, 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 allow the distal end of the support member 410' to reach the width required to disengage the third and fourth sealing parts 204', 206' by a wedging action. Additionally, as the first and second shoulder members 426A, 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 press outward against a portion of the first and second isolation sections 220', 230', the non-hook portion 204A' of the third sealing part 204' disengages the upper hook 206A'' of the fourth sealing part 206' due to the configuration of engagement between the non-hook portion 204A' of the third sealing part 204' and the upper hook 206A'' of the fourth sealing part 206' (see, for example, FIG. 21). However, the retaining members 428A, 428B included on the support member 410' to assist in retaining the slider on the zipper side members are configured not to interact with or disengage the upper zipper side member 112' or the lower zipper side member 114'.

27 illustrates one embodiment of the slider 120' illustrated in FIGS. 23-25 operably engaged on the bag 100' illustrated in FIG. 19. As illustrated in FIG. 27, the slider 120' maintains a straddling relationship with the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114', such that at least the second zipper side member opening member 426 of the support member 410' is disposed in an area (e.g., an isolation section) between the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114'. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 27, a detent 500' is included at one end of the bag in the isolation section 220 between the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114' (see, e.g., FIG. 28). The detent 500' comprises a recess capable of engaging at least one of the first shoulder member 426A and the second shoulder member 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426. The engagement of at least one of the first and second shoulder members 426A and 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 with the detent 500' ensures that the second zipper side member opening member 426 is not disposed in an isolation section between the upper and lower zipper side members 112' and 114' such that the support member 410' and the second zipper side member opening member 426 disengage the lower zipper side member 114' at the end of the bag 100'. In this manner, the engagement of at least one of the first and second shoulder members 426A and 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 with the detent 500' can provide an end seal to prevent leakage by ensuring that at least the lower zipper side member 114' is fully engaged along the length of the bag. Thus, the detent 500' must be positioned at least a predetermined distance from the lower zipper side member 114' to ensure proper engagement with at least one of the first and second shoulder members 426A and 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426. In one embodiment, the detent 500' is disposed at least about 60 mils to about 187.5 mils from the lower zipper side member 114'. Additionally, in another embodiment, the detent 500' must be within 400 mils of an edge (e.g., 106') of the bag 100' to ensure proper engagement of at least the lower zipper side member 114' at the end of the bag 100'. The engagement of at least one of the first and second shoulder members 426A, 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 with the detent 500' can also provide a tactile sensation and/or a clicking sound to the user, thus assuring the user that the bag is sealed closed. By further tapering the structure of the first and second shoulder members 426A, 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 such that the first and second shoulder members 426A, 426B are thinner near the bottom of the recess and thicker at the top of the recess, the engagement of the first and second shoulder members 426A, 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 with the detent 500' maintains the structural integrity of the second zipper side member opening member 426 while providing a maximum auditory/tactile experience to the user. While this embodiment has a detent 500' at only one end of the bag, the present invention also encompasses detents at either one or both ends of the bag.

28 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a detent 500' included on the bag shown in FIG. 27. As shown in FIG. 28, the detent 500' is disposed on the first isolation section 220' of the double zipper side member shown in FIG. 21 between the first sealing part 200' of the upper zipper side member and the third sealing part 204' of the lower zipper side member. By way of example, the detent 500' can be formed in the first isolation section 220' of the double zipper side member using a punch and die assembly. Alternatively, the detent 500' can be formed by cutting, cold stomping, ultrasonic stomping, molding, or any other method for deforming a thermoplastic material.

FIG. 29 illustrates another embodiment of the slider 120' illustrated in FIGS. 23-25 operably engaged on the bag 100' illustrated in FIG. 19. As shown in FIG. 29, a plurality of detents 501', 502' are included on either end of the bag 100' in the area (e.g., isolation section) between the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114'. The detents 501', 502' include recesses that can engage with at least one of the first shoulder member 426A and the second shoulder member 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426. Additionally, the detents 501', 502' can provide a holding spot for a user while the user is sliding the slider 120' in either direction on the zipper side member of the bag 100'. In particular, the detents 501, 502' may be provided with various convexities such that one of the detents in the plurality of detents 501' may be of a convex surface that engages with the first and second shoulder members 426A, 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426. However, other detents in the plurality of detents 501', 502' may be of an opposing convex surface such that they do not engage with the first and second shoulder members 426A, 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426, but provide a retention spot for the user when sliding the slider 120' over the bag 100'. As discussed above, the engagement of at least one of the first and second shoulder members 426A, 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 with one of the detents in the plurality of detents 501' can provide an end seal and a tactile sensation and/or a clicking sound to the user, thus assuring the user that the bag is sealed closed. While this embodiment has three detents 501', 502' on both ends of the bag, the invention also encompasses any number of detents on either one or both ends of the bag. As discussed above, the detents 501', 502' can be formed using a punch and die assembly. Alternatively, the detents 501', 502' can be formed by cutting, ultrasonic stomping, molding, or any other method for deforming a thermoplastic material.
27-29 show an embodiment with at least one detent 500' at one end of the bag 100', but further illustrate the bag 100' without any end stomps on the edges or side welds of the bag 100'. The side welds include the areas at the edges of the bag where the side walls of the bag as well as the zipper side members are sealed. In one embodiment, the zipper side member(s) are closed or sealed within 0.16 mils of the edge or end of the bag 100'. In another embodiment, the side welds of at least the upper zipper side member 112' result in a sealed zipper side member that is about 45 mils to about 72 mils thick, preferably about 52 mils to about 58 mils thick, and most preferably about 56 mils thick. In this embodiment, the side welds in the area between the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114' (e.g., isolation sections 220', 230') create a sealed area between the profiles having a thickness of about 4 mils to about 28 mils, preferably about 12 mils to about 24 mils, and more preferably about 18 mils to about 22 mils. These side welds provide an area where both the second zipper side member opening member 426 and the extension member 427A of the support member 410' (see, e.g., FIG. 25) can move up to and into or be captured at either the closed or open end of the bag, respectively, so that the slider 120' does not fall off the end of the bag 100'. In this manner, the side welds provide axial slider retention without the need for end stomps or end stops on the bag 100'. In particular, axial slider retention is provided at least due to the sealing of the upper zipper side member 112' at the edge of the bag 100', for example by heat welding. In one embodiment, such a configuration of the slider 120' with the side welds including the thicknesses described above, as well as the second zipper side member opening member 426, the support member 410' and the extension member 427A provides an axial slider retention force of about 4 lb _f to about 18 lb _f .

30 illustrates another embodiment of a bag 4000 with a double zipper side member according to the present invention. The partial side view of the bag 4000 shown in FIG. 30 includes a first side wall 4002 and an upper zipper side member 4006 and a lower zipper side member 4008 attached to an upper end of the side wall 4002. A slider 4020 is operably engaged on the bag 4000 in a straddling relationship with the upper zipper side member 4006 and the lower zipper side member 4008, where the slider 4020 includes a disengagement finger 4022 that straddles along a region 4010 defined between the upper zipper side member 4006 and the lower zipper side member 4008. The bag 4020 may further include an end stop 4005 disposed on at least one end of the upper zipper side member 4006 to prevent the slider 4020 from disengaging from the upper zipper side member 4006. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 30, the sealing components (not shown) of the upper zipper side member 4006 are configured to provide an audible sound and/or a tactile or haptic sensation when engaged with each other. However, the sealing components (not shown) of the lower zipper side member 4008 are not configured to provide an audible sound and/or a haptic sensation when engaged with each other. In this manner, the lower zipper side member 4008 is unmodified and therefore can be dedicated to a leak-resistant seal, while the upper zipper side member 4006 is modified as described in more detail below and therefore can be dedicated to an audio/haptic feedback profile. This arrangement of providing sealing components of the upper zipper side member configured to provide an audible sound and/or a haptic or haptic sensation when engaged with each other can be utilized with any of the double zipper side member and/or slider embodiments described above.

Various techniques are known for providing such auditory and tactile features, one example being providing recesses intermittently along the length of the profile of the sealing parts, or more generally making the sealing parts discontinuous along their length. Figures 31A-31D show three embodiments of recesses or discontinuous structures that can be used to provide auditory and/or tactile features to the upper zipper side member 4006 shown in Figure 30, as well as the various zipper side members shown in Figures 3A-3G, 7A-8B, 15A and 21. Figure 31A shows a zipper side member sealing part 5000 that is not deformed and therefore does not provide any type of auditory or tactile feature when engaged with an opposing sealing part of the zipper side member. Figure 31B shows a zipper side member sealing part 5010 that has been partially deformed by providing one-sided recesses 5011 intermittently along the length of the sealing part 5010. In particular, the closure part 5010 includes a one-sided deformation or recess 5011 provided adjacent to the non-deformed portion 5012 of the closure part 5010. Figure 31C displays a zipper side member closure part 5020 that has been partially deformed by providing recesses 5021 intermittently along the length of the closure part 5020. In particular, the closure part 5020 includes a deformation or recess 5021 provided adjacent to the non-deformed portion 5022 of the closure part 5020, such that the deformation or recess 5021 comprises a portion of the closure part 5020 that has been flattened or pressed inwardly and upwardly. Figure 31D displays a zipper side member closure part 5030 that has been partially deformed by providing bilateral recesses 5031 intermittently along the length of the closure part 5030. In particular, the closure part 5030 includes a bilateral deformation or recess 5031 provided adjacent to the non-deformed portion 5032 of the closure part 5030. The deformations or intermittent recesses cause the zipper side member sealing components to close together with a vibration or bumpy feeling, or with an audible click sound, or both a bumpy feeling and an audible click sound as the slider advances along the zipper side member sealing components (single or multiple zipper side members). However, the double-sided deformation or recess 5031 shown in Fig. 31D may provide much more audio/tactile feedback compared to the single-sided deformation or recess 5011 shown in Fig. 31B or the deformation or recess 5021 in Fig. 31C. An example of providing a bag sealing component with audio or tactile features can be found in U.S. Patent No. 5,140,727, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. While the above embodiments provide the auditory and/or tactile features as recesses intermittently disposed along the length of the sealing part profile, recesses may also be provided in portions of the backing strips 210, 212, 210' and 212' above, below, behind and/or between the sealing parts of the closure profile.

32 illustrates another embodiment for providing an auditory and/or tactile feature to the upper zipper side member of a double zipper side member according to the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 32 illustrates the bag 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 with the slider 2000 illustrated in FIG. 18A operably engaged on the bag 100 and in a straddling relationship with the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114 of the bag 100. However, the upper zipper side member 112 illustrated in FIG. 32 has been modified or deformed, for example by directional sawtooth, to provide intermittent deformations 6000 along the length of the upper zipper side member 112. The deformations 6000 of the upper zipper side member 112 provide auditory and/or tactile features as the slider 2000 advances along the upper zipper side member 112. In particular, the slider 2000 may include, for example, a flapper member (not shown) that extends from the top wall of the slider 2000 and engages the deformation 6000 of the upper zipper side member 112 as the slider moves from one end of the upper zipper side member 112 to the other. The configuration of the flapper member or other element(s) of the slider 2000, as well as the specific shape and/or configuration of the deformation, may be modified to provide the desired audio/tactile feedback without departing from the spirit of the invention. The configuration of the deformation 6000 of the upper zipper side member 112 of FIG. 32 may also be provided to the upper zipper side member 112' of the bag 100' of FIG. 19.

33 illustrates another embodiment for providing an audible and/or tactile feature to a double zipper side member according to the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 33 illustrates the bag 100 and slider 120 illustrated in FIG. 1, operably engaged on the bag 100 and in a straddling relationship with the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114 of the bag 100. However, the area between the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114 illustrated in FIG. 33 has been modified or deformed by a deforming wheel, knife or bar using heat and/or pressure to provide a plurality of recesses 7000A, 7000B, 8000A and 8000B along the length of the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114. Recesses 7000A, 7000B, 8000A and 8000B provide auditory and/or tactile features as slider 120 advances along upper and lower zipper side members 112 and 114. In particular, recesses 7000A, 7000B, 8000A and 8000B comprise vertically oriented grooves or slits that interact with a portion of slider 120 to provide auditory and/or tactile feedback, such as sound or vibration, to a user as slider 120 is moved along the double zipper side members. Although the recesses 7000A, 7000B, 8000A and 8000B are shown in FIG. 33 as vertically oriented grooves or slits, the recesses 7000A, 7000B, 8000A and 8000B may also comprise, for example, dimples, ribs, bumps, protrusions, ridges or grooves, and may further comprise any shape that provides auditory and/or tactile feedback, such as, for example, an arc, a rectangle or a v-shape, or a diagonal, horizontal, circular shape.

In the embodiment of FIG. 33, the recesses 7000A are spaced apart from one another at a regularly repeating interval or pattern along the length of the double zipper side member, and the recesses 7000B are also spaced apart from one another at regularly repeating intervals along the length of the double zipper side member. The spacing between the recesses 7000A may be the same as or different from the spacing between the recesses 7000B. For example, the recesses 7000A comprise a first series of regularly spaced recesses, and the recesses 7000B comprise a second series of regularly spaced recesses, except that the distance that the recesses 7000A are spaced apart from one another is different from the distance that the recesses 7000B are spaced apart from one another. With such a configuration, the recesses 7000A generate a first sound at a first frequency when the slider 120 interacts with the recesses 7000A, and the recesses 7000B generate a second sound at a second frequency when the slider 120 interacts with the recesses 7000B. Similarly, the recesses 8000A include a first series of regularly spaced recesses, and the recesses 8000B include a second series of regularly spaced recesses. As with the recesses 7000A, 7000B, the spacing between the recesses 8000A may be the same or different than the spacing between the recesses 8000B. In the embodiment of FIG. 33, the distance that the recesses 8000A are spaced apart is different from the distance that the recesses 8000B are spaced apart. Thus, as discussed above, recess 8000A produces a first sound at a first frequency when slider 120 interacts with recess 8000A, and recess 8000B produces a second sound at a second frequency when slider 120 interacts with recess 8000B. The sounds or frequencies produced by each of recesses 7000A, 7000B, 8000A, and 8000B may be the same or different from one another. Additionally, the spacing of each of recesses 7000A, 7000B, 8000A, and 8000B along the length of the double zipper side member may be the same or different from one another. While the embodiment of FIG. 33 shows a first series of regularly spaced recesses (7000A, 8000A) and a second series of regularly spaced recesses (7000B, 8000B) on each side of the double zipper side member, only a single series of regularly spaced recesses can be provided on one or both sides of the double zipper side member, or three or more series of regularly spaced recesses can be provided on one or both sides of the double zipper side member.

33, recesses 7000A and 7000B are provided in the area between the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114 on the outer surface of the double zipper side member, and recesses 8000A and 8000B are provided in the area (e.g., isolation section) between the upper zipper side member 112 and the lower zipper side member 114 on the inner surface of the double zipper side member. However, recesses 7000A, 7000B, 8000A and 8000B can be provided on either one or both of the outer and inner surfaces of the double zipper side member, or any combination thereof. Alternatively, recesses 7000A, 7000B, 8000A and 8000B can be provided on only the outer and/or inner surfaces of one side of the double zipper side member. Furthermore, the specific shape and/or configuration of the recesses can be modified to provide the desired audio/tactile feedback without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the recesses can comprise, for example, dimples, ribs, bumps, protrusions, ridges or grooves, and can further comprise any shape that provides audible and/or tactile feedback, such as, for example, arcs, rectangular or v-shaped, or diagonal, horizontal, circular. The configuration of recesses 7000, 7000B, 8000A and 8000B of bag 100 of FIG. 33 can also be provided in bag 100' of FIG. 19. Additionally, any combination of deformations or recesses provided in the zipper side members themselves, such as 5011, 5021 and 5031 in the embodiment of FIGS. 31B-31D, and deformations or recesses provided in the areas between the zipper side members, such as recesses 7000A, 7000B, 8000A and 8000B in the embodiment of FIG. 33, can be provided in bag 100, 100' to achieve the desired audible/tactile feedback.

34A-34C illustrate another embodiment of the slider 120' shown in FIGS. 23-25 operably engaged on the bag 100' shown in FIG. 19. As shown in FIGS. 34A-34C, the slider 120' maintains a straddling relationship with the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114', such that at least the second zipper side member opening member 426 of the support member 410' is disposed in an area (e.g., an isolation section) between the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114'. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 34A-34C, a detent 8000 is included in at least one of the isolation sections 220', 230' between the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114' at one end of the bag (see, e.g., FIGS. 35A and 35B). Detent 8000 is an alternative embodiment of detents 500', 501' and 502' shown in Figures 27-29. Detent 8000 comprises a recess or fold that extends at least partially through each standoff section (220', 230'). Detent 8000 is capable of engaging at least one of first shoulder member 426A and second shoulder member 426B of second zipper side member opening member 426 (see, e.g., Figures 24 and 25). The engagement of at least one of the first and second shoulder members 426A and 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 with the detent 8000 ensures that the second zipper side member opening member 426 is not disposed in an isolation section between the upper and lower zipper side members 112' and 114' such that the second zipper side member opening member 426 disengages the lower zipper side member 114' at an end of the bag 100'. In this manner, the engagement of at least one of the first and second shoulder members 426A and 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 with the detent 8000 can provide an end seal to prevent leakage by ensuring that at least the lower zipper side member 114' is fully engaged along the length of the bag. Thus, the detent 8000' must be positioned at least a predetermined distance from the lower zipper side member 114' to ensure proper engagement with at least one of the first and second shoulder members 426A, 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426. In one embodiment, the detent 8000 is disposed at least about 60 mils to about 187.5 mils from the lower zipper side member 114'. In another embodiment, the detent 8000 expands the area of the respective isolation sections (220', 230'), thereby increasing the length or distance of the respective isolation sections (220', 230') in the area of the detent 8000 between the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114'. The expansion or deformation of the area between the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114' may result in the respective standoff sections (220', 230') being thinner in the area of the detent 8000. By expanding or deforming this area between the upper zipper side member 112' and the lower zipper side member 114', the detent 8000 may effectively engage at least one of the first and second shoulder members 426A and 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 by expanding around at least one of the first and second shoulder members 426A and 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426. Furthermore, as discussed in more detail below, when the detent 8000 expands around and engages at least one of the first shoulder member 426A and the second shoulder member 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426, the second zipper side member opening member 426 can no longer disengage the sealing components (e.g., 204' and 206') of the lower zipper side member 114'.

In one embodiment, for example, the longitudinal distance or length that the detent 8000 extends along the zipper side member is longer as compared to the detents 500', 501' and 502' shown in Figures 27-29. In one embodiment, the length of the detent is about 375 mils. In another embodiment, the length of the detent 8000 can be up to about 1.5 times that of the slider 120'. Additionally, the detent 8000 preferably extends to the end of the bag 100' (see, for example, Figures 34A-34C). The detent 8000 extends all the way to the end or end seal of the bag 100' such that at least one of the first shoulder member 426A and the second shoulder member 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 engages the detent 8000 at a location between the end seal of the bag and the point where the lower zipper side member 114' snaps shut to itself. In particular, there is a critical distance between the end seal of the bag and the point where the lower zipper side member 114' snaps shut to itself. By extending the detent 8000 all the way to the end or end seal of the bag 100', at least one of the first and second shoulder members 426A and 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 engages the detent 8000 within this critical distance, thus completely closing the lower zipper side member 114'. The engagement of at least one of the first and second shoulder members 426A and 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 with the detent 8000 can also provide a tactile sensation and/or a clicking sound to the user, thus assuring the user that the bag is sealed closed. While the embodiment of Figures 34A-34C has a detent 8000 at only one end of the bag, the present invention also encompasses detents at either one or both ends of the bag.

35A and 35B are enlarged partial cross-sectional views of a detent 8000 included on the pouch shown in FIG. 34A. As shown in FIG. 35A, the detent 8000 includes a first side 8001 disposed on one side wall 104' of the pouch. In the embodiment of FIG. 35A, the first side 8001 of the detent 8000 is disposed on the second isolation section 230' between the first sealing piece 202' of the upper zipper side member and the third sealing piece 206' of the lower zipper side member of the double zipper side member shown in FIG. 21. In the embodiment of FIG. 35A, the first side 8001 of the detent 8000 includes a convex surface on the side of the side wall 104' facing the interior of the pouch and a concave surface on the side of the side wall 104' facing the exterior of the pouch. However, the first side 8001 of the detent 8000 may alternatively have a concave surface on a side of the sidewall 104' facing the interior of the bag and a convex surface on a side of the sidewall 104' facing the exterior of the bag. In another embodiment, the first side 8001 of the detent 8000 may have one or more concave and/or convex surfaces facing the interior or exterior of the bag. As shown in FIG. 35B, the detent 8000 includes a second side 8002 disposed on an opposing sidewall 102' of the bag. In the embodiment of FIG. 35B, the second side 8002 of the detent 8000 is disposed on a first isolation section 220' between the first sealing piece 200' of the upper zipper side member and the third sealing piece 204' of the lower zipper side member of the double zipper side member shown in FIG. In the embodiment of FIG. 35B, the second side 8002 of the detent 8000 comprises a concave surface on a side of the sidewall 102' facing the interior of the pouch and a convex surface on a side of the sidewall 102' facing the exterior of the pouch. However, the first side 8002 of the detent 8000 may alternatively have a convex surface on a side of the sidewall 102' facing the interior of the pouch and a concave surface on a side of the sidewall 102' facing the exterior of the pouch. In another embodiment, the second side 8002 of the detent 8000 may have one or more concave and/or convex surfaces facing the interior or exterior of the pouch. Although the first side 8001 and second side 8002 of the detent 8000 are described as having concave and/or convex surfaces, there are numerous alternative shapes and configurations for the first side 8001 and second side 8002 of the detent 8000. For example, the first side 8001 and second side 8002 may have a substantially rectangular or triangular cross-section. Further, one skilled in the art will recognize that in addition to the shapes and configurations shown in FIGS. 34A-37, the detent 8000 may be formed in a wide variety of alternative shapes, such as detents having cross sections that are shaped like ovals, triangles, X-shapes, S-shapes, stars, hearts, etc. The detent 8000 may comprise any shape or configuration that allows for engagement with at least one of the first and second shoulder members 426A and 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426. Additionally, the detent 8000 may comprise only one side (i.e., 8001 or 8002) as opposed to both the first and second sides 8001 and 8002. By way of example, the detent 8000 may be molded into the first isolation sections 220', 230' of the double zipper side members using a punch and die assembly. Alternatively, the detent 8000 may be formed by cutting, cold stomping, ultrasonic stomping, molding, or any other method for deforming a thermoplastic material.

36 and 37 show enlarged partial cross-sectional views of a detent 8000 included on the pouch shown in FIGS. 34B and 34C, respectively. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 36, the detent 8000 includes a first side 8001 with a recess or fold disposed on the second isolation section 230' between the first sealing part 202' of the upper zipper side member and the third sealing part 206' of the lower zipper side member. The detent 8000 includes a second side 8002 with a recess or fold disposed on the first isolation section 220' between the first sealing part 200' of the upper zipper side member and the third sealing part 204' of the lower zipper side member. In the embodiment of FIG. 36, a slider 120' is operably engaged on the double zipper side member and disposed near the detent 8000 (see, for example, FIG. 34B). However, the second zipper side member opening member 426 of the slider 120' has not yet engaged with the detent 8000. As further shown in the embodiment of FIG. 36, prior to engagement of the second zipper side member opening member 426 of the slider 120' with the detent 8000, the first side 8001 of the detent 8000 is disposed or nested within the second side 8002 of the detent 8000. In the embodiment of FIG. 37, the slider 120' is operably engaged on the double zipper side member and the second zipper side member opening member 426 of the slider 120' is disposed within the detent 8000 (see, for example, FIG. 34C). Thus, in this embodiment, the second zipper side member opening member 426 of the slider 120' is engaged with the detent 8000. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 37, when the second zipper side member opening member 426 of the slider 120' engages the detent 8000, the detent 8000 expands around the second zipper side member opening member 426, causing the first side 8001 of the detent 8000 to pop out and be spaced apart from the second side 8002 of the detent 8000. Furthermore, when the detent 8000 expands and engages the second zipper side member opening member 426 of the slider 120', the expansion of the detent 8000 removes the ability of the second zipper side member opening member 426 to pry open and open the sealing components of the lower zipper side member 114', so that the second zipper side member opening member 426 cannot disengage the sealing components of the lower zipper side member 114'.

As discussed above, prior to engagement of the second zipper side member opening member 426 of the slider 120' with the first and second sides 8001, 8002 of the detent 8000, the first side 8001 is disposed within or nested within the second side 8002 of the detent 8000 (see, e.g., FIG. 36). However, once the second zipper side member opening member 426 of the slider 120' engages the detent 8000, the first side 8001 of the detent 8000 pops up and engages at least one of the first and second shoulder members 426A, 426B of the second zipper side member opening member 426 (see, e.g., FIG. 37). This change to the first side 8001 of the detent 8000, such that it is no longer disposed or nested within the second side 8002 of the detent 8000, may be permanent or temporary. Thus, as the slider 120' advances away from the detent 8000 of Figures 34A-34C to disengage the sealing components of the upper and lower zipper side members, the second zipper side member opening member 426 will disengage from the detent 8000 and the first side 8001 of the detent 8000 may remain in a position spaced away from the second side 8002 of the detent 8000 (e.g., the position of Figure 37) or may return to a position disposed or nested within the second side 8002 of the detent 8000 (e.g., the position of Figure 36). For example, these variations to the first side 8001 of the detent 8000 will depend on the type of thermoplastic material used to prepare the bag and/or zipper side member, as well as the method of forming the detent 8000. Although the embodiments discussed above involve the first side 8001 of the detent 8000 being disposed or nested within the second side 8002 of the detent 8000 prior to engagement of the detent 8000 with the second zipper side member opening member 426 of the slider 120', the first side 8001 of the detent 8000 may be formed such that it is disposed or positioned away from the second side 8002 of the detent 8000 (e.g., the position of FIG. 37 ) during initial fabrication within the first isolation section 220' or the second isolation section 230'. Thus, in this embodiment, the first side 8001 of the detent 8000 is not disposed or nested within the second side 8002 of the detent 8000 prior to engagement of the detent 8000 with the second zipper side member opening member 426 of the slider 120'.

Exemplary thermoplastic materials that may be used to form the various bags discussed above include, for example, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), metallocene polyethylene (mPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), ultra-low density polyethylene (ULDPE), biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (BPET), high density polyethylene (HDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), among other polyolefin plastomers and combinations and blends thereof. Still other materials that may be used include styrene block copolymers, polyolefin blends, elastomeric alloys, thermoplastic polyurethanes, thermoplastic copolyesters, thermoplastic polyamides, polymers and copolymers of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), saran polymers, ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymers, cellulose acetate, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), ionomers, polystyrene, polycarbonate, styrene acrylonitrile, aromatic polyesters, linear polyesters, and thermoplastic polyvinyl alcohol. Those skilled in the art will recognize that a wide variety of other materials may also be used to form the pouch.

The upper and lower zipper side members of the various embodiments discussed above may each be formed of a thermoplastic, such as low density polyethylene (LDPE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, for example, the backing member may be formed of a blend of HDPE, LDPE, and LLDPE to be stiffer, and the sealing components and/or rib members may be formed of LDPE to be more flexible. The upper and lower zipper side members may be disposed on the bag 100, 100' by laminating at least a portion of the backing member to the side walls 102, 104, 102', 104' of the bag 100, 100', respectively. Alternatively, the portion of the backing member that extends below the lower zipper side member 114, 114' can be omitted (see, e.g., Figures 3F, 3G, and 22A-22F), and thus a portion of the backing member is disposed on the bag 100, 100' between the upper and lower zipper side members (e.g., in the isolation section) by laminating the backing member to the side walls 102, 104, 102', 104' of the bag 100, 100', respectively.

It should be noted that while the various bags described herein include one pair of sealing components, other embodiments of the bags can include three or more pairs of sealing components. It should also be noted that the sealing components of the zipper side members do not necessarily need to extend all the way around the edges of the bag. For example, in some embodiments, the bag 100, 100' may include extended sealing sections at the edges 106, 106' and 108, 108' of the bag 100, 100', and the sealing components of the zipper side members 112, 114, 112', 114' are configured to only extend from one sealing section to the other, and not all the way around the edges 106, 106' and 108, 108' of the bag 100, 100'.

Each of the sliders illustrated and described herein can be operatively engaged with a double zipper side member, such as the upper zipper side member 112, 112' and the lower zipper side member 114, 114'. The slider is configured such that, during use, a user must provide a force in the range of about 60 grams to about 200 grams to the slider to slide the slider along the double zipper side member of the bag 100, 100' and ensure effective opening, i.e., disengagement, of the sealing components of the upper zipper side member 112, 112' and the lower zipper side member 114, 114'. The slider may be made of multiple pieces and welded together, or the pieces may be constructed to snap together with or without hinged elements. The slider may also be of one-piece construction. The slider may be made using any desired method, such as, for example, injection molding or any other method. The slider may be molded from any suitable plastic, such as, for example, nylon, polypropylene, polystyrene, acetal, hardened acetal, polyketone, polybutylene terephthalate, high density polyethylene, polycarbonate, or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The slider may be clear, opaque, or colored. Additionally, portions and features of any one of the various slider specific embodiments may be substituted for portions and features of any other embodiment without departing from the spirit of the invention.

While the present invention has been described with respect to certain specific exemplary embodiments, many further modifications and variations will become apparent to those skilled in the art in light of this disclosure. It is therefore to be understood that the present invention can be practiced as specifically described herein, unless otherwise specified. The present exemplary embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the scope of the present invention should be determined not by the foregoing description, but by any claims and equivalents thereof that can be supported by the present invention.

The sealing structures described herein provide a useful method of sealing and resealing any type of opening, such as by engaging and disengaging a pouch or thermoplastic storage bag for storing a product therein. The double zipper side members can provide a multi-barrier seal when the opposing sealing parts are engaged. The slider can completely seal and open the double zipper side members without any leakage when the slider is at the closed end of the double zipper.

Claims (8)

In the storage bag,
(a) a first sidewall;
(b) a second side wall connected to the first side wall to define an interior of the storage bag with an opening thereto; and
(c) a first zipper side disposed adjacent the opening of the storage bag, the first zipper side comprising: (i) a first sealing component attached to the first side wall; and (ii) a second sealing component attached to the second side wall and extending substantially parallel to the first sealing component, both the first sealing component and the second sealing component extending along a length of the first zipper side between a first side of the first zipper side and a second side of the first zipper side, the first sealing component configured to interlock with the second sealing component to form a seal at the opening of the storage bag;
(d) a second zipper side portion spaced from the first zipper side portion, the second zipper side portion comprising: (i) a third sealing piece attached to the first side wall; and (ii) a fourth sealing piece attached to the second side wall and extending substantially parallel to the third sealing piece, both the third sealing piece and the fourth sealing piece extending along a length of the second zipper side portion between a first side of the second zipper side portion and a second side of the second zipper side portion, the third sealing piece configured to interlock with the fourth sealing piece to form a second seal for the opening of the storage bag;
(e) a first isolation section disposed between the first sealing part and the third sealing part, the first isolation section having a material thickness; and
(f) a second isolation section disposed between the second sealing part and the fourth sealing part, the second isolation section having a material thickness; and
(g) a slider disposed in straddling relationship with the first and second zipper side portions, the slider including at least a first opening member disposed between the first and second isolation sections, the slider configured to slide along the first and second zipper side portions to (i) engage the first and second sealing parts of the first zipper side portion and the third and fourth sealing parts of the second zipper side portion when the slider is slid in a first direction, and (ii) disengage the first and second sealing parts of the first zipper side portion and the third and fourth sealing parts of the second zipper side portion when the slider is slid in a second direction;
(h) at least one detent disposed in at least one end region of at least one of the first and second isolation sections, the at least one detent extending along the second zipper side, the at least one detent having a material thickness less than the material thickness of at least one of the first and second isolation sections, and the first opening member of the slider being able to engage the at least one detent to provide a leak-tight end seal;
Comes with a storage bag. The storage bag of claim 1, wherein (i) the first isolation section extends a distance between the first sealing part and the third sealing part, (ii) the second isolation section extends a distance between the second sealing part and the fourth sealing part, and (iii) the distance over which the area of the at least one of the first isolation section and the second isolation section in which the at least one detent is disposed extends is greater than the respective distance that the at least one of the first isolation section and the second isolation section extends between the respective sealing parts. The storage bag of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the at least one detent is disposed at one end of the first isolation section. The storage bag of claim 3, further comprising at least one detent disposed at an end of the second isolation section, the end of the second isolation section facing the end of the first isolation section, and the at least one detent disposed at the end of the first isolation section facing the at least one detent disposed at the end of the second isolation section. In the storage bag,
(a) a first sidewall;
(b) a second side wall connected to the first side wall to define an interior of the storage bag with an opening thereto; and
(c) a first zipper side disposed adjacent the opening of the storage bag, the first zipper side comprising: (i) a first sealing component attached to the first side wall; and (ii) a second sealing component attached to the second side wall and extending substantially parallel to the first sealing component, both the first sealing component and the second sealing component extending along a length of the first zipper side between a first side of the first zipper side and a second side of the first zipper side, the first sealing component configured to interlock with the second sealing component to form a seal at the opening of the storage bag;
(d) a second zipper side portion spaced from the first zipper side portion, the second zipper side portion comprising: (i) a third sealing piece attached to the first side wall; and (ii) a fourth sealing piece attached to the second side wall and extending substantially parallel to the third sealing piece, both the third sealing piece and the fourth sealing piece extending along a length of the second zipper side portion between a first side of the second zipper side portion and a second side of the second zipper side portion, the third sealing piece configured to interlock with the fourth sealing piece to form a second seal for the opening of the storage bag;
(e) a first isolation section disposed between the first sealing part and the third sealing part, the first isolation section extending a distance between the first sealing part and the third sealing part; and
(f) a second isolation section disposed between the second sealing part and the fourth sealing part, the second isolation section being disposed between the second sealing part and the fourth sealing part; and
(g) a slider disposed in straddling relationship with the first and second zipper side portions, the slider including at least a first opening member disposed between the first and second isolation sections, the slider configured to slide along the first and second zipper side portions to (i) engage the first and second sealing parts of the first zipper side portion and the third and fourth sealing parts of the second zipper side portion when the slider is slid in a first direction, and (ii) disengage the first and second sealing parts of the first zipper side portion and the third and fourth sealing parts of the second zipper side portion when the slider is slid in a second direction;
(h) at least one detent disposed within at least one end area of at least one of the first isolation section and the second isolation section, the area of the at least one of the first isolation section and the second isolation section in which the at least one detent is disposed extending a distance greater than a distance the at least one of the first isolation section and the second isolation section extends between respective sealing components, the at least one detent having a convex surface on an inside of the storage bag and a concave surface on an outside of the storage bag, the first opening member of the slider interacting with the at least one detent to cause the at least one detent to pop out convexly toward an outside of the storage bag to provide a leak-tight end seal;
Comes with a storage bag. The storage bag of claim 5, wherein the first isolation section has a material thickness, the second isolation section has a material thickness, and the at least one detent has a material thickness less than the material thickness of the at least one of the first isolation section and the second isolation section. The storage bag of claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the at least one detent is disposed at one end of the first isolation section. The storage bag of claim 7, further comprising at least one detent disposed at an end of the second isolation section, the end of the second isolation section facing the end of the first isolation section, and the at least one detent disposed at the end of the first isolation section facing the at least one detent disposed at the end of the second isolation section.

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