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zipper

Also known as clasp locker, zip, fly, zip fastener, dingy

thumb|Zippers with common teeth variations: metal teeth (top), coil teeth and plastic teeth

AI overview

A zipper is a fastening device that uses interlocking teeth made of metal, coil, or plastic to join two pieces of fabric together, and it can be quickly opened and closed by sliding a small pull tab along the teeth. Zippers are important because they provide a convenient, durable way to secure clothing, bags, and other items compared to older fastening methods like buttons or laces.

AI-generated from the Wikipedia summary — may contain errors.

Wikidata facts

Image: Coil plastic and metal zippers.jpg

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Commons category: Zippers
Commons gallery: Zipper
time of discovery or invention: 1893-00-00

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~26 min read

Article

15 sections

Contents

Description
History
Types
Air and water tightness
Anti-slide zipper locks
Components
Manufacturing
U.S. patents
Mechanism
In popular culture
Durability and repairs
See also
References
Continue reading
External links

thumb|Zippers with common teeth variations: metal teeth (top), coil teeth and plastic teeth

A zipper (N. America), zip, zip fastener (UK), formerly known as a clasp locker, is a commonly used device for binding together two edges of fabric or other flexible material. Used in clothing (e.g. jackets and jeans), luggage and other bags, camping gear (e.g. tents and sleeping bags), and many other items, zippers come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors. In 1892, Whitcomb L. Judson, an American inventor from Chicago, patented the original design from which the modern device evolved.