What to know

  • YKK, the world’s largest zipper maker, has created a prototype self-propelled zipper.
  • The zipper uses a motorized worm gear and can close spans up to 16 feet in under a minute.
  • It is controlled by a wired remote and currently requires external power.
  • The technology is aimed at industrial uses, such as tents and large structures, not clothing.

YKK, known as the world’s biggest zipper manufacturer, has introduced a new prototype: a self-propelled zipper. This zipper uses a small motor and worm gear to zip itself closed when you press a button on a wired remote. The prototype can zip together materials as long as 16 feet in less than a minute, making it much faster and easier than doing the job by hand.

The current version of the self-propelled zipper needs to be plugged in for power and is operated with a wired controller. In demonstrations, the zipper quickly joined large pieces of fabric, such as 16-foot-tall membranes, in about 40 seconds. It has also been used to connect temporary shelters that are over eight feet tall and 13 feet wide, completing the task in about 50 seconds. Normally, this kind of work would require ladders or other equipment, but the self-propelled zipper can do it remotely and more safely.

YKK developed this technology with industrial uses in mind. The company sees it being used for large tents, construction projects, and tensile membrane structures. These are situations where manually zipping long sections is difficult and sometimes dangerous. The self-propelled zipper could help reduce construction costs and improve safety by allowing workers to zip large materials together from a distance.

While the idea of a self-zipping jacket or bag is interesting, YKK says the current prototype is not ready for consumer clothing. The technology would need to be made smaller and powered by batteries. Safety features would also be needed to prevent anything from getting caught in the zipper. For now, the self-propelled zipper remains a promising innovation for industrial and construction applications.

Via: TheVerge