Security Fastener

Abstract

A security slider for a zip fastener which prevents or severely restricts unauthorised access to the contents of an item which is closed by the zip fastener. This is achieved by a lateral blocking member attached to the slider. A zip fastener incorporating the slider and a suitcase or bag incorporating the zip fastener are also provided.

1 . A slider for opening and closing a zip fastener which comprises a pair of opposing tracks bearing inter-latchable members, the slider being adapted for locking with a second slider when the zip fastener is in a substantially closed position, the slider comprising one or more lateral blocking members, wherein in a locked position with a second slider, the one or more lateral blocking members provide a physical barrier to restrict or prevent lateral opening of the zip fastener.  
     
     
         2 . The slider according to  claim 1 , wherein the slider comprises a single lateral blocking member which extends laterally from the slider.  
     
     
         3 . The slider according to  claim 1 , wherein the slider comprises two lateral blocking members extending laterally from the slider.  
     
     
         4 . The slider according to  claim 1  or  2 , wherein the slider possesses a leading end portion, wherein a lateral blocking member protrudes forward of the leading end portion in a leading direction, the leading direction corresponding to the direction of movement of the slider during the closing of the zip fastener.  
     
     
         5 . The slider according to  claim 1 , wherein the lateral blocking member is a plate.  
     
     
         6 . The slider according to  claim 5 , wherein the plate comprises a lip arranged perpendicular to an outer edge of the plate.  
     
     
         7 . The slider according to  claim 5  or  6 , wherein the plate is arranged in an angular orientation of angle (a) relative to the slider.  
     
     
         8 . The slider according to  claim 7 , wherein angle (a) is 30° to 60°.  
     
     
         9 . The slider according to  claim 1 , wherein the slider comprises a handle tab adapted for receiving a locking means.  
     
     
         10 . The slider according to  claim 1 , wherein the inter-latchable members comprise a hook and hollow arrangement.  
     
     
         11 . (canceled)  
     
     
         12 . (canceled)  
     
     
         13 . (canceled)  
     
     
         14 . (canceled)  
     
     
         15 . (canceled)  
     
     
         16 . (canceled)