Method for forming fastening articles

Abstract

Fastenings, including stretchy or flexible ''zebra-like'' and ''leopard-like'' appearing materials, are disclosed having spaced bands or a distribution islands of molded loop-engageable hooks or molded pre-forms for hooks, between which are bands or regions of different character. Molding is by rigid molds filled from the base region of the stems. In embodiments, linear bands or islands of fastener elements are themselves inextensible in the direction of their extent and comprise multiple rows of fastener elements. For ease of forming a uniform, elastically stretchy or flexible product, the bands or islands of fastener elements extend in the machine direction during manufacture. Embodiments shown employ a widthwise continuous carrier of uniform character to which multiple spaced bands or islands of hooks have their molded stems in situ bonded, and in other embodiments, over-lapping margins of the bases of hook bands are in situ laminated to surface structure of adjacent bands of carrier using a laminating nip in which one of the rolls is a mold roll. For a preferred mode of manufacture of an elastically stretchy product, stretchy carrier material is stretchy only in the widthwise (cross-machine) direction. In composite hook and loop fastener products, the bands or regions of material between adjacent bands or islands of hooks comprise loop-engageable material, that is uniform in construction widthwise, the loop-forming material itself being an elastically stretchable or a flexible component. In useful product categories, the hook bands or islands and intervening regions of material have importantly different width ranges. Novel elastically stretchable and flexible loop-defining materials, and their methods of manufacture are shown. In situ lamination of hook, bands or islands on surfaces of materials held in a planar orientation or presenting a planar surface are also shown, flexible materials on tenter frames and rigid materials.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to hook-and-loop connectors, particularly elastic or bendable hook-and-loop connectors, sleeve loops, suspenders, straps, and wraps, which are useful for those requiring elastic or bendable connector applications. Practical and cost-effective. The present invention also relates to improved connector materials, composite products, and apparatus and methods for forming bendable and elastically stretchable products and other products comprising hook and loop connectors. Background technique [0002] Extendable or flexible attachment sleeve loops and connectors with hook and loop closures are desired in the art, for example, as components of baby and adult diapers, surgeon's gowns, garments and wraps. Connecting sleeve loops generally comprise a sheet, film or nonwoven web having an embossed or other surface pattern to facilitate grasping by the user. Strip segments of connecting elements are fixed to the back of this materi...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

While they may be effective in some respects, in others they fall short of the requirements of the present invention

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