hook-to-hook fastener

Abstract

A fastener comprising: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base, the plurality of hooks sized to receive a corresponding hook of a plurality of hooks of another fastener; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base, the plurality of ribs sized to receive a corresponding rib of a plurality of ribs of the other fastener.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to fastening assemblies including elongated flexible fasteners. More specifically, this disclosure relates to fasteners for joining mating surfaces of one or more objects (e.g., the entrance to a bag for storing perishable goods or a cargo cover on a pickup truck). Background Technology

[0002] Fastener assemblies including hooks can be used to join (e.g., two opposing surfaces of a clear plastic food storage bag). However, such fastener assemblies, including any "hook-to-hook" fastener assembly, may lack sufficient sealing capability. Inadequate sealing in these and other end uses can cause the contents of the closed packaging or other container to leak from the packaging or container, or allow contaminants and / or air to unintentionally leak into the packaging or container. In the case of food storage, such leakage can lead to problems with food freshness. In the case of storing other items, such leakage can lead to more rapid deterioration of the stored items. Summary of the Invention

[0003] It should be understood that this summary is not a broad overview of this disclosure. The summary is exemplary and not restrictive, and is neither intended to identify key or essential elements of this disclosure nor to describe its scope. The sole purpose of this summary is to explain and exemplify certain concepts of this disclosure as an introduction to the full and extensive detailed description that follows.

[0004] In one aspect, a fastener assembly is disclosed, comprising: a first fastener; and a second fastener configured to face and engage the first fastener, each of the first and second fasteners comprising: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base, the plurality of hooks defining a longitudinal row of hooks, adjacent hooks in the longitudinal row of hooks being spaced apart by a spacing measured between centerlines of the adjacent hooks, and defining a hook receiving region between the adjacent hooks; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base, the plurality of ribs defining two longitudinal rows of ribs, adjacent ribs in each of the two longitudinal rows of ribs being spaced apart by a spacing measured between centerlines of the respective adjacent ribs, and defining a rib receiving region between the adjacent ribs, the longitudinal row of hooks being laterally positioned between the two longitudinal rows of ribs. The size of each hook receiving region defined between each pair of adjacent hooks in the plurality of hooks of the first fastener is set to receive a corresponding hook in the plurality of hooks of the second fastener. The size of each rib receiving region defined between each pair of adjacent ribs in the plurality of ribs of the first fastener is set to receive a corresponding rib in the plurality of ribs of the second fastener. The plurality of hooks of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of hooks of the first fastener. The plurality of ribs of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of ribs of the first fastener.

[0005] More generally, a fastener assembly is disclosed, comprising: a first fastener; and a second fastener configured to face and engage with the first fastener, each of the first and second fasteners comprising: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base. The plurality of hooks of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of hooks of the first fastener, and the plurality of ribs of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of ribs of the first fastener.

[0006] In a further aspect, a fastener is disclosed, comprising: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base, the plurality of hooks defining a longitudinal row of hooks, adjacent hooks in the longitudinal row of hooks being spaced apart by a spacing measured between the center lines of the adjacent hooks, a hook receiving region being defined between the adjacent hooks, the hook receiving region being sized to receive a corresponding hook among a plurality of hooks of another fastener; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base, the plurality of ribs defining two longitudinal rows of ribs, adjacent ribs in each of the two longitudinal rows of ribs being spaced apart by a spacing measured between the center lines of the adjacent ribs, a rib receiving region being defined between the adjacent ribs, the longitudinal row of hooks being laterally positioned between the two longitudinal rows of ribs, the rib receiving region being sized to receive a corresponding rib among a plurality of ribs of the other fastener.

[0007] More generally, a fastener is disclosed comprising: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base, the plurality of hooks being sized to receive corresponding hooks among a plurality of hooks of a second fastener; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base, the plurality of ribs being sized to receive corresponding ribs among a plurality of ribs of the second fastener.

[0008] In another aspect, a method is disclosed comprising: engaging a second fastener to a first fastener, each of the first and second fasteners comprising: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base, the plurality of hooks being intermittently positioned longitudinally in the first fastener to form a hook row, a hook receiving region being formed between each pair of adjacent hooks in the plurality of hooks of the hook row; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base, the plurality of ribs being intermittently positioned longitudinally to form a first rib row and a second rib row, the first rib row and the second rib row being positioned on a first side and a second side of the hook row in a transverse direction in the fastener assembly, respectively, the rib receiving regions being formed between each pair of adjacent ribs in the plurality of ribs. Engaging the second fastener to the first fastener comprises: receiving corresponding hooks of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener within corresponding hook receiving regions defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the first fastener; and receiving corresponding ribs of the plurality of ribs of the second fastener within corresponding rib receiving regions defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener.

[0009] More generally, a method is disclosed comprising: engaging a second fastener to a first fastener to form a fastener assembly, each of the first and second fasteners comprising: a base; a plurality of hooks extending from the base; and a plurality of ribs extending from the base. Engaging the second fastener to the first fastener comprises: receiving a hook of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener within a corresponding hook receiving region defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the first fastener; and receiving a rib of the plurality of ribs of the second fastener within a corresponding rib receiving region defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener.

[0010] The various embodiments described in this disclosure may include additional systems, methods, features, and advantages that need not be explicitly disclosed herein, but will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following detailed description and drawings. All such systems, methods, features, and advantages are intended to be included within this disclosure and protected by the appended claims. The features and advantages of such embodiments may be realized and obtained by means of the systems, methods, and features specifically pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be learned through practice of such exemplary embodiments as set forth below. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the various principles of this disclosure. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For consistency and clarity, corresponding features and components throughout the drawings may be indicated by matching reference numerals.

[0012] Figure 1 It is a top perspective view of a fastening system including a bag, the bag defining two mating surfaces that are at least partially connected to a fastener assembly according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 2 This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 Top-view perspective view of the fastener assembly.

[0014] Figure 3 This includes the carriage cover of a fixed vehicle according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 2 Top-view perspective view of the fastening system of the fastener assembly.

[0015] Figure 4A This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 A side-view perspective view of the fastener assembly.

[0016] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A Top perspective view of the second side of the fastener.

[0017] Figure 4C yes Figure 4A The third side top perspective view of the fastener.

[0018] Figure 5 From Figure 4B Detail 5 (excerpt) Figure 4A A detailed side-view perspective of the fastener.

[0019] Figure 6 yes Figure 4A Side view of the fastener.

[0020] Figure 7 yes Figure 4A The end view or front view of the fastener.

[0021] Figure 8A It is along Figure 7 The line 8-8 cut Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of a fastener hook array, wherein the hook array includes multiple double hook elements.

[0022] Figure 8B It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line cut from 8-8 Figure 4AA cross-sectional view of a fastener hook array, wherein the hook array includes multiple double hook elements.

[0023] Figure 8C It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line cut from 8-8 Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of a fastener hook array, wherein the hook array includes multiple double hook elements.

[0024] Figure 8D It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line cut from 8-8 Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of a fastener hook array, wherein the hook array comprises a plurality of single hook elements.

[0025] Figure 8E It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line cut from 8-8 Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of a fastener hook array, wherein the hook array comprises a plurality of single hook elements.

[0026] Figure 8F It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line cut from 8-8 Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of a fastener hook array, wherein the hook array includes multiple double hook elements.

[0027] Figure 9A It is along Figure 7 The line 9-9 was cut off Figure 4A A side view of a fastener ribbed assembly, wherein the ribbed assembly comprises a plurality of generally trapezoidal rib elements.

[0028] Figure 9B It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line 9-9 was cut off Figure 4A A side view of a fastener ribbed assembly, wherein the ribbed assembly comprises a plurality of generally rectangular rib elements.

[0029] Figure 9C It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line 9-9 was cut off Figure 4A A side view of a fastener ribbed assembly, wherein the ribbed assembly comprises a plurality of trapezoidal rib elements.

[0030] Figure 9D It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line 9-9 was cut off Figure 4A A side view of a fastener ribbed assembly, wherein the ribbed assembly comprises a plurality of generally trapezoidal and chamfered rib elements.

[0031] Figure 9E It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line 9-9 was cut off Figure 4A A side view of a fastener ribbed assembly, wherein the ribbed assembly comprises a plurality of triangular rib elements.

[0032] Figure 9F It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line 9-9 was cut off Figure 4A A side view of a fastener ribbed assembly, wherein the ribbed assembly comprises a plurality of generally rounded or circular rib elements.

[0033] Figure 10 This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 A side-view perspective view of the fastener assembly, in which... Figure 8A The double hook element row and Figure 9D The roughly trapezoidal and chamfered ribs are interspersed in both the transverse and longitudinal directions of the fastener.

[0034] Figure 11 This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 A side-view perspective view of the fastener assembly, in which... Figure 8A The rows of double-hook elements are interwoven with rows of roughly trapezoidal and roughly rectangular ribbed elements with ridges in both the transverse and longitudinal directions of the fastener.

[0035] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 Side view of the fastener.

[0036] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 The end view or front view of the fastener.

[0037] Figure 14 It includes Figure 11 A side perspective view of a fastener assembly with two mating examples of fasteners.

[0038] Figure 15 This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 A side-view perspective view of the fastener assembly, in which... Figure 8A The double hook element row and Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal ribs are interspersed together.

[0039] Figure 16 This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 A side-view perspective view of the fastener assembly, in which... Figure 8E The row of single hook elements and Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal ribs are interspersed together.

[0040] Figure 17This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 A side-view perspective view of the fastener assembly, in which... Figure 8A The double hook element row and Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal ribs are interspersed together.

[0041] Figure 18 This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 A side-view perspective view of the fastener assembly, in which... Figure 8A The double hook element row and Figure 9B The roughly rectangular ribbed elements are interspersed together.

[0042] Figure 19 This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 A side-view perspective view of the fastener assembly, in which... Figure 8A The double hook element row and Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal ribs are interspersed together.

[0043] Figure 20 This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 A side-view perspective view of the fastener assembly, in which... Figure 8A The double hook element row and Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal ribs are interspersed together.

[0044] Figure 21 This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 A side-view perspective view of the fastener assembly, in which... Figure 8A The double hook element row and Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal ribs are interspersed together.

[0045] Figure 22 This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 A side-view perspective view of the fastener assembly, showing the arrangement of circular hook elements. Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal ribs are interspersed together.

[0046] Figure 23 This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 A side-view perspective view of the fastener assembly, in which... Figure 8A The double hook element row and Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal ribs are interspersed together.

[0047] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 Side view of the fastener.

[0048] Figure 25yes Figure 23 The end view or front view of the fastener.

[0049] Figure 26 It includes Figures 4A to 4C A side perspective view of a fastener assembly with two mating examples of fasteners.

[0050] Figure 27 It is along Figure 26 The line 27-27 was cut off Figure 26 A cross-sectional view of the hook arrangement of each of two mating instances of the fastener assembly, wherein the fastener assembly is in an unassembled state.

[0051] Figure 28 It is along Figure 26 The line 27-27 was cut off Figure 26 A cross-sectional view of a fastener assembly with hooks, wherein the fastener assembly is in an assembled state.

[0052] Figure 29 It is along Figure 26 The line 29-29 was cut off Figure 26 A cross-sectional view of the ribs of each of two mating instances of a fastener assembly, wherein the fastener assembly is in an unassembled state.

[0053] Figure 30 It is along Figure 26 The line 29-29 was cut off Figure 26 A cross-sectional view of the ribs of a fastener assembly, wherein the fastener assembly is in a nearly assembled state.

[0054] Figure 31 It is in an unassembled state. Figure 26 Side view of the fastener assembly.

[0055] Figure 32 It is in the assembly state. Figure 26 Side view of the fastener assembly.

[0056] Figure 33 It is in the assembly state. Figure 26 An end view or front view of the fastener assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0057] This disclosure can be more readily understood by referring to the following detailed description, examples, drawings, and claims, as well as their preceding and subsequent descriptions. However, prior to the disclosed and described apparatus, system, and / or method, it should be understood that, unless otherwise stated, this disclosure is not limited to the specific apparatus, system, and / or method disclosed, as the specific apparatus, system, and / or method can, of course, vary. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0058] The following description is provided as a teaching for realizing the apparatus, system, and / or method in their best, currently known aspects. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize and understand that many changes can be made to the various aspects described herein while still obtaining the beneficial results of this disclosure. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits of this disclosure can be obtained by selecting some features of this disclosure without utilizing others. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations and adaptations to this disclosure are possible, and in some cases even desirable and part of this disclosure. Thus, the following description is provided as an illustration of the principles of this disclosure and not as a limitation thereof.

[0059] As used throughout, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include multiple referents. Thus, for example, a reference to the quantity of one element in a particular element may include two or more such elements, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, any element referred to herein may be a first such element, a second such element, etc. (e.g., a first widget and a second widget, even if only “widget” is mentioned).

[0060] A range in this text may be expressed as from “about” a particular value and / or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, the other aspect includes from one particular value and / or to another particular value. Similarly, when values ​​are expressed as approximations, it should be understood, by using the antecedent “about” or “approximately,” that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each range are meaningful relative to and independent of the other endpoints.

[0061] For the purposes of this disclosure, material properties or dimensions are measured at a specific measurement scale as approximately X or roughly X, with the measurement range between X plus the upper limit tolerance of the specified industry standard and X minus the lower limit tolerance of the specified industry standard. Because tolerances can vary between different materials, processes, and models, the tolerance of a specific measurement for a specific component can fall within the tolerance range.

[0062] As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” mean that an event or condition described below may or may not occur, and the description includes instances where said event or condition occurs and instances where said event or condition does not occur.

[0063] As used herein, the word “or” means any one of the components in a particular list, and also includes any combination of components in that list. As used herein, the phrase “at least one of A and B” means “only A, only B, or both A and B”; while the phrase “one of A and B” means “A or B”.

[0064] To simplify the description of the various components disclosed herein, reference may be made to the conventional terms "left side," "right side," "front," "rear," "upper," "lower," "inner," "outer," "inner," "outer," "horizontal," and / or "vertical." Unless otherwise stated, "front" refers to the end of the fastening system closest to the fastened joint, or, in the case of a vehicle, to the front of or a portion thereof near the vehicle; "rear" is the end of the fastener assembly or vehicle opposite to or away from the front; "left side" is the left side or facing left of a person viewing along the longitudinal direction of the fastener assembly (or a person inside the vehicle facing forward) with the fastening element of the fastener assembly facing upward; "right side" is the left side or facing left of a person viewing along the longitudinal direction of the fastener assembly (or a person inside the vehicle facing forward) with the fastening element of the fastener assembly facing upward. "Horizontal" or "horizontal orientation" refers to being in a plane extending from left to right and aligned with the horizon. "Vertical" or "vertical orientation" refers to being in a plane at a 90-degree angle to the horizon.

[0065] In one aspect, this document discloses fasteners and associated methods, systems, apparatuses, and various devices. In one aspect, a fastener may include multiple fastening features, which may be hooks, and multiple sealing features, which may be ribs. Two identical or matching instances of a fastener may be joined to form a fastener assembly.

[0066] Figure 1This is a top perspective view of a fastening system 50 according to one aspect of the present disclosure. In some aspects, the fastening system 50 may include a storage device 60, which may be or may include a packaging element, such as, but not limited to, a bag or other container. As shown, the storage device 60 may be a storage bag for food packaging. The storage device 60 may define mating surfaces 61, 62, which may be partially engaged with the fastener assembly 100. When the fastener assembly 100 is in an assembled state, the storage cavity 68 defined by the storage device 60 may itself be defined, protected, and isolated and sealed from the external environment of the storage device 60 (i.e., the environment to which the outer surface of the storage device is exposed during normal use). The storage device 60 may define: a first side surface 63, which may be an inner surface; and a second side surface 64, which may be the aforementioned outer surface. The first side surface 63 may define or include mating surfaces 61, 62, which may face each other in the assembled state of the fastener assembly 100. Fastener assembly 100 may include fasteners 110a and 110b, each of which may be a fastener strip or a fastener track.

[0067] The storage device 60 may include one or more plates 65, which may be flexible or rigid. One or more materials forming the plates 65 may be defined with a thickness measured between a first side surface 63 and a second side surface 64. Such materials may be thick or thin, opaque or translucent, rigid or flexible. For example, but not limited to, the material forming the bag may itself be formed from a plastic resin or a cellulose material.

[0068] Figure 2 This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 The fastener assembly 100 is shown as a top perspective view. As shown, the fastener assembly 100 may include a sufficiently flexible material to allow fasteners 110a, 110b to flex or bend relative to each other. Each of the fasteners 110a, 110b in the fastener assembly 100 may include a fastening element or fastening feature 200a, 200b, and the fastening feature 200a of fastener 110a may be configured to engage with the fastening feature 200b of fastener 110b. In some aspects, the fastening feature 200b of fastener 110b may define the same pattern or at least a mirror image of the fastening feature 200a of fastener 110a, and in the latter case, when the fasteners 110a, 110b are in a straight, parallel, and unassembled state, the mirror image may extend midway between the fasteners 110a, 110b.

[0069] Figure 3This is a top perspective view of a fastening system 50 including fastener assemblies 100a and 100b according to another aspect of this disclosure, wherein fastener assemblies 100a and 100b can respectively correspond to Figure 2 Fastener assembly 100. In some aspects, as shown, fastener assembly 100, and more specifically fastener assemblies 100a, 100b, can secure plate 300 over opening 88, which in some aspects may be defined by an encapsulation or container 80. Plate 300 can be a cover, such as, but not limited to, a vehicle's cab cover. Opening 88 can be any opening in container 80, which can be a vehicle or other object or part thereof, and opening 88 can be, for example, but not limited to, an opening 88 defined by the convertible bed of a pickup truck. A fastening system in which fastener assemblies 100a, 100b of this disclosure can be incorporated is shown and further detailed in U.S. Patent No. 9,924,765 to Coronel, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some aspects, the sealing function provided by mating ribs 430 of fastener assembly 100 can prevent water from entering container 80 (e.g., the bed of a truck).

[0070] In addition to using the panel 300 as a cover to cover the truck bed as shown in the figure, such a panel 300 can also be used, for example but not limited to, as a cover to cover a retractable, i.e., a retractable and optionally concealed convertible top assembly on a vehicle with a lowerable or removable top; as a cover on a vehicle with an open top (such as a jeep-type vehicle); as a dodger on a boat such as a sailboat, a canopy or Bimini roof to cover part of the cab; as a fitness mat for storage on a wall; as a canopy; as a mat; as a curtain; or as a vertical mat in an elevator.

[0071] The fastening system 50 may further include fastener retainers 350a and 350b, each including a first end 355a and 355b and a second end 356a and 356b. The container 80 may include one or more sidewalls, such as, but not limited to, a left sidewall 83a and a right sidewall 83b. Each of the sidewalls 83a and 83b may include a corresponding sleeve 85a and 85b. In some aspects, sleeves 85a and 85b may be received on top of the sidewalls 83a and 83b, respectively. In other aspects, no sleeve is required on either sidewall 83a or 83b.

[0072] The plate 300 may include an outer surface 301, an inner surface 302, a first side end 303, a second side end 304, a first length direction end 305, a second length direction end (not shown) opposite to or away from the first length direction end, and a central portion 310. The plate 300 may include fasteners 110b that secure the plate 300 to fasteners 110a to form separate fastener assemblies 100a, 100b on any one or more sides of the container 80. The plate 300 may be made of, for example, but not limited to, fabrics, polymers, leather products, or composites of several of these materials, or any other material, and may be insulating or non-insulating, reinforced or unreinforced, woven or non-woven.

[0073] Fasteners 110a, 110b, and more generally fastener assemblies 100, 100a, 100b, can be used in any of the many end uses not limited to the examples disclosed herein. In some aspects, such as, but not limited to, fastener assembly 100 can be used in other forms of packaging, for example, at the entrance or other opening of a bag for storing perishable goods, at the interface between a container and its cover, in waterproof storage bags made of fabric or other materials for marine environments, or even for attaching one object to another (e.g., but not limited to attaching an object to a vertical surface), in which it is not necessary to close or seal the opening leading to the storage cavity.

[0074] Figures 4A to 4C This illustrates a corresponding aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 1 Fastener 110 of fastener assembly 100 includes fasteners 110a and 110b. Figures 4A to 4C These are three separate side top-view perspective views of fastener 110. Figure 5 From Figure 4B Detail 5 (excerpt) Figure 4A A side top perspective view of the details of the fastener 110. The fastener 110 (and extended to fasteners 110a, 110b) may include a base 410, a plurality of hook elements or hooks 420 (which are more generally fastening features), and a plurality of rib elements or ribs 430 (which are more generally sealing features), not only with respect to this particular feature or description but also with respect to other features described herein. Even when hook-to-hook fastener assemblies are used in packaging or other products, such assemblies typically provide little or no sealing. As mentioned in the discussion of the background art above, inadequate sealing in these and other end uses can lead to leakage of the contents of the closed packaging or other container from the packaging or container, or allow contaminants and / or air to undesirably leak into the packaging or container. In contrast, using the fastener assembly 100 disclosed herein can improve food freshness or otherwise reduce the rate of deterioration of stored items.

[0075] The base 410 may define a first surface or top surface 411 and a second surface or bottom surface 412. Figure 6 (As shown in the figure). In the front-to-back direction or longitudinal direction 403, the base 410 and more generally the fastener 110 may define a first end 405 and a second end 406. In the left-to-right, side-to-side, or transverse direction 404, the base 410 and more generally the fastener 110 may define a first side end 413 and a second side end 414. In some aspects, the length L of the fastener 110 in the longitudinal direction 403 may be similar to or the same as the width W of the fastener 110 in the transverse direction 404. In other aspects, the length L may be greater than the width W; in some aspects, for example, the length L may be twice the width W; in some aspects, the length L may be five times the width W; in some aspects, the length L may be ten times the width W; in some aspects, the length L may be more than 20 times the width W. In other aspects, the length L may be less than the width W. As shown, the transverse direction 404 may be responsive to the Y-axis direction, the longitudinal direction 403 may correspond to the X-axis direction, and the vertical or normal direction of the fastener 110 may correspond to the Z-axis direction.

[0076] Multiple hooks 420 may extend from and away from the base 410. More specifically, each of the multiple hooks 420 may extend from the base 410 and may be at an angle, for example, 90 degrees, relative to a surface of the base 410 (e.g., but not limited to the top surface 411). The multiple hooks 420 may be intermittently placed or positioned along the longitudinal direction 403 of the fastener 110 to form a hook row 425. More specifically, the multiple hooks 420 may form a longitudinal hook row 425, that is, a hook row 425 extending along the longitudinal direction 403. Note that, for clarity, in Figure 4A And in the subsequent diagrams, only a portion of hook row 425 is marked.

[0077] Similarly, multiple ribs 430 of the wall may extend from and away from the base 410. More specifically, each of the multiple ribs 430 may extend from the base 410 and may be at an angle, for example, 90 degrees, relative to the surface of the base 410 (e.g., but not limited to the top surface 411). The multiple ribs 430 may be intermittently placed or positioned along the longitudinal direction 403 of the fastener 110 to form rib rows 435. More specifically, the multiple ribs 430 may form a first rib row 435 and a second rib row 435. In some aspects, the first rib row 435 and the second rib row 435 may be positioned, for example, but not limited to, a first transverse side and a second transverse side of a longitudinal hook row 425, or may be offset from hook rows such as hook row 425 in the transverse direction 404. As shown, the center of symmetry or line of symmetry of each rib 430 in the rib row 435 may be aligned with the center of symmetry or line of symmetry of each hook 420 in the hook row 425 along the transverse direction 404. Note that, for clarity, in Figure 4AAnd in the subsequent diagrams, only a portion of rib 435 is marked.

[0078] As will be explained below, various patterns of hooks 420 and ribs 430 can be repeated throughout the fastener 110 on the longitudinal 403 or the transverse 404, or on both the longitudinal 403 and the transverse 404. In some aspects, such as Figures 4A to 4C and Figure 11 As shown, a pattern 470 with a longitudinal hook 425 having longitudinal ribs 435 on each side in the transverse direction (in) Figure 4C As shown in the diagram (i.e., the rib-hook-rib pattern), it can be repeated throughout the fastener 110 in the transverse direction 404. For example, the fastener 110 may include multiple instances of patterns such as, but not limited to, pattern 470 throughout the fastener 110. In some aspects, additional longitudinal hook rows 425 may separate other adjacent patterns 470 of hooks 420 and ribs 430. In some aspects, hooks 420 in hook rows 425 may be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 from the position of the nearest adjacent hook 420 of adjacent hook rows 425 and from the position of the nearest adjacent rib 430 of adjacent rib rows 435. In some aspects, hook rows 425 may be offset in the longitudinal direction 103 relative to each other and relative to the hooks 420 and ribs 430 of pattern 470. Therefore, in some aspects, the transverse row 450 formed by the hooks 420 in the separate longitudinal hook rows 425 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 from the transverse row 460 formed by the ribs 430 in the separate longitudinal rib rows 435. In some aspects, the additional longitudinal rib rows 435 can be positioned on the transverse edge of the fastener 110 near the second side end 414.

[0079] like Figure 5 As shown, each of the plurality of hooks 420 may include lateral sides 522a, 522b (522b in...) Figure 7 (as shown in the diagram), and each of the plurality of ribs 430 may include transverse sides 532a, 532b (532b in...) Figure 7 (as shown in the image).

[0080] Figure 6 yes Figure 4A A side view of the fastener 110. In some aspects, as shown, the thickness 610 of the base 410 may be constant. In some aspects, as shown, the total height H of the fastener 110 may be constant when measured from the bottom surface 412 to the ends of the plurality of hooks 420 or to the ends of the plurality of ribs 430. As shown, the height 620 of the plurality of hooks 420 and the height 630 of the plurality of ribs 430 may be constant. In some aspects, as shown, the height 620 of the plurality of hooks 420 may be equal to the height 630 of the plurality of ribs 430.

[0081] Figure 7 yes Figure 4AThe fastener 110 is shown as an end view or front view. When the base is shown as a "sandwich" of multiple individual material layers, the fastener 110, and more specifically the base 410, can be integral in some respects, meaning that the base 410 is formed as a single component of a single material without joints or seams. The portion of the base 410 extending laterally 404 between adjacent rows 425, 435 may include or define spacers 710.

[0082] Figure 8A It is along Figure 7 The line cut from 8-8 Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the hook array 425 of the fastener 110. In some aspects, each of the plurality of hooks 420 in the hook array 425 may include a double hook element 820, which may define a palm tree shape. More specifically, each hook 420 may include a double hook element 820, which may define one or more fastening ends 820a, 820b and a vertical portion or hook base 840. As used herein, a “hook” may be any shape of end 820a, 820b, the ends 820a, 820b facing the fastener 110 at one or both of the longitudinal direction 403 and the transverse direction 404 at the ends 405, 406, 413, 414 (all in... Figure 4A (As shown) extends and tends to snap or lock onto a mating shape defined in a second fastener 110 or, for example, but not limited to, the "loop" side of a hook-and-loop fastener. In some aspects, when viewed from the side (as shown or from another side view), each of the ends 820a, 820b of the corresponding hook elements 820 can extend horizontally from the hook base 840 of the hook 420. In some aspects, the hook 420 may define an undercut, i.e., a recess or other geometry hidden when the fastener 110 is viewed from above along a vertical direction 805, which may be at a 90-degree angle relative to the orientation of the base 410. When viewed from the side, as shown, one or more sides 842 of the hook base 840 may form an angle 847 relative to a surface of the base 410, for example, but not limited to the top surface 411. In some aspects, as shown, the angle 847 may be between 0 and 90 degrees. In some aspects, the angle 847 may be between 0 and 45 degrees. In some aspects, angle 847 can be 20 degrees. In some aspects, angle 847 can be 0 degrees, and when the fastener 110 is oriented in the horizontal direction, the side 842 of the hook base 840 can extend in the vertical direction 805.

[0083] A hook receiving area 880 may be defined between each pair of adjacent hooks 420 in a hook row, such as but not limited to hook row 425. Also, Figure 28As exemplarily shown, the dimensions of each hook receiving area 880 can be configured to receive a corresponding hook 420 among a plurality of hooks 420 of the second fastener 110. More specifically, the minimum width 882 of the hook receiving area 880 in the longitudinal direction 403 (which may correspond to the minimum distance between adjacent hooks 420 in the same direction) can be less than the maximum width 884 of the hook receiving area 880 in the same direction, and less than the corresponding maximum distance between adjacent hooks 420 in the same direction. Similarly, the minimum height 886 of the hook receiving area 880 in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction 403 (which may correspond to the minimum distance between each hook 420 and the top surface 411 of the base 410) can be less than the maximum height 888 of the hook receiving area 880, and less than the corresponding maximum distance between the same hook 420 and the top surface 411 in the same direction. Each hook 420 itself, more specifically each hook element 820, can define a width 824. Thus, at least in part, the fastener 110 can define the ratio between the width 824 of the hook 420 and the minimum width 882 of the hook receiving area 880, and the ratio between the width 824 of the hook 420 and the maximum width 884 of the hook receiving area 880. Each hook 420, more specifically each hook element 820, can define a hook element height 826 and a total hook height 620, thereby at least in part defining the ratio between heights 826, 620 and the minimum height 886 of the hook receiving area 880, and the ratio between heights 826, 620 and the maximum height 888 of the hook receiving area 880. In some aspects, as shown, at least a portion of each hook 420, such as the hook base 840, can gradually narrow from the hook base 840 toward the hook element 820, such that the minimum width of that portion of the hook 420 is less than the maximum width of that portion of the hook 420.

[0084] In some aspects, the hook receiving area 880 may extend to the height of the measured minimum width 882. In some aspects, the hook receiving area 880 may extend to the outermost part of the hook 420 or a portion of the hook 420 at the measured height 620. Each hook 420 may define a notch, valley, or recess 828 between adjacent ends 820a, 820b. The inner and outer edges of each hook 420 may define radii R1 and R2, respectively, which may improve the fastener assembly 100 (in Figure 1 The functions (including assembly and disassembly) and / or durability (as shown in the figure) of the hook element 820 may be symmetrical about its vertical centerline, including when the fastener 110 is in a horizontal orientation.

[0085] Figure 8B It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line cut from 8-8 Figure 4AA cross-sectional view of the hook array 425 of the fastener 110. As shown, each of the plurality of hooks 420 in the hook array 425, for example but not limited to, may include a double hook element 820, the double hook element 820 being defined in a shape different from... Figure 8A The shape shown can be limited to that of a palm tree. As shown in the figure, with... Figure 8A Compared to the hook array 425 shown, the ratio between the height 826 of the hook element 820 and the corresponding heights 886 and 888 of the hook receiving area 880 can be smaller. Also as shown, the angle 847 can be smaller. More specifically, the angle 847 can be less than 20 degrees. Also as shown, the radius R2 can be smaller, meaning the ends 820a and 820b can be less rounded.

[0086] Figure 8C It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line cut from 8-8 Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the fastener hook array 425. As shown, for example, but not limited to, each of the plurality of hooks 420 in the hook array 425 may include a double hook element 820, the double hook element 820 being defined in a shape different from... Figure 8A and Figure 8B The shape shown can at least partially define an opposite "J" shape. As shown, the height 898 of the recess 828 defined in hook 420 can be measured to be approximately equal to or even equal to the height 620 of hook 420. As shown, with... Figure 8A Compared to the hook array 425 shown, the ratio between the width 824 of the hook element 820 and the corresponding widths 882, 884 of the hook receiving area 880 can be larger. In some aspects, the width 824 of the hook 420 can be greater than one or both of the widths 882, 884 of the hook receiving area 880. In some aspects, during the assembly of the fastener 110 to a second fastener 110 having the same or matching geometry, and in some aspects even afterward, the hook element 820, more specifically the ends 820a, 820b, can be sized and otherwise configured to bend around the corresponding hook base 840. Also as shown, the radius R2 can be larger, i.e., the ends 820a, 820b can be more rounded.

[0087] Figure 8D It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line cut from 8-8 Figure 4AA cross-sectional view of the hook array 425 of the fastener 110. As shown, each of the plurality of hooks 420 in the hook array 425, for example but not limited to, may include a single hook element 820, which may define one or more of the aforementioned characteristics of the hook 420 and may define a "J" shape. However, in some aspects, the width 824a of the hook element 820 may include the width of the hook base 840 of the hook 420. In other aspects, the width 824b of the hook element 820 may be measured at the end extension line 860 of the hook element 820 of the hook 420. As shown, the end extension line 860 may extend along the longitudinal direction 403 and pass through the furthest portion of the end 820a extending along the longitudinal direction 403.

[0088] Figure 8E It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line cut from 8-8 Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the hook array 425 of the fastener 110. As shown, for example, but not limited to, each of the plurality of hooks 420 in the hook array 425 may include a single hook element 820, which may be coupled with... Figure 8D The features shown may differ, but one or more of the aforementioned characteristics of the hook 420 can still be defined, and a "J" shape can be defined. As shown, the extension of the end 820a of each of the plurality of hooks 420 can be greater than... Figure 8D It is more obvious as shown in the diagram.

[0089] Figure 8F It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line cut from 8-8 Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the hook array 425 of the fastener 110. As shown, the hook element 820 of each of the plurality of hooks 420 can define a mushroom or bulb shape. In some aspects, as shown, the bulb shape can be visible only from a single direction, i.e., each of the plurality of hooks 420 can have the disclosed two-dimensional shape in only one plane. In some aspects, such as Figure 22 As shown, the bulb shape can be visible from multiple directions or even all directions. In some aspects, the height H2 of the bulb shape or bulb portion of the hook element 820 in the direction extending away from the base 410 can be greater than or equal to the height H1 of the portion of the hook 420 extending between the bulb portion and the base 410.

[0090] Figure 9A It is along Figure 7 The line 9-9 was cut off Figure 4AA side view of the ribs 435 of the fastener 110. As shown, the ribs 430 may include a plurality of generally trapezoidal rib elements 930. Each of the plurality of rib elements 930, more generally each rib 430, may include a rib base 940 and an end 930a. As used herein, a “rib” can be any shape of rib element 930 extending away from the base 410 of the fastener 110. Each rib 430 may be inclined to seal against a mating shape defined in a mating second fastener 110. More specifically, each rib 430 may be configured to engage or seal against its own reverse. In some aspects, each end 930a may extend vertically from the rib base 940 of the rib 430 when viewed from the side (as shown or from another side view). As shown when viewed from the side, one or more sides 942 of the rib base 940 may form an angle 947 relative to a surface of the base 410, such as, but not limited to, the top surface 411. In some aspects, as shown, angle 947 can be between 0 and 90 degrees. In some aspects, angle 947 can be between 0 and 45 degrees. In some aspects, angle 947 can be 20 degrees. In some aspects, angle 947 can be 16 degrees. In some aspects, angle 947 can be 0 degrees, in which case, when fastener 110 is oriented in the horizontal direction, the side 942 of rib base 940 can extend in the vertical direction 805. In some aspects, the dimensions of hook 420 and the corresponding hook receiving area 880 can be set to define a gap between them to facilitate mating fasteners 110a, 110b (in Figure 2 The smooth interlocking of the fasteners 110a, 110b is shown in the figure. Similarly, the dimensions of the rib 430 and the corresponding rib receiving area 980 can be set to define a gap between them to facilitate the smooth interlocking of the fasteners 110a, 110b.

[0091] A rib receiving area 980 may be defined between each pair of adjacent ribs 430 in a plurality of ribs 430, such as, but not limited to, rib 435. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and unrelated to the preceding text.) Figure 32As exemplarily shown, the dimensions of each rib receiving region 980 can be set to receive a corresponding rib 430 among a plurality of ribs 430 of the second fastener 110. More specifically, the minimum width 982 of the rib receiving region 980 in the longitudinal direction 403 (which may correspond to the minimum distance in the same direction between adjacent ribs 430) can be less than the maximum width 984 of the rib receiving region 980 in the same direction and less than the corresponding maximum distance in the same direction between adjacent ribs 430. Each rib 430 itself, more specifically each rib element 930, can define a minimum width 924 and a maximum width 928. Thus, at least in part, the fastener 110 can define the ratio between the widths 924, 928 of each rib 430 and the corresponding widths 982, 984 of the rib receiving region 980. Each rib 430 can define a height 630, which can be equal to the depth or height of the rib receiving region 980.

[0092] Therefore, each rib 430 can define a 1:1 ratio between the height 630 of the rib 430 and the height of the rib receiving area 980. In some aspects, the ratio between any one or more portions of the rib 430 of the first fastener 110 and the corresponding rib receiving area 980 of the second fastener 110 can be 1:1 to ensure a tight seal between them. In such aspects, the rib 430 can be tightly fitted into the corresponding rib receiving area 980 during assembly. In some aspects, the rib 430 can be slightly smaller to allow tolerances or allow a gap 3180 between the two fasteners 110 (in Figure 31 A seal exists in the figure (as shown in the figure). In some aspects, as shown in the figure, each rib 430 can gradually narrow from the rib base 940 toward the end 930a, such that the minimum width 924 of the rib 430 is less than the maximum width 928 of the rib 430.

[0093] In some aspects, the rib receiving area 980 may extend to a height of 630 as measured. In some aspects, as shown, each of the edges or sides of each rib 430 may be straight. In some aspects, each rib 430 or a portion thereof may define a notch, valley, or recess (not shown), or define a non-straight or rounded portion. The inner and outer edges of each rib 430 may define radii R1 and R2, respectively, which may improve the fastener assembly 100 (in Figure 1 The functions (including assembly and disassembly) and / or durability of the fastener 420 (as shown in the figure) are considered. Where one or more portions of the hook 420 or rib 430 define a radius or other edge treatment, its dimensions (e.g., but not limited to various widths 924, 928, 982, 984 of the rib 430) can be measured to the intersection of the edges of the rib 430. In some aspects, as shown, this includes the rib element 930 being symmetrical about its vertical centerline when the fastener 110 is in a horizontal orientation.

[0094] Figure 9B It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line 9-9 was cut off Figure 4A A side view of the ribs 435 of the fastener 110. As shown, the ribs 435 may include a plurality of generally rectangular rib elements 930. In some aspects, the ribs 435 may include rectangular rib elements 930. In some aspects, the rectangular shape of each rib 430 may also be square.

[0095] Figure 9C It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line 9-9 was cut off Figure 4A A side view of the ribs 435 of the fastener 110. As shown, the ribs 435 may include a plurality of trapezoidal rib elements 930.

[0096] Figure 9D It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line 9-9 was cut off Figure 4A A side view of the ribs 435 of the fastener 110. As shown, the ribs 435 may include a plurality of generally trapezoidal and chamfered rib elements 930. Each rib element 930 may correspondingly define a chamfer 935 on one or more of its edges. In some aspects, as shown, a portion of each rib 430 may be larger than the corresponding rib receiving area 980, and / or the edges of the ribs 430 may be relative to the sides 532a, 532b (532b in...). Figure 7 (As shown in the diagram) defines a non-90-degree angle to allow for interference fits and / or overlap fits. More specifically, the edges of rib 430 (e.g., but not limited to the surface with chamfer 935) can cause rib 430 to gradually narrow along the longitudinal direction 403. Such gradual narrowing can impede fasteners 110a, 110b in the transverse direction 404 (in the diagram). Figure 7 (as shown in the diagram) the movement relative to each other, thereby keeping the fasteners 110a and 110b aligned and not moving relative to each other in the transverse 404.

[0097] Figure 9E It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line 9-9 was cut off Figure 4A A side view of the ribbed 435 of the fastener 110. As shown, the ribbed 435 can include multiple triangular rib elements 930.

[0098] Figure 9F It is according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 7 The line 9-9 was cut off Figure 4AA side view of the ribs 435 of the fastener 110, wherein the ribs 435 include a plurality of generally rounded or circular rib elements 930. As shown, each of the ribs 430 and the rib receiving area 980 may define a full circle radius R3, R4 that may be equal to each other.

[0099] Due to the presence of rounded corners or chamfers or other edge treatments, due to the absence of an edge (where the shape merges into the adjacent part of the structure), or due to other variations, a trapezoidal, rectangular, or some other shape may not be considered trapezoidal, rectangular, or said other shapes under some technical definitions. When the shape described herein is "approximately" trapezoidal, rectangular, or some other shape, it is intended and contemplated that such variations of the shape be included in the definition. To the extent that some variations of the shape are so small as to be almost imperceptible, it is intended and contemplated that such shapes be incorporated into the definition of the shape (with or without the conditional term "approximately" as a qualifier). As... Figure 9C The fastener 110 shown can be shortened Figure 9E The fastener 110 shown is formed in the same way as the triangular rib element 930, other envisioned shapes include truncated and untruncated forms as well as other variations of the forms disclosed herein.

[0100] Figure 10 This is based on another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 1 A side top perspective view of the fastener 110 of the fastener assembly 100. As shown in the figure. Figure 8A The double hook element 820 row and Figure 9D The roughly trapezoidal and chamfered rib elements 930 are interlaced on both the transverse 404 and longitudinal 403 of the fastener 110. Similar to... Figures 4A to 4C As shown, a pattern 470 of a longitudinal hook row 425 having longitudinal rib rows 435 on each side of the transverse direction (i.e., a rib-hook-rib pattern) can be repeated throughout the fastener 110 in the transverse direction 404. In some aspects, as shown, adjacent patterns 470 can share a common rib row 435 (i.e., in a rib-hook-rib-hook-rib pattern). In some aspects, also as shown, the hooks 420 of the hook row 425 can be offset relative to the ribs 430 of the rib row 435. Therefore, in some aspects, the transverse row 450 formed by the hooks 420 in the separate longitudinal hook rows 425 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 from the transverse row 460 formed by the ribs 430 in the separate longitudinal rib rows 435.

[0101] Figures 11 to 14 This illustrates another aspect of the disclosure. Figure 1 Fastener 110 of fastener assembly 100. Figure 11 This is a side top-view perspective view of fastener 110. Figure 12 This is a side view of fastener 110. Figure 13This is an end view or front view of fastener 110. Figure 14 It includes Figure 11 A side perspective view of fastener assembly 100 showing two mating examples of fasteners 110a and 100b. Similar to... Figures 4A to 4C As shown, a pattern 470 (i.e., a rib-hook-rib pattern) with a longitudinal rib row 435 on each side of the transverse direction can be repeated throughout the fastener 110 on the transverse direction 404. Again, as Figures 4A to 4C As shown, the longitudinal hook row 425 can be offset longitudinally 403 relative to the hook 420 and rib 430 in the pattern 470. (See here and...) Figure 9B As shown, each rib 430 can be approximately rectangular.

[0102] As also shown, each rib 430 may be ridged. More specifically, each rib 430 may include a protrusion or ridge 1130. In some aspects, the ridge 1130 may extend from an end 930a defined at the end of the rib 430, the end 930a being parallel and opposite to the position where the rib 430 extends from the base 410. In some aspects, particularly if the two mating fastener assemblies 100 are not identical, the ridge 1130 may extend from one or more other ends of the rib 430. More specifically, the ridge 1130 of the corresponding rib 430 of the first fastener 110 may extend into a slot 1180 defined in the corresponding rib 430 of the second fastener 110. In some aspects, the ridge 1130 may define a radius at its upper edge to facilitate insertion into the slot 1180 of the mating fastener 110. The thickness of the ridge 1130 in the transverse direction 404 may be less than the thickness of the rib 430 in the same direction. The ridge 1130 may be centered in the transverse direction 404. In some aspects, a groove or slot 1180 may be defined in each rib receiving region 980, and the groove or slot 1180 may be sized, positioned, and otherwise configured to receive a ridge 1130 during the assembly of two mating fasteners 110 to form the fastener assembly 100. Figure 14 (As shown in the diagram). The thickness of the slot 1180 in the transverse direction 404 can be less than the thickness of the rib 430 in the same direction. The thickness of the slot 1180 in the transverse direction 404 can match the thickness of the ridge 1130 in the transverse direction 404.

[0103] Figure 14 Fastener assembly 100 is shown. A plurality of ridges 1130 formed in the first fastener 110 and a plurality of slots 1180 defined in the second fastener 110b are shown. Figure 11The engagement of the second fastener 110b relative to the first fastener 110a (shown in the diagram) can help fix the second fastener 110b relative to the first fastener 110a, especially in the transverse 404, because the engagement of the ridge 1130 and the slot 1180 will lock the positions of the two fasteners 110a, 110b relative to each other in the transverse 404.

[0104] Figures 15 to 21 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 1 The fastener 110 of the fastener assembly 100 includes a plurality of longitudinal ribs 435 positioned on each of the transverse sides of one or more longitudinal hook rows 425. Figure 15 This is a side top perspective view of a fastener 110 according to another aspect of this disclosure. As shown, a plurality of ribs 430 can extend from the base 410 and form a rib-hook-rib pattern 470 (in Figure 4C As shown in detail in the figure, the rib-hook-rib pattern 470 can be repeated throughout the fastener 110 in the transverse direction 404. The fastener 110 can include multiple adjacent ribs 435, including when additional ribs 435 are added at the transverse ends of the fastener 110. In some aspects, the fastener 110 can include a rib-rib-hook-rib-rib pattern 1570, wherein two or more longitudinal ribs 435 are positioned on each side of each hook row 425. In some aspects, as shown, the two or more ribs 435 positioned between adjacent hook rows 425 can be shared between adjacent patterns 1570. As shown, the hook row 425 can include... Figure 8A The double hook element 820, and the rib 435 may include Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal rib element 930. Hooks 420 and ribs 430 can form corresponding rows 450 and 460, which can be aligned with each other as shown in the figure.

[0105] Figure 16 This is a side top perspective view of fastener 110 according to another aspect of this disclosure. Hook 420 and rib 430 can be as follows: Figure 15As disclosed herein. However, in some aspects, the hooks 420 of the hook row 425 may define a spacing interval 1650 between adjacent horizontal hook rows 450, which is different from the spacing interval 1660 between adjacent horizontal rib rows 460. Thus, the spacing interval 1650 may be the spacing between hooks 420 in the same longitudinal hook row 425, and the spacing interval 1660 may be the spacing between ribs 430 in the same longitudinal rib row 435. As shown, the spacing interval 1650 may be smaller than the spacing interval 1660. Because the spacing intervals 1650 and 1660 may be different, the hook row 450 and rib row 460 may include only hooks 420 at some locations along the longitudinal direction 403 of the fastener 110, may include only ribs 430 at some locations, and may include both hooks 420 and ribs 430 at some locations. As shown, the hook row 425 may include Figure 8E The single hook element 820, and the rib 435 may include Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal rib element 930.

[0106] Figures 17 to 21 Aspects according to this disclosure are shown Figure 1 Fastener 110 of fastener assembly 100, wherein such as also Figure 15 and Figure 16 The longitudinal ribs 435 shown are staggered relative to each other in the longitudinal direction 403, just as they are staggered relative to each other in the transverse direction 404. Figure 17 This is a side top perspective view of a fastener 110 according to another aspect of this disclosure. As shown, longitudinal ribs, such as a plurality of longitudinal ribs 435, may be offset from each other in the longitudinal direction 403 by a staggered or interlaced interval 1760, just as the longitudinal ribs 435 are offset from each other in the transverse direction 404. More specifically, separate transverse ribs 460 may be offset by an interlaced interval 1760, which may be equal to, for example, but not limited to, half the spacing interval 1660. As shown, longitudinal hooks, such as longitudinal hooks 425, may similarly be offset from each other in the longitudinal direction 403 by a staggered distance or an interlaced interval 1750, just as the longitudinal hooks 425 are offset from each other in the transverse direction 404. More specifically, separate transverse hooks 450 may be offset by an interlaced interval 1750, which may be equal to, for example, but not limited to, half the spacing interval 1650. Therefore, the staggered interval 1750 can be the spacing between hooks 420 in adjacent longitudinal hook rows 425 that are staggered relative to each other in the longitudinal direction 403, and the spacing interval 1760 can be the spacing between ribs 430 in adjacent longitudinal rib rows 435 that are staggered relative to each other in the longitudinal direction 403. Hook rows 425 and rib rows 435 can together form a pattern 470 (e.g., Figure 4CAs shown, however, adjacent ribs 435 are staggered relative to each other, and there are multiple instances of overlapping patterns 1570, wherein the inner ribs 435 can be shared by adjacent patterns 1570. As shown, the hook 425 may include Figure 8A The double hook element 820, and the rib 435 may include Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal rib element 930.

[0107] Figure 18 This is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 according to another aspect of this disclosure. Again, the hook 425 and the rib 435 can be formed together in pattern 470 (e.g., Figure 4C As shown in pattern 470, but adjacent ribs 435 are staggered relative to each other) and overlapping pattern 1570 (in Figure 17 Multiple instances are shown (as illustrated), wherein the inner rib 435 can be shared by adjacent patterns 1570. As shown, the hook 425 may include... Figure 8A The double hook element 820, and the rib 435 may include Figure 9B The roughly rectangular rib element 930.

[0108] Figure 19 This is a side top perspective view of a fastener 110 according to another aspect of this disclosure. As shown, ribs 435 may be offset relative to each other in the longitudinal direction 403, just as ribs 435 are offset relative to each other in the transverse direction 404 to form a row 460, and hooks 425 may be aligned to form a row 450. As shown, hooks 425 may include Figure 8A The double hook element 820, and the rib 435 may include Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal rib element 930.

[0109] Figure 20 This is a side-view perspective view of a fastener 110 according to another aspect of this disclosure. As shown, the fastener can be defined as a pattern 2070, which can be a pattern 470 repeating in the transverse direction 404 between two or more ribs 435 spanning, i.e., positioned on each side of the hook row 425. The additional longitudinal ribs 435 can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 relative to the hook row 425. Thus, the pattern 2070 can be a rib-rib-rib-hook-rib-rib-rib-rib arrangement, wherein the ribs 430 of the middle rib row 435 on each side of the hook can be offset in the longitudinal direction 403 from the adjacent ribs 435. As shown, the hook row 425 can include Figure 8A The double hook element 820, and the rib 435 may include Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal rib element 930.

[0110] Figure 21This is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 according to another aspect of this disclosure. As shown, ribs 435 may be positioned laterally 404 outside one or more hooks 425 only relative to the centerline of the fastener 110. As shown, adjacent longitudinal ribs 435 may be staggered relative to each other longitudinally 403 at an alternating interval 1760. In some aspects, as shown, multiple hooks 425 may be positioned adjacent to each other and inside any rib 435; in some aspects, there are no ribs 435 between hooks 425. As shown, hooks 425 may include... Figure 8A The double hook element 820, and the rib 435 may include Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal rib element 930.

[0111] Figure 22 This is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 according to another aspect of this disclosure. As shown, the hook row 425 may include a circular or rounded hook element 820, and the rib row 435 may include... Figure 9A The rib element 930 is generally trapezoidal. For example, but not limited to, the end 820b of the hook element 820 of each of the plurality of hooks 420 in the hook row 425 may extend laterally 404 past the hook base 840. In some aspects, the end 820b may extend in both longitudinal direction 403 and laterally 404. In some aspects, as shown, the end 820b may extend in all directions. More specifically, any one or more of the hook element 820, the end 820b, and the hook base 840 may be formed by rotational shaping about the axis 2201 of the hook 420. In some aspects, as shown, the hook 420 may have radial or rotational symmetry about the axis 2201. In some aspects, as shown, the end 820b may define an ellipsoidal or generally ellipsoidal shape. In some aspects, as shown, the hook base 840 may define a truncated conical shape. Generally, as also about Figure 8F As shown in the geometry, the hooks 420 can define a mushroom or bulb shape. A hook receiving area 880 can be defined between the hooks 420, and the hook receiving area 880 can be defined by three or four hooks 420 depending on whether the hook rows 425 are staggered relative to each other in the longitudinal direction 403 as shown.

[0112] Figure 23 This is a side top perspective view of the fastener 110 according to another aspect of this disclosure. Figure 24 It is a side view. Figure 25This is an end view or a front view. Again, hook row 425 and rib row 435 can together form multiple instances of pattern 470 (i.e., rib-hook-rib). In some aspects, as shown, adjacent patterns 470 can be offset relative to each other in the longitudinal direction 403. Such arrangement of rows 425, 435 can help prevent the hook 420 and rib 430, as well as more generally fasteners 110a, 110b, from falling apart. Figure 26 As shown, fasteners 110a and 110b disengage from the track (i.e., misalign) when engaged, and can be easily aligned correctly from the initial engagement point. More specifically, placing one or more hooks 420 in the first hook row 425 of each of fasteners 110a and 110b adjacent to one or more hook receiving areas 880 in the adjacent second hook row 425 can limit or prevent movement of fastener 110b relative to fastener 110a in the lateral direction 404, because one or more hooks 420 in the individual fasteners 110a and 110b will block each other's movement in the lateral direction 404. Similarly, placing one or more ribs 430 in the first rib row 435 of each of fasteners 110a and 110b adjacent to the rib receiving area 980 of one or more ribs in the adjacent second rib row 435 can restrict or prevent movement of fastener 110b relative to fastener 110a in the lateral direction 404, because one or more ribs 430 in the individual fasteners 110a and 110b will block each other's movement in the lateral direction 404. Such staggered arrangement can also facilitate improved sealing between fasteners 110a and 110b. As shown, the hook row 425 may include... Figure 8A The double hook element 820, and the rib 435 may include Figure 9A The roughly trapezoidal rib element 930.

[0113] Figures 26 to 33 A fastener assembly 100 according to another aspect of this disclosure is shown. Figure 26 This is a side perspective view of fastener assembly 100, which may include... Figures 4A to 4C Two mating examples of the fastener 110 are: a first fastener 110a and a second fastener 110b which can be configured to face and engage with the first fastener 110a. In some aspects, the structure of the second fastener 110b may be the same as that of the first fastener 110a. In some aspects, the structure of the second fastener 110b may be a mirror image of the structure of the first fastener 110a.

[0114] Figure 27 and Figure 28 It is along Figure 26 The line 27-27 was cut off Figure 26The figure shows cross-sectional views of two mating examples of fasteners 110a and 110b of the fastener assembly 100, wherein the fastener assembly 100 is in an unassembled state and an assembled state, respectively. As shown, the size of each hook receiving area 880 defined between each pair of adjacent hooks 420 in the plurality of hooks 420 of the first fastener 110a can be set to receive a corresponding hook 420 in the plurality of hooks 420 of the second fastener 110b.

[0115] Figure 29 and Figure 30 It is along Figure 26 The line 29-29 was cut off Figure 26 The figure shows a cross-sectional view of the fastener assembly 100, wherein the fastener assembly is in an unassembled state and an assembled state. As shown, the size of each rib receiving area 980 defined between each pair of adjacent ribs 430 in the plurality of ribs 430 of the first fastener 110a can be set to receive the corresponding rib 430 in the plurality of ribs 430 of the second fastener 110b.

[0116] Figure 31 and Figure 32 These are the unassembled state and the assembled state, respectively. Figure 26 A side view of the fastener assembly 100, and Figure 33 It is in the assembly state. Figure 26 The fastener assembly 100 is shown in an end or front view. The gradually narrowing shape of each rib 430 facilitates the engagement of fasteners 110a and 110b such that the rib 430 of fastener 110b is received within and seals against the rib 430 of fastener 110a. The hooks 420 of the corresponding fasteners 110a and 110b maintain a seal by engaging with each other in a locking configuration. The locking configuration may be strong enough to resist stresses caused by vibration and damage (e.g., by a toddler), but weak enough to facilitate disengagement when needed. In some aspects, the retaining force generated by the engaged hooks 420 may prevent fluid from passing through the fastener assembly 100 at the rib 435. In some aspects, the fastener assembly 100 may be repeatedly assembled and engaged, as well as disassembled or disengaged, which may allow the storage device 60 (in Figure 1 (as shown in the image) repeated use.

[0117] like Figure 32 and Figure 33As shown, fasteners 110a, 110b and portions thereof can be defined in various sizes and proportions. In some aspects, one or both of the spacing intervals 1650 and 1660 can be 1.30 mm. In some aspects, one or both of the spacing intervals 1650 and 1660 can be greater than or less than 1.30 mm. In some aspects, the thickness 610 of the base 410 can be 0.20 mm. In some aspects, one or both of the height 620 of the hook 420 and the height of the rib 430 can be 0.50 mm.

[0118] In some aspects, the total fastener height H of fasteners 110a and 110b may be approximately 0.40 mm. In some aspects, the total fastener height H may be approximately 0.50 mm. In some aspects, the total fastener height H may be approximately 0.60 mm. In some aspects, the total fastener height H may be approximately 0.70 mm. In some aspects, the total fastener height H may be approximately 0.80 mm. In some aspects, the total fastener height H may be approximately 0.90 mm. In some aspects, the total fastener height H may be approximately 1.00 mm. In some aspects, the total fastener height H may be less than any of the foregoing values ​​or within any range between the foregoing values.

[0119] In some aspects, the total height 3220 of the fastener assembly 100 may be approximately 0.50 mm. In some aspects, the total height 3220 may be approximately 0.60 mm. In some aspects, the total height 3220 may be approximately 0.70 mm. In some aspects, the total height 3220 may be approximately 0.80 mm. In some aspects, the total height 3220 may be approximately 0.90 mm. In some aspects, the total height 3220 may be approximately 1.00 mm. In some aspects, the total height 3220 may be approximately 1.10 mm. In some aspects, the total height 3220 may be approximately 1.20 mm. In some aspects, the total height 3220 may be approximately 1.30 mm. In some aspects, the total height 3220 may be approximately 1.40 mm. In some aspects, the total height 3220 may be approximately 1.50 mm. In some aspects, the total height of the component 3220 may be approximately 1.60 mm. In some aspects, the total height of the component 3220 may be approximately 1.70 mm. In some aspects, the total height of the component 3220 may be approximately 1.80 mm. In some aspects, the total height of the component 3220 may be approximately 1.90 mm. In some aspects, the total height of the component 3220 may be approximately 2.00 mm. In some aspects, the total height of the component 3220 may be less than any of the foregoing values ​​or within any range between the foregoing values. In some aspects, the total height H of the fastener may be equal to or greater than twice the thickness 610 of the base 410. In some aspects, the total height H of the fastener may be equal to or greater than 2.5 times the thickness 610 of the base 410. In some aspects, the total height H of the fastener may be equal to or greater than three times the thickness 610 of the base 410.

[0120] In some aspects, the spacing or pitch of, for example, the spacing interval 1660 between ribs 430 on longitudinal 403 (or, similarly, the spacing interval 1650 between hooks 420) can be approximately 1.30 mm. In some aspects, the spacing of, for example, the spacing interval 1660 between ribs 430 on longitudinal 403 (or, similarly, the spacing interval 1650 between hooks 420) can be less than 1.30 mm. In some aspects, the spacing of, for example, the spacing interval 1660 between ribs 430 on longitudinal 403 (or, similarly, the spacing interval 1650 between hooks 420) can be greater than 1.30 mm.

[0121] In some aspects, such as Figure 33As shown, the width 3310 of each of hook 420 and rib 430 may be approximately 0.10 mm. In some aspects, the width 3310 may be approximately 0.15 mm. In some aspects, the width 3310 may be approximately 0.20 mm. In some aspects, the width 3310 may be approximately 0.30 mm. In some aspects, the width 3310 may be approximately 0.40 mm. In some aspects, the width 3310 may be approximately 0.50 mm. In some aspects, the width 3310 may be less than any of the foregoing values ​​or within any range between the foregoing values.

[0122] In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 may be about 0.05 mm. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 may be about 0.10 mm. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 may be about 0.15 mm. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 may be about 0.20 mm. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 may be about 0.30 mm. In some aspects, the spacer gap 3320 may be about 0.40 mm. In some aspects, the width 3310 may be less than any of the foregoing values ​​or within any range between the foregoing values.

[0123] In some aspects, the total width W of fasteners 110a, 110b and fastener assembly 100 may be about 8 mm. In some aspects, the total width W of fasteners 110a, 110b may be about 10 mm. In some aspects, the total width W of fasteners 110a, 110b may be about 20 mm. In some aspects, the total width W of fasteners 110a, 110b may be about 30 mm. In some aspects, the total width W of fasteners 110a, 110b may be less than any of the foregoing values ​​or within any range between the foregoing values. Widening the total width W of fasteners 110a, 110b can improve the connection strength and sealing performance of fastener assembly 100.

[0124] The fastening area (not shown) of hook 420 and / or rib 430 may extend less than the full length of the fastener, or may include different patterns of longitudinal rows of hook 420 and / or rib in different portions of the fastener 110 along its longitudinal direction 403.

[0125] In some aspects, in the “bidirectional” orientation of the hooks 420, the ends 820a or other portions of the first set of hooks 420 may extend in a first direction (e.g., along the longitudinal direction 403 and toward the second end 406), and the ends 820a or other portions of the second set of hooks 420 may extend in a second direction different from the first direction, such as, but not limited to, a direction opposite to the first direction. Extending in a particular direction, such as the first or second direction, may mean that each end 820a is aligned with and extends from the hook element 820 in such a direction. In some aspects, the height 620 of each hook 420 may be greater than the height 630 of each rib 430, or vice versa. In some aspects, the presence of the ribs 430 may protect the hooks 420 from impacts such as those laid on top of the fastener 110 or positioned to impact the fastener 110. The presence of rib 430 also protects portions of the fastener assembly 100 during the manufacture and assembly of the fastening system 50 by allowing the use of automated equipment that contacts rib 430 instead of hook 420, which is typically more sensitive to load. When height 630 is greater than height 620, objects in contact with fastener 110 cannot easily damage hook 420.

[0126] In some aspects, as shown by Coronel, pairs of adjacent hooks, adjacent ribs, or adjacent hooks and ribs can be connected by connecting ribs (not shown) that define the rib height, which may be equal to or less than half the heights 620, 630. As shown, not connecting each hook 420 or rib 430 in a row to its corresponding hook 420 or rib 430 in an adjacent row may result in a less rigid fastener 110 and fastener assembly 100, which is more prone to bending in the transverse 404 in a manner that makes the base 410 uneven when viewed in the transverse section (i.e., the section taken in the transverse 404). Conversely, connecting each hook 420 or rib 430 in a row to its corresponding hook 420 or rib 430 in an adjacent row may result in a more rigid or stiffer fastener 110 and fastener assembly 100, which is generally less prone to bending in the transverse 404 in a manner that makes the base 410 uneven when viewed in the transverse section (i.e., the section taken in the transverse 404). Thus, during, for example but not limited to, the disengagement of the second fastener 110b from the first fastener 110a, the base 410 of each fastener 110a, 110b can maintain its flat shape and be securely held in the adjacent structure, for example but not limited to fastener retainers 350a, 350b.

[0127] In some aspects, the fastening system 50, and more specifically the fastener assembly 100, can be mounted in a vertical orientation. Fastener assemblies 100a and 100b may include fasteners 110a mounted in fastener retainers 350a and 350b. The fastening system 50 may also include a plate 300, which may be a gym mat or wall covering comprising fastener material. Fastener retainers 350a and 350b can be mounted on a vertical wall surface or any other vertical surface and can securely receive the plate 300.

[0128] Methods of using fastener assembly 100 may include engaging a second fastener 110b to a first fastener 110a. Engaging the second fastener 110b to the first fastener 110a may include receiving a corresponding hook 420 of a plurality of hooks 420 of the second fastener 110b within a corresponding hook receiving region 880 defined between each pair of adjacent hooks 420 of the plurality of hooks 420 of the first fastener 110a. Engaging the second fastener 110b to the first fastener 110a may include receiving a corresponding rib 430 of a plurality of ribs 430 of the second fastener 110b within a corresponding rib receiving region 980 defined between each pair of adjacent ribs 430 of the plurality of ribs 430 of the first fastener 110a. In some aspects, the second fastener 110b may be of the same structure as the first fastener 110a or a mirror image of the first fastener 110a.

[0129] The method may include sealing the connection between the first fastener 110a and the second fastener 110b through a mating contact between the first rib 435 of the first fastener 110a and the first rib 435 of the second fastener 110b. The method may also include sealing the connection between the first fastener 110a and the second fastener 110b through a mating contact between the second rib 435 of the first fastener 110a and the second rib 435 of the second fastener 110b. In some aspects, such as Figure 31 As shown, sealing the connection between the first fastener 110a and the second fastener 110b may include eliminating any pathway for fluid to pass through any part of the longitudinal direction 403 of the fastener assembly 100 by closing the gap 3180 between the ribs 430 of the mating fasteners 110a and 110b, said fluid including, but not limited to, air, water, or such as container 80 (in Figure 1The contents of the container (shown in the diagram). More specifically, the connection between the sealing fasteners 110a and 110b may include creating a fluid-impermeable seal at the gap 3180. In some aspects, the fluid-impermeable seal at the gap 3180 may be a water-impermeable seal. In some aspects, the fluid-impermeable seal at the gap 3180 may be an air-impermeable seal. In some aspects, sealing the connection between the first fastener 110a and the second fastener 110b may include blocking or preventing the passage of fluid along multiple sealing lines extending across the width W of the fastener 110. Such sealing lines may appear at each interface between the mating ribs 435 (one rib 435 of each of the two mating fasteners 110a and 110b). The method may include restricting the movement of the second fastener 110b relative to the first fastener 110a in the lateral direction 104 of the fastener assembly 100. In some aspects, such movement can be limited by interference between the plurality of hooks 420 of the first fastener 110a and the plurality of hooks 420 of the second fastener 110b. In some aspects, such movement can be limited by interference between the plurality of ribs 430 of the first fastener 110a and the plurality of ribs 430 of the second fastener 110b. Furthermore, during the assembly of the fastener assembly 100, the second fastener 110b does not need to move laterally 404 relative to the first fastener 110a. Rather, even before the fastener assembly 100 is formed, the second fastener 110b and the first fastener 110a can move as follows: Figure 26 The fasteners 110a and 110b, as shown in the figures illustrating fastener assembly 100, move toward each other, while fasteners 110a and 110b do not move relative to each other in the transverse direction 404. The method may include limiting the movement of the second fastener 110b relative to the first fastener 110a in the longitudinal direction 103 of fastener assembly 100, which can be facilitated by the aforementioned interference between the mating hooks 420 or mating ribs 430 of fasteners 110a and 110b.

[0130] More specifically, creating a fluid-impermeable seal at gap 3180 may include opposing surfaces 3110a, 3110b of portions of the defining rib 430 of fastener 110 (which may be the rib 430 itself or an adjacent portion of the defining rib receiving area 980 of fastener 110) contacting each other during assembly of fasteners 110a, 110b. In some aspects, creating a fluid-impermeable seal at gap 3180 may include opposing surfaces 3110a, 3110b of portions of the defining rib 430 of fastener 110 remaining in contact with each other after assembly of fasteners 110a, 110b (more specifically after engagement of the mating hooks 420 of fasteners 110a, 110b). In some aspects, creating a fluid-impermeable seal at gap 3180 may include opposing surfaces 3110a, 3110b of the defining ribs 430 of fastener 110 maintaining loaded contact with each other after the assembly of fasteners 110a, 110b (more specifically after the engagement of the mating hooks 420 of fasteners 110a, 110b) (i.e., contact under load due to the engagement of fasteners 110a, 110b). In some aspects, as shown, the fasteners 110a, 110b of fastener assembly 100 may be configured to not slide relative to each other in the longitudinal direction 403 or the transverse direction 404.

[0131] Each of the base 410, hook 420, and rib 430 of fasteners 110, 110a, and 110b can be formed from any of a variety of polymer resins or any other material, including, but not limited to, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyamide (e.g., nylon resin), or polypropylene (PP). The material forming fasteners 110a and 110b can be clear, i.e., transparent or substantially so.

[0132] Fastener 110 can be manufactured using any of a variety of methods, including those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,678,924 to Murasaki et al. and / or U.S. Patent No. 6,896,759 to Fujisawa et al., all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In the methods disclosed therein, fastener 110 can be formed by a continuous injection molding process. In some aspects, fastener 110 can be rapidly cooled after molding but before removal from the mold to prevent deformation of fastener 110 while the material used to form fastener 110 is still hot. Fastener 110 can be welded to container 80 (in... Figure 1 (as shown in the figure), especially when container 80 is also formed of a plastic resin and more specifically LDPE or any compatible resin.

[0133] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specifically stated or otherwise understood in the context in which they are used, conditional language such as “can,” “will,” “may,” or “may” is generally intended to convey that certain features, elements, and / or steps are included in some aspects but not in others. Therefore, such conditional language is generally not intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are necessary in any way for one or more particular aspects, or that one or more particular aspects necessarily include logic for determining whether such features, elements, and / or steps are included in or will be performed in any particular aspect, with or without user input or prompting.

[0134] It should be emphasized that the foregoing aspects are merely possible examples of implementations and are set forth only for the purpose of clearly understanding the principles of this disclosure. Any processing description or block in the flowchart should be understood as representing a module, segment, or portion of code containing one or more executable instructions for implementing a specific logical function or step in the processing, and includes alternative implementations where the function may not be included or not performed at all, and may not be performed in the order shown or discussed (including substantially simultaneously or in reverse order). Depending on the function involved, as understood by one of those skilled in the art, many changes and variations can be made to the foregoing aspects without substantially departing from the spirit and principles of this disclosure. Furthermore, the scope of this disclosure is intended to cover any combination, all combinations, and sub-combinations of all elements, features, and aspects discussed above. All such variations and changes are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure, and all possible claims for aspects or combinations of elements or steps are intended to be supported by this disclosure.

Claims

1. A fastener assembly, comprising: First fastener; as well as A second fastener is configured to face and engage with the first fastener, each of the first and second fasteners comprising: Base; A plurality of hooks extending from the base define a longitudinal row of hooks, adjacent hooks in the row being spaced apart by a distance measured between the centerlines of the adjacent hooks, and defining a hook receiving area between the adjacent hooks; and Multiple ribs extending from the base define two longitudinal rib rows, each of which adjacent ribs are spaced apart by a spacing measured between the centerlines of the respective adjacent ribs, and define a rib receiving area between the adjacent ribs, the longitudinal hook row being laterally positioned between the two longitudinal rib rows. in: The size of each hook receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent hooks in the plurality of hooks of the first fastener is set to receive a corresponding hook in the plurality of hooks of the second fastener, and the size of each rib receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent ribs in the plurality of ribs of the first fastener is set to receive a corresponding rib in the plurality of ribs of the second fastener. The plurality of hooks of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of hooks of the first fastener, and the plurality of ribs of the second fastener are configured to engage with the plurality of ribs of the first fastener; and When viewed laterally along the fastener assembly, each of the plurality of ribs defines a generally polygonal shape.

2. The fastener assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The opposing surfaces of the ribs in the plurality of ribs of the second fastener are in contact with the opposing surfaces of the rib receiving areas defined between each pair of adjacent ribs in the plurality of ribs of the first fastener.

3. The fastener assembly according to claim 1, wherein, When the fastener assembly is viewed from above along its vertical direction, each of the plurality of hooks defines an undercut facing at least one direction.

4. The fastener assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The rib-hook-rib pattern defined by the fasteners of the longitudinal hook rows positioned laterally between the two longitudinal rib rows is repeated at least once laterally in the fastener assembly.

5. The fastener assembly according to claim 4, wherein, Adjacent rib-hook-rib patterns share a common longitudinal rib row.

6. The fastener assembly according to claim 1, wherein, One of the widths of the plurality of hooks and the width of the plurality of ribs is less than or equal to 0.50 mm.

7. The fastener assembly according to claim 1, further defining a total assembly height equal to or less than 2.0 mm.

8. A fastener comprising: Base; A plurality of hooks extending from the base define a longitudinal row of hooks, adjacent hooks in the longitudinal row being spaced apart by a spacing measured between the center lines of the adjacent hooks, defining a hook receiving area between the adjacent hooks, the size of the hook receiving area being set to receive a corresponding hook among a plurality of hooks of another fastener. as well as Multiple ribs extending from the base define two longitudinal rib rows, each of which adjacent ribs are spaced apart by a spacing measured between the centerlines of the adjacent ribs, defining a rib receiving area between the adjacent ribs. A longitudinal hook row is laterally positioned between the two longitudinal rib rows, and the rib receiving area is sized to receive corresponding ribs among the multiple ribs of the other fastener. When viewed laterally along the fastener, each of the plurality of ribs defines a generally polygonal shape.

9. The fastener according to claim 8, wherein, The dimensions of the plurality of ribs are set to be received within a plurality of rib receiving areas defined by the other fastener, wherein, when viewed laterally, the shape of each of the plurality of rib receiving areas is opposite to the shape of the corresponding rib among the plurality of ribs.

10. The fastener according to claim 8, wherein, The rib-hook-rib pattern defined by the fasteners of the longitudinal hook rows positioned laterally between the two longitudinal rib rows is repeated at least once in the transverse direction of the fasteners as a repeating pattern.

11. The fastener according to claim 8, wherein, The two longitudinal ribs define a first rib and a second rib, and the fastener further includes a third rib that is offset from each of the first rib and the second rib in the transverse direction of the fastener.

12. The fastener according to claim 11, wherein, The centerline of at least one rib in the third rib row is staggered from the centerline of the rib in the first rib row in the longitudinal direction of the fastener, the staggered interval being different from the spacing interval or a multiple thereof.

13. The fastener according to claim 11, wherein, The longitudinal hook row is a first hook row, and the fastener also includes a second hook row, which is offset from each of the first hook row, the first rib row, and the second rib row in the transverse direction of the fastener.

14. The fastener according to claim 8, wherein, The fastener is integrally formed from plastic resin.

15. The fastener according to claim 8, wherein, Each rib defines a flat opposing surface that is laterally aligned with the fastener.

16. The fastener according to claim 8, wherein, The end of each rib in at least one of the two longitudinal rib rows defines a ridge, the thickness of the ridge in the transverse direction of the fastener being less than the thickness of the rib in the transverse direction, a rib receiving region is defined between adjacent ribs in the at least one rib row, and a slot is defined in the rib receiving region defined between the adjacent ribs to receive the ridge of the corresponding rib of the other fastener.

17. The fastener according to claim 8, further defining a total fastener height equal to or less than 1.0 mm.

18. The fastener according to claim 8, further defining a total fastener width equal to or less than 30 mm.

19. A method of engaging a second fastener to a first fastener using an assembly force to form a fastener assembly, wherein each of the first fastener and the second fastener comprises: Base; Multiple hooks extending from the base; as well as Multiple ribs extending from the base; Engaging the second fastener to the first fastener includes: The hooks of the second fastener are received within the corresponding hook receiving area defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the first fastener. The ribs of the second fastener are received within corresponding rib receiving areas defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the first fastener; and When viewed laterally along the fastener assembly, each of the plurality of ribs defines a generally polygonal shape.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising sealing the connection between the first fastener and the second fastener to prevent fluid from passing between the first fastener and the second fastener.

21. The method of claim 19, further comprising: The hooks of the second fastener engage with the corresponding hook receiving areas defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the first fastener. as well as The opposing surfaces of the corresponding rib receiving areas defined between each pair of adjacent ribs in the plurality of ribs of the first fastener are brought into contact with the opposing surfaces of the ribs in the plurality of ribs of the second fastener.

22. The method of claim 21, further comprising: After engaging the hooks of the plurality of hooks of the second fastener with the corresponding hook receiving areas defined between each pair of adjacent hooks of the plurality of hooks of the first fastener and removing the assembly force, contact is maintained between the opposing surfaces of the ribs of the plurality of ribs of the second fastener and the opposing surfaces of the corresponding rib receiving areas defined between each pair of adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs of the first fastener.

23. The method of claim 19, further comprising: The movement of the second fastener relative to the first fastener in the lateral direction of the fastener assembly is limited by at least one of the following: Interference between the multiple hooks of the first fastener and the multiple hooks of the second fastener; as well as Interference between the plurality of ribs of the first fastener and the plurality of ribs of the second fastener.

24. A fastener assembly, comprising: First fastener; as well as A second fastener is configured to face and engage with the first fastener, each of the first and second fasteners comprising: Base; Multiple hooks extending from the base; and Multiple ribs extending from the base; In this embodiment, a plurality of hooks of the second fastener are configured to engage with a plurality of hooks of the first fastener, and a plurality of ribs of the second fastener are configured to engage with a plurality of ribs of the first fastener; and When viewed laterally along the fastener assembly, each of the plurality of ribs defines a generally polygonal shape.

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