Fastener clip for attachment to fabric
By adopting a clamp structure and hinge design in the fasteners, the problem of unstable connection of existing fasteners in wear and cleaning is solved, achieving a stable and comfortable connection.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202380051097.6
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2023-07-03
- Filing Date
- 2023-07-05
- Publication Date
- 2025-02-18
AI Technical Summary
The fixed connection of existing fasteners is not stable enough under repeated wear and cleaning, and may cause discomfort for wearers, such as irritation, hot spots, etc.
Adopt a clamp structure, including a first clamping plate and a second clamping plate, the fabric part is fixed in the clamping groove, and the clamp is fixed to the fabric by sewing, welding, etc., providing a stable connection, and through hinges and clamping plates The design reduces fastener contact with the wearer.
It realizes a stable connection under repeated wear, cleaning, etc., reduces friction and irritation of the fastener on the wearer, and improves wear comfort.
Smart Images
Figure CN119486629A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Background Art
[0001] Fasteners are used in various articles (e.g., clothing, garments, clothes, belts, footwear, fitness or sports equipment, bags, etc.) to connect two or more parts together. For example, fasteners can be used to connect parts (e.g., belts) that support clothing, connect the ends of belts, secure footwear articles, etc. Fasteners typically include two connectors that releasably mate with each other, and each connector is fixedly fastened to a corresponding part of the article. For example, fasteners can include some other combination of hooks and receivers or male / female connectors.
[0002] In some cases, the fixed connection between the connector and the fabric portion is not strong enough to withstand repeated wear, washing, etc., so that the fixed connection may fail. In some cases, the fixed connection can be resource-intensive to manufacture (e.g., time, materials, cost, etc.). In some cases, the fixed connection and / or other portions of the fastener can be placed close to the wearer, which may cause irritation, hot spots or other discomfort. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] The present assembly and method for a fastener clamp are described in detail below with reference to these drawings.
[0004] Figure 1 Depicted is the back of an upper torso support garment with fasteners according to examples of the present disclosure.
[0005] Figure 2 A fastener connected to a fabric portion according to an example of the present disclosure is depicted from a lower perspective.
[0006] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a fastener according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0007] Figure 4 Depicted are a first portion of a fastener and a corresponding second portion of the fastener according to examples of the present disclosure.
[0008] Figure 5 Depicted is a bottom view of a fastener portion according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0009] Figure 6 Depicted is a side view of a fastener portion according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0010] Fig. 7A Depicted is a plan view of a fastener portion according to an example of the present disclosure.
[0011] Figure 7B , Figure 7C and Fig.7D Depicted are relative positions of fastener parts according to examples of the present disclosure, such as when the parts are connected. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0012] The detailed description relates to a clamp that can provide a secure connection to a fabric (e.g., a belt or other fabric portion that is releasably attached to another fabric portion) for an associated fastener (e.g., a hook and receiver or other male / female type fastener). For example, the fastener may include a first connector (e.g., a hook) for releasably mating with a corresponding second connector (e.g., a receiver). In addition, the first connector may include a clamp for providing a secure connection to the first fabric, and the second connector may include a clamp for providing a secure connection to the other fabric (e.g., the first fabric and the second fabric are releasably connected to each other via the fastener). In at least some instances, the clamp may include a first clamping plate and a second clamping plate. In addition, a portion of the fabric can be secured in a clamping groove between the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate. For example, the clamping plate can be bonded and / or sewn to the fabric portion. Wherein, the clamp (e.g., including the clamping plate) can provide a secure connection that can withstand repeated wear, washing, etc. In addition, the clamp may include a relatively low profile. Additionally, the clamp can help space the connector away from the wearer when the connector is mated, which can reduce the likelihood that the connector might rub or irritate the wearer or cause hot spots or other discomfort to the wearer.
[0013] Typically, fasteners are fixedly coupled to fabrics by various mechanisms that have various disadvantages. For example, in some cases, conventional mechanisms do not provide a sufficiently secure fixed connection, which often fails after repeated wear, washing, or other normal use. In addition, some conventional mechanisms may damage the underlying fabric through the use of teeth or other gripping structures. Furthermore, in some cases, fasteners including conventional mechanisms may rub against the wearer or otherwise press against the wearer, which may cause irritation and discomfort.
[0014] Additional examples of the present disclosure are now described. In various cases, it may be desirable to releasably connect a first fabric portion (e.g., a band or fabric panel or an end of a band or an edge of a fabric panel) to a second fabric portion (e.g., another band or another fabric panel or an end of another band or an edge of another fabric portion). For example, an upper torso support garment (e.g., a sports bra, a maternity bra, a nursing bra, an everyday bra, etc.) may include a bottom band connected at the back. That is, in order to put on and take off, the bottom band of the support garment may be disconnected at the back, and when worn, may be connected to be fixed around the wearer. Typically, the bottom band may include a fastener (e.g., a hook, a snap, a button, a hook and loop, other convex / concave connectors, etc.) in the back portion of the bra, which fastener facilitates the connection and disconnection of the bottom band. Examples of the present disclosure may include a clamp that may provide a fixed connection to the fabric for the releasable fastener.
[0015] In at least some instances, the clamp may include a first clamping plate and a second clamping plate, and the fabric may be securely held between the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate. In at least some instances, the first clamping plate may be attached to one face of the fabric, and the second clamping plate may be attached to the opposite face of the fabric, so that the body of the fabric is positioned between the clamping plates. The first clamping plate and the second clamping plate may be coupled to the clamped fabric portion by various mechanisms. For example, the first clamping plate may be bonded or adhered to a surface of the fabric, and the second clamping plate may be bonded or adhered to an opposite surface of the fabric. In addition, the clamp may include one or more other structures for securing the clamp to the fabric, such as stitching, welding, heat-melt posts, rivets, etc.
[0016] Additionally, in at least some instances, a fastener for attaching two fabric portions (e.g., opposing portions of a bottom strap in the back of an upper torso support garment) may include a connector (e.g., a hook or receiver) and a first clamping plate, and the connector may be positioned on a first side of the fabric (e.g., an outwardly facing side or outer side of the fabric). Additionally, a second clamping plate may be hingedly coupled to the first clamping plate and may be positioned on a second side of the fabric (e.g., an inwardly facing side or inner side of the fabric). In an example, when the fastener is on a garment being worn, the second clamping plate positioned on the second side may be operable to position and / or bias the connector away from the wearer. In at least some instances, the clamping plates may be drawn together (e.g., with sutures), and when the clamping plates are drawn together, the connector may be biased in a direction away from the fabric, which may increase the likelihood that the fastener may maintain a position away from the wearer (e.g., to limit friction and irritation).
[0017] The clamp may include other features. For example, in some cases, the clamp may include a hinge connecting the second clamping plate to the first clamping plate. The hinge may include various elements. In one example, the hinge may include a thin wall. For example, the second clamping plate may include a first thickness, and the hinge may include a second thickness that is less than the first thickness. In an example, the thinned portion may include a wall that is continuously formed integrally with the second clamping plate, and therefore, the clamp may be manufactured so that the hinge is co-molded with the second clamping plate and / or the first clamping plate. In addition, the clamping plate may include various thicknesses and shapes. In some cases, the thickness of the clamping plate is relatively thin, which may contribute to flexible or bendable hardware that can bend with movement and increase comfort. In some examples, the clamping plate may include a spade-shaped shape with a flat terminal end. That is, the clamping plate may include a width that gradually decreases in length as it extends to the terminal edge. Wherein, the tapered width may be less likely to include an edge or corner that may cut the article or the wearer.
[0018] In at least some instances, the fastener may include a hook and a receiver. The hook may include a clamp for fixed attachment to a first fabric, and the receiver may include a clamp for fixed attachment to a second fabric. The hook may include a throat for releasably attaching to an anchor portion of the receiver. In one instance, the receiver includes a circular or oval rim with an open center forming a slot, and the hook may be inserted through the slot to engage the anchor portion in the throat. In at least some instances, the hook and receiver may provide a secure, releasable connector that includes a relatively low profile and is comfortable to wear.
[0019] Some examples described herein are in the context of upper trunk support clothing (e.g., brassieres). In other examples, the subject matter of the present disclosure may include a clamp used with fasteners of other types of clothing or equipment. For example, the clamp may be used with the fasteners at the waistband of lower body clothing to quickly couple fabric elements together and quickly adjust the circumferential diameter of the waistband. When incorporated into the upper of a footwear article such as a shoe, the fastener with the clamp may be used to adjust the support level across the instep area of the upper, for example. The clamp of the present disclosure may also be used to connect the fasteners of other parts of a bra, such as shoulder straps. These are just some examples, and it is contemplated herein that the clamp of the present disclosure may be used with fasteners to expect to quickly and easily couple and adjust any type of clothing of a support member. In addition, the clamp may be used with fasteners incorporated into various other articles, such as bags (e.g., backpacks, travel bags, etc.).
[0020] In addition, some examples described herein include fasteners that include a hook and a receiver that are releasably connected to each other. In addition, the hook may include a clamp for fixed attachment to a fabric portion, and the receiver may include a clamp for fixed attachment to a fabric portion. The hook is one type of connector, and the receiver is another type of connector. In some examples, the fastener may include other types of connectors that may include a clamp for fixed attachment to a fabric portion. For example, the connector may include a male connector and / or a female connector. The connector may include a threaded connection. The connector may include a snap, a button, or a clip. The connector may include a hook and loop strip. These are examples, and in other cases, the connector may include other connector types that include a clamp for fixed attachment to a fabric.
[0021] As used herein, the term "apparel" means any article that can be worn by a wearer. Example articles include: support garments including bras and nursing bras; upper body garments such as tops, pullovers, hoodies, jackets / coats, etc.; lower body garments such as shorts, leggings, leggings, pants, etc.; headwear articles such as hats, caps, sweatbands, etc.; and footwear articles including athletic shoes. The fasteners may also be used in equipment such as backpacks, luggage, travel bags, etc.
[0022] When describing the subject matter of the present disclosure, some positional terms may be used, assuming that the subject article is worn as intended by an upright wearer. For example, the term "inner" or "interior" may refer to a layer or structure that is positioned closer to the body surface of the wearer than other layers or structures of the garment. The term "exterior" means a layer or structure that is positioned outside the other layers or structures of the garment. In example aspects, the inner layer may be the innermost layer of the garment, and the outer layer may be the outermost layer of the garment. The upper portion of the garment is closer to the head area of the wearer than the lower portion of the garment.
[0023] When used herein, the term "support garment" refers to an upper body garment that is primarily configured to provide support to the wearer's breasts. Thus, the support garment may be in the form of a bra (including a nursing bra, a pumping bra, and / or a sports bra), a vest, a sports top, a swimsuit top, and the like. When the garment is in the form of a support garment or a bra, the term "breast covering portion" means the portion of the support garment that is configured to cover the wearer's breasts. Thus, the breast covering portion generally extends from the top portion of each of the wearer's breasts (e.g., near the wearer's clavicle) to the lower portion (e.g., the wearer's inframammary fold), and from the inner edge of each of the wearer's breasts (e.g., near the wearer's sternum) to the outer edge (e.g., near the wearer's armpit). When it comes to support garments, the term "apex region" generally means the area where the shoulder straps extend from or are connected to the breast covering portion or other portions of the support garment. When used in connection with, for example, a bra, the term "bottom band" refers to the portion of the bra that forms at least the lower edge of the front portion of the bra. The bottom band is configured to encircle the torso region of the wearer and may comprise a separate panel or may comprise an integral extension of the front portion.
[0024] The term "belt" generally means an element having a length greater than a width. In some instances, the belt includes at least some segments having parallel longitudinal side edges along the length. In some instances, the belt may include some segments (e.g., end portions) having tapered longitudinal side edges (e.g., the width gradually decreases when the belt extends to the terminal end). The belt may be formed by a fabric element (knitted, woven, braided, non-woven, etc.) or a non-woven element. In terms of examples, the belt may be formed by a non-stretch or low-stretch material. Non-stretch or low-stretch materials generally do not have inherent stretch properties (mechanical or elastic) in response to tension, and therefore when subjected to a tension below the material breaking / tearing point, the length and / or width of the material remains substantially unchanged. For example, the belt may undergo a length change from about 0% of the rest length to about 20% of the rest length in response to the tension. Non-stretch or low-stretch materials may include a tightly knitted, woven or braided structure that does not utilize elastic yarns; a non-elastomeric film; a knitted, woven, non-woven or braided structure that includes a surface treatment to limit stretching, etc.
[0025] As used herein, the term "about" means + / - 10% of the subject term (eg, amount or other qualitative value). Additionally, in some instances, a size (eg, length or width) can be measured using a precision caliper.
[0026] The term "fixedly coupled" or "securely secured" generally means some type of permanent attachment through the use of stitching, bonding, adhesives, welding, etc. The term "slidably coupled" when referring to, for example, a receiver and a strap means that the receiver can move (e.g., slide) along the length of the strap while maintaining the integrity of both the receiver and the strap. The term "releasably mateable" or "releasably connectable" (e.g., when referring to the relationship between a hook and a receiver) means that the components can be repeatedly mated (i.e., coupled together) and unmated without damaging either of the components.
[0027] refer to Figure 1 , depicts a back portion 12 of an upper torso support garment, and the back portion 12 includes a first side 14 (e.g., a left side) and a second side 16 (e.g., a right side). Additionally, the upper torso support garment includes a bottom strap 18 that extends around the back of the upper torso support garment and includes a first fabric portion 20 (e.g., a first end of the strap) and a second fabric portion 22 (e.g., a second end of the strap). In an example, a fastener 110 releasably connects the first fabric portion 20 and the second fabric portion 22. Additionally, the fastener 110 includes a first connector (e.g., a hook or other male connector) that releasably mates with a corresponding second connector, and the first and second connectors include corresponding clamps 112 and 114 for fixedly connecting to the first fabric portion 20 and the second fabric portion 22, respectively.
[0028] refer to Figure 2 , depicts a lower perspective view of the fastener 110 together with the first fabric portion 20 and the second fabric portion 22. In addition, Figure 2 The embodiment includes a first connector 116 and a second connector 118 for releasably mating. In an example, the first connector 116 includes a receiver, and the second connector 118 includes a hook, and the hook includes a throat for mating with an anchor portion of the receiver. In addition, in an example, the first connector 116 includes a first clamp 112 for fixedly attaching to the first fabric portion 20, and the second connector 118 includes a second clamp 114 for fixedly attaching to the second fabric portion 22.
[0029] In at least some instances, the first clamp 112 includes a first clamping plate 120 and a second clamping plate 122. Additionally, the second clamp 114 may include a third clamping plate 124 and a fourth clamping plate 126. In at least some instances, the first clamp 112 and the second clamp 114 include similar structures, and for the sake of brevity in this description, examples associated with the first clamp 112 may be described without describing the same or similar features of the second clamp 114, it being understood that those same features may be included in and form a part of the second clamp 114. In at least some instances, the fastener 110 having clamps 112 and 114 may extend in a direction away from the wearer. For example, Figure 2 Reference line "A" is included, which can represent an underlying surface (e.g., an underlying garment or a wearer's skin surface), and in examples, fastener 110 having clamps 112 and 114 is biased away from the underlying surface, as represented by distance 130. In at least some examples, when in a connected state (e.g., Figure 2 ), at least a portion of the fastener may include an arcuate profile extending from the first terminal end 111a to the second terminal end 111b.
[0030] In an example, the first clamping plate 120 and the second clamping plate 122 can form opposite sides of a clamping groove 132 configured to retain the clamping section 21 of the first fabric portion 20. For example, the first fabric portion 20 (and the clamping section 21) can include an outer surface 24 facing away from the wearer and an inner surface (not visible in the figure), and the first clamping plate 120 can be attached to the outer surface 24, while the second clamping plate 122 can be attached to the inner surface.
[0031] At least some portions of the fastener 110 may include relative positions that facilitate operation of the fastener 110. For example, in some cases, the first connector 116 (eg, a receiver) includes a portion 117 (eg, see Figure 3 , showing an anchoring portion along the edge), the portion 117 is configured to mate with a second connector 118 (see, for example, Figure 3 , showing the throat of the hook). In some examples, portion 117 is positioned further outward (e.g., further away from reference line A) than second clamping plate 122 and / or clamping segment 21. In some examples, such positioning can position portions of the fastener away from the wearer to reduce the likelihood that the fastener may rub or otherwise cause discomfort.
[0032] In addition, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 In an example, the first clamping plate 120 and the second clamping plate 122 may be connected by a hinge 134, and via the hinge 134, the second clamping plate 122 may be rotated toward the first clamping plate 120 and fixed to the clamping segment 21 and / or the first clamping plate 120 to fix the clamping segment 21 in the clamping groove 132. Similar to the first clamp 112, the third clamping plate 124 and the fourth clamping plate 126 may form opposite sides of the clamping groove 136, which is configured to hold the clamping segment 23 of the second fabric portion 22. In addition, the third clamping plate 124 and the fourth clamping plate 126 may be connected by a hinge 138.
[0033] The hinges 134 and 138 can include a variety of structures. For example, in one example, the hinges 134 and 138 can include thinner walls than the rest of the clamping plate, and the thinner walls can act as living hinges. Figure 6 , depicts an enlarged view 510 of the hinge 134 , and in one example, the second clamping plate 122 includes a first thickness 140 , and the hinge 134 includes a second thickness 142 that is less than the first thickness 140 .
[0034] In at least some examples, the first clamping plate 120 and the second clamping plate 122 are oriented at an angle 135 relative to each other via the hinge 134 and prior to being connected to the fabric portion. For example, the angle 135 can include an angle in a range of about 15 degrees to about 65 degrees, or about 30 degrees to about 50 degrees, or about 45 degrees. These angles are examples, and in other cases, the angle 135 can be less than or greater than these examples. In some examples, when the first clamping plate 120 and the second clamping plate 122 are compressed toward each other (e.g., when clamped to the fabric portion), the angular orientation of the first clamping plate 120 and the second clamping plate 122 can generate a tension force that biases the connector 116 away from the wearer.
[0035] In at least some examples, the second clamping plate 122 can include a proximal portion 123 and a distal portion 125, with the proximal portion 123 being closer to the hinge 134 (relative to the distal portion 125). In addition, in some examples, the proximal portion 123 is spaced apart from the first clamping plate 120 by a larger gap than the distal portion 125. For example, referring to Figure 3 , Figure 3 A distal portion 125 is depicted spaced a first distance 127 from the first clamping plate 120 and a proximal portion 123 spaced a second distance 129 from the clamping plate 120. In some cases, the first distance 127 can be less than the second distance 129. For example, if sutures (e.g., 131) are used to secure the clamping plate to the fabric portion, sutures attached near the distal portion can help pull the distal portion closer to the first clamping plate 120. In some examples, holding the distal portion closer to the first clamping plate can create tension in the fastener 110, which can bias the fastener outward when in a connected state.
[0036] In examples of the present disclosure, the clamp may include various other features. For example, in some cases, the clamp may be co-molded with the connector so that the connector and the clamp comprise a continuous body (e.g., a single piece). In some instances, the clamp may comprise various materials, including thermoplastics (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane or TPU). In some instances, the first clamping plate may include various features. For example, the clamping plate may include a certain thickness that is configured to provide a stable anchor for suture while also being flexible to bend (e.g., when in use or when being manipulated for fastening). In at least some instances, the clamping plate may include a smooth surface. In some instances, the clamping plate may include one or more surface features (e.g., ridges or raised features) to facilitate gripping the clamping plate (e.g., where the clamping plate can be used as a handle to manipulate the connector).
[0037] refer to Fig. 7A , depicts a plan view of a fastener 110 that includes a first clamping plate 120 associated with a first connector 116 (e.g., a receiver) and a third clamping plate 124 associated with a second connector 118 (e.g., a hook). In at least one example, the first clamping plate 120 and the second clamping plate 122 can include distal ends 150 and 152, respectively. Additionally, in examples, as the first clamping plate 120 and the second clamping plate 122 extend to the distal ends, they can taper in width (e.g., 154 and 156, respectively). In some cases, the taper in width can reduce the presence of protruding edges or corners that could catch or hook on a wearer or cause discomfort to the wearer.
[0038] 7A to 7DA first connector 116 according to an example is included, which may include a receiver for mating with a hook of a second connector 118. For example, the first connector 116 may include an opening 160, such as a slot or eyelet, for receiving a portion of the second connector 118 (e.g., a portion of the hook). In addition, the first connector 116 may include an anchoring portion 162 for securing in a throat or other female connector. In addition, the second connector 118 may include a hook element corresponding to the first connector 116. For example, the second connector 118 may include a throat 164 for engaging the anchoring portion 162 of the first connector 116.
[0039] In an example, to connect the fastener 110, the second connector 116 can be inserted through the opening 160. As an illustration, Figure 7B includes arrow 166, which illustrates an example travel path of the front tip of the second connector through opening 160, and Figure 7C The second connector 118 and the first connector 116 are depicted after the second connector 118 is positioned in the opening 160. Additionally, after the second connector 118 is positioned in the opening 160 (e.g., after the throat 164 traverses the anchor portion 162), the second connector 118 and the first connector 116 can be connected by inserting the anchor portion 162 into the throat 164, as shown in FIG. Fig.7D shown.
[0040] Sample Clauses
[0041] Item 1. An upper torso support garment, comprising: a base strap, the base strap comprising at least a portion of a back portion of the upper torso support garment, the base strap comprising a first fabric portion and a second fabric portion; a fastener, the fastener being configured to releasably connect the first fabric portion to the second fabric portion, the fastener comprising a hook and a receiver; the receiver comprising a first clamp, the first clamp comprising a first clamping plate attached to an outer side of the first fabric portion and a second clamping plate attached to an inner side of the first fabric portion, wherein the first clamping portion of the first fabric portion is retained between the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate; and the hook comprising a second clamp, the second clamp comprising a third clamping plate attached to an outer side of the second fabric portion and a fourth clamping plate attached to an inner side of the second fabric portion, wherein the second clamping portion of the second fabric portion is retained between the third clamping plate and the fourth clamping plate.
[0042] Clause 2. The upper torso support garment of Clause 1, wherein a portion of the receiver that engages the hook is positioned further outwardly relative to the first clamping portion.
[0043] Clause 3. The upper torso support garment of clause 1 or 2, wherein the second clamping plate is attached to the first clamping plate via a hinge.
[0044] Item 4. An upper torso support garment according to any one of Items 1 to 3, wherein: the second clamping plate includes a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion is closer to the hinge relative to the distal portion; and the proximal portion is spaced a greater distance from the first clamping plate relative to the distal portion.
[0045] Clause 5. The upper torso support garment of any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the first clamping panel and the second clamping panel are one or more bonded or sewn to the first clamping portion.
[0046] Clause 6. The upper torso support garment of any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the hook and the receiver bend outwardly when connected to one another.
[0047] Clause 7. An upper torso support garment according to any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein: the first clamping plate includes a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion being closer to a portion of the receiver that cooperates with the hook relative to the distal portion; and the first clamping plate gradually decreases in width as it extends from the proximal portion to the distal portion.
[0048] Item 8. A fastener comprising: a hook and a receiver releasably connected to each other; the hook comprising a first clamp, the first clamp comprising a first clamping plate configured to be attached to a first side of a first fabric portion and a second clamping plate configured to be attached to a second side of the first fabric portion; and the receiver comprising a second clamp, the second clamp comprising a third clamping plate configured to be attached to a first side of a second fabric portion and a fourth clamping plate configured to be attached to a second side of the second fabric portion.
[0049] Clause 9. The fastener of clause 8, wherein: the second clamping plate is attached to the first clamping plate via a first hinge; and the third clamping plate is attached to the fourth clamping plate via a second hinge.
[0050] Clause 10. A fastener according to clause 8 or 9, wherein: the second clamping plate includes a first thickness and the first hinge includes a second thickness less than the first thickness; and the fourth clamping plate includes a third thickness and the second hinge includes a fourth thickness less than the third thickness.
[0051] Clause 11. A fastener according to any one of clauses 8 to 10, wherein: the first clamping plate includes a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion is closer to a portion of the hook that cooperates with the receiver relative to the distal portion; and when the first clamping plate extends from the proximal portion to the distal portion, the first clamping plate gradually decreases in width.
[0052] Clause 12. A fastener according to any one of clauses 8 to 11, wherein: the third clamping plate includes a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion being closer to a portion of the receiver that cooperates with the hook relative to the distal portion; and when the third clamping plate extends from the proximal portion to the distal portion, the third clamping plate gradually decreases in width.
[0053] Clause 13. The fastener of any one of clauses 8 to 12, wherein: the buckle releasably connects a first portion of an article to a second portion of the article; and the article comprises an upper torso garment, a pant, a belt, an article of footwear, or a bag.
[0054] Item 14. A fastener comprising: a first connector that releasably mates with a second connector; the first connector comprises a clamp configured to attach to a fabric portion; the clamp comprises a first clamping plate and a second clamping plate; and the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate comprise opposite sides of a clamping groove, the clamping groove being configured to receive a section of the fabric portion.
[0055] Clause 15. The fastener of Clause 14, wherein the second clamping plate is attached to the first clamping plate via a hinge.
[0056] Clause 16. The fastener of Clause 15, wherein: the second clamping plate comprises a first thickness; and the hinge comprises a second thickness that is less than the first thickness.
[0057] Clause 17. A fastener according to any one of clauses 14 to 16, wherein: the first clamping plate includes a first proximal portion and a first distal portion, the first proximal portion being closer to a portion of the connector that mates with the second connector relative to the first distal portion; the first clamping plate gradually decreases in width as the first clamping plate extends from the first proximal portion to the first distal portion; the second clamping plate includes a second proximal portion and a second distal portion, the second proximal portion being closer to a portion of the second clamping plate connected to the first clamping plate relative to the second distal portion; and the second clamping plate gradually decreases in width as the second clamping plate extends from the second proximal portion to the second distal portion.
[0058] Clause 18. The fastener of any one of Clauses 14 to 17, wherein the fastener releasably connects a first portion of the supporting garment bottom strap to a second portion of the supporting garment bottom strap.
[0059] Item 19. A fastener comprising: a first connector that releasably mates with a second connector; the first connector comprises a clamp configured to be attached to a fabric portion; the clamp comprises a first clamping plate and a second clamping plate; and the second clamping plate is inclined at a certain angle relative to the first clamping plate.
[0060] Clause 20. The fastener of Clause 19, wherein the angle is in the range of about 15 degrees to about 65 degrees.
[0061] Clause 21. The fastener of clause 19 or 20, wherein the second clamping plate is directly coupled to the first clamping plate.
[0062] Clause 22. The fastener of any one of clauses 19 to 21, wherein the second clamping plate is coupled to the first clamping plate via a hinge.
[0063] Clause 23. A fastener according to any one of clauses 19 to 22, wherein: the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate include opposite sides of a clamping groove configured to receive a section of the fabric portion; and the first clamping plate includes one or more raised surface features on a surface outside the clamping groove.
[0064] As used herein, the statement "and / or" about two or more elements should be interpreted as meaning only one element or a combination of elements. For example, "element A, element B, and / or element C" may include only element A, only element B, only element C, element A and element B, element A and element C, element B and element C, or elements A, B, and C. In addition, "at least one of element A or element B" may include at least one of element A, at least one of element B, or at least one of element A and at least one of element B. In addition, "at least one of element A and element B" may include at least one of element A, at least one of element B, or at least one of element A and at least one of element B.
[0065] This detailed description is provided to satisfy statutory requirements. However, this description is not intended to limit the scope of the invention described herein. Instead, the claimed subject matter may be embodied in different ways and in conjunction with other current or future technologies to include different steps, different combinations of steps, different elements, and / or different combinations of elements, similar or equivalent to those described in this disclosure. The examples herein are intended to be illustrative and non-restrictive in all respects. In this sense, alternative examples or implementations may become apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter belongs without departing from the scope of the subject matter.
Claims
1. An upper torso support garment comprising: a bottom strap comprising at least a portion of a back portion of the upper torso support garment, the bottom strap comprising a first fabric portion and a second fabric portion; a fastener configured to releasably connect the first fabric portion to the second fabric portion, the fastener comprising a hook and a receiver; The receiver includes a first clamp, the first clamp including a first clamping plate attached to the outer side of the first fabric portion and a second clamping plate attached to the inner side of the first fabric portion, wherein the first clamping portion of the first fabric portion is held between the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate; and the hook includes a second clamp, the second clamp including a third clamping plate attached to the outer side of the second fabric portion and a fourth clamping plate attached to the inner side of the second fabric portion, wherein the second clamping portion of the second fabric portion is held between the third clamping plate and the fourth clamping plate.
2. The upper torso support garment of claim 1, wherein a portion of the receiver that engages the hook is positioned further outward relative to the first clamping portion.
3. The upper torso support garment of claim 1 , wherein the second clamping plate is attached to the first clamping plate via a hinge.
4. The upper torso support garment according to claim 1, wherein the second clamping plate includes a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion being closer to the hinge than the distal portion; and the proximal portion being spaced a greater distance from the first clamping plate than the distal portion.
5. The upper torso support garment of claim 1, wherein the first clamping panel and the second clamping panel are one or more bonded or sewn to the first clamping portion.
6. The upper torso support garment of claim 1 wherein the hook and the receiver bend outwardly when connected to each other.
7. An upper torso support garment according to claim 1, wherein the first clamping plate includes a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion being closer to a portion of the receiver that cooperates with the hook relative to the distal portion; and when the first clamping plate extends from the proximal portion to the distal portion, the first clamping plate gradually decreases in width.
8. A fastener comprising: A hook and a receiver releasably connected to each other; the hook includes a first clamp, the first clamp includes a first clamping plate configured to be attached to a first side of a first fabric portion and a second clamping plate configured to be attached to a second side of the first fabric portion; and the receiver includes a second clamp, the second clamp includes a third clamping plate configured to be attached to the first side of the second fabric portion and a fourth clamping plate configured to be attached to the second side of the second fabric portion.
9. The fastener of claim 8, wherein the second clamping plate is attached to the first clamping plate via a first hinge; and the third clamping plate is attached to the fourth clamping plate via a second hinge.
10. The fastener of claim 8, wherein the second clamping plate comprises a first thickness and the first hinge comprises a second thickness less than the first thickness; and the fourth clamping plate comprises a third thickness and the second hinge comprises a fourth thickness less than the third thickness.
11. The fastener according to claim 8, wherein the first clamping plate includes a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion being closer to a portion of the hook that cooperates with the receiver relative to the distal portion; and when the first clamping plate extends from the proximal portion to the distal portion, the first clamping plate gradually decreases in width.
12. The fastener according to claim 8, wherein the third clamping plate includes a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion being closer to a portion of the receiver that cooperates with the hook relative to the distal portion; and when the third clamping plate extends from the proximal portion to the distal portion, the third clamping plate gradually decreases in width.
13. The fastener of claim 8, wherein the buckle releasably connects a first portion of an article to a second portion of the article; and the article comprises an upper torso garment, a pant, a belt, an article of footwear, or a bag.
14. A fastener comprising: a first connector releasably matable with a second connector; the first connector comprising a clamp configured to attach to a fabric portion; The clamp includes a first clamping plate and a second clamping plate; and the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate include opposing sides of a clamping slot configured to receive a segment of the fabric portion.
15. The fastener of claim 14, wherein the second clamping plate is attached to the first clamping plate via a hinge.
16. The fastener of claim 15, wherein the second clamping plate comprises a first thickness; and the hinge comprises a second thickness that is less than the first thickness.
17. The fastener according to claim 14, wherein the first clamping plate includes a first proximal portion and a first distal portion, the first proximal portion being closer to a portion of the connector that mates with the second connector relative to the first distal portion; the first clamping plate gradually decreases in width as the first clamping plate extends from the first proximal portion to the first distal portion; the second clamping plate includes a second proximal portion and a second distal portion, the second proximal portion being closer to a portion of the second clamping plate connected to the first clamping plate relative to the second distal portion; and the second clamping plate gradually decreases in width as the second clamping plate extends from the second proximal portion to the second distal portion.
18. The fastener of claim 14, wherein the fastener releasably connects a first portion of the supporting garment bottom strap to a second portion of the supporting garment bottom strap.
19. A fastener comprising: a first connector releasably matable with a second connector; the first connector comprising a clamp configured to attach to a fabric portion; The clamp includes a first clamping plate and a second clamping plate; and the second clamping plate is inclined at a certain angle relative to the first clamping plate.
20. The fastener of claim 19, wherein the angle is in the range of about 15 degrees to about 65 degrees.
21. The fastener of claim 19, wherein the second clamping plate is directly coupled to the first clamping plate.
22. The fastener of claim 19, wherein the second clamping plate is coupled to the first clamping plate via a hinge.
23. The fastener of claim 19, wherein the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate include opposing sides of a clamping slot configured to receive a segment of the fabric portion; and the first clamping plate includes one or more raised surface features on a surface outside of the clamping slot.