Clasps with interlocking arms and related clasp members

Abstract

Clasp members may include a strap connector located on a first lateral side of the clasp member, the strap connector for connecting to a strap or a portion of a garment. The clasp member may include an interlocking fastener on a second lateral side of the clasp member, the second lateral side opposite the first lateral side. The interlocking fastener may be for connecting to a further interlocking fastener. The interlocking fastener may include a body defining a mating surface. The mating surface of each strap connector may be positioned to come into contact and hold in contact when the clasp is in a joined position. When the clasp is transitioning from joined position to a non-joined position, separation methods may assist to guide the strap connectors apart

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a national phase entry under 35 U.S.C. §371 of International Patent Application PCT / US2023 / 023311, filed May 24, 2023, designating the United States of America and published as International Patent Publication WO 2023 / 230107 A1 on Nov. 30, 2023, which claims the benefit under Article 8 of the Patent Cooperation Treaty of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63 / 365,292, filed May 25, 2022.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This description relates, generally, to a clasp. More specifically, some examples relate to a clasp with interlocking arms, without limitation.BACKGROUND

[0003] A clasp may be a device with interlocking parts for joining things together. Clasps may be used to join straps. Clasps may be used in garments, among other applications.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004] In some embodiments, clasps may include a first clasp member and a second clasp member. The first clasp member may include a first strap connector located on a first lateral side of the first clasp member, the first strap connector for connecting to a strap or a first portion of a garment. The first clasp member may further include a first interlocking fastener on a second lateral side of the first clasp member, the second lateral side opposite the first lateral side. The first interlocking fastener may include a first body, defining a first mating surface and first interlocking arms adjacent to the first mating surface, proximate to the second lateral side of the first clasp member. Each of the first interlocking arms may extend from the first body away from the first mating surface and toward the first lateral side of the first clasp member to define a first ledge. The second clasp member may include a second strap connector located on a first lateral side of the second clasp member, the second strap connector for connecting to the strap or a second portion of the garment. The second clasp member may also include a second interlocking fastener on a second lateral side of the second clasp member, the second lateral side opposite the first lateral side, the second interlocking fastener for connecting to the first interlocking fastener. The second interlocking fastener may include a second body defining a second mating surface positioned and shaped to contact the first mating surface of the first body of the first interlocking fastener when the clasp is in a connected state. The second interlocking fastener may further include second interlocking arms adjacent to the second mating surface proximate to the second lateral side of the second clasp member, each of the second interlocking arms extending from the second body away from the second mating surface and toward the first lateral side of the second clasp member to define a second ledge.

[0005] In other embodiments, clasp members may include a strap connector located on a first lateral side of the clasp member, the strap connector for connecting to a strap or a portion of a garment. An interlocking fastener may be located on a second lateral side of the clasp member, the second lateral side opposite the first lateral side, the interlocking fastener for connecting to a further interlocking fastener. The interlocking fastener may include a body defining a mating surface, the mating surface positioned and shaped to contact a further mating surface of a further body of the further interlocking fastener when the clasp member is in a connected state with a further clasp member. Interlocking arms may be adjacent to the mating surface, proximate to the second lateral side of the clasp member. Each of the interlocking arms may extend from the body away from the mating surface and toward the first lateral side of the clasp member to define a ledge.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] While this disclosure concludes with claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming specific examples, various features and advantages of examples within the scope of this disclosure may be more readily ascertained from the following description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0007] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an example clasp according to one or more embodiments.

[0008] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the example clasp of FIG. 1A according to one or more embodiments.

[0009] FIG. 2A through FIG. 2F are various perspective views of an example clasp member according to one or more embodiments.

[0010] FIG. 2G is a side view of the example clasp member of FIG. 2A through FIG. 2F according to one or more embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 3A is a top schematic view of an example clasp member according to one or more embodiments.

[0012] FIG. 3B is a side partial cross-sectional view of the example clasp member of FIG. 3A according to one or more embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an example clasp member according to one or more embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the example clasp member of FIG. 4 depicting a cover of the clasp member.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another example clasp member, usable in concert with the clasp member of FIG. 4, according to one or more embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the example clasp member of FIG. 6 depicting a cover of the clasp member.

[0017] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are perspective views of another example clasp member according to one or more embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a clasp according to one or more embodiments, including the clasp members of FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a clasp according to one or more other embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 11 is a side view of the clasp of FIG. 10.

[0021] FIG. 12 is a perspective exploded view of a clasp member of the clasp of FIG. 10.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] Embodiments described herein include clasp members and / or clasps including two clasp members. The clasp members may be for connecting one to another in a connected state. The clasp members, in the connected state, may be at least substantially fixed relative to one another. Each clasp members may resist movement of the other clasp member in one or more directions.

[0023] As an example, a clasp may be for connecting straps or portions of a garment. For example, each of the clasp members may be connected to a respective end of a strap. The clasp, in the connected state, may be configured to resist tension pulling the straps apart. Additionally, the clasp, in the connected state, may be configured to resist lateral motion of the ends of the straps.

[0024] Example clasp members may include interlocking elements to interlock with other mating elements of other clasp members. For example, each of a pair of clasp members may include interlocking arms. The interlocking arms of one of the pair may contact the interlocking arms of the other of the pair. Further, each of the pair of clasp members may include a body. The interlocking arms of each of the pair of clasp members may be positioned to contact and bear against the body of the other of the pair of clasp members. The interlocking arms and / or the body of the pair of clasp members may allow each of the clasp members to engage with, and resist separation from, the other of the clasp members.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively, example clasp members may include features that may aid in connecting and / or disconnecting clasp members one to another. Additionally or alternatively, the features may aid in maintaining the clasp in the connected state.

[0026] For example, a clasp member may include a body with a width sized and positioned to guide interlocking arms of another clasp member into position (e.g., into contacting the interlocking arms of the clasp member).

[0027] As another example, each of a pair of clasp members may include a magnet. The magnets may be positioned and oriented such that when the clasp members are connected, attraction between the magnets exerts a force that tends to keep the clasp members together. Additionally or alternatively, the magnets may be positioned and oriented such that when the clasp members are being brought together, attraction between the magnets exerts a force to pull the clasp members together. Additionally or alternatively, the force to pull the clasp members together may be in more than one direction. For example, the force may tend to laterally align the clasp members as well as pull the clasp members together in other directions.

[0028] As another example, one or both of the clasp members may include a ramp which may cause the clasp members to move apart in a particular direction as the clasp members transition from the connected state to a disconnected state. Further, one or both of the clasp members may include a chamfer that may contact the ramp to cause the clasp members to move apart in the particular direction as the clasp members transition from the connected state to the disconnected state.

[0029] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific examples in which the present disclosure may be practiced. However, other examples may be utilized, and structural, material, and process changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The drawings presented herein are not necessarily drawn to scale. The use of the terms “exemplary,”“by example,” and “for example,” means that the related description is explanatory, and though the scope of the disclosure is intended to encompass the examples and legal equivalents, the use of such terms is not intended to limit the scope of an example of this disclosure to the specified components, steps, features, functions, or the like.

[0030] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an example clasp 100 according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 1A illustrates clasp 100 in a disconnected state. FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the example clasp 100 of FIG. 1A, illustrating clasp 100 in a connected state.

[0031] Referring collectively to FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, clasp 100 includes a clasp member 102 and another clasp member 116. Clasp member 102 includes a strap connector 104 and an interlocking fastener 106 located at opposite ends of the clasp member 102 from one another. Interlocking fastener 106 includes a body 108, a mating surface 110 on the body positioned to face, contact, and bear against the other clasp member 116 when the clasp 100 is in a connected state, interlocking arms 112 (only one of which is visible in the FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B) extending from the body 108 and positioned and configured to engage with mating interlocking arms 126 of the other clasp member 116 to resist relative movement and disconnection when the clasp 100 is in the connected state, and ledges 114 (only one of which is visible in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B) defined by the interlocking arms 112 and positioned and configured to engage with, contact, and bear against mating ledges 128 of the interlocking arms 126 of the other clasp member 116 when the clasp 100 is in the connected state. Other clasp member 116 likewise includes a strap connector 118 and an interlocking fastener 120 located at opposite ends of the other clasp member 102 from one another. Interlocking fastener 120 includes a body 122, a mating surface 124 (which is not visible in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B) on the body positioned to face, contact, and bear against the clasp member 102 when the clasp 100 is in a connected state, interlocking arms 126 extending from the body 122 and positioned and configured to engage with mating interlocking arms 112 of the clasp member 102 to resist relative movement and disconnection when the clasp 100 is in the connected state, and ledges 128 (only one of which is visible in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B) defined by the interlocking arms 126 and positioned and configured to engage with, contact, and bear against mating ledges 114 of the interlocking arms 112 of the clasp member 102 when the clasp 100 is in the connected state.

[0032] Clasp 100, in a connected state, may resist or prevent each of clasp member 102 and clasp member 116 from moving relative to one another in one or more directions. For example, contact between interlocking arms 112, interlocking arms 126, body 108, and body 122, when interlocked, may resist or prevent clasp member 116 from moving in all of the X, −X, Z, −Z, and Y directions relative to clasp member 102. Similarly, contact between the interlocking arms 112, interlocking arms 126, body 108, and body 122, when interlocked, may resist or prevent clasp member 102 from moving in all of the X, −X, Z, −Z, and −Y directions relative to clasp member 102.

[0033] Thus, if an end of a first strap and / or portion of a garment were connected to strap connector 104, and an end of a second strap and / or portion of the garment were connected to strap connector 118, clasp 100, in the connected state, contact between the interlocking arms 112 of body 108 and the interlocking arms 126 of body 122 would resist or prevent the ends of the straps and / or portions of the garment from pulling apart from one another in the Y and-Y directions (i.e., opposite directions at least substantially parallel to the y-axis). Specifically, motion of clasp member 102 and the end of the first strap and / or portion of the garment connected thereto in the-Y direction relative to clasp member 116 may be resisted or prevented and motion of clasp member 116 and the end of the second strap and / or portion of the garment connected thereto in the Y direction relative to clasp member 102 may be resisted or prevented due to interlocking contact of the features of the clasp members 102 and 116.

[0034] For clasp 100 to transition from a connected state to a disconnected state, interlocking fastener 106 of clasp member 102 may be moved in the Y direction toward strap connector 118 of clasp member 116 and / or interlocking fastener 120 of clasp member 116 may be moved in the-Y direction toward strap connector 104 of clasp member 102. Moving interlocking fastener 106 toward strap connector 118 and / or moving interlocking fastener 120 toward strap connector 104 may cause the interlocking arms of interlocking fastener 106 and interlocking fastener 120 to become separated from contact with one another which may allow clasp member 102 to move freely relative to clasp member 116 and / or clasp member 116 to move freely relative to clasp member 102.

[0035] Clasp 100 may include clasp member 102. Clasp member 102 may include strap connector 104 located on a first lateral side of clasp member 102. Strap connector 104 may be for connecting to a strap or a first portion of a garment. Clasp member 102 may include interlocking fastener 106 on a second lateral side of clasp member 102. The second lateral side may be opposite the first lateral side. Interlocking fastener 106 may include body 108, defining mating surface 110. Interlocking fastener 106 may include interlocking arms 112 adjacent to mating surface 110. Interlocking arms 112 may be proximate to the second lateral side of clasp member 102. Interlocking arms 112 may extend from body 108 away from mating surface 110 and toward the first lateral side of clasp member 102 to define ledges 114.

[0036] Clasp 100 may include a second clasp member 116. Clasp member 116 may include strap connector 118 located on a first lateral side of clasp member 116. Strap connector 118 may be for connecting to the strap or a second portion of the garment. Clasp member 116 may include interlocking fastener 120 on a second lateral side of clasp member 116. The second lateral side may be opposite the first lateral side. Interlocking fastener 120 may be for connecting to interlocking fastener 106. Interlocking fastener 120 may include body 122 defining mating surface 124. Mating surface 124 may be positioned and shaped to contact mating surface 110 of body 108 of interlocking fastener 106 when the clasp 100 is in a connected state. Interlocking fastener 120 may include interlocking arms 126 adjacent to mating surface 124. Interlocking arms 126 may be proximate to the second lateral side of clasp member 116. Interlocking arms 126 may extend from body 122 away from mating surface 124 and toward the first lateral side of clasp member 116 to define ledges 128.

[0037] In some embodiments, ledges 114 of interlocking arms 112 and ledges 128 of interlocking arms 126 may be configured to contact one another and to secure clasp member 102 and clasp member 116 one to another when the clasp 100 is in the connected state.

[0038] In some embodiments, interlocking fastener 106 may be at least substantially identical to interlocking fastener 120. Further, in some embodiments, clasp member 102 may be at least substantially identical to clasp member 116.

[0039] In some embodiments, when the clasp 100 is in the connected state, a portion of the body 122 of the other clasp member 116 may be interposed between the interlocking arms 112 of the first clasp member 102 and a portion of the body 108 of the first clasp member may be interposed between the interlocking arms 126 of the other clasp member 116. Further, in some embodiments, a distance between interlocking arms 112 may be at least substantially the same as a width of body 122 between a first lateral side of body 122 and a second lateral side of body 122. Likewise, a distance between interlocking arms 126 may be at least substantially the same as a width of body 108 between a first lateral side of body 108 and a second lateral side of body 108.

[0040] In some embodiments, each of interlocking arms 112 may include a first extending portion and a first receiving portion (see FIG. 2G). The first extending portion may extend toward the first lateral side of clasp member 102 and the first receiving portion may be recessed toward the second lateral side of clasp member 102. The ledges 114 may be defined between the first extending portions and the first receiving portions. Similarly, each of interlocking arms 126 may include a second extending portion and a second receiving portion. The second extending portion may extend toward the first lateral side of clasp member 116 and the second receiving portion may be recessed toward the second lateral side of clasp member 116. The ledges 128 may be defined between the second extending portions and the second receiving portions. When clasp 100 is in the connected state, the first extending portions of interlocking arms 112 may be positioned in the second receiving portions of interlocking arms 126 and the second extending portions of interlocking arms 112 may be positioned in the first receiving portions of interlocking arms 112, contacting the ledges 114 and 128 to one another and engaging the interlocking arms 112 and 126 with one another.

[0041] In some embodiments, body 108 may include a ramp (see FIGS. 2A through 2G) extending from mating surface 110 to a location above mating surface 110 proximate to strap connector 104. The ramp may be shaped and positioned to cause the mating surface 124 of the other clasp member 116 to move away from the mating surface 110 of the first clasp member 102 when interlocking fastener 120 is moved toward strap connector 104. Similarly, in some embodiments, body 122 may include a ramp (not visible in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B) extending from mating surface 124 to a location above mating surface 124 proximate to strap connector 118. The ramp may be shaped and positioned to cause the mating surface 110 of the first clasp member 102 to move away from the mating surface 124 of the other clasp member 116 when interlocking fastener 106 is moved toward strap connector 118.

[0042] In some embodiments, a width of body 108 may be greatest proximate to the second lateral side, as measured in a direction between interlocking arms 112 at the first mating surface 110. The width of body 108 may be sized and shaped to enable interlocking arms 126 to receive a portion of body 108 therebetween and to engage with interlocking arms 112 when the clasp 100 is transitioning from a disconnected state to the connected state. Additionally or alternatively, body 108 may be sized and shaped to cause interlocking arms 126 to move laterally toward interlocking arms 112 as the clasp 100 is transitioning from a disconnected state to the connected state.

[0043] Similarly, in some embodiments, a width of body 122 may be greatest proximate to the second lateral side, as measured in a direction between interlocking arms 126 at the first mating surface 124. The width of body 122 may be sized and shaped to enable interlocking arms 112 to receive a portion of body 122 therebetween and to engage with interlocking arms 126 when the clasp 100 is transitioning from a disconnected state to the connected state. Additionally or alternatively, body 122 may be sized and shaped to cause interlocking arms 112 to move laterally toward interlocking arms 126 as the clasp 100 is transitioning from a disconnected state to the connected state.

[0044] In some embodiments, body 108 may include a first magnet (not illustrated in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B). Body 122 may include a second magnet (not illustrated in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B). For example, the magnets may be positioned within the bodies 108 and 122 of the clasp members 102 and 116, or may be supported on the interlocking arms 112 and 126, such as in positions to define the ledges 114 and 128. The first magnet may attract the second magnet when the clasp is in the connected state and / or when the clasp 100 is transitioning from a disconnected state to the connected state. The first magnet and the second magnet may be oriented to exert force tending to cause the second magnet to move laterally toward the first magnet as the clasp is transitioning from a disconnected state to the connected state.

[0045] In some embodiments, strap connector 104 may be offset from a second surface of body 108, the second surface opposite mating surface 110. Strap connector 118 may be offset from a second surface of body 122, the second surface opposite mating surface 124.

[0046] In some embodiments, a first plane of mating surface 110 may intersect strap connector 104. A second plane of a second surface of body 108, the second surface opposite mating surface 110, may not intersect strap connector 104. Similarly, a third plane of mating surface 124 may intersect strap connector 118. A fourth plane of a third surface of body 122, the third surface opposite mating surface 124, may not intersect strap connector 118.

[0047] As a result of such offsets, when the clasp 100 is in the connected state, strap connector 104 may be at least substantially aligned with strap connector 118. Such alignment may be advantageous when straps are connected to strap connector 104 and strap connector 118 and there is tension between the straps. The alignment may cause all of the tension forces on clasp 100 to be in a direction in at least substantially parallel with the y-axis whereas if strap connector 104 and strap connector 118 were not aligned, tension forces on strap connector 104 and strap connector 118 may cause forces in a direction at least substantially parallel to the z-axis to be exerted on clasp 100.

[0048] FIG. 2A through FIG. 2F are various perspective views of an example clasp member 200 according to one or more embodiments. In FIG. 2A through FIG. 2F various elements of clasp member 200 are particularly referenced. Clasp member 200 may be an example of clasp member 102 or clasp member 116 of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B.

[0049] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B illustrate that clasp member 200 includes a strap connector 202 located on a first lateral side 206 of the clasp member 200. The strap connector 202 may be for connecting to a strap or a portion of a garment. Clasp member 200 includes an interlocking fastener 204 on a second lateral side 208 of the clasp member 200. The second lateral side 208 may be located opposite the first lateral side 206. The interlocking fastener 204 may be for connecting to a further interlocking fastener (not illustrated in FIG. 2A). Interlocking fastener 204 may include a body 210, which body 210 may define a mating surface 212. Mating surface 212 may be positioned and shaped to contact a further mating surface (not illustrated in FIG. 2A) of a further body (not illustrated in FIG. 2A) of the further interlocking fastener when the clasp member 200 is in a connected state with a further clasp member (not illustrated in FIG. 2A). Interlocking fastener 204 may include interlocking arms (e.g., interlocking arm 214 and interlocking arm 220). Interlocking arm 214 and interlocking arm 220 may be adjacent to mating surface 212. Interlocking arm 214 and interlocking arm 220 may be proximate to second lateral side 208 of clasp member 200. Interlocking arm 214 may extend from body 210 away from mating surface 212 and toward first lateral side 206 of clasp member 200 to define a ledge 216. Interlocking arm 220 may extend from body 210 away from mating surface 212 in the Z direction and toward first lateral side 206 of clasp member 200 to define a ledge 222, in a −Y direction.

[0050] Ledge 216 of interlocking arm 214 and ledge 222 of interlocking arm 220 may be configured to contact further ledges (not illustrated in FIG. 2A) of further interlocking arms (not illustrated in FIG. 2A) of the further interlocking fastener to secure the interlocking fastener to the further interlocking fastener when the clasp member 200 is in the connected state.

[0051] In FIG. 2C and FIG. 2D, illustrate a distance 226 between interlocking arm 214 and interlocking arm 220 is at least substantially the same as a width 228 of body 210 between a lateral side of body 218 and a lateral side of body 224.

[0052] In cases where clasp member 200 is for connecting to a further clasp member that is at least substantially identical to clasp member 200, the similarities in distance 226 and width 228 may mean that when clasp member 200 is in a connected state with the further clasp member, the further body of the further clasp member may be interposed between interlocking arm 214 and interlocking arm 220.

[0053] FIG. 2C and FIG. 2D illustrate a width 228 of body 210 is greatest proximate to the second lateral side 208, as measured in a direction between interlocking arm 214 and interlocking arm 220 at the mating surface 212.

[0054] Additionally or alternatively, body 210 may include a width 234 measured proximate to a second lateral side 208 and a width 236 measured proximate to first lateral side 206. Width 234 may be greater than width 236.

[0055] The width of body 210 between first lateral side 206 and second lateral side 208 may be sized and shaped to enable the further interlocking arms of the further interlocking fastener to receive a portion of body 210 therebetween and to engage with the further interlocking arms when the further clasp member and clasp member 200 are transitioning from a disconnected state to the connected state. Additionally or alternatively, body 210 may be sized and shaped to cause the further interlocking arms to move laterally (e.g., in a direction at least substantially parallel to the x-axis) toward ledges 114 and interlocking fastener 120 as the further clasp member and clasp member 200 are transitioning from a disconnected state to the connected state.

[0056] FIG. 2E and FIG. 2F illustrate a ramp 238 extending from mating surface 212 to a location above mating surface 212 and proximate to strap connector 202. In some embodiments, ramp 238 may have a rounded, curved surface extending from the mating surface 212 toward the location above the mating surface 212.

[0057] FIG. 2E and FIG. 2F illustrate a chamfer 240 at second lateral side 208 of clasp member 200.

[0058] In some embodiments, chamfer 240 may be angled at an angle that is at least substantially the same as the angle at which ramp 238 extends from mating surface 212.

[0059] Ramp 238 and / or chamfer 240 may be shaped and positioned to cause the further mating surface of the further clasp member to move away from mating surface 212 when the further interlocking fastener is moved toward strap connector 202.

[0060] FIG. 2E and FIG. 2F illustrate a magnet 242. Magnet 242 may be in body 210 or on mating surface 212. For example, magnet 242 may be embedded in body 210 or positioned in a hole defined in body 210. Alternatively, magnet 242 may be on mating surface 212, e.g., adhered to mating surface 212.

[0061] Magnet 242 may be to attract metal or a corresponding magnet in or on the further body of the further clasp member. Magnet 242 (in conjunction with the magnet or metal of the further clasp member) may be to exert attractive (and / or repellant) force to one or more of: cause the further clasp member to remain connected to clasp member 200 (e.g., exerting an attractive force in a direction at least substantially parallel to the z-axis), pull the further clasp member into the connected state with clasp member 200 (e.g., in a direction in at least substantially parallel with the y-axis), align the further interlocking arms of the further clasp member with interlocking arm 214 and interlocking arm 220 (e.g., in a direction at least substantially parallel the x-axis).

[0062] Magnet 242 may be oriented such that a north pole of magnet 242 and a south pole of magnet 242 are aligned according to a direction at least substantially parallel to the x-axis or to the y-axis. In some embodiments, magnet 242 may be a Halbach array.

[0063] FIG. 2G is a side view of the example clasp member 200 of FIG. 2A through FIG. 2F according to one or more embodiments.

[0064] FIG. 2G illustrates that interlocking arm 214 includes an extending portion 230 and a receiving portion 232. Extending portion 230 may extend toward first lateral side 206 of clasp member 200. Receiving portion 232 may be recessed toward the second lateral side 208 of clasp member 200. Ledge 216 may be defined between extending portion 230 and receiving portion 232. When clasp member 200 is in the connected state with the further clasp member, the extending portion 230 of interlocking arm 214 may be positioned in a further receiving portion of a further interlocking arm of the further interlocking fastener. Also, further extending portions of the further interlocking arms may be positioned in receiving portion 232 of interlocking arm 214.

[0065] A strap-facing surface of extending portion 230 and / or receiving portion 232 may not be parallel to the z-axis. For example, the strap-facing surface of extending portion 230 and / or receiving portion 232 may be angled toward first lateral side 206. Such angling may improve interlocking between clasp member 200 and the further clasp member.

[0066] FIG. 2G illustrates that ramp 238 may exhibit a rounded curve.

[0067] FIG. 2G illustrates a plane 244 of the mating surface 212 intersects strap connector 202. Additionally, a plane 246 of a second surface 248 of body 210 does not intersect the strap connector 202. Second surface 248 may be opposite mating surface 212.

[0068] Additionally or alternatively, a plane (not illustrated in FIG. 2G) bisecting strap connector 202 may be offset from a plane (not illustrated in FIG. 2G) bisecting body 210 in a direction perpendicular to mating surface 212. Such an offset may enable strap connector 202 and a further strap connector of the further clasp member to be at least substantially aligned (e.g., the plane bisecting strap connector 202 may be coplanar with a further plane bisecting the further strap connector).

[0069] FIG. 2G illustrates a plane 252 of ledge 216 is offset from plane 244 of mating surface 212.

[0070] FIG. 3A is a top schematic view of an example clasp member 300 according to one or more embodiments. Clasp member 300 includes an interlocking fastener 304 which may be at least substantially the same as interlocking fastener 204 of FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G. Clasp member 300 may include a strap connector 302 which may be different from strap connector 202 of FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G.

[0071] FIG. 3A illustrates chamfer 306 which may be a feature of interlocking arm 214 and / or interlocking arm 220. Chamfer 306 may aid in aligning clasp member 300 with a further clasp member in a direction at least substantially parallel to the x-axis. For example, chamfer 306 may contact lateral side of body 218 and / or lateral side of body 224 as clasp member 300 and the further clasp member are brought into a connected state.

[0072] FIG. 3B is a side view of the example clasp member 300 of FIG. 3A according to one or more embodiments.

[0073] FIG. 3B illustrates a plane 344 of the mating surface 312 intersecting strap connector 302. Additionally, a plane 346 of a second surface 348 of body 310 does not intersect the strap connector 302. For example, the planes 344 and 346 may at least substantially bisect the strap connectors 302. Second surface 348 may be opposite mating surface 312. FIG. 3B illustrates a plane 352 of ledge 316 is offset from plane 344 of mating surface 312.

[0074] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an example clasp member 400 according to one or more embodiments. Clasp member 400 includes a strap connector 402 and an interlocking fastener 404.

[0075] Interlocking fastener 404 may be the same as or substantially similar to any of interlocking fastener 106 of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, interlocking fastener 120 of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, interlocking fastener 204 of FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, and interlocking fastener 304 of FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B.

[0076] Strap connector 402 includes posts 406. Posts 406 may be for connecting to eyes of a strap. For example, a strap of a garment (e.g., a brassiere) may include eyes. The eyes may be fit onto posts 406.

[0077] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example clasp member 500 according to one or more embodiments. Clasp member 500 includes a strap connector 402 and an interlocking fastener 504.

[0078] Interlocking fastener 504 may be the same as or substantially similar to any of interlocking fastener 106 of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, interlocking fastener 120 of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, interlocking fastener 204 of FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, and interlocking fastener 304 of FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B.

[0079] Strap connector 502 includes posts 506. Posts 506 may be for connecting to eyes of the strap. For example, a strap of a garment (e.g., a brassiere) may include eyes. The eyes may be fit onto posts 506.

[0080] Strap connector 502 includes a cover 508. Cover 508 may be to retain eyes of the strap relative to posts 506.

[0081] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an example clasp member 600 according to one or more embodiments. Clasp member 600 includes a strap connector 602 and an interlocking fastener 604.

[0082] Interlocking fastener 604 may be the same as or substantially similar to any of interlocking fastener 106 of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, interlocking fastener 120 of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, interlocking fastener 204 of FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, and interlocking fastener 304 of FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B.

[0083] Strap connector 602 includes posts 606. Posts 606 may be the same as or substantially similar to posts 406 of FIG. 4 and / or to posts 506 of FIG. 5.

[0084] Strap connector 602 includes loop 610. Loop 610 defines eyes 612. Eyes 612 may be for connecting to hooks of a strap. For example, a strap of a garment (e.g., a brassiere) may include hooks. The hooks may be fit into eyes 612.

[0085] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an example clasp member 700 according to one or more embodiments. Clasp member 700 includes a strap connector 702 and an interlocking fastener 704.

[0086] Interlocking fastener 704 may be the same as or substantially similar to any of interlocking fastener 106 of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, interlocking fastener 120 of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, interlocking fastener 204 of FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, and interlocking fastener 304 of FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B.

[0087] Strap connector 702 includes posts 706. Posts 706 may be the same as or substantially similar to posts 406 of FIG. 4 and / or to posts 506 of FIG. 5. Strap connector 702 includes loop 710. Loop 710 defines eyes 712. Eyes 712 may be for connecting to hooks of a strap. For example, a strap of a garment (e.g., a brassiere) may include hooks. The hooks may be fit into eyes 712.

[0088] Strap connector 702 includes cover 708. Cover 708 may be configured to retain loop 710 relative to posts 706 by clamping the loop 710 between the cover 708 and the strap connector 702 with portions of the loop 710 around the posts 706.

[0089] Clasp member 500 may be substantially the same as clasp member 400, save for the addition of cover 508. Clasp member 700 may be substantially the same as clasp member 600 save for the addition of cover 708. Clasp member 600 and clasp member 700 may be substantially the same as clasp member 400 and clasp member 500, respectively, save for the addition of loop 610 and loop 710, respectively.

[0090] A clasp (or a pair of clasp members) may include an instance of one of clasp member 400 or clasp member 500 and an instance of one of clasp member 600 or clasp member 700. Such a clasp may be used with a previously produced garment that includes eyes and hooks. In some cases, a garment including hooks and eyes may be retrofit with such a clasp.

[0091] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are perspective views of an example clasp member 800 according to one or more embodiments. Clasp member 800 includes a strap connector 802 and an interlocking fastener 804.

[0092] Interlocking fastener 804 may be the same as or substantially similar to any of interlocking fastener 106 of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, interlocking fastener 120 of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, interlocking fastener 204 of FIG. 2A through FIG. 2G, and interlocking fastener 304 of FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B.

[0093] Strap connector 802 includes a loop 806. Loop 806 may be to connect to an end of a strap, e.g., a loop in the end of the strap. Loop 806 defines gap 808. Gap 808 may be for inserting the loop of the strap into loop 806.

[0094] In some examples, such as that shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, each clasp member 800 may be devoid of any magnet. For example, a clasp including a pair of the clasp members 800 of FIGS. 8A and 8B may rely solely on mechanical interaction between the interlocking fasteners 804 to align and position the clasp members 800 in a connected state,

[0095] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a clasp 900 according to one or more embodiments. Clasp 900 includes a clasp member 902 and a clasp member 908. Clasp member 902 includes strap connector 904 and interlocking fastener 906. Clasp member 908 includes strap connector 910 and interlocking fastener 912. Clasp member 902 may be an example of clasp member 800 of FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B. Clasp member 908 may be another example clasp member 800 of FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B.

[0096] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a clasp 950. The clasp 950 comprises a similar shape and function as previous embodiments of the disclosure, but the clasp 950 comprises a loop strap connector 152. The loop strap connector 152 may be disposed on either side of the clasp 950, away from the body 122 of both clasp members and the interlocking arms 126. The loop strap connector 152 comprises a strap wire154. The strap wire 154 may be partially affixed within the loop strap connector 152, and portions of the strap wire 154 may extend from out of the material of the loop strap connector 152 to define eyes 612. The strap wire 154 is disposed within the loop strap connector 152 and has a cover 156 positioned and configured to clamp hooks of a garment secured to the strap wire 154 between the cover 154 and the strap wire 154. The strap wire 154 further defines eyes 612 according to the embodiments of the disclosure, positioned and configured for receiving hooks thereon.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 11, which is a side view of the clasp 950 of FIG. 10, a first clasp member 952 of the clasp 950 may further comprise a guiding surface 162, and a second clasp member 954 of the clasp 950 may include a non-guiding surface 164. The guiding surface 162 of the first clasp member 952 may be interposed between the mating surface 956 and the loop strap connector 152. When the clasp 950 is in the connected state, the guiding surface 162 may not be in contact with the second clasp member 954. The guiding surface 162 may be positioned, shaped, and configured to urge the mating surface 956 of the first clasp member 952 out of contact with the mating surface 958 of the second clasp member 954, and to urge the interlocking arms 960 of the first clasp member 952 away from engagement with the interlocking arms 962 of the second clasp member 954, as the first clasp member 952 and the second clasp member 954 transition from the connected state to the disconnected state.

[0098] The guiding surface 162 may extend at an oblique angle relative to the mating surface 956, forming a slope between the loop strap connector 152 and the receiving portion 232. For example, the guiding surface 162 may cause the loop strap connector 152 to be offset from a remainder of the first clasp member 952, such that a plane of the mating surface 956 intersects with the loop strap connector 152, as generally described previously in connection with FIG. 2G.

[0099] The non-guiding surface 164 may be interposed between the mating surface 958 and the strap connector 202 of the second clasp member 954. In some examples, the non-guiding surface 164 may be at least substantially coplanar with the mating surface 958. In other examples, the non-guiding surface 164. In other examples, the non-guiding surface 164 may at least substantially mirror the guiding surface 162, extending at the same oblique angle relative to the associated mating surface 958 and offsetting the strap connector 202 from a remainder of the second clasp member 954 to the same extent as the guiding surface 162. In still other examples, the non-guiding surface 164 may be positioned, shaped, and configured not to contact the first clasp member 952 when the clasp 950 is transitioning from the connected state to the disconnected state, extending at a different (e.g., lesser or greater) oblique angle relative to the associated mating surface 958 and offsetting the strap connector 202 from a remainder of the second clasp member 954 to a different (e.g., smaller) extent when compared to the guiding surface 162.

[0100] The guiding surface 162 may be positioned, shaped, and configured to assist the clasp 950 to transition from the connected state to the disconnected state as the first clasp member 952 and the second clasp member 954 are moved toward one another in the positive and negative Y directions. With reference to the Z and Y axes, as defined in FIG. 11 and as shown in relationship to the orientation of the clasp 950 shown in FIG. 11, as the loop strap connector 152 and the strap connector 202 move in the positive Y and negative Y directions, respectively, the guiding surface 162 may push the strap connector 202 in the positive Z direction. Relative movement of the first clasp member 952 and the second clasp member 954 when transitioning from the connected state to the disconnected state may bring the posts 506 and the second lateral surface 208 in closer proximity. Before the posts 506 and the second lateral surface 208 come into contact, contact between, and the shapes of, the guiding surface 162 of the first clasp member 952 and a leading end 964 of the second clasp member 954 may push the strap connector 202 at a slope between the negative Y direction and the positive Z direction. The guiding surface 162 may be curved or angled to offset the strap wire 154 from the center of the body of the associated clasp member, and to facilitate disconnection as the clasp members transition from the connected state to the disconnected state, as generally described previously in connection with FIGS. 2A through 2G.

[0101] In the embodiment of FIGS. 10 through 12, the first clasp member 952 comprises the loop strap connector 152 and the strap wire 154. FIG. 12 is a perspective exploded view of the first clasp member 952 of the clasp 950 of FIGS. 10 and 11. A recess 160 may be defined in one or more of a body 966 and a body cover 174 of the first clasp member 952. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the first clasp member 952 may include the recess 160 in the body 966, and may include another recess 968 in the body cover 174. Each recess 966 and 968 may be positioned, shaped, and configured to receive a portion of the strap wire 154 therein. For example, the recess 160 in the body 966 may be sized, shaped, and positioned to receive and enclose at least substantially a first portion (e.g., a first half) of the strap wire 154, and the other recess 968 in the body cover 174 may be sized, shaped and positioned to receive at least substantially a remainder of the strap wire 154. The body 966 and the body cover 174 may be affixed to one another by, for example, a snap-fit connection, an adhesive material, screws, bolts, or other affixation techniques known in the art.

[0102] Each recess 160 and 968, and the strap wire 154, may have an undulating shape winding in and out of the loop strap connector 152, such that the strap wire 154 may protrude from the loop strap connector 152 while still being partially disposed within each recess 160 and 968. The portions of the strap wire 154 protruding from the loop strap connector 152 may define the eyes 612 for receiving hooks of a garment and / or strap, thereby securing the clasp member 952 to the garment and / or strap. Additional detail regarding the eyes 612 and their use to provide an attachment location for the strap of a garment; more specifically, the hooks therein, is provided in connection with FIG. 6 and the associated description. The clasp member 952 may include a cover 156, which may be affixable to the body 966 and / or the body cover 174 to cover and protect the protruding portions of the strap wire 154, the eyes 612 defined thereby, and to secure any hooks engaged with the strap wire 154 through the eyes 612. The garment may be substantially attached and removed from being attached to the eyes 612 by removing the cover 156 and by disengaging the hooks from the strap wire 154 and out of the eyes 612.

[0103] The strap wire 154 may be removable from the loop strap connector 152 in some embodiments where the body cover 174 is likewise detachable from the body 966. For example, the body cover 174 may be selectively attachable to, and detachable from, the body 966 of the clasp member 952 utilizing a magnet 172 in or on the body 966 of the clasp 952 in embodiments where the body cover 174 includes a corresponding magnet or where the body cover 174 includes a ferromagnetic material. The body cover 174 may be attachable to, and detachable from, the loop strap connector 152 utilizing other techniques or other known attachment methods in the art, such as those described previously in connection with the cover 156. The loop strap connector 152 may replace other garment strap connector methods of this disclosure like using the posts 606 to form loop 610. As a non-limiting example, the loop strap connector 152 may replace strap connector 602.

[0104] Though certain features have been described herein in connection with certain specific embodiments, features from one embodiment may be combined or replaced with the features of another embodiment, where logically possible, as explicitly contemplated by the inventor. For example, the magnets included or omitted from one or more of the embodiments may be combined or replaced with the inclusion or omission of magnets from one or more of the other embodiments. As another example, the strap-and / or garment-facing connectors included in one or more of the embodiments may be combined or replaced with the strap- and / or garment-facing connectors from one or more of the other embodiments. As yet another example, the inclusion or omission of a ramp and / or guiding surfaces in one or more of the embodiments may be combined or replaced with the inclusion or omission of ramp and / or guiding surfaces from one or more of the other embodiments.

[0105] As used herein, the term “substantially” in reference to a given parameter, property, or condition means and includes to a degree that one skilled in the art would understand that the given parameter, property, or condition is met with a small degree of variance, such as within acceptable manufacturing tolerances. For example, a parameter that is substantially met may be at least about 90% met, at least about 95% met, or even at least about 99% met.

[0106] Terms used in the present disclosure and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including, but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes, but is not limited to,” without limitation). As used herein, “each” means “some or a totality.” As used herein, “each and every” means “a totality.”

[0107] Additionally, if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to examples containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” or “an” means “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations.

[0108] In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, without limitation” or “one or more of A, B, and C, without limitation” is used, in general such a construction is intended to include A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together, without limitation.

[0109] Further, any disjunctive word or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” should be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

[0110] While the present disclosure has been with respect to certain illustrated examples, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize and appreciate that the present disclosure is not so limited. Rather, many additions, deletions, and modifications to the illustrated and described examples may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure as hereinafter claimed along with their legal equivalents. In addition, features from one example may be combined with features of another example while still being encompassed within the scope of the disclosure as contemplated by the inventor.

Claims

1. A clasp comprising:a first clasp member comprising:a first strap connector located on a first lateral side of the first clasp member, the first strap connector for connecting to a strap or a first portion of a garment: anda first interlocking fastener on a second lateral side of the first clasp member, the second lateral side opposite the first lateral side, the first interlocking fastener comprising:a first body, defining a first mating surface; andfirst interlocking arms adjacent to the first mating surface, proximate to the second lateral side of the first clasp member, each of the first interlocking arms extending from the first body away from the first mating surface and toward the first lateral side of the first clasp member to define a first ledge; anda second clasp member comprising:a second strap connector located on a first lateral side of the second clasp member, the second strap connector for connecting to the strap or a second portion of the garment; anda second interlocking fastener on a second lateral side of the second clasp member, the second lateral side opposite the first lateral side, the second interlocking fastener for connecting to the first interlocking fastener, the second interlocking fastener comprising:a second body defining a second mating surface positioned and shaped to contact the first mating surface of the first body of the first interlocking fastener when the clasp is in a connected state; andsecond interlocking arms adjacent to the second mating surface proximate to the second lateral side of the second clasp member, each of the second interlocking arms extending from the second body away from the second mating surface and toward the first lateral side of the second clasp member to define a second ledge.

2. The clasp of claim 1, wherein the first ledge of the first interlocking arms and the second ledge of the second interlocking arms are configured to contact one another and to secure the first clasp member and the second clasp member one to another when the clasp is in the connected state.

3. The clasp of claim 1, wherein the first interlocking fastener is at least substantially identical to the second interlocking fastener.

4. The clasp of claim 1, wherein a distance between the first interlocking arms is at least substantially the same as a width of the second body between a first lateral side of the second body and a second lateral side of the second body.

5. The clasp of claim 1, wherein, when the clasp is in the connected state, a portion of the second body is interposed between the first interlocking arms and a portion of the first body is interposed between the second interlocking arms.

6. The clasp of claim 1, wherein each of the first interlocking arms comprises a first extending portion and a first receiving portion, the first extending portion extending toward the first lateral side of the first clasp member, and the first receiving portion recessed toward the second lateral side of the first clasp member, the first ledge defined between the first extending portion and the first receiving portion,wherein each of the second interlocking arms comprises a second extending portion and a second receiving portion, the second extending portion extending toward the first lateral side of the second clasp member, and the second receiving portion recessed toward the second lateral side of the second clasp member, the second ledge defined between the second extending portion and the second receiving portion, andwherein when the clasp is in the connected state, the first extending portions of the first interlocking arms are positioned in the second receiving portions of the second interlocking arms and the second extending portions of the second interlocking arms are positioned in the first receiving portions of the first interlocking arms.

7. The clasp of claim 1, wherein the first body comprises a ramp extending from the first mating surface to a location above the first mating surface proximate to the first strap connector, the ramp shaped and positioned to cause the second mating surface to move away from the first mating surface when the second interlocking fastener is moved toward the first strap connector.

8. The clasp of claim 1, a width of the first body is greatest proximate to the second lateral side, as measured in a direction between the first interlocking arms at the first mating surface.

9. The clasp of claim 8, wherein the width of the first body is sized and shaped to enable the second interlocking arms to receive a portion of the first body therebetween and to engage with the second interlocking arms when the clasp is transitioning from a disconnected state to the connected state.

10. The clasp of claim 8, wherein the first body is sized and shaped to cause the second interlocking arms to move laterally toward the first interlocking arms as the clasp is transitioning from a disconnected state to the connected state.

11. The clasp of claim 1, wherein the first body further comprises a first magnet, wherein the second body further comprises a second magnet, and wherein the first magnet is to attract the second magnet when the clasp is in the connected state.

12. The clasp of claim 11, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet are oriented to exert force tending to cause the second magnet to move laterally toward the first magnet as the clasp is transitioning from a disconnected state to the connected state.

13. The clasp of claim 1, wherein the first strap connector is offset from a second surface of the first body, the second surface opposite the first mating surface, and wherein the second strap connector is offset from a second surface of the second body, the second surface opposite the second mating surface.

14. The clasp of claim 13, wherein when the clasp is in the connected state, the first strap connector is at least substantially aligned with the second strap connector.

15. The clasp of claim 1, wherein the first strap connector comprises posts for connecting to eyes of the strap and wherein the second strap connector defines eyes for connecting to hooks of the strap.

16. The clasp of claim 1, wherein the first strap connector comprises first posts for connecting to eyes of the strap, wherein the second strap connector comprises second posts, wherein the first strap connector is at least substantially identical to the second strap connector, wherein the second strap connector additionally comprises a loop sized, shaped and configured to wrap around the second posts and to define one or more eyes for connecting to hooks of the strap; anda first cover for retaining the eyes of the strap around the first posts and the second strap connector further comprises a second cover to retain the loop around or over the second posts.

17. The clasp of claim 1, wherein the first strap connector comprises first posts for connecting to eyes of the strap, wherein the second strap connector comprises a loop sized, shaped and configured to define one or more eyes for connecting to hooks of the strap; anda first cover for retaining the eyes of the strap around the first posts and the second strap connector further comprises a second cover to retain the loop around or over the loop.

18. A clasp member comprising:a strap connector located on a first lateral side of the clasp member, the strap connector for connecting to a strap or a portion of a garment; andan interlocking fastener on a second lateral side of the clasp member, the second lateral side opposite the first lateral side, the interlocking fastener for connecting to a further interlocking fastener, the interlocking fastener comprising:a body defining a mating surface, the mating surface positioned and shaped to contact a further mating surface of a further body of the further interlocking fastener when the clasp member is in a connected state with a further clasp member; andinterlocking arms adjacent to the mating surface, proximate to the second lateral side of the clasp member, each of the interlocking arms extending from the body away from the mating surface and toward the first lateral side of the clasp member to define a ledge.

19. The clasp member of claim 18, wherein the ledges of the interlocking arms are configured to contact further ledges of further interlocking arms of the further interlocking fastener to secure the interlocking fastener to the further interlocking fastener when the clasp member is in the connected state.

20. The clasp member of claim 18, wherein each of the interlocking arms comprises an extending portion and a receiving portion, the extending portion extending toward the first lateral side of the clasp member, and the receiving portion recessed toward the second lateral side of the clasp member, the ledge defined between the extending portion and the receiving portion andwherein when the clasp member is in the connected state, the extending portions of the interlocking arms are positioned in further receiving portions of further interlocking arms of the further interlocking fastener and further extending portions of the further interlocking arms are positioned in the receiving portions of the interlocking arms.

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