Fixing system for mutually associated laundry items

Abstract

The invention relates to laundry items which can be connected to one another, one laundry item having a firmly connected adhesive part and / or a soft part of a hook-and-loop fastener. The adhesive part and the soft part have a substantially circular shape with a diameter of 5 to 35 mm and a material thickness of 0.5 to 2 mm.

Description

[0001] Fixing system for matching laundry items

[0002] Description :

[0003] The invention relates to items of clothing that are assigned to one another, such as a hood and jacket or a scarf and coat or a stocking and trousers, but also to two identical items of clothing that are assigned to one another, such as a pair of stockings or a pair of gloves.

[0004] In the broadest sense, these garments are also referred to as complementary garments. The invention is intended to provide a detachable connection between such items of clothing or garments.

[0005] State of the art :

[0006] Various devices have been described in the prior art for equipping complementary garments with detachable connections. These are intended to assist the wearer of these garments during storage and washing of complementary garments by temporarily joining the garments together as a detachable unit. For example, a scarf can be joined to a coat while being worn or stored, or two socks can be combined in pairs for washing or drying.

[0007] The state of the art devices have a short lifespan, often do not function as intended during washing or drying and have an adverse effect on clothing.

[0008] Task :

[0009] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a detachable connection system for complementary items of clothing or laundry which does not adversely affect the clothing and which can be used easily and safely over a very long period of time without any complaints.

[0010] Summary of the invention:

[0011] The object is achieved according to the invention by items of clothing or laundry comprising a pair of complementary circular or point-shaped hook and loop fasteners, in particular made of polyamide, with a diameter of 15 to 35 mm or 5 to 20 mm and a thickness or material strength of 0.1 to 10 mm.

[0012] Hook-and-loop fastener elements within the meaning of the invention are preferably woven or woven-in hook-and-loop fastener strips, which are designed either as an adhesive part or as a complementary fleece part. This means that a fleece part interacts with an adhesive part.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a piece of laundry which can be connected to another piece of laundry, wherein the piece of laundry has a firmly connected adhesive part and / or a fleece part of a hook and loop fastener and the adhesive part and / or the fleece part has a substantially circular shape and a diameter of 5 to 35 mm and a material thickness of 0.5 to 2 mm.

[0014] Preferably, the Velcro fasteners are not covered by a border and are positioned below the sock hem, for example in the case of socks.

[0015] It was entirely surprising that the individual elements of the invention combined to produce a unified technical success. It was completely surprising, for example, that a hook-and-loop fastener or a hook-and-loop connection consisting of rectangular or square hook-and-loop elements, for example, has adverse effects, as the respective corners interact negatively with the textiles, resulting in tears in the textiles.

[0016] Hook and loop fasteners usually consist of parts of a hook and loop tape with loops and parts of a hook and loop tape with barbs, so that ultimately sections of the hook and loop tape are used as rectangular hook and loop fastener elements. The hook and loop fastener element or elements are either the adhesive part or the loop part, or the hook and loop tape (with barbs) or the loop tape (with loops) of a hook and loop fastener. However, rectangular elements have proven to be disadvantageous when applied to textiles. What is particularly surprising is that this cracking in textiles can be prevented by ensuring that the hook and loop fastener elements are not square, and in particular not rectangular, since particular shear forces can arise at three or more, particularly four, corners.

[0017] It was also quite surprising that so-called Velcro points, i.e. round or oval Velcro elements or Velcro connections, do not have the adverse effects of rectangular Velcro connections.

[0018] A textile expert will be familiar with the term “point-shaped” or “point-shaped,” “round,” or “circular” applications and will therefore be able to implement the invention. For example, it would also be possible for the round hook and loop fastener elements to be ring-shaped (a so-called donut or torus structure) and not to have any adhesive and / or fleece parts inside the circular structure. With four or more angular hook and loop fastener elements, tension and tensile forces arise at the corners, which lead to tears in the textiles or items of clothing. This is especially true if the items of clothing joined together by hook and loop fasteners are washed several times in a washing machine at higher temperatures and / or higher spin speeds.

[0019] In particular, the use of higher temperatures and detergents after repeated washing seems to lead to material fatigue occurring at the direct connection point between the corner of a hook and loop fastener and the fabric. This material fatigue manifests itself in cracks and imperfections (small holes) in the fabric. If the hook and loop fastener elements are not square, but have an essentially round geometry (i.e. they are point-shaped), then this material fatigue does not occur. Even hook and loop fasteners or hook and loop fastener elements on a silk scarf do not lead to cracks in the area of ​​the hook and loop fastener elements, even after repeated washing. This is different with rectangular hook and loop fasteners.

[0020] During spinning, even at relatively low speeds for the washing process, uneven tensile forces may also act on the Velcro connection depending on the position of the connected garments in the washing machine. Due to the geometric shape of a square Velcro fastener, the tensile forces are concentrated on the corners, which leads to localized loads and increased wear and tear on the material. This uneven distribution of forces can damage the fabric of the garment and lead to faster wear. In contrast, round Velcro fasteners advantageously distribute the tensile forces surprisingly evenly over their entire surface, which considerably reduces the risk of damage even at high spin speeds and enables more gentle use.

[0021] In a further preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a piece of laundry which can be connected to another piece of laundry, wherein the adhesive and / or fleece part of the hook and loop fastener consists of polyamide.

[0022] In combination with its preferred sizes, dot-like shape and material thickness, polyamide offers numerous advantages that make it a surprisingly ideal material for hook and loop fasteners, particularly for joining complementary items of laundry. Its high tensile strength and elasticity can advantageously help the dot-like fasteners in particular to retain their shape and function even under heavy loads. Polyamide is also extremely abrasion-resistant, which, particularly in combination with its round shape and preferred size and material thickness, surprisingly significantly increases the longevity of the hook and loop fasteners, even with very frequent use and repeated opening and closing and under special stress situations such as washing in a washing machine or drying, even in a dryer.In addition, polyamide is resistant to many chemicals and environmental influences, which makes it particularly resistant to dirt and discoloration, especially in combination with the preferred shapes and material thicknesses, which additionally minimize the attack surface.

[0023] Another surprising advantage, particularly for washing, is the low water absorption of polyamide. This, in combination with the preferred shapes, sizes and material thicknesses, results in surprisingly short drying times for the hook and loop fasteners after washing. In addition, the low water absorption of polyamide is combined with the round shape, which, thanks to the particularly large area to circumference ratio, further minimizes the possibility of water ingress. The circumference of the hook and loop fastener corresponds to a possible area of ​​water ingress. This is smallest in the case of a round shape, particularly a circle, in comparison to the area. Thanks to this combination of shape and material, the adhesive force is surprisingly little affected by moisture during washing. It is particularly advantageous if the hook and loop fastener points or...The circular hook-and-loop fastener elements preferably have a diameter of 20 to 30 mm, particularly preferably 22 to 26 mm, and in particular 24 mm. A further preferred range is between 10 and 18 mm.

[0024] A diameter of the circular hook-and-loop fastener elements of more than 30 mm can lead to less efficient force transmission and an increased likelihood of accidental opening. A smaller diameter of less than 10 mm, on the other hand, may not provide a sufficient adhesive surface, which reduces the holding force and impairs functionality. A diameter of 10 to 30 mm provides a particularly advantageous force distribution and guarantees a sufficient adhesive surface, ensuring a surprisingly reliable and durable connection.

[0025] It has also been surprisingly shown that the preferred diameters are particularly gentle on the material.

[0026] Hook and loop fasteners in the preferred sizes are surprisingly gentle on the garment to which they are applied, as they offer a particularly advantageous balance between adhesive force and contact area. The preferred size, combined with the material thickness and shape, ensures that tensile forces are evenly distributed over a sufficiently large area, significantly reducing localized loads and the risk of material fatigue. This can be particularly advantageous because the increased strength in the area of ​​the hook and loop fastener compared to the surrounding, less rigid fabric can lead to uneven tension.

[0027] Hook and loop fasteners that are too large can roll up more easily, which can lead to uneven tension and potential damage to the surrounding fabric. The resulting rolled edges can create sharp abrasion points that wear out the material more quickly. Hook and loop fasteners that are too small, on the other hand, concentrate the tensile forces over a smaller area, which can lead to higher localized stress and an increased risk of material damage.

[0028] The preferred size and shape surprisingly minimize the risk of uneven loading and curling. This helps ensure that the hook-and-loop fasteners do not compromise the durability of the garment while providing a stable and reliable connection.

[0029] It was particularly surprising that certain sizes - i.e. diameters of the round Velcro elements - enable a particularly long-lasting connection between the Velcro fastener and textiles, whereby even after 50 or 100 or more wash cycles the textiles are not adversely affected by the round or circular Velcro fastener or the ring-shaped Velcro fastener, the Velcro element, or the laundry items.

[0030] Furthermore, it has been shown that a thickness of the hook-and-loop fastener element of preferably 0.5 to 1.5 mm is particularly preferred to avoid damage to the fabric. Surprisingly, damage to the fabric occurs with thicker rectangular or polygonal hook-and-loop fastener elements. Significantly narrower or thinner hook-and-loop fastener elements, on the other hand, become brittle after a while and are no longer able to achieve their connecting effect after repeated washing.

[0031] In the prior art, it was assumed that the thickness of the hook-and-loop fastener elements used had no influence on the connections between the textiles connected by the hook-and-loop fastener. Surprisingly, however, it has been shown that the hook-and-loop fastener must exhibit a certain degree of flexibility in order to, for example, conform to the folds in the textile. Otherwise, tensions arise at the seam between the hook-and-loop fastener and textiles, such as scarves or socks, leading to tears and breakages in the textile fibers.

[0032] A thickness of 0.5 to 1.5 mm for round hook and loop fasteners surprisingly offers a particularly advantageous compromise between flexibility and durability. Hook and loop fasteners that are too thick can impair mobility and comfort, while versions that are too thin do not offer the necessary holding power and abrasion resistance. A thickness of 0.5 to 1.5 mm advantageously ensures that the hook and loop fastener is robust enough to withstand repeated opening and closing, while at the same time remaining sufficiently flexible. Sufficient flexibility is important so that the hook and loop fastener can integrate seamlessly into the garment and ensure wearer comfort, as well as adapting sufficiently to the movements of the fabric during washing processes, for example, without damaging the textile fibers of the item of clothing.The particularly good adaptability of round hook-and-loop fasteners with a thickness of 0.5 to 1.5 mm to the movement of the fabric is surprisingly positively influenced by the combination of the preferred thickness and the round shape. This combination of the flexibility of the hook-and-loop fasteners with the preferred material thickness, as well as unhindered movement of the fabric even at the edges of the hook-and-loop fasteners due to the lack of corners on the round hook-and-loop fastener elements, leads to surprisingly advantageous fabric protection.

[0033] According to the invention, hook-and-loop fastener elements with a thickness or material strength of particularly preferably approximately 1 mm are used, with the elements preferably being made of polyamide or comprising polyamide regions. The term "approximately" indicates that the person skilled in the art knows that the material thickness of hook-and-loop fasteners varies somewhat due to the orientation and length of the loops (fleece part) and barbs (adhesive part). Approximately 1 mm can therefore also mean 1.2 mm, 1.5 mm, 0.9 mm, or 0.8 mm.

[0034] Due to the circular geometry, the preferred thickness and the material of the hook and loop fastener, the hook and loop elements are surprisingly flexible and adapt well to the respective fit or the folds of the textiles. For example, a scarf or a sock can be worn with the fastener according to the invention without any discomfort. The combination of the round shape, size and the polyamide material of the hook and loop fastener leads to a surprisingly good solution to the problem. The detachable connection between the items of clothing is made possible by the adhesive part and the fleece part of the hook and loop fastener. The connection can be released again by pulling on the textiles or the hook and loop elements. Surprisingly, this preferred connection is not released if, for example, two socks that are connected to one another are washed or hung up to dry after washing without additional clothespins.Unlike conventional, detachably connectable textiles such as gloves, socks, or a coat collar and a scarf, the connection via hook-and-loop fasteners with a non-angular geometry can no longer be undone by a user briefly pulling on the scarf or by washing the socks at temperatures over 60 degrees and then spinning them. In the prior art, the repeated joining and untying of textiles led to very high material stress in the area where the square hook-and-loop fastener was sewn on.

[0035] The invention makes it possible for a pair of socks connected to each other via the Velcro fastener to be washed several times at 40°, 60° or even 90° without the connection coming loose and without the textile fibers of the clothing being damaged.

[0036] It is surprising that even repeated washing at very high temperatures is possible without the Velcro fastener or the fabric being subjected to any stress. If, for example, two matching scarves, socks, or gloves are fastened together with square Velcro fasteners, repeated washing, particularly at 60° or 90°, will cause the fabric to tear at the corners of the Velcro fastener. It is irrelevant whether the corners in the Velcro fasteners are rectangular, cross-shaped, triangular, or star-shaped.

[0037] With the circular or round hook-and-loop fastener elements according to the invention, this material stress on the textiles is not observed, even with frequent washing at higher temperatures. It is not necessary for the hook-and-loop fasteners to have an exactly circular geometry; they can also have an oval shape. In addition to the geometric shape of the hook-and-loop fasteners, the stressed size parameters are particularly important in order to create a firm connection that can, however, be released by applying appropriate force, whereby even repeated release does not lead to material fatigue of the textiles in the area or at the contact point of the sewn-on hook-and-loop fasteners with the textiles.

[0038] Round hook and loop fasteners made of polyamide with a diameter of 5 to 35 mm, preferably 10 to 30 mm and a thickness of preferably 0.5 to 2 mm, particularly preferably 0.5 to 1.5 mm, when washed in the closed form, show remarkable resistance to high washing temperatures and / or spin speeds, particularly in comparison to other hook and loop fasteners. Polyamide, a material known for its high strength and resistance to abrasion and heat, advantageously retains its structural integrity even after many wash cycles, even at high temperatures. The even distribution of force over the particularly advantageous round adhesive surface minimizes point concentrations of stress, which preferably prevents the fasteners from losing their shape and adhesive strength. This leads to a longer service life and consistent functionality compared to square or irregularly shaped hook and loop fasteners.

[0039] In addition, round Velcro fasteners advantageously distribute the tensile forces evenly over their entire surface, which considerably reduces the risk of damage even under high loads, such as spinning during a washing process, and enables a more gentle application.

[0040] In addition, the thickness of 0.5 to 1.5 mm of the round polyamide hook and loop fasteners advantageously reduces mechanical wear during the washing process. This thickness offers a particularly advantageous balance between flexibility and durability, which means that the fasteners are less susceptible to deformation and material wear. Unlike thinner hook and loop fasteners, which can lose their adhesive strength, or thicker ones, which impair mobility, round hook and loop fasteners with a thickness of 0.5 to 1.5 mm offer consistent adhesive strength and dimensional stability, even when washed at high temperatures. Thanks to the high temperature resistance of polyamide, these hook and loop fasteners surprisingly do not lose their functionality even during particularly intensive wash cycles, which are often carried out at higher temperatures to remove heavy soiling.

[0041] The prior art has so far proposed separate support elements, such as separate flaps, which are attached to the textiles, particularly sewn on, to prevent excessive stress from the hook-and-loop fasteners. The hook-and-loop fastener elements are positioned on these support elements, so that the actual textiles are not adversely affected by the hook-and-loop fasteners. However, this system has not been adopted because it requires additional material and significantly increases the cost of the textiles.

[0042] According to the invention, additional snap fasteners can be dispensed with, creating a particularly secure connection. In the prior art, snap fasteners with springs are used to stabilize the connection between a fleece and an adhesive part. This is not necessary according to the invention.

[0043] The prior art described advantages for non-rotationally symmetrical connecting sections of hook-and-loop fasteners, which were particularly advantageous because they ensured a non-twistable connection. The inventors deserve credit for having shown that hook-and-loop fastener elements with a rotationally symmetrical geometry such as dots, circles, ovals, or a mixture of these, are particularly advantageous. The brief partial detachment or spacing of the hook-and-loop connections, for example during washing, and the subsequent automatic reconnection additionally prevents the textiles from being adversely stressed by shear forces on the hook-and-loop fasteners and, for example, from tearing.

[0044] A further advantage of the device according to the application is that no further technical device elements are required. The prior art, for example, describes textiles in which rectangular hook and loop fastener elements are covered with a border in order to avoid undesired interactions with other textiles or the person wearing the textiles. It has been disclosed several times in the prior art that open or exposed hook and loop fastener elements lead to undesired interactions with textiles or the wearer of the textiles and rub against either the textiles or the skin of the wearer. According to the application, no border is provided because it has been shown that essentially circular hook and loop fastener elements with the aforementioned preferred sizes do not interact adversely with other textiles or the wearer of the textiles.The abrasion effect does not occur with the fasteners according to the invention. Textiles with state-of-the-art hook-and-loop fasteners wear out faster or chafe. The corners of the classic hook-and-loop fastener elements, in particular, lead to these adverse effects.

[0045] To circumvent this problem, the prior art has proposed borders, as well as separate elements, such as tabs to which the hook-and-loop fastener elements are attached. According to the invention, such tabs can be dispensed with, along with the borders.

[0046] In a further preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a piece of laundry, wherein the adhesive and / or fleece part is positioned near the opening for a hand or a foot.

[0047] According to the idea of ​​the invention, it is therefore provided that, for example, in the area below the stocking hem or the wristband, a fleece part (with loops) and / or an adhesive part (with barbs) of a hook and loop fastener are arranged on the outside, wherein the hook and loop fastener element has the geometric shape of a point or essentially a circle. Surprisingly, washing and drying tests of

[0048] Socks and stockings have shown that the preferred design of the socks with a point-shaped or circular adhesive or fleece element in or below the hem area of ​​the sock is particularly resistant to the shear and tensile forces during washing if the adhesive or fleece element is made of polyamide and has a thickness of 0.5 to 1.5 mm, preferably 1 mm, where thickness means the material thickness of the adhesive part (Velcro fastener with barbs) or the fleece part (Velcro fastener with loops). In the sense of the invention, adhesive elements and adhesive parts are used synonymously, just like fleece elements and fleece parts, and thickness and material thickness are used synonymously.

[0049] Comparative tests were carried out with socks which had a rectangular or a cross-shaped hook and loop fastener element in the area of ​​the hem or cuff. After 40 washes at over 90°, the socks with rectangular or cross-shaped hook and loop fastener elements showed material fatigue, both in the hook and loop fastener elements themselves and in the items of clothing or textiles in the area where the hook and loop fastener elements were sewn on. Material fatigue in the form of small holes and tears occurred at the respective corners of the rectangles or crosses. Furthermore, the connections did not remain stable after repeated washing and drying with rectangular and cross-shaped adhesive elements. The items of clothing with the hook and loop fastener elements according to the invention, on the other hand, showed no material fatigue in the area of ​​the hook and loop fastener elements or of the textile in the area where the hook and loop fastener elements were applied.Garments are typically reinforced near hand or foot openings, which advantageously increases the structural integrity and durability of the fabric in those locations. These reinforcements can provide a particularly stable base for the hook-and-loop fasteners, ensuring a stronger and more durable connection.

[0050] Hook-and-loop fasteners near openings facilitate quick and secure joining and untying of garments before and after washing or drying. Since the openings of socks or gloves are clearly visible and easily accessible, the hook-and-loop fasteners can be connected quickly and easily. This saves a surprising amount of time and simplifies handling.

[0051] Hook and loop fasteners near openings are surprisingly often less exposed to direct frictional forces in the washing machine or dryer. Because the openings are typically located at the edge of the garment, they move more freely and are less prone to snagging or rubbing against other garments. This can reduce mechanical stress and wear on the hook and loop fasteners, extending their lifespan. Furthermore, it can surprisingly beneficially reduce the likelihood of the connected hook and loop fasteners accidentally coming apart.

[0052] Placing hook-and-loop fasteners near openings has a surprisingly beneficial effect on air circulation during the drying process. Openings, such as the cuffs of socks or gloves, provide natural ventilation points that aid moisture wicking. This can reduce the risk of odor buildup and increase drying efficiency, as air can circulate well through the garment, particularly where the additional layer created by the hook-and-loop fastener thickens the material being dried, as well as where the fabric is covered on one side by the hook-and-loop fastener.

[0053] In a further preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a laundry item, wherein the adhesive and / or fleece part is attached to the outside of the laundry item.

[0054] Advantageously, the external placement prevents the Velcro fasteners from having direct contact with the skin when the garment is worn, which advantageously does not impair wearing comfort and can prevent skin irritation.

[0055] In addition, the external attachment allows for easier handling and fastening of the complementary garments to each other before washing and / or storage, as the Velcro fasteners are quickly accessible and can be easily connected to each other.

[0056] In addition, the external positioning reduces the risk of the Velcro fasteners getting caught or caught inside the garment, for example the sock, during the washing process, thus preserving the integrity and shape of the garment.

[0057] Surprisingly, external placement of hook-and-loop fasteners improves drying efficiency, as the fasteners do not block air circulation inside the garment, resulting in faster and more even drying. Furthermore, external placement can beneficially reduce the risk of matting and pilling by reducing contact with fluffy or delicate interior surfaces.

[0058] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the adhesive and / or fleece part is sewn onto the garment. The positioning of the hook-and-loop fasteners on the garment is thus achieved by sewing.

[0059] Sewing round hook and loop fasteners onto garments offers several technical advantages. Sewing ensures a strong and permanent bond between the hook and loop fastener and the fabric, which advantageously increases the structural integrity and stability of the bond. This method prevents the hook and loop fasteners from tearing or coming loose with repeated use. Furthermore, sewing ensures even distribution of tensile forces across the entire garment, significantly reducing the risk of localized loads and resulting material damage, particularly with sewn-on round hook and loop fasteners of the preferred sizes. Another advantage of sewing is the precise placement and alignment of the hook and loop fasteners, which ensures optimal functionality and adhesive strength.

[0060] This preferred fastening technique, particularly in combination with the preferred shapes, sizes, and material thicknesses, also makes a surprisingly advantageous contribution to keeping the overall weight of the garment as low as possible, which increases comfort without restricting freedom of movement, especially in lightweight garments such as silk scarves. Compared to other fastening methods, sewing on the round polyamide hook and loop fasteners offers a lighter and more efficient solution. Alternative fastening techniques such as gluing or riveting can increase the overall weight of the garment because they require the use of additional materials such as adhesives or metal rivets. These materials can not only increase the weight but also impair the flexibility and feel of the garment.Particularly with round sewn-on Velcro fasteners, the formation of corners, which could negatively affect the wearing comfort, is surprisingly advantageously avoided.

[0061] Furthermore, adhesives can lose their adhesive strength and peel off at high washing temperatures, while metal rivets can corrode or cause deformation in the fabric. Sewing on round hook-and-loop fasteners avoids these problems and ensures a durable, strong connection that makes the garment lightweight, flexible, and comfortable to wear.

[0062] Another advantage is their reusability and ease of repair, as round, sewn-on hook-and-loop fasteners can be removed and replaced relatively easily when needed without causing significant damage to the garment. This advantageously allows for easier repair and extends the life of the garment.

[0063] Furthermore, sewing is an environmentally friendly method because it does not require additional chemical substances such as adhesives, which can be harmful to the environment. This reduces the release of volatile organic compounds that can occur with other fastening techniques. Furthermore, the fastening is advantageously not affected at high temperatures because no adhesives are used. Sewn-on hook and loop fasteners retain their integrity even when exposed to intense heat, which is particularly advantageous during washing at high temperatures or even during industrial cleaning and sterilization. Even the material consumption of the thread is advantageously minimized, especially when sewing on round hook and loop fasteners.This is because a Velcro element with a larger surface area than, for example, rectangular Velcro fasteners can be sewn on with less thread due to the advantageous ratio of surface area to circumference of round Velcro elements.

[0064] Another surprising technical advantage is improved ventilation, as the stitching of the round hook-and-loop fastener elements eliminates closed surfaces and largely preserves the fabric's breathability. This is particularly beneficial for sports and outdoor clothing, where ventilation and moisture management are crucial.

[0065] In connection with the invention, it has been shown that sewn-on Velcro fastener elements can be positioned particularly securely and permanently on the textiles.

[0066] It is particularly preferable to wash the sewn-on Velcro elements at temperatures up to 60 ° C.

[0067] In a further preferred embodiment, the hook and loop fastener is ironed onto the fabric of the garment; for this purpose, iron-on hook and loop fastener is preferably used. Ironing on preferably means that a hook and loop fastener element is applied to a garment or fabric using heat and / or pressure. The back of the hook and loop fastener is preferably provided with a special adhesive layer, which is preferably activated by ironing. Once the element has been ironed onto the fabric, it adheres, preferably permanently. Advantageously, this attachment method can save time and effort in the manufacturing process.

[0068] It is particularly preferable to wash the Velcro fastener that is ironed on at temperatures up to 30 ° C.

[0069] Preferably, information on preferred washing temperatures is provided on labels attached to the laundry items.

[0070] In a further preferred embodiment, the hook-and-loop fastener is integrated directly into the garment, or in other words, the hook-and-loop fastener is incorporated directly into the fabric. Appropriate methods for this are known to those skilled in the art.

[0071] In a further preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a piece of laundry, wherein the piece of laundry is part of a pair of socks or a pair of gloves.

[0072] By means of the inventive and preferred hook and loop fasteners, complementary or related items of clothing, such as two gloves, stockings or a jacket and a scarf or a jacket and a hood, can be connected so that they do not get lost as belonging items of clothing during storage or during washing or drying. In particular with smaller textiles such as gloves, mittens, socks, jackets with removable hoods and the like, the supposed

[0073] Shrinkage during washing or drying can be excluded.

[0074] Usually, two hook and loop fastener elements form a matching hook and loop fastener, which consists of a fleece part (hook and loop fastener in the form of dots with loops) and an adhesive part (hook and loop fastener in the form of dots with barbs). The system according to the invention therefore comprises two different hook and loop fastener structures (barbs and loops). However, it would also be possible, for example, to attach an adhesive part with a round geometry and a fleece part with a round geometry to the respective complementary items of clothing or, for example, the socks. The respective items of clothing would then be connected to one another by the different hook and loop fasteners being positioned one on top of the other. The device according to the invention enables complementary or...Laundry items present in pairs are assigned by mutual fixation, whereby the fixation can be maintained, for example, during washing, during the subsequent drying process and also during subsequent storage of the laundry items, for example in a laundry box.

[0075] This means that after drying, the matching laundry items can be placed in the storage location without being separated from one another, without the need for an additional sorting process. It was entirely surprising that these multiple processes (washing and drying, particularly at higher temperatures, storage) can be implemented by the device according to the invention in such a way that the complementary or matching laundry items are not separated from one another.

[0076] The items of clothing are secured by pressing the Velcro fastener elements together flatly and by means of a positive or frictional fit. A particular advantage of the inventive solution is that even after extended and numerous wash cycles at elevated temperatures, the Velcro fastener elements remain on the items of clothing and firmly connect them without damaging the items or the textiles.

[0077] Quite surprisingly, it has been shown that the interconnected textiles or textile elements can achieve a slightly rotatable connection via the Velcro fasteners due to the combination of an essentially round shape and the preferred sizes and thicknesses of the Velcro fasteners. This type of connection also prevents tension or shear forces on the textiles that could lead to tears and other damage. This is particularly advantageous for textiles that are worn in a connected state, such as a scarf and coat, or a hood and jacket, etc.

[0078] The Velcro elements can be designed accordingly so that they themselves, or covers, can be used as a fashionable accessory.

[0079] The Velcro elements can be provided with caps or so-called patches which, for example, have logos, in particular round logos (such as company logos) or symbols (such as the sun, moon, balls, dinosaurs, cars, faces, etc.) or (preferably short) lettering (such as "I love you", etc.). It would be possible to design these caps as trend, collectible or exchange pictures or picture caps. The use of the Velcro elements, possibly in combination with corresponding caps or so-called patches, as a fashionable accessory on items of clothing such as sweaters, trousers, jackets, T-shirts, hats, caps, baseball caps, and others, may also be preferred.

[0080] The present invention provides a stable and easy-to-use system for detachably connecting at least two textiles. Of course, it is also possible to connect several textiles together, such as a jacket, the corresponding hood, and additionally a cloth or scarf. It may also be preferred that the hook-and-loop elements are used to fix garments together while being worn, for example, by means of complementary hook-and-loop elements on:

[0081] Shirt and trousers to prevent the shirt from slipping out

[0082] Scarf and coat or jacket so that the scarf does not slip when worn

[0083] Shirt and bow tie so that different bow ties can be exchanged quickly and easily

[0084] Shirt and tie to prevent the tie from slipping Shirt and collar to prevent the collar from slipping Hood and upper back of the garment to which the hood belongs to to prevent the hood from slipping

[0085] In a further preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a garment, wherein the sock is selected from the group consisting of toe socks, footies, socks, calf socks, knee socks and / or thigh socks. In a further preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a garment, wherein the sock is selected from the group consisting of business socks, calf socks, leisure socks, compression socks, running socks, outdoor socks, ski socks, sports socks, sneaker socks, ankle socks, soccer socks, golf socks, army socks, marine socks, hospital socks, knee socks, wool socks, thermal and winter socks, hiking socks, traditional socks, over-the-knee socks, compression socks, anti-slip socks, police socks, public service socks.

[0086] In a further preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a piece of underwear, wherein the glove is selected from the group of three-finger gloves, mittens, half gloves and / or cuff gloves.

[0087] Linking small items of laundry that belong together in pairs, such as socks or gloves, offers significant organizational and functional advantages in the laundry care process. Systematically linking these items significantly reduces the risk of losing individual pieces during the washing or drying process. This method ensures that pairs remain intact and makes it easier to sort them after washing, saving a surprising amount of time and potentially money. This results in improved organization and clarity, especially in households with many small items of laundry.

[0088] Consistent care of pairs that go through the same washing and drying cycle ensures even wear and care, which surprisingly advantageously maintains the appearance and functionality of pairs such as socks or gloves. In a further preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a garment, the garment being a sock or stocking, the adhesive and / or fleece part being positioned outside below the hem, the dot-shaped or circular adhesive element having a diameter of 22 to 26 mm or 10 to 18 mm and a material thickness of 1 mm and being made of polyamide, the adhesive element being sewn onto the garment.

[0089] Figures

[0090] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to figures, without being limited to them. Those skilled in the art will understand that the figures shown here are merely preferred embodiments and therefore not all details and possible embodiments of the invention are shown in the figures.

[0091] Short descriptions of the figures

[0092] Fig. 1 Different designs of the patches to cover the Velcro.

[0093] Fig. 2 Preferred Velcro fasteners on a shirt collar.

[0094] Fig. 3 Frontal view shows a preferred embodiment of the Velcro elements for attaching a scarf to a jacket, as well as the scarf in the released state.

[0095] Fig. 4 Rear view shows a preferred embodiment of the Velcro elements on a pair of trousers with a fleece Velcro point and a shirt with a hook Velcro point for mutual fastening.

[0096] Fig. 5 Frontal view shows a preferred embodiment of the Velcro elements for attaching a bow tie or a tie to a shirt in the fastened and unfastened state.

[0097] Fig. 6 Socks with patch to cover the Velcro, with fleece Velcro point and with hook Velcro point.

[0098] Fig. 7 Rear view shows a preferred embodiment of the Velcro elements for attaching a hood to a hoodie in a loose and fastened state with a patch to cover the Velcro or as a fashion accessory.

[0099] Detailed descriptions of the illustrations

[0100] Fig. 1 illustrates a series of possible patches 12 for covering the hook-and-loop elements 1, 2, each of the patches 12 shown having a different motif. For illustration, the application is shown as an example on a sock 13, on a sneaker sock 17, and on a scarf 3.

[0101] Fig. 2 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the hook and loop elements 1, 2, which in this case are used to attach collar tips 5 of a shirt 6 to a shirt 6. The view is frontal and shows the shirt 6 with the fleece hook and loop points 2 once from further away and then again enlarged to the relevant section. The collar tips 5 are illustrated in an attached state to the shirt 6, wherein the collar tips 5 are shown transparent at this point in order to clarify the position of the hook and loop elements 1, 2. Various embodiments of collar tips 5 are shown.

[0102] Fig. 3 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the hook-and-loop elements 1, 2, which in this case are used to attach a scarf 3 to a jacket 4. The view is from the front and shows the scarf 3 in a released state and the scarf 3 in a fastened state to the jacket 4. The scarf 3 is shown transparent at the location of the hook-and-loop element 1.

[0103] Fig. 4 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the hook-and-loop elements 1, 2, which in this case are used to fasten a shirt 7 to trousers 8. The rear view shows the shirt 7 and the trousers 8 in a separate state. The hook-and-loop point 1 is attached to the shirt 7, while the flap-and-loop point 2 is attached to the trousers 8.

[0104] Fig. 5 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the hook-and-loop elements 1, 2, which in this case are used to fasten a tie 9 or a bow tie 10 to a shirt 11. The illustration is from the front and shows the tie 9 and the bow tie 10 with the shirt 11 in the loosened state and in the fastened state. The tie 9 and the bow tie 10 are shown transparent at the location of the hook-and-loop points 2 so that they can be seen.

[0105] Fig. 6 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the hook and loop fasteners 1 and the loop fasteners 2 for attaching one sock 13 to another sock 14. Additionally, the attachment of the patch 12 for covering the hook and loop fastener elements 1, 2 is illustrated. The illustration is from the side and shows the socks 13, 14 in a loosened state and the sock 13 with the patch 12 for covering.

[0106] Fig. 7 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the hook and loop elements 1, 2, which in this case are used to fasten the hood 15 of a hoodie 16 to the hoodie 16. The view is from behind and shows the hood 15 in a released state, so that the hook and loop elements 1, 2 are visible, and in a released state in which the patches 12 are attached for covering. Furthermore, a frontal view of a hoodie 16 is shown, on one side of which a

[0107] Velcro point 1 or 2 is available for attaching a patch to cover 12.

[0108] List of reference symbols

[0109] 1 hook and loop point

[0110] 2 Velcro points

[0111] 3 scarf

[0112] 4 Jacket

[0113] 5 collar tips

[0114] 6 Shirt

[0115] 7 Additional shirt

[0116] 8 trousers

[0117] 9 ties

[0118] 10 Bow Tie

[0119] 11 Additional shirt

[0120] 12 patches for coverage

[0121] 13 socks

[0122] 14 More socks

[0123] 15 Hood

[0124] 16 hoodies

[0125] 17 sneaker socks

Claims

Patent claims:

1. A piece of laundry which can be connected to other pieces of laundry, characterized in that the piece of laundry has a firmly connected adhesive part and / or a fleece part of a hook and loop fastener and the adhesive part and / or the fleece part has a substantially circular shape and a diameter of 5 to 35 mm and a material thickness of 0.5 to 2 mm.

2. Laundry item according to claim 1, characterized in that the adhesive and / or fleece part consists of polyamide.

3. Laundry part according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the point-shaped or circular adhesive and / or fleece part has a diameter of 20 to 30 mm and / or 10 to 18 mm.

4. A garment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adhesive and / or fleece part is sewn onto the garment.

5. Item of laundry according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the item of laundry is part of a pair of socks or a pair of gloves.

6. Laundry item according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adhesive and / or fleece part is attached to the outside of the laundry item.

7. Laundry item according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adhesive and / or fleece part is positioned near the opening for a hand or a foot. 8 . Item of underwear according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sock is selected from the group consisting of toe socks, foot socks, socks, calf socks, knee socks and / or thigh socks.

9. A garment according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the glove is selected from the group consisting of three-finger gloves, mittens, half gloves and / or cuff gloves.

10. Item of underwear according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the item of underwear is a sock or a stocking, wherein the adhesive and / or fleece part is positioned outside below the hem, wherein the point-shaped or circular adhesive element has a diameter of 22 to 26 mm or of 10 to 18 mm and a material thickness of 1 mm and is made of polyamide, wherein the adhesive element is sewn onto the item of underwear.

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