JP2010510004A - Apparatus and method for forming fasteners between fabrics and / or other materials - Google Patents

Abstract

  The fastening system includes one or more of a fastening member, a slider, a stop block, and / or an upper stop. The described fastening member includes various inventive features such as structures associated with the head, transition and tail. The slider includes a friction reducing structure and a fixed feature. The stop block provides a lower stop for various articles and functions to secure the fastening member. The upper stop provides a restraining structure that limits the movement of the slider. Various methods are also described.

Description

  This application is cross-referenced to US Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 866,427 filed on November 19, 2006, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. To do.

  TECHNICAL FIELD This invention relates to an apparatus and method for forming fasteners between fabrics and / or other materials.

  Fastening devices generally include two flexible elongate parts that have teeth that are engaged and separated by moving a fastener knob along the parts. Such fastening devices have long been used to close and open various articles such as clothes and bags, but liquids and gases enter the fastening device, so that they are liquid / windproof, windproof, airtight, and / Or waterproof fasteners are not useful in desirable conditions. Moreover, current fastener systems may be perceived as out of date, and there is a need for an alternative device that can provide fasteners for various types of articles. Thus, there is a further need for new devices and / or assemblies for forming fasteners. There is also a need for new ways of providing fasteners.

  In particular, one or more new fastening members, sliders, stop blocks and / or top stops are provided to form the fasteners and / or parts thereof. The fasteners described herein include a variety of features, and a number of inventions are described in the detailed description. In addition, the present invention encompasses new manufacturing methods and methods of using fasteners and / or parts thereof.

  Various embodiments of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the detailed description of the invention, as provided herein and embodied in the claims. It should be understood, however, that this summary does not include all aspects and embodiments of the invention, and is in no way meant to be limiting or limiting, and the invention disclosed herein is obvious. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention encompasses various modifications and variations.

  Additional advantages of the present invention will be readily apparent from the following description, particularly when taken together with the accompanying drawings.

6 is a perspective view of a fastening member according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a plan view of a fastening member according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. It is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 2 is an end elevation view of a fastening member according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. It is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to an embodiment of the present invention. 6 is a perspective view of a fastening member according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fastening member according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fastening member according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fastening member according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fastening member according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. FIG. 10B is a side elevation view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 10A. FIG. 10B is a side elevation view of the device shown in FIG. 10B. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. It is a perspective view of the fastening member which became the pair of FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. It is a perspective view of the fastening member which became the pair of FIG. 2 is an end elevation view of a fastening member according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. It is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is an end elevation view of a pair of fastening members according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a pair of fastening members of FIG. 19. FIG. 20 is a perspective view of one fastening member of FIG. 19. FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the insert shown in FIG. 19. 6 is a perspective view of a pair of fastening members according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. FIG. 24 is an end elevation view of one of the fastening members of FIG. 23. It is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 24 is an end elevation view of the other fastening member of FIG. 23. It is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a pair of fastening members according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. FIG. 29 is an end elevation view of one of the fastening members of FIG. 28. It is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a slider for use with at least the fastening member shown in FIG. 23. 1 is an end elevation view of a multi-layer fastening system according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the multilayer fastening system of FIG. 32. FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the fastening member shown in FIGS. 32 and 33. FIG. 34 is a perspective view of another fastening member shown in FIGS. 32 and 33. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of stacked mating surfaces according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 37 is an end elevation view of one of the fastening members of FIG. 36. FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 37. 6 is a perspective view of a slider according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a slider and a fastening member according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. FIG. 41 is an end elevation view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 40. 6 is a perspective view of a slider according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. It is a perspective view of the slider part which the slider shown in FIG. 42 isolate | separated. 6 is a perspective view of a slider according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a slider according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a slider according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. FIG. 47 is an end elevation view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 46. 48 is a perspective view of an insert member for use with the slider shown in FIGS. 46 and 47. FIG. FIG. 49 is an end elevation view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 48. 1 is a perspective view of a slider and pull tab system according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a slider and pull tab system according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. FIG. 52 is a perspective view of a pin for use with the apparatus shown in FIGS. 50 and 51. FIG. 52 is a perspective view of another pin for use with the apparatus shown in FIGS. 50 and 51. FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of a slider and stop block according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 55 is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 54. FIG. 55 is a perspective view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 54. 1 is a perspective view of a fastening system (including a slider, a stop block and a fastening member) according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fastening system (including a slider, a stop block and a fastening member) according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fastening system (including a slider, a stop block and a fastening member) according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. FIG. 60 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a portion of the slider, stop block, and one fastening member in the fastening system shown in FIGS. FIG. 60 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a portion of the slider, stop block, and one fastening member in the fastening system shown in FIGS. FIG. 60 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a portion of the slider, stop block, and one fastening member in the fastening system shown in FIGS. It is a perspective view of one fastening member shown in FIGS. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a stop block and a fastening member according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a stop block and a fastening member according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a stop block according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a stop block according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a stop block according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a stop block according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 69B is a detailed side elevation view of the rotatable locking cam of the stop block shown in FIG. 69A. 1 is a perspective view of a fastening system including a stop block having a separable portion according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fastening system including an upper stop having a separable portion, according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fastening system according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. FIG. 73 is a perspective view of a part of the fastening system shown in FIG. 72. FIG. 73 is a perspective view of a part of the fastening system shown in FIG. 72. 1 is a perspective view of a fastening system according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fastening system according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1 is an end elevation view of a fastening system according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG. FIG. 78 is a perspective view of the fastening system shown in FIG. 77. 1 is a perspective view of an electric slider according to at least one embodiment of the invention. FIG.

  The following disclosure describes the invention with respect to these embodiments presented, but it should not be understood that the invention is strictly limited to these embodiments. Further, the drawings need not be to scale and may include exaggerated features, and depending on the circumstances, the disclosure may not include details not necessary for an understanding of the present invention, such as conventional fabrication and assembly details. It should be understood that there is.

  This detailed description in conjunction with the associated drawings explains numerous inventions. It should be understood that aspects of one or more embodiments of the various inventions described herein can be combined, and such combinations are encompassed by this description and are considered within the scope of the present invention. is there.

  Referring now to FIG. 1, a fastening member 100 is shown, which includes a tail 104, a head 108, and a transition 112 located between the tail 104 and the head 108. The head 108 has a front surface 116 and a back surface 120. The front surface 116 has a mating surface 124 that typically includes one or more tongue / groove structures 128 for releasably mating with corresponding tongue / groove structures of other mating surfaces (not shown). According to at least one embodiment of the invention, the tail 104 includes an end 132 that is not straight. For example, the non-straight end 132 may be blunt sawtooth, scalloped, or the like. When the fastening member is attached to the article, for example by gluing, sewing, welding, etc., the non-straight end 132 provides at least a more flexible fastener.

  With reference now to FIGS. 2 and 3, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, fastening member 200 is shown having a hole 204 in its tail 104. Further, the head 108 may also have a hole 204 if desired. The hole 204 preferably penetrates the material forming the fastening member 200 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the long axis LA-LA of the fastening member 200. Although the shape is shown as being substantially circular, the hole 204 may be of various shapes, such as an ellipse, a rectangle, and the like. Further, the hole 204 may be a slit. The fastening member 200 having the hole 204 is suitable for use in various articles such as a fastener for a gym bag, a fastener for a scuba device bag, a fastener for a swimsuit bag, and the like. The holes 204 in the tail 104 improve the flexibility of the fastener and the adhesion of the tail 104 to the article. Further, the holes 204 in the head 108 allow for drainage of the article, thereby reducing the weight of the article and / or improving the drying capacity of the article and / or the capacity within the article.

  Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, fastening member 400 is shown having one or more longitudinally extending lumens or longitudinal gaps 404. Yes. The longitudinal gap 404 can be of various shapes, such as an ellipse, rectangle, triangle, hexagon, and the like. The longitudinal gap 404 is preferably extruded or molded into the profile or fastening member 400 when the fastening member 400 is made. The longitudinal gap 404 can improve the flexibility of the fastener. Alternatively, the longitudinal gap 404 can be used to provide air or hydraulic pressure or fluid to the mating surface 124 and / or other portions of the fastening member. For example, a small manual pump could be used to supply air pressure to mating surface 124. As another example, warm fluid can be pumped through the longitudinal gap to maintain the thermal properties of one or more portions of the fastening member 400 under cold conditions. Alternatively, one of the longitudinal gaps 404 can be used to provide a fluid for human hydration or to supply a coolant to a part of the human body. Furthermore, other materials such as reinforcing fibers, wires, optical fibers, etc. can be introduced into the fastening member 400 using the longitudinal gap 404.

  The longitudinal gap 404 can be formed by extrusion. However, injection molding and other methods can also be used to form the void 404. Furthermore, pultrusion techniques can be used for the void 404 to introduce and / or assist in the incorporation of different longitudinally oriented materials (eg, fibers) within the fastening member 400.

  Referring now to FIGS. 6A-6Q, a series of interlocking fastening members with various inventive transition features are shown. As described above, the transition part 112 is located between the tail part 104 and the head part 108. In at least some embodiments, the transition provides a spring-like device that assists in preventing inadvertent or unnecessary separation of mating surfaces of the mating fastening members. Such a structure increases the lateral tensile strength of the mated fastening members, thereby allowing the mating surfaces to be mated when twisted, pulled and / or pushed under normal use conditions. Reduce the chance that the surface will unnecessarily leave. Further, in at least some embodiments, the transition includes a functional structure for diverting the liquid flow away from the mating surface. Further, in at least some embodiments, the fastening member includes one or more spatial features to improve the quality of the extruded fastening member.

Referring now to FIG. 6A, a pair of interlocking fastening members 604 are shown. The transition 112 of the fastening member 604 includes a substantially score pattern 608 that includes one or more substantially arcuate rectangular teeth 612 and a substantially arcuate rectangular gap 616. When a tensile force _TF is applied to each fastening member 604, the transition 112 is bent before the mating mating surface 124 begins to disengage, thereby improving fastener performance in use. Similarly, when a compressive force C _F is applied to each fastening member, the transition portion bends inward and similarly improves the performance of the mating surfaces engaged during use. Further, the substantially arcuate rectangular teeth 612 and the substantially arcuate rectangular gap 616 are sized to have a similar unit thickness Dt, where these unit thicknesses are within the transition. Incorporating Dt improves the extrusion process and provides a more uniform manufacturing process. That is, the extrusion process is generally performed by extruding molten plastic from a die. Because there is no flow restriction, the area inside the die that has a larger cross-sectional area opening will cause more molten plastic to have its larger cross-sectional area compared to an area with a relatively small cross-sectional area. Usually behaves as it is pushed out of the area. By maintaining a substantially similar unit thickness Dt in the transition, a higher quality and / or more cost effective extrusion process is achieved. The unit thickness Dt can also be used for the tail 104 and head 108 elements.

  Referring now to FIG. 6B, another embodiment of a pair of interlocking fastening members 620 is shown, where the fastening members include a longitudinal transition gap 624. The longitudinal transition gap 624 extends substantially within the transition 112 to the longitudinal length of the fastening member 620 to provide at least partially a similar unit thickness Dt for the elements forming the transition 112. To work. For the embodiment shown in FIG. 6B, the longitudinal transition gap 624 includes a substantially triangular shape in cross section.

Referring now to FIG. 6C, another embodiment of a pair of interlocking fastening members 628 is shown, wherein the fastening member 628 includes a longitudinal transition gap 624, a tensile force T _F , and a compressive force C _F. Or a set of gaps 616 that help isolate the mating surfaces from the fluid flow.

Referring now to FIG. 6D, another embodiment of a pair of interlocking fastening members 632 is shown, wherein the fastening members 632 include a plurality of longitudinal transition gaps 624, tensile forces T _F , compressive forces. A set of gaps 616 that help isolate the mating surface from _CF or fluid flow. For the embodiment shown in FIG. 6D, the cross-sectional size of the longitudinal transition gap 624 varies and the cross-sectional shape is substantially circular, although other shapes can be used and are within the scope of the present invention. It should be apparent to those skilled in the art to be considered as included in this description.

  Referring now to FIG. 6E, another embodiment of a pair of interlocking fastening members 636 is shown wherein the fastening members have longitudinal transition gaps 624 that are substantially circular in cross-sectional shape. Including.

  Referring now to FIG. 6F, another embodiment of a pair of interlocking fastening members 640 is shown, including a plurality of substantially arcuate rectangular teeth 612 and a substantially arcuate rectangular gap 616. included. The plurality of substantially arcuate rectangular teeth 612 and the substantially arcuate rectangular gap 616 of FIG. 6F are in a forward-facing direction similar to the tongue / groove structure 128 of each head 108, for example. 1 direction.

  Referring to FIG. 6G, another embodiment of a pair of interlocking fastening members 644 is shown, including a plurality of substantially arcuate rectangular teeth 612 and a substantially arcuate rectangular gap 616. . The size and number of the plurality of substantially arcuate rectangular teeth 612 and the substantially arcuate rectangular gaps 616 of the fastening member 644 are different from those of the fastening member 640. Accordingly, these embodiments of the invention include all possible variations encompassed by the present disclosure and / or the claims.

  Referring now to FIG. 6H, another embodiment of a pair of interlocking fastening members 648 is shown. The fastening member 648 includes a longitudinally extending tear 652 that extends from the outer side 656 of the transition 112 to the enlarged inner region 660. Similar to the fastening member shown in FIGS. 6A, 6C, 6D, 6F and 6G, the fastening member 648 accepts the application of the tensile force T without necessarily removing the mating surface 124.

  Referring now to FIG. 6I, another embodiment of a pair of interlocking fastening members 664 is shown. The transition portion 112 of the fastening member 664 includes a curved portion 668 that can extend in a direction perpendicular to the major axis of the fastening member 664. The stretchable amount can be adjusted by using more curvature or using a sharper curvature 668. For example, the extensible amount available for fastening member 664 is less than the amount shown in fastening member 672 in FIG. 6J. Further, the curved portion 668 can be reinforced by forming a curved portion 668 having a block portion 676 as shown in a fastening member 678 of FIG. 6K. It should be further noted that by comparing FIGS. 6I and 6J, the curved portion 668 of the transition 112 engages the upper portion 680 of the leg member 684 as shown in FIG. 6I or the leg as shown in FIG. 6J. It can be seen that it engages the base 688 of the member 684, where the leg 684 includes an inner portion 692 that contacts the tongue of the tongue / groove structure 128. The difference in the connection position between the bending portion 668 and the leg portion 684 affects the point at which a tensile force is applied to the mating surface 124. It should be further noted that the valleys in the bend 668 divert fluid flow around the mating surface 124.

  Referring now to FIG. 6L, another embodiment of a pair of interlocking fastening members 696 is shown. Compared to FIG. 6G, fastening member 696 includes a more rounded substantially arcuate rectangular tooth 612 and a substantially arcuate rectangular gap 616. Similarly, in the fastening member 700 shown in FIG. 6M, the transverse member 704 is rounder than that shown in FIG. 6H.

  Referring now to FIGS. 6N-6Q, another fastening member 708, 712, 716 and 720 is shown in which a substantially arcuate rectangular gap 616 of the transition 112 flows from the mating surface 124. Detour. For fastening members 708 and 712 shown in FIGS. 6N and 6O, respectively, the substantially arcuate rectangular teeth 612 on the front surface 116 of the fastening member are substantially arcuate rectangular gaps 616 on the back surface 120 of the fastening member 708. Located opposite to. For the fastening member 716 shown in FIG. 6P and the fastening member 720 shown in FIG. 6Q, the substantially arcuate rectangular teeth 612 on the front surface 116 of the fastening member form a substantially arc on the back surface 120 of the fastening member 716. Located opposite the rectangular teeth 612. Further, for the fastening member 720 of FIG. 6Q, the transition 112 connects to the leg member 684 near the base 688 of the leg member 684, while for the fastening member 716 of FIG. 6P, the transition 112 is on the tail 104 line. To the leg member 684.

  Referring now to FIG. 7, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, a fastening member 740 is shown that includes at least two dissimilar finishes on the outer surface 744. More particularly, a glossy surface texture is preferably used in the area of the mating surface 124 while a matte finish is used in the tail 104, transition 112 and / or other areas of the head 108. When the surface texture is changed at different portions of the fastening member 740, the overall performance of the fastener is further enhanced. For example, the glossy surface texture along the surface of the tongue / groove structure 128 of the mating surface 124 adds protection against water / gas leakage while the matte finish along the back surface 120 of the head 108 provides a slider and head. Improve frictional interaction between the portions 108.

  Referring now to FIG. 8, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, a fastening member that includes a traction feature to further enhance engagement between opposing mating surfaces 124 of two mating fastening members 800. 800 is shown. More specifically, and as a non-limiting example, a ridge / valley 804 is provided along at least a portion of the mating surface 124 for frictional engagement between the two fastening members 800. As shown in FIG. 8, the ridge / valley 804 is shown substantially along the top 808 of the tongue 812 of the tongue / groove structure 128. The ridges / valleys 804 are arranged with their major axes aligned preferably in a direction substantially perpendicular to the major axis LA-LA of the fastening member 800. When the two mating surfaces of the fastening member 800 are mated, the ridge / valley 804 of the first fastening member 800 engages the tongue / groove structure 128 of the second fastening member 800, thereby causing the first fastening member 800 to engage the second fastening member 800. 1 The movement or slip of the fastening member 800 in the longitudinal direction is prevented or limited. The ridge / valley 804 may extend along the entire length of the mating surface 124 or may extend along only a portion of the length of the mating surface. For example, regions having ridges / valleys 804 may be spaced apart. According to at least one embodiment, the groove of the second fastening member includes a ridge / valley 804 that engages a ridge / valley along the top 808 of the tongue 812 of the first fastening member 800. According to at least one embodiment, the first fastening member includes one or more tongue / groove structures 128 with a glossy surface finish and includes one or more tongue / groove structures 128 with a ridge / valley 804. For such a configuration, the second fastening member preferably has one or more tongue / groove structures 128 with a glossy surface for contacting the tongue / groove structure 128 of the first fastening member having a corresponding glossy surface finish. Including. Further, the one or more tongue / groove structures 128 of the second fastening member are ridges for contacting and frictionally engaging the first fastening member tongue / groove structure 128 having a corresponding ridge / valley 804 surface texture. / Valley 804 is preferably included. Thus, various configurations are possible and are included in the scope of the present invention.

  Referring now to FIG. 9, a fastening member 900 is shown that includes a surface texture 904 on the back surface 120 of the head 108, according to at least one embodiment of the invention. In at least one embodiment, the surface texture enhances the interaction or grip of the fastening member 900 within the stop block 908. Thus, the textured surface 904 imparted to the back surface 120 of the fastening member 900 interacts with the stop block 908 and provides a gripping action that was otherwise only provided by the stop block itself. In at least one embodiment, the surface texture 904 includes a ridge / valley 912 having a major axis that is preferably oriented substantially perpendicular to the major axis LA-LA of the fastening member 900. The surface texture 904 may extend over the entire length of the back surface 120 of the head 108, or may extend only over a portion of the length of the back surface 120 of the head 108. For example, the back surface 120 of the head 108 having the surface texture 904 may be located only in a region near one end of the fastening member 900 that engages the stop block 908, as shown in FIG. The surface texture 904 may be formed when the fastening member 900 is extruded, or instead may be formed by using a tool that is applied to the back surface 120 of the head 108 after extrusion, for example. As yet another alternative, the surface texture 904 may be added by applying (eg, gluing or welding) a separate member that includes the surface texture 904 to the head 104.

  Referring now to FIGS. 10A and 11A, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, the fastening member 1000 includes a plurality of laterally oriented through slits 1004, ie, at least some of the slits 1004 are tails. 104, completely through at least one of the head 108 or the transition 112. In at least one embodiment, the slit 1004 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the long axis LA-LA of the fastening member 1000. The slit 1004 increases the flexibility of the fastening member 1000. Furthermore, for slits 1004 that can penetrate completely through at least one of tail 104, head 108 or transition 112, these slits also provide a means for venting the article with which fastening member 1004 is associated. To do. In at least one embodiment, fastening member slit 1004 may be cut completely through tail 104, head 108 and transition 112, and the fastening member reconstructed during installation of fastening member 1000 of the associated article. Is done.

  Referring now to FIGS. 10B and 11B, the fastening member 1000 ′ includes a plurality of laterally oriented partial through slits 1004 ′, ie, all of the slits 1004 ′ completely include the tail 104, the head or the transition 112. Do not penetrate. Further, the slit 1004 'may be limited to a specific portion of the fastening member 1000'. For example, as shown in FIG. 10B, the slit 1004 ′ is limited to the head portion 108 and the transition portion 112, and does not extend into the tail portion 104. The slit 1004 'increases the flexibility of the fastening member 1000'.

  Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, one or more wires or electrical contacts 1204a extending to at least a portion of the longitudinal length L of the fastening members 1200a and 1200b. Fastening members 1200a and 1200b are shown, including and 1204b, respectively. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, contacts 1204 a and 1200 b are located along the surface of tongue / groove structure 128 of mating surface 124. When the two fastening members 1200a and 1200b are engaged, the contact 1204a from the first fastening member 1200a communicates with the corresponding contact 1204b from the second fastening member 1200b. When the fastening members 1200a and 1200b are engaged in this way, the electromagnetic radiation (for example, electric energy, radio waves, light, etc.) can be moved from one fastening member 1200a to the other fastening member 1200b by the contacts 1204a and 1204b.

  Referring now to FIGS. 14 and 15, there is shown a modified version of the fastening members 1200a, 1200b described above. More specifically, fastening members 1220a and 1220b include one or more wires or electrical contacts 1224a and 1224b, respectively, extending within at least a portion of the longitudinal length L of fastening members 1220a and 1220b. As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the electrical contacts 1224 a and 1224 b are inside the head 104, eg, the tongue of the tongue / groove structure 128. For such an arrangement, a contact block may be provided on the stop block or other structure to interconnect with electrical contacts 1224a and 1224b. In this manner, a wire or other electromagnetic radiation propagation structure can be incorporated into or exposed within one or more mating fastening members. By way of example only, the tail 104 of the fastening member may have a woven fiber that is invisible under its surface to provide strength, while the mating surface is on or within the tongue / groove structure 128. A provided wire may be provided to provide a direct wire contact in electromagnetic communication with a corresponding wire from a mating fastening member. As another example for military or police applications, bulletproof fabric could be used inside an article, where an optical fiber or other communication element is within the mating surface 124 of the article's fastener, and the soldier's headset and soldier's body. A communication link with a communication system or other device attached or interconnected at another location.

  Referring now to FIGS. 16 and 17, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, when subjected to a tensile or compressive force transverse to the major axis LA-LA of the fastening member 1600. The fastening member 1600 is shown including a structure that resists disengagement from the corresponding fastening member 1600. The fastening member 1600 is intended to be used with the same fastening member 1600 or with a fastening member whose mating surface 124 geometry is similar to the fastening member 1600. In general, the mating surface 124 of the fastening member 1600 has a relatively long tongue / groove structure 128 that helps stabilize the mating surface 124 and prevent premature removal of the mating surface 124. Further, the fastening member 1600 rotates to assist in maintaining the meshing position of the mating surface 124 when the mated mating surface receives a tensile or compressive force in the transverse direction with respect to the major axis LA-LA of the fastening member 1600. Includes prevention mechanism. This is because the geometry of mating surface 124 tends to keep the tongue tip of tongue / groove structure 128 engaged.

  Fastening member 1600 includes a head 108 having a front surface 116 and a back surface 120. The front surface 116 includes a mating surface 124 with a plurality of tongue / groove structures 128, where the outermost tongue 1604 includes an anti-rotation mechanism 1608 with an extension 1612 having a sloped end surface 1616. In at least one embodiment, the sloped termination surface 1616 defines a sloped termination surface plane 1620 extending from the sloped termination surface 1616, where the sloped termination surface plane 1620 is at an angle φ and a back side plane. 1624, where the back side plane 1624 is coplanar with the outer side surface 1628 of the back side 120. According to at least one embodiment, φ is preferably less than 90 degrees, more preferably in the range of about 55 to 75 degrees, and even more preferably φ is in the range of about 60 to 70 degrees. It should be noted that many embodiments of the present invention described herein can optionally include an anti-rotation mechanism 1608, which features are identified by various numerical reference numbers. Accordingly, the anti-rotation mechanism 1608 and geometry described in this paragraph can be applied as an optional element and / or in combination with numerous other inventive aspects described herein.

  In at least one embodiment, the tail 104 includes a flat surface 1632 that is substantially parallel to the backside plane 1624. Further, in at least one embodiment, the transition 112 includes an inner transition surface 1636 having a height H, where the inner transition surface 1636 is substantially parallel to the inclined end surface 1616. The inner transition surface 1636 corresponds to the innermost groove surface of the plurality of tongue / groove structures 128. In at least one embodiment, tail 104 includes a tail upper surface 1640 and a tail lower surface 1644. Tail upper surface 1640 is substantially parallel to tail lower surface 1644. Further, the tail upper surface 1640 is spaced from the tail lower surface 1644 to define the tail thickness T, which is less than the height H of the inner transition surface 1636.

  For the embodiment shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, a lower tail plane 1648 that is coplanar with the tail lower surface 1644 and extends from the tail lower surface 1644 through the head 108 intersects an end surface 1616 inclined at an angle φ, Where φ is defined above the lower tail plane 1648 (ie, toward the front surface 116 of the head 108). In at least one embodiment, the back plane 1624 is substantially parallel to the lower tail plane 1648. As best seen in FIG. 16, the outermost tongue 1604 has at least one tip 1652, and a tip plane 1656 that is flush with the lower surface 1660 of the at least one tip 1652 lies most on the tip plane 1656. When extending through the outer tongue 1604, it intersects the end surface 1616 inclined at an angle θ, where θ is measured below the tip plane 1656. In at least one embodiment, θ is preferably in the range of about 85-95 degrees.

  Still referring to FIG. 16, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, the tail 104 of other fastening members described herein in addition to the fastening member 1600 may have a tapered end surface 1664 as required. May be included. The tapered end surface 1664 may be upward or downward. As shown in FIG. 16, the tapered end surface 1664 allows for uniform integration of the fastening member 1600 with the panel 1668 of the article to which the fastening member 1600 is to be attached. For example, the tapered end surface 1664 can be glued to the panel 1668 so that the tail 104 and the panel 1668 of the panel 1668 and the panel 1668 can be bonded, particularly if the panel includes a mating ramp 1672 for attachment to the tapered end surface 1664 of the fastening member 1600. Smooth transitions can be made. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that fastening members can be attached to various articles using other techniques including, but not limited to, gluing, welding, fastening, molding, and the like. Tapered end face 1664 is advantageous for at least some of these techniques.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the tails 104 of the various fastening members described herein may instead include a tip 1676 that includes two inclined surfaces 1680. Again, the two sloping surfaces 1680 of the tip 1676 can aid in installing fastening members on various articles such as clothing.

  Referring now to FIG. 18, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, the fastening members are shown as mated pairs including identical fastening members 1800a and 1800b. Each fastening member includes a plurality of tongues further including a plurality of tips. As a non-limiting example, for fastening member 1800a, first tongue 1804a includes an upper tip 1812a and a lower tip 1816a. Similarly, the second tongue 1808a includes an upper tip 1820a and a lower tip 1824a. These structures mesh with the fastening member 1800b. Fastening member 1800b includes a first tongue 1804b that includes an upper tip 1812b and a lower tip 1816b. Similarly, the second tongue 1808b includes an upper tip 1820b and a lower tip 1824b. By providing more than one tip for each tongue, the path of fluid leakage that occurs through the mating mating surfaces 124 is increased. Further, when an unnecessary detachment force such as a tensile force applied in a direction transverse to the major axis of the fastening member 1800 is received, the meshing strength of the mating surface 124 increases.

  Referring now to FIGS. 19-22, a fastening system 1900 including a first fastening member 1600 and a second fastening member 1904 is shown in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention. The second fastening member 1904 includes a mating surface 124 that is releasably mated with the mating surface 124 of the fastening member 1600. Further, the second fastening member 1904 includes a back surface 120 with a receiving portion 1908 for receiving the insert 1912. According to at least one embodiment of the invention, the receptacle 1908 includes a groove 1916 adapted to engage and receive the tongue 1920 of the insert 1912. The insert 1912 can be a variety of structures. By way of non-limiting example, the insert 1912 may include one or more of reflectors, fluid carrying conduits, wires, communication elements, bumpers, and decorative inserts. Such an insert 1912 has applications for use with fasteners associated with articles such as jackets. When used with a jacket or other applicable article, the fastener can be opened and closed using a slider.

  Referring now to FIGS. 23-27, a fastening system 2300 is shown that includes a plurality of releasably mating mating surfaces in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention. More particularly, as best seen in FIGS. 24 and 25, fastening system 2300 has a first mating surface 2312 on the first or front surface 2316 and a second mating surface 2320 on the second or back surface 2324. A first fastening member 2304 including a head 2308 is included. Further, as best seen in FIGS. 26 and 27, the first fastening member 2304 is received within a second fastening member 2328 that includes a forked head 2332. The fork-shaped head portion 2332 includes a first inner portion 2336 having a first inner mating surface 2340 and a second inner portion 2344 having a second inner mating surface 2348 and facing each other. The head 2308 of the first fastening member 2304 is adapted to releasably engage within the forked head 2332 of the second fastening member 2328. When so meshed, the first mating surface 2312 of the head 2308 meshes releasably with the first inner mating surface 2340 of the fork-shaped head 2332 and the second mating surface 2320 of the head 2308 is the fork-shaped head. The second inner mating surface 2348 of 2332 meshes releasably.

  Referring now to FIGS. 28-30, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, a fastening system 2800 includes a second fastening member 2804 having a fork-shaped head 2308 that includes a first fastening member 2304 and a gap 2812. A fastening system 2800 is shown that includes Similar to the fork head 2332 of the second fastening member 2328 and as best seen in FIGS. 29 and 30, the fork head 2808 of the second fastening member 2804 has a first inner mating surface 2340. An inner portion 2336 and a second inner portion 2344 having a second inner mating surface 2348 and facing each other are included. Further, the inner pocket 2816 is located adjacent to the first inner mating surface 2340 and the second inner mating surface 2348. When the head 2308 engages within the fork-shaped head 2808, the inner pocket 2816 forms a gap 2812 bounded by the head side surface 2820 of the head 2308. The clearance 2812 of the fastening system 2800 can be used for a variety of purposes, including increasing the bending properties and flexibility of the mated first fastening member 2304 and second fastening member 2804. Further, the gap 2812 may be subjected to a pressure test to document that it is a gas tight (or liquid tight) fastener and / or to monitor for liquid or gas leaks. Further, the gap 2812 can function as a fluid conduit.

  Referring now to FIG. 31, a slider 3100 for use with fastening systems 2300 and 2800 is shown. The slider 3100 generally includes an open end 3104 and a closed end 3108. In use, the head 2308 of the first fastening member 2304 is inserted into the first side 3112 of the slider 3100 and the fork head 2332 of the second fastening member 2328 is inserted into the first side of the slider 3100 as described for the fastening system 2300. 2 is inserted into the side 3116. When head 2308 and fork-shaped head 2332 pass inside 3120 of slider 3100, when slider 3100 is moved in the closing direction, the mating surfaces of first fastening member 2304 and second fastening member 2328 engage and engage. . Similarly, when the slider 3100 is moved in the opening direction, the first fastening member 2304 is detached from the second fastening member 2328.

  Referring now to FIGS. 32-35, there is shown a multi-layer fastening system 3200 that includes a plurality of releasably mating surfaces in accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention. More specifically, the multilayer fastening system 3200 includes a cap member 3500a and a base member 3500b in addition to the first and second fastening members 3400a, 3400b.

  As best seen in FIG. 34, the first and second fastening members 3400 include a head 3404 having a first mating surface 3408 on the front surface 3412 and a second mating surface 3416 on the back surface 3420. The head 3404 also has an extension 3424 that includes a third mating surface 3428.

  As best seen in FIG. 35, the cap and base member 3500 has a first cap / base mating surface 3504 and a spaced apart second cap / base mating surface 3508.

  Referring again to FIGS. 32 and 33, the first cap mating surface 3504a is adapted to releasably engage the first first mating surface 3408a of the first fastening member 3400a, and the second cap mating surface 3508a is a second fastening surface. It is adapted to releasably engage with the second first mating surface 3408b of member 3400b. Base member 3500b includes first base mating surface 3504b adapted to releasably engage with first second mating surface 3416a of first fastening member 3400a, and second second mating surface of second fastening member 3400b. 3416b and a second base mating surface 3508b adapted to releasably engage. Finally, the third mating surface 3428a of the first fastening member 3400a is adapted to releasably engage with the third mating surface 3428b of the second fastening member 3400b, thereby forming an intermediate seal 3204. During assembly, the cap member 3500a becomes the boundary of the intermediate seal 3204 on the first side 3208, and the base member 3500b becomes the boundary of the intermediate seal 3204 on the second side 3212. In addition, a first gap 3216 is formed between the intermediate seal 3204 and the inner portion 3220 of the cap member 3500a during assembly. Further, a second gap 3224 is formed between the intermediate seal 3204 and the inner portion 3228 of the base member 3500b. The gaps 3216 and 3224 of the fastening system 3200 can serve several purposes, such as documenting that one or both of the gaps 3216 and 3224 are subjected to a pressure test and are airtight (or liquid tight) fasteners. Proof and / or liquid or gas leaks may be monitored. Further, one or both of gaps 3126 and 3224 can function as a conduit for a fluid such as water, and one or both of gaps 3126 and 3224 can receive other materials such as sealants. it can.

  With reference now to FIGS. 36-38, there is shown another multi-layer fastening system 3600 that includes a plurality of releasably mating surfaces in accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention. More particularly, the multi-layer fastening system 3600 includes a plurality of members having mating surfaces that can be placed one on top of the other.

  As shown in FIG. 36, the multi-layer fastening system 3600 includes two fastening members 2304 that are overlaid and interconnected by a fastening member 3700. As best seen in FIGS. 37 and 38, the fastening member 3700 includes a fork-shaped head 3704 that includes a first fork member 3708 having a first inner portion 3712 and an outer portion 3716, the first inner portion 3712 being a first inner portion 3712. 1 includes an inner mating surface 3720 and the outer portion 3716 includes an outer mating surface 3724. Further, the fork head 3704 includes a second fork member 3728 having a second inner portion 3732 that includes a second inner mating surface 3736. The back surface 3738 of the second fork-shaped member 3728 does not have a mating surface, but if desired, a mating surface can be provided on the back surface 3738 so that additional fastening members can be attached to the back surface 3738. For the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 36-38, there is also an inner pocket 3740 (although this feature is optional) that allows formation of a gap 3604 when assembled as shown in FIG.

  For the multi-layer fastening system 3600 shown in FIG. 36, two tails 104 aligned on the right side of the page are associated with fastening members 1904 and 3700 and two tails 104 aligned on the left side of the page are associated with fastening member 2304. Such a configuration has at least an application to jackets or bags having various liners and / or outer shells.

  It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the fastening members shown in FIGS. 1-38 and / or their associated features can be combined in a variety of different ways and such configurations are considered to be within the scope of the present invention. it is obvious. That is, it can be understood that fastening members can be stacked and / or combined and / or aspects of the invention can be combined. Thus, one or more aspects of one embodiment can be combined with one or more aspects of one or more other embodiments.

  Referring now to FIG. 39, there is shown a slider 3900 including a slider body 3904 having an open end 3908 and a closed end 3912 according to at least one embodiment of the invention. The slider 3900 is used to open and close two fastening members each having a mating surface. In general, the slider 3900 presses the mating surfaces together when moved in the closing direction, and separates the mating surfaces when moved in the opening direction.

  With continued reference to FIG. 39, the open end 3908 of the slider 3900 includes an upper portion 3916 and a lower portion 3920, and an intermediate portion 3924 located between the upper portion 3916 and the lower portion 3920. Since the intermediate portion 3924 is positioned between the first mating surface of the first fastening member and the second mating surface of the second fastening member when the slider 3900 is moved in the opening direction, the intermediate portion 3924 is generally around the open end 3908. Located in. The slider body 3904 includes a path through which the fastening member slides during the movement of opening or closing the slider 3900. 39, the slider 3900 provides a substantially straight path along the long axis LA-LA of the mating surface of the second fastening member. The slider 3900 has applications where the second fastening member is relatively stiff (eg, metal, hard plastic, etc.) while the other fastening members are flexible. By way of non-limiting example, such applications can include boat awnings or covers. In such applications, the mating shape or mating surface of the second fastening member of the boat portion can be hardened and molded directly into the boat, and the flexible cover or awning including the flexible first fastening member is applied to the boat. The slider 3900 can be engaged about the boat by moving the slider 3900 around the possible portion, thereby engaging the first flexible fastening member with the relatively rigid and rigid second fastening member.

  Referring now to FIGS. 40 and 41, there is shown a fastening system 4000 that includes a magnetic slider 4004 that interacts with fastening members 4008a and 4008b, according to at least one embodiment of the invention. The fastening system 4000 includes a first fastening member 4008a having a first head 108a that includes a first mating surface 124a. Further, in at least one embodiment, the first head portion 108a includes a ferromagnetic material that extends along the longitudinal length of the first mating surface 124a. The fastening system 4000 also includes a second fastening member 4008b having a second head 108b that includes a second mating surface 124b, wherein the second mating surface 124b is adapted to releasably engage the first mating surface 124a. ing. In order to easily fix and release the mating surfaces 124a and 124b, the slider 4004 is moved along the long axis LA-LA of the heads 108a and 108b. The slider 4004 includes a slider body 4012 having an open end 4016 and a closed end 4020. The open end 4016 has an upper portion 4024 and a lower portion 4028. Similarly, the closed end 4020 has an upper portion 4032 and a lower portion 4036. In at least one embodiment, upper portion 4024 and lower portion 4028 each include a slider magnet, where magnetic forces are between first head portion 108a and upper portion 4024 and between second head portion 108b and lower portion 4028. In between, it is applied at the open end 4016 to pull the mating surfaces 124a and 124b apart. The slider magnet extends along at least a portion of the length of the slider body 4012 so that when pulled in the opening direction, the slider magnet begins to separate the mating surfaces 124a and 124b within the inner region of the slider body 4012. Preferably present.

  As can be seen from FIGS. 40 and 41, the slider 4004 may include an intermediate portion 4040 and, in at least one embodiment, the intermediate portion 4040 such that the first intermediate portion 4044 is positioned opposite the second intermediate portion 4048. Is discontinuous across the width of the slider body 4012. When the slider 4004 moves, the head portion 108a of the first fastening member 4008a is between the middle portion 4040 and the upper portion 4024 at the open end 4016, and the head portion 108b of the second fastening member 4008b is located between the middle portion 4040 and the lower portion 4028. Between. The intermediate portion 4040 may also include at least one magnet or ferromagnetic material as desired.

  It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various types of magnets and ferromagnetic materials can be used, and that they can be used at various positions within the slider body 4012 in addition to various positions within the heads 108a and 108b. Is obvious. For example, the arrangement of magnets inside the slider body 4012 may include magnets that cause the heads 108a and 108b to separate toward the open end 4016 of the slider body inside the center of the slider body 4012, while using magnets. Then, the mating surfaces 124a and 124b may be pressed together toward the closed end 4020 inside the center of the slider body 4012. Instead, in at least one embodiment, the closed end 4020 of the slider body 4012 may not include magnets and / or ferromagnetic materials. As another example, magnets and / or ferromagnetic materials are used for the heads 108a and 108b so that the first head 108a and the second head 108b are magnetically attracted to interact with the slider 4004. Not only that, it is also possible to enhance the mutual interaction. Although not limited to the following examples, magnets and / or ferromagnetic materials can be extruded directly into heads 108a and 108b and / or they can be mounted as inserts 1912 or they can be adhesives. Can be attached. At least a portion of one of the heads 108a and 108b can be removed at the longitudinal end of the fastening member to provide an airtight and / or waterproof fastener.

  Referring now to FIGS. 42 and 43, a multi-piece slider has at least a use in repair situations where the slider is damaged and the replacement one-piece slider cannot be inserted into the fastening member, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. 4200 is shown. The slider 4200 is generally intended for use with a first fastening member and a second fastening member that each include a mating surface. In at least one embodiment, the slider 4200 includes a slider body 4204 having a plurality of portions adapted for interconnection using a fastening mechanism 4210. By way of non-limiting example, the slider body 4204 can include an intermediate portion 4208 that can be separated and interconnected by, for example, bars, latches, screws, bolts, and the like. As best seen in FIG. 43, the first portion 4212 of the slider body 4204 is interconnected to the second portion 4216 of the slider body 4204. Fastening mechanism 4210 functions to couple first intermediate portion 4208 a of first portion 4212 to second intermediate portion 4208 b of second portion 4216. Similar to the slider described above, during assembly, the intermediate portion 4208 functions to separate the mating surfaces as the slider moves in the opening direction. When the slider 4200 is assembled to repair a damaged slider, the damaged slider is first removed from the first and second fastening members. Next, the head of the first fastening member is inserted over the first intermediate portion 4208a, the head of the second fastening member is then inserted under the intermediate portion 4208b, and the fastening mechanism 4210 is engaged. By connecting the first intermediate portion 4208a to the second intermediate portion 4208b, the first portion 4212 of the slider body 4204 is fixed to the second portion 4216 of the slider body 4204, so that the slider 4200 is first and second fastened. It is attached to the member.

  Referring now to FIG. 44, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, there is shown a slider 4400 that includes a slider body 4404 having at least one roller that reduces friction between at least one fastening member and the slider 4400. Has been. More specifically, the one or more rollers 4408 are operatively associated with the slider body 4404 and function to help reduce friction when the slider 4400 moves to open and close the mating surfaces of the fastening members. Referring to FIG. 44, the roller 4408 is located on the inner surface 4412 of the intermediate portion 4416 of the slider body 4404. As some of the possible shapes, the roller 4408 can include a cylindrical device, a narrower wheel-type device, or a spherical device such as a ball bearing. In at least one embodiment, roller 4408 is disposed in contact with both the first and second fastening members. In at least one embodiment, roller 4408 has a rotational axis RA-RA oriented substantially perpendicular to major axis LA-LA.

  Referring now to FIG. 45, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, there is shown a slider 4500 with an external roller 4504 for engaging the tail 104 of the fastening member. The outer roller 4504 makes it easier to limit the frictional interaction of the fastening member when the slider 4500 moves in the longitudinal direction. The slider 4500 may also include one or more rollers 4408, such as the roller 4408 shown above the intermediate portion 4416, as desired.

  Referring now to FIGS. 46-49, there is shown a slider 4600 configured to receive an insert that provides additional functionality, according to at least one embodiment of the invention. More particularly, the slider 4600 includes a compartment slider insert system that allows various materials to be incorporated into the slider for various reasons. One such reason is the addition of self-lubricating plastic inserts, such as Teflon inserts, along with strength, slider interaction with the head of the fastening member as the head passes the slider This is to provide a combination of mitigation. Alternatively, one or more inserts may include a magnet that interacts with a suitable fastening member. Furthermore, the various components having interconnectivity make it easier to manufacture composite multi-piece sliders. The sections of the slider 4600 can be snapped together, glued together, or interconnected using a fastening device such as a screw. Inserts can also be added to other devices described herein, such as stop blocks. For example, new or alternative gripping elements can be added to the stop block.

  Referring again to FIGS. 46-49, the slider 4600 includes a slider body 4604 having an upper portion 4608, a lower portion 4612, and an intermediate portion 4616 between the upper portion 4608 and the lower portion 4612. At the open end 4620 of the slider body 4604, the intermediate portion 4616 is located between the path along which the fastening member slides during the movement to open and close the slider 4600. In at least one embodiment, the intermediate portion has a first side 4624 releasably interconnectable to the upper portion 4608 and a second side 4628 releasably interconnectable to the lower portion 4612. Accordingly, the middle portion 4616 can be separated from the upper portion 4608 and the lower portion 4612. Thus, in at least one embodiment, the intermediate portion 4616 can be replaced by removing it from the upper portion 4608 and the lower portion 4612 and inserting a replacement intermediate portion. For such a configuration, the new intermediate portion 4616 may include a self-lubricating element for contacting at least one of the fastening members. 48 and 49, there is shown an insert member 4800 that can be inserted into the slider 4600 to form part of the slider body 4604. FIG.

  Referring now to FIGS. 50 and 51, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, a slider 5000 including a pull tab system 5004 is shown. Pull tab system 5004 includes a rotatably mounted pull tab 5008 that is interconnected to a slider body 5012 at an intermediate portion 5016. Because the interconnection is located at the intermediate portion 5016, the applied force is more in line with the long axis of the fastening member, thereby moving the slider 5000 more efficiently and at the same time acting on the mating surface of the fastening member. Pull tab 5008 can be pulled in both the opening and closing directions to make the force smaller.

  In at least one embodiment, the rotatably mounted pull tab 5008 is interconnected to the intermediate portion 5016 by a pin 5020 located at the open end 5024 of the slider body. FIG. 52 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a pin 5020 that generally comprises a cylindrical rod. However, and in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, the pin 5020 of the pull tab system 5004 may optionally include a wedge 5300 as shown in FIG. 53, where the wedge 5300 is secured to the pin 5020. Attached. In certain embodiments, the wedge 5300 is preferably located inside the slider 5000, where the wedge 5300 contacts and frictionally contacts at least a portion of at least one of the fastening members, such as the head of one fastening member. Can be engaged. In use, when the pull tab 5008 is rotated downward, the wedge 5300 also rotates relative to the fastening member and presses the fastening member against the inner surface of the slider body 5012, thereby positioning the slider 5000 in the longitudinal direction of the fastening member. Secure releasably to at least one. To release the wedge 5300, the pull tab 5008 is lifted and pulled in the desired direction. In another alternative embodiment, the upper wedge may be located in the upper portion of the slider body, where rotating the connected tab causes the upper wedge to rotate downward relative to the fastening member, eg, a fastening member The fastening member is releasably secured by pressing it against the upper surface inside the intermediate portion.

  54-56, there is shown a slider / stop block combination 5400 including a slider 5404 and a stop block 5408, according to at least one embodiment of the invention. This combination of devices is particularly useful for articles such as jackets, but can also be used for other articles such as, but not limited to, sleeping bags, removable pants legs, removable hoods, and the like.

  The slider 5404 includes a slider body 5412 that includes an open end 5416 and a closed end 5420. The closed end 5420 includes a restraining portion 5424 that functions to restrain the first mating surface 124 of the first fastening member in meshing engagement with the second mating surface 124 of the second fastening member. In at least one embodiment, the closed end 5420 of the slider body 5412 includes an upper inclined surface 5428 and a lower inclined surface 5432 that resemble a truncated wedge when viewed from the side.

  Stop block 5408 includes structural features that hold and release the fastening members and interact with slider 5404. In at least one embodiment, the stop block 5408 includes a first housing or upper housing 5436 and a second housing or lower housing 5440. In at least one embodiment, the lower housing 5440 is permanently fixed to one of the first and second fastening members, for example to the longitudinal end of the fastening member. The upper housing portion 5436 is preferably movably connected to the lower housing portion 5440, and the upper housing portion 5436 is more preferably hingedly connected to the lower housing portion 5440 by a hinge 5444. For interaction with the slider 5404, the upper receiving portion 5436 includes an upper inclined receiving surface 5448 and the lower receiving portion 5440 includes a lower inclined receiving surface 5452.

  Stop block 5408 has a first closed position and a second open position (as shown in FIG. 54). When the upper inclined surface 5428 and the lower inclined surface 5432 of the slider 5404 come into contact with the upper inclined receiving surface 5448 and the lower inclined receiving surface 5452 of the stop block 5408, the slider 5404 moves the stop block 5408 from the first closed position to the second position. Move to the open position. That is, the upper accommodating portion 5436 moves along the arrow A and rotates the front end 5450 upward to the second opening position. At that time, the stop block 5408 allows at least the grip portion of the fastening member that is not fixed to be fed into the stop block 5408 while the stop block is in the second open position. Thereafter, the slider 5404 is moved away from the stop block 5408 in the closing direction, and the stop block 5408 is returned to the first closing position. Because the upper portion 5436 is biased to the normally closed position, for example by a spring, the stop block 5408 closes automatically. As best seen in FIG. 56, when the slider 5404 moves away from the stop block 5408, the gripping portion of the inserted fastening member uses, for example, a gripping element 5456 located within the interior 5460 of the stop block 5408. Is held in place by the stop block 5408. An optional latch 5464 (shown in phantom in FIG. 54) is provided to selectively secure the upper receiving portion 5436 to the lower receiving portion 5440 when the stop block 5408 is closed, thereby securing the stop block. You may fix in a closed position. Thus, when the slider 5404 is slid to the bottom of the fastening member in use, the closed end 5412 of the slider 5404 contacts the front end 5416 of the stop block 5408 and thereby is not permanently attached to the stop block 5408. The fastening member can be inserted into the stop block inner side 5420. The slider 5404 is then moved away from the stop block 5408 in the closing direction to releasably engage the mating surfaces 124 of the first and second fastening members.

  Referring now to FIGS. 57-63, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, another slider / stop block combination as a fastening system that includes fastening members 5702a and 5702b in addition to the slider 5704 and stop block 5708. It is shown. The slider 5704 includes a slider body 5712 including an open end 5716 and a closed end 5720. The closed end 5720 includes a restraining portion 5724 that functions to restrain the first mating surface 124 of the first fastening member 5702a in meshing engagement with the second mating surface 124 of the second fastening member 5702b.

  As best seen in FIG. 58, in at least one embodiment, the stop block 5708 is secured to the fastening members 5702a, 5702b by, for example, one or more screws 5710 that engage the fastening member 5702a and secure it to the stop block 5708. Permanently attached to one side. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other methods of securing the fastening member to the stop block 5708 are possible, for example by using gluing, welding, molding, and / or other fastening devices.

  As best seen in FIG. 60, stop block 5708 also includes a button 5728 having a sloped front portion 5732, a rear portion 5736, a sloped bottom portion 5740 and a lower protrusion 5744. In some embodiments, button 5728 is held within stop block 5708 by button pin 5746. The button tilts when the closed end 5720 of the slider 5704 is next to the tilted front portion 5732 of the button 5728, where the rear portion 5736 pushes down the return biasing member 5748 such as a spring while the lower protrusion 5744 is lifted. Assuming that the fastening system 5700 is related to the jacket and the jacket is open, when the lower projection 5744 is in the upward position, the unfastened fastening member 5702b is inserted into the stop block 5708; It can be releasably secured in it. More particularly, and referring now to FIG. 63, in at least one embodiment, the unfastened fastening member 5702b has a hole 6300 for receiving the lower projection 5744 of the button 5728 in its head. Include inside. Referring again to FIGS. 60 and 61, when the lower protrusion 5744 is lifted, the unfastened fastening member 5702 b can be inserted into the upper slot 5750 of the slider 5704 and into the stop block 5708. Once the unfastened fastening member 5702b is inserted into the stop block 5708, the slider 5704 is moved away from the stop block 5708 and then the return biasing member 5748 pushes the rear 5536 of the button 5728 so that the button 5728 Released to rest position. When the button 5728 is in the rest position, the lower protrusion 5744 engages the hole 6300 of the fastening member 5702b, thereby holding the fastening member 5702b inside the stop block 5708. The slider 5704 can then be moved upward to the major axis of the mating surface 124 of the fastening members 5702a and 5702b to releasably engage the mating surface 124. In at least one embodiment, slider 5704 moves by pulling a rotatable pull tab 5752 interconnected to an intermediate portion 5756 of slider 5704. Referring to FIG. 62, in order to open the fastening system 5700, the slider 5704 is returned downward to contact the stop block 5708, where the slider 5704 is again pressed against the front 5732 of the button 5728. Then, the button 5728 is raised and raised again, and the lower protrusion 5744 is released from the hole 6300 of the fastening member 5702b. The fastening member 5702b can then be pulled freely from the stop block 5708 and the upper slot 5750 of the slider 5704, allowing the jacket fastener to be fully opened. Thus, whenever the slider 5704 is located at the bottom of the jacket and is in contact with the stop block 5708, the button 5728 is in the open position and the fastening member 5702b is inserted or removed from the stop block 5708. One of them can be done immediately.

  Referring now to FIGS. 64 and 65, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, another fastening system 6400 is shown that includes a stop block 6404 that is directly injection molded into one of the fastening members 6408. FIG. For the stop block 6404, the slider is slid down the fastening member 6408 until it touches the stop block 6404, at which point another fastening member can be inserted through the front of the slider and into the stop block 6404. The inserted fastening member is held inside the stop block 6404 by frictional engagement with the inside of the stop block, or the inserted fastening member is simply put into place by the user when the slider is moved upward. Retained. Thus, once the fastening members are inserted into the stop block 6404, the sliders can be moved over the fastening member heads 108 to releasably engage their mating surfaces. To open the fastener, the slider is returned to the stop block 6404 and the releasable fastening member is pulled out of the stop block 6404 and the slider.

  Referring now to FIG. 66, there is shown another stop block 6600 that is pressed into place on at least one fastening member, according to at least one embodiment of the invention. Stop block 6600 includes a plurality of gripping surfaces 6608 and includes an inner side 6604 that frictionally engages at least one fastening member. Further, the stop block 6600 can be opened using a hinge 6612 that allows the upper housing portion 6616 to rotate relative to the lower housing portion 6620. Further, the stop block 6600 includes a snap 6624 for fixing the upper housing portion 6616 to the lower housing portion 6620 as necessary. The snap 6624 features a frictional engagement head 6628 that engages a receiving portion 6632 inside the opposing receptacle. The frictional engagement head 6628 is preferably biased to a fixed position, but can be moved to release the upper receiving portion 6616 from the lower receiving portion 6620, thereby adjusting the stop block 6600 if desired. enable. Accordingly, the stop block 6600 can be installed after the fastening member is manufactured, so that the stop block 6600 functions to provide a simple attachment to at least one fastening member. Further, the stop block 6600 can be adjusted, and further, can be adjusted when the fastening member is inserted into the stop block 6600. Once the stop block 6600 is attached and engaged with the fastening member, the fastening member can be closed using a slider.

  Referring now to FIGS. 67 and 68, another stop block 6700 is shown that allows for the insertion of a fastening member, according to at least one embodiment of the invention. Stop block 6700 is preferably fixedly attached to the first fastening member and further includes an inner side 6704 for frictionally engaging the second fastening member. More particularly, the inner side 6704 includes a receiving channel 6708 having a rotatable brake 6712. The rotatable brake 6712 is releasably secured to at least the gripping portion of the second fastening member when the gripping portion is fed into the stop block 6700 and the rotatable brake 6712 engages the gripping portion. Function. In use, the second fastening member slides into the receiving channel 6708 of the stop block 6800, and the rotatable brake 6712 contacts the surface of the second fastening member and rotates in a first direction corresponding to the insertion direction but counter-rotating. Self-acting to hold the second fastening member in place within the stop block 6700. If it is desired to open the fastener, a release mechanism such as a push button release 6716 is activated that allows the reverse rotation of the brake 6712 and removal of the second fastening member. As an alternative to push button release, an automatic release trigger may be incorporated into stop block 6700 to interact with the slider, such as button 5728 shown in fastening system 5700. For stop block 6700, the slider engages a trigger that releases brake 6712 and allows the second fastening member to be released. For such a configuration, the second fastening member need not include the hole 6300.

  Referring now to FIGS. 69A and 69B, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, another stop block 6900 that allows insertion of a fastening member is shown. Stop block 6900 is similar to stop block 6700 described above, but stop block 6900 includes a rotatable locking cam 6904. FIG. 69B is a detailed view of the rotatable locking cam 6904 and its push button release 6908. Similar to the rotatable brake 6712, the rotatable locking cam 6904 allows insertion of a fastening member and resists counter rotation unless the release mechanism is activated.

  From the foregoing, a number of different methods can be used to provide a rotatable element that secures the second fastening member within the stop block, and such variations and other modifications are encompassed by embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art. It should be further noted that for the rotatable brake 6712 and the rotatable locking cam 6904, or other gripping elements 6608 and 5456, various material types and textures, such as soft plastic or rubber to enhance grip In addition, a textured or angled element or the like for gripping the inserted fastening member can be used.

  Referring now to FIG. 70, there is shown a fastening system 7000 and a stop block 7002 that allow a fastening member to be inserted, according to at least one embodiment of the invention. The stop block includes two separable parts, a right part 7004a and a left part 7004b, where the right part 7004a is fixedly attached to the first fastening member 7008a and the left part 7004b is attached to the second fastening member 7008b. It is fixed and attached. In use, the right portion 7004a is aligned for releasable engagement with the left portion 7004b, for example by aligning the coupling member 7012a of the right portion 7004a and the coupling member 7012b of the left portion 7004b. Next, when the coupling members 7012a and 7012b are engaged, the first longitudinal end 7016a of the fastening member 7008a and the first longitudinal end 7016b of the fastening member 7008b are coupled. Next, the slider 7020 can move the long axis LA-LA of the fastening members 7008a and 7008b upward to engage the mating surface 124 of each fastening member 7008a and 7008b releasably. Next, when this process is reversed, the fastener opens.

  Referring now to FIG. 71, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, a fastening system 7100 that includes an upper stop 7104 is shown. In general, the top stop is used to prevent the slider from moving away from the end (ie, top) of the fastener. The fastening system 7100 includes a first fastening member 7108a and a second fastening member 7108b. For the embodiment shown in FIG. 71, the upper stop 7104 includes two separable portions, an upper right stop portion 7112a and an upper left stop portion 7112b, where the upper right stop portion 7112a is the first fastening member. 7108a is fixedly attached, and the upper left stop portion 7112b is fixedly attached to the second fastening member 7108b. When the slider 7116 is advanced to the top or top of the fastening members 7108a and 7108b, the upper right stop portion 7112a is joined with the upper left stop portion 7112b. Such a configuration not only functions to keep the slider 7116 away from the fastening members 7108a and 7108b, but also functions to provide a structurally smooth and visually appealing end to the fastener. For the jacket, the structurally smooth finish improves user satisfaction because the upper stop 7104 prevents the fastener end from stimulating or touching the user's chin or neck. The upper stop 7104 may optionally include a frictionally engaging clasp for releasably securing the slider 7116 to the upper stop 7104.

  72-74, there is shown a fastening system 7200 that includes an upper stop 7204, a slider 7208, and a first fastening member 7212a and a second fastening member 7212b, according to at least one embodiment of the invention. Yes. As can be seen from FIG. 72, the slider 7208 can be advanced to the upper stop 7204 for releasable engagement with the upper stop 7104. Referring now to FIGS. 73 and 74, the upper stop 7204 without the slider 7208 and the first fastening member 7212a is shown. The upper stop portion 7204 includes an upper stop portion mating surface 7216 that is paired with the mating surface 7220 of the first fastening member 7212a when the slider 7208 is advanced to the upper stop portion 7204. When the slider 7208 reaches the upper stop portion 7204, the slider 7208 covers the upper stop portion 7204 to bring the mating surface 7220 of the first fastening member 7212a into contact with the upper stop portion mating surface 7216. In at least one embodiment, upper stop mating surface 7216 includes a tongue / groove structure 7224 for releasably engaging mating surface 7220 of first fastening member 7212a.

  The slider 7208 of the fastening system 7200 may optionally include a tongue / groove structure that mates with the tongue / groove structure 7224 of the upper stop 7204. Such a configuration can prevent the permeation of air, water or gas through the mating surface formed around the slider 7208 and closed, in addition to the first fastening member 7212a and the second fastening member 7212b and the upper stop 7204. Leakage around can be prevented.

  75 and 76, a fastening system including an upper stop 7504, a slider 7508, first and second fastening members 7512a, 7512b, and a stop block 7516, according to at least one embodiment of the invention. 7500 is shown. The upper stop portion 7504 is located only on one fastening member, that is, the fastening member 7512b. Such an upper stop 7504 may be a piece of material, such as plastic, that is molded and permanently attached to the longitudinal end 7520 of the second fastening member 7512b.

  Referring now to FIGS. 77-78, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, a slider garage 7704 for receiving the slider 7708 when the slider is positioned at the longitudinal end 7712 of the fastening members 7716a and 7716b. A fastening system 7700 including is shown. The slider garage 7704 may be a variety of materials including molded plastic or metal hoods, or it may be a part of the article to which the fastener is attached, such as a flap of material.

  Referring now to FIG. 79, an electric slider 7900 is shown according to at least one embodiment of the invention. The electric slider 7900 preferably includes a motor 7904 operably connected to the slider body 7908. A motor can be used to rotate the drum 7912 to drive the slider body 7908 and / or advance the fastening member within the slider body 7908. The electric slider 7900 can be used to automatically close a fastening member, such as a fastening member associated with a stadium waterproof field cover. When in use, large rolls of material covering the field are lined up, the electric slider 7900 is actuated to traverse the field, and a large panel with watertight fasteners is automatically rolled in while simultaneously rewinding the cover into place. Join. Other uses or possibilities include the combination of lagoon / pond / lake liner panels and the bonding of concrete protection panels such as in pavements and building structures. Sidewalk seams also benefit from having a watertight joint between the sidewalk sections, and the electric slider 7900 can assist a construction worker in coupling such a seam system.

  Any of the stop blocks and / or upper stops described herein may include a magnet or ferromagnetic material for interacting with the fastening member head 108. Further, the stop blocks and upper stops described herein were associated with suitable fastening members and / or any of their components (eg, fastening members 1200a, 1200b, 1220a and 1220b shown in FIGS. 12-15). It may further include electronic elements such as wires, optical fibers, and / or batteries to form part of the operable element. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the material forming the stop block and upper stop may include plastic, metal, glass, ceramic, combinations thereof, and the like. Such a structure may also include an insert such as a reflective feature.

  The disclosures of the following references are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety: US Pat. No. 5,991,980, US Pat. No. 6,721,999, and US Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0107500. issue.

  The present invention, in various embodiments, includes components, methods, processes, systems, and / or devices substantially illustrated and described herein, including various embodiments, sub-combinations, and subsets thereof. Include. After understanding the present disclosure, how to make and use the present invention is within the understanding of one of ordinary skill in the art. The present invention, in various embodiments, is free of articles that would have been used in previous devices or processes, for example, to improve performance, facilitate implementation and / or reduce implementation costs. Including the provision of apparatus and processes in the absence of articles not shown and / or described herein or in various embodiments thereof.

  It should be noted that the term “a” or “an” object means that the object is one or more. As such, the terms “a” or “an”, “one or more”, and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein. It should also be noted that the terms “comprising”, “including” and “having” can be used interchangeably herein.

  The above discussion of the present invention has been presented for illustrative purposes. The foregoing is not intended to limit the invention to the form disclosed herein. In the foregoing detailed description, for example, various features of the invention have been grouped together in one or more embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, aspects of the invention reside in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodiment of the invention.

  It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the various different uses of the present invention for a variety of articles are intended to be all incorporated herein.

  Further, the description of the invention includes a description of one or more embodiments and some variations and modifications, such as, for example, within the skill and knowledge of those skilled in the art after understanding the present disclosure. Other variations and modifications are within the scope of the present invention. No patentable subject matter is intended to be open to the public, and are alternative, replaceable and / or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps disclosed in the claims disclosed herein? It is intended to obtain the right to include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted, including such alternative, replaceable and / or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps.

Claims (63)

A first fastening member including a first mating surface, wherein the first fastening member has a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, and the first mating surface is connected to the first longitudinal end of the first fastening member. A first fastening member extending a first longitudinal length between second longitudinal ends;
A second fastening member including a second mating surface, the second fastening member having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, wherein the second mating surface is connected to the first longitudinal end of the second fastening member. A second longitudinal length extends between the second longitudinal ends, and the second mating surface is disposed substantially opposite the first mating surface for releasably mating with the first mating surface. A second fastening member that is adapted;
A slider having a slider body including an open end and a closed end, wherein the closed end is a restraining portion in which the first mating surface of the first fastening member is engaged with the second mating surface of the second fastening member. And when the slider moves in the closing direction, the first fastening member and the second fastening member pass through the slider from the open end to the closed end, and the slider is in the first mating surface. In engagement with the second mating surface, wherein at least a portion of the slider body includes an engagement surface inclined at its closed end;
A stop block having a first housing portion and a second housing portion, wherein the first housing portion is interconnected to the second housing portion by a hinge, and one of the first and second housing portions is the first housing portion. And at least one of the first and second longitudinal ends of one of the second fastening members, the stop block has at least a first closed position and a second open position, and the slider body is inclined The slider moves the stop block from the first closed position to the second open position when the engagement surface contacts at least one receiving surface of the first and second receiving portions of the stop block; A grip on one of the first and second longitudinal ends of one of the first and second fastening members and another grip is fed into the stop block in the second open position and the slider is The closing away from the stop block The stop block is releasably secured to at least grasping portion within the stop block when being advanced in the direction to place the first closed position the stop block, the fastening system comprising a stop block.   The fastening system according to claim 1, wherein a closed end of the slider body has a wedge shape.   The fastening system of claim 2, wherein the stop block comprises an inner surface that includes a plurality of ribbed engagement surfaces.   The fastening system of claim 1, further comprising an upper stop secured to at least one of the first and second longitudinal ends of one of the first and second fastening members.   5. The upper stop is provided with a mating surface, the slider is provided with a tongue / groove, and the mating surface of the upper stop is adapted to engage the tongue / groove of the slider. Fastening system.   The fastening system according to claim 4, further comprising an electric wire located inside at least one of the first fastening member, the second fastening member, the stop block, and the upper stop portion. A first fastening member including a first mating surface, wherein the first fastening member has a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, and the first mating surface is connected to the first longitudinal end of the first fastening member. A first fastening member extending a first longitudinal length between second longitudinal ends;
A second fastening member including a second mating surface, the second fastening member having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, wherein the second mating surface is connected to the first longitudinal end of the second fastening member. A second longitudinal length extends between the second longitudinal ends, and the second mating surface is disposed substantially opposite the first mating surface for releasably mating with the first mating surface. A second fastening member that is adapted;
A slider having a slider body including an open end and a closed end, wherein the closed end is a restraining portion in which the first mating surface of the first fastening member is engaged with the second mating surface of the second fastening member. And when the slider moves in the closing direction, the first fastening member and the second fastening member pass through the slider from the open end to the closed end, and the slider is in the first mating surface. Engaging the second mating surface with the slider;
A stop block secured to at least one of the first and second longitudinal ends of one of the first and second fastening members, wherein a receiving channel is located within the stop block and a rotatable brake is disposed on the stop block; A grip located within at least a portion of the receiving channel and located at one of the first and second longitudinal ends of the first and second fastening members and at another one of the first and second fastening members is fed into the stop block And a stop block, wherein the stop block releasably secures the grip portion within the stop block when the rotatable brake engages the grip portion.   The fastening system of claim 7, wherein the rotatable brake comprises a cam.   The fastening system according to claim 7, wherein the rotatable brake comprises a roller having a rotation axis oriented substantially perpendicular to the long axis of the stop block.   The fastening system according to claim 7, wherein the rotatable brake includes a release mechanism for releasing the rotatable brake from the grip portion.   The fastening system of claim 7, further comprising an upper stop secured to at least one of the first and second longitudinal ends of one of the first and second fastening members. A first fastening member including a first mating surface, wherein the first fastening member has a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, and the first mating surface is connected to the first longitudinal end of the first fastening member. A first fastening member extending a first longitudinal length between second longitudinal ends;
A second fastening member including a second mating surface, the second fastening member having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, wherein the second mating surface is connected to the first longitudinal end of the second fastening member. A second longitudinal length extends between the second longitudinal ends, and the second mating surface is disposed substantially opposite the first mating surface for releasably mating with the first mating surface. A second fastening member that is adapted;
A slider having a slider body including an open end and a closed end, wherein the closed end is a restraining portion in which the first mating surface of the first fastening member is engaged with the second mating surface of the second fastening member. And when the slider moves in the closing direction, the first fastening member and the second fastening member pass through the slider from the open end to the closed end, and the slider is in the first mating surface. Engaging the second mating surface with the slider;
A first block member fixed to at least one of the first and second longitudinal ends of one of the first and second fastening members; and the first and second of one of the first and second fastening members. A stop block comprising at least one longitudinal end and a second block member secured to another one, wherein the first block member is releasably engaged with and connected to the second block member. A fastening system comprising a stop block forming a member.   The fastening system of claim 12, further comprising an upper stop secured to at least one of the first and second longitudinal ends of one of the first and second fastening members. A fastening system for use with a slider,
A first fastening member including a first mating surface, wherein the first fastening member has a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, and the first mating surface is connected to the first longitudinal end of the first fastening member. A first fastening member extending a first longitudinal length between second longitudinal ends;
A second fastening member including a second mating surface, the second fastening member having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, wherein the second mating surface is connected to the first longitudinal end of the second fastening member. A second longitudinal length extends between the second longitudinal ends, and the second mating surface is in contact with the first mating surface when the slider engages the first mating surface with the second mating surface. A second fastening member adapted to be disposed substantially opposite the first mating surface for releasably engaging;
A fastening system comprising: at least one communication element comprising at least one of an electrical wire and an optical fiber extending along at least a portion of the longitudinal length of at least one of the first fastening member and the second fastening member. .   The fastening system of claim 14, wherein the communication element is located within the at least one material of the first fastening member and the second fastening member.   The fastening system of claim 14, wherein the communication element is located along a surface of a tongue / groove portion of the first mating surface and the second mating surface. A slider for use with a first fastening member and a second fastening member, the first fastening member and the second fastening member having a mating surface facing along a long axis, the first and second fastening members 2 adapted to releasably engage when the slider is moved longitudinally along the longitudinal length of the fastening member,
A slider comprising a slider body with a plurality of portions adapted to be interconnected using a fastening mechanism.   The slider according to claim 17, wherein the fastening mechanism interconnects intermediate portions of the slider body, and the intermediate portions separate the mating surfaces when the slider is moved in the opening direction. A slider for use with a first fastening member and a second fastening member, the first fastening member and the second fastening member having a mating surface facing along a long axis, the first and second fastening members 2 adapted to releasably engage when the slider is moved longitudinally along the longitudinal length of the fastening member,
A slider comprising a slider body with which the rollers are interconnected, the roller being in a position to contact at least one of the first and second fastening members when the slider is moved.   The slider of claim 19, wherein the roller comprises a rotation axis oriented substantially perpendicular to the major axis. A first fastening member comprising a head having a first mating surface and a back surface, wherein the back surface of the head comprises at least one receiving portion;
A second fastening member including a second mating surface, wherein the second mating surface releasably mates with the first mating surface when the first mating surface is in mating contact with the second mating surface. A second fastening member adapted to be disposed substantially opposite the first mating surface for;
A fastening system comprising: at least one insert adapted to be inserted within the at least one receptacle.   The fastening system of claim 21, wherein the insert is retained within the receptacle by a tongue / groove configuration.   The fastening system of claim 21, wherein the insert comprises at least one of a reflector, a fluid carrying conduit, a wire, a communication element, a bumper, and a decorative insert.   The fastening system according to claim 21, further comprising a slider for engaging the first mating surface with the second mating surface. A first fastening member including a head having a first mating surface on the front surface and a second mating surface on the back surface;
A second fastening member including a fork-shaped head, wherein the first inner portion of the fork-shaped head includes a first inner mating surface, and the opposing second inner portion of the fork-shaped head is a second inner mating surface. A second fastening member including a surface, wherein a head of the first fastening member engages the first mating surface releasably with the first inner mating surface, and the second mating surface is the second inner surface. A fastening system adapted to releasably engage within a fork-shaped head of the second fastening member to releasably engage a mating surface.   26. The fastening system of claim 25, wherein a gap is formed within a fork-shaped head of the second fastening member when the first head engages releasably within the second fastening member.   27. The fastening system of claim 26, wherein the gap includes a fluid conduit.   27. The fastening system of claim 26, wherein the gap can be subjected to a pressure test. A slider for use with at least a first fastening member and a second fastening member, the first fastening member including a first mating surface, the second fastening member including a second mating surface, The first mating surface and the second mating surface are oriented along the major axis so as to be releasably engaged when the slider is moved in the longitudinal direction along the longitudinal length of the first and second fastening members. And the slider is
A slider body including an open end and a closed end, the open end having an upper portion and a lower portion and an intermediate portion between the upper portion and the lower portion, the intermediate portion opening the slider A slider body positioned around the open end for positioning between the first mating surface of the first fastening member and the second mating surface of the second fastening member when moved in the direction;
A pull tab connected to an intermediate portion of the slider body, the pull tab being rotatable from a first position when the slider is pulled in the opening direction to a second position when the slider is pulled to the closed position; A slider with   30. The slider of claim 29, wherein the pull tab is interconnected to the intermediate portion by a rotatable pin oriented substantially perpendicular to the major axis of the first and second mating surfaces.   32. The slider of claim 30, wherein the rotatable pin has a substantially circular cross section.   The pin includes a contact portion having a non-circular cross section, and when the slider moves along the long axis of the first and second mating surfaces, the contact portion is at least one of the first and second mating surfaces. 32. The slider of claim 30, wherein the slider is in contact with one.   33. The slider of claim 32, wherein the non-circular cross section is substantially wedge shaped. A slider for use with a first fastening member and a second fastening member, the first fastening member and the second fastening member having a mating surface facing along a long axis, the first and second fastening members 2 adapted to releasably engage when the slider is moved longitudinally along the longitudinal length of the fastening member,
A slider body including an open end and a closed end, the open end having an upper portion and a lower portion and an intermediate portion between the upper portion and the lower portion, the intermediate portion opening the slider When moved in the direction, positioned around the open end to be positioned between the first mating surface of the first fastening member and the second mating surface of the second fastening member, A first side releasably interconnected to the upper portion and a second side releasably interconnected to the lower portion, the intermediate portion from the upper and lower portions A slider comprising a slider body that is separable.   35. The slider of claim 34, wherein the intermediate portion is replaceable by removing from the upper and lower portions and inserting a replacement intermediate portion. A first fastening member including a first head having a first mating surface, wherein the first head extends along the longitudinal length of the first mating surface and is at least one of a magnet and a ferromagnetic material. Including a first fastening member,
A second fastening member including a second head having a second mating surface, wherein the second mating surface is brought into contact with the first mating surface when the first mating surface is brought into contact with the second mating surface. A second fastening member adapted to be disposed substantially opposite the first mating surface for releasably mating with the second fastening member;
A slider having a slider body including an open end and a closed end, the open end and the closed end having an upper portion and a lower portion, and at least one of the upper portion and the lower portion of the open end Comprises at least one of a slider magnet and a slider ferromagnetic material, wherein a magnetic force is applied between the first head and the at least one of the upper and lower portions of the open end; and Fastening system with.   37. A fastening system according to claim 36, wherein the second head comprises at least one of a magnet and a ferromagnetic material.   38. The fastening system of claim 36, wherein the closed end of the slider does not comprise at least one of a magnet and a ferromagnetic material.   The fastening system of claim 36, wherein the first head and the second head are magnetically attracted. A first fastening member including a first head having a first first mating surface on the front surface and a first second mating surface on the back surface, the first head including a first third mating surface. A first fastening member having a first extension;
A second fastening member including a second head having a second first mating surface on the front surface and a second second mating surface on the back surface, the second head including a second third mating surface. A second extension, and the second third mating surface is adapted to releasably engage with the first third mating surface of the first fastening member to form an intermediate seal. 2 fastening members;
A cap member having a first cap mating surface and a spaced apart second cap mating surface, wherein the first cap mating surface is releasably engaged with the first first mating surface of the first fastening member. A cap member adapted to releasably engage a second first mating surface of the second fastening member; and
A base member having a first base mating surface and a spaced second base mating surface, the first base mating surface releasably mating with the first second mating surface of the first fastening member. A second base mating surface, wherein the second base mating surface is adapted to releasably engage with the second second mating surface of the second fastening member. A multi-layer fastening system wherein the cap member is a boundary of the intermediate seal on a first side and the base member is a boundary of the intermediate seal on a second side.   The first gap is formed between the intermediate seal and the inner part of the cap member during assembly, and the second gap is formed between the intermediate seal and the inner part of the base member during assembly. The fastening system described.   42. The fastening system of claim 41, wherein at least one of the first gap and the second gap can be subjected to a pressure test. A first fastening member for use in combination with a second fastening member, wherein the first and second fastening members are adapted to releasably engage, the first fastening member comprising:
A head including a front surface and a back surface, the front surface having a mating surface with a plurality of tongue / groove structures, and the outermost tongue of the plurality of tongue / groove structures having an inclined end surface A plane extending from the inclined end surface intersects the back side plane at an angle φ, the back side plane is flush with the outer side surface of the back side, and φ is about 55 to 55 The 1st fastening member provided with the head which is the range of 75.   44. The first fastening member of claim 43, wherein the head is interconnected with a tail and the tail includes a flat surface that is substantially parallel to the backside plane.   44. The first of claim 43, wherein the head is interconnected with the tail by a transition, the transition includes an inner transition surface, and the inner transition surface is substantially parallel to the inclined terminal surface. Fastening member. A first fastening member for use in combination with a second fastening member, wherein the first and second fastening members are adapted to releasably engage, the first fastening member comprising:
A tail comprising a tail upper surface and a tail lower surface, wherein the tail upper surface is substantially parallel to the tail lower surface, the tail upper surface spaced from the tail lower surface and defining a tail thickness T;
A head interconnected with the tail by a transition, the transition including an inner transition surface having a height H, the height H being greater than the tail thickness T, the head being front and back The front surface has a mating surface with a plurality of tongue / groove structures, and the inner transition surface corresponds to the innermost groove surface of the plurality of tongue / groove structures, the plurality of tongue / groove structures The outermost tongue of the lower side includes an inclined end surface, and a lower tail plane extending from the lower surface of the tail through the head intersects the inclined end surface at an angle φ. And φ is defined above from the lower tail plane, φ is less than about 90 degrees, and the inner transition surface comprises a head that is substantially parallel to the inclined end surface, Fastening member.   An angle when the outermost tongue has at least one tip and a tip plane coplanar with the lower surface of the at least one tip extends the tip plane through the outermost tongue; 47. The first fastening member of claim 46, wherein the first fastening member intersects the inclined end surface at [theta], where [theta] is measured below the tip plane, and [theta] is in the range of about 85-95 degrees.   47. The first fastening member of claim 46, wherein [phi] ranges from about 55 to 75 degrees.   47. The first fastening member of claim 46, wherein a back side of the head comprises a back side surface, the back side surface being substantially parallel to the lower tail plane. A first fastening member including a first mating surface, wherein the first fastening member has a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, and the first mating surface is connected to the first longitudinal end of the first fastening member. A first fastening member extending a first longitudinal length between second longitudinal ends;
A second fastening member including a second mating surface, the second fastening member having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, wherein the second mating surface is connected to the first longitudinal end of the second fastening member. A second longitudinal length extends between the second longitudinal ends, and the second mating surface is disposed substantially opposite the first mating surface for releasably mating with the first mating surface. A second fastening member that is adapted;
A slider having a slider body including an open end and a closed end, wherein the closed end is a restraining portion in which the first mating surface of the first fastening member is engaged with the second mating surface of the second fastening member. And when the slider moves in the closing direction, the first fastening member and the second fastening member pass through the slider from the open end to the closed end, and the slider is in the first mating surface. Engaging the second mating surface with the slider;
A fastener stop,
A fastening system comprising: a first end member secured to the first longitudinal end of the first fastening member; and a fastener stop portion comprising a second end member secured to the first longitudinal end of the second fastening member. There,
When the slider is advanced in the closing direction toward the first end member and the second end member, the first end member and the second end member together form the fastener stop, and the slider Fastening system in which further movement in the closing direction is prevented. A first fastening member including a first mating surface, wherein the first fastening member has a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, and the first mating surface is connected to the first longitudinal end of the first fastening member. A first fastening member extending a first longitudinal length between second longitudinal ends;
A second fastening member including a second mating surface, the second fastening member having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, wherein the second mating surface is connected to the first longitudinal end of the second fastening member. A second longitudinal length extends between the second longitudinal ends, and the second mating surface is disposed substantially opposite the first mating surface for releasably mating with the first mating surface. A second fastening member that is adapted;
A slider having a slider body including an open end and a closed end, wherein the closed end is a restraining portion in which the first mating surface of the first fastening member is engaged with the second mating surface of the second fastening member. When the slider moves in the closing direction, the first fastening member and the second fastening member pass through the inside of the slider from the open end to the closed end, and the slider meets the first mating surface. Engaging the second mating surface with the slider;
A fastener stop secured to the first longitudinal end of the first fastening member and secured to the first longitudinal end of the second fastening member,
A fastening system, wherein the slider is prevented from further moving in the closing direction when the slider is advanced in the closing direction toward the fastener stop. The slider includes a slider inner structure that meshes with a first mating surface of the first fastening member and meshes with a second mating surface of the second fastening member;
The fastener stopping portion includes a mating structure that meshes with the first mating surface of the first fastening member and meshes with the second mating surface of the second fastening member, and the slider is directed toward the fastener stopping portion in the closing direction. 52. A fastening system according to claim 51, wherein the mating structure of the fastener stops engages the slider inner structure when advanced.   53. The fastening system according to claim 52, wherein the first fastening member, the second fastening member, the slider and the fastener stop form a fastener that is one or both of airtightness and waterproofness. A slider for use with a first fastening member and a second fastening member, the first fastening member and the second fastening member having a mating surface facing along a long axis, the first and second fastening members 2 adapted to releasably engage when the slider is moved longitudinally along the longitudinal length of the fastening member,
A slider body including at least one rotating member interconnected to an inner surface of the slider body, wherein the at least one rotating member is at least one of the first and second fastening members when the slider moves. A slider comprising a slider body, adapted to contact with.   55. The slider of claim 54, wherein the at least one rotating member comprises at least one roller having a rotation axis oriented substantially perpendicular to the major axis.   55. The slider of claim 54, wherein the at least one rotating member comprises at least one wheel. A slider for use with a first fastening member and a second fastening member, the first fastening member and the second fastening member having a mating surface facing along a long axis, the first and second fastening members 2 adapted to releasably engage when the slider is moved longitudinally along the longitudinal length of the fastening member,
A slider comprising a slider body including means for rotatably engaging at least one of the first and second fastening members when the slider moves.   58. The slider of claim 57, wherein the means for rotatably engaging comprises one or more of a roller, a wheel and a spherical bearing. A first fastening member including a first mating surface;
A second fastening member including a second mating surface, wherein the second mating surface is adapted to be disposed substantially opposite the first mating surface for releasably mating with the first mating surface. A second fastening member;
A slider for releasably engaging the first mating surface with the second mating surface;
A stop block secured to a first longitudinal end of the first fastening member, the stop block having at least a first gripping position and a second release position, wherein the slider body contacts a receiving surface of the stop block The slider moves the stop block from the first gripping position to the second release position, and the first longitudinal end gripping portion of the second fastening member is moved to the stop block at the second release position. And when the slider is advanced in the closing direction away from the stop block to place the stop block in the first gripping position, the stop block moves at least the gripping portion inside the stop block. A fastening system comprising a stop block for releasably fixing.   60. A fastening system according to claim 59, wherein the closed end of the slider comprises a wedge shape.   60. The fastening system of claim 59, wherein the stop block comprises an inner surface that includes a plurality of ribbed engagement surfaces. A slider for use with at least a first fastening member and a second fastening member, the first fastening member including a first mating surface, the second fastening member including a second mating surface, The first mating surface and the second mating surface are oriented along the major axis so as to be releasably engaged when the slider is moved in the longitudinal direction along the longitudinal length of the first and second fastening members. And the slider is
A slider body including an open end and a closed end, the open end having an upper portion and a lower portion and an intermediate portion between the upper portion and the lower portion, the intermediate portion opening the slider The slider body is positioned around the open end to be positioned between the first mating surface of the first fastening member and the second mating surface of the second fastening member when moved in the direction. A slider comprising a slider body defining a path for the fastening member to slide during movement to open and close the slider, the path for at least one of the fastening members being straight along the major axis. A first fastening member including a first mating surface;
A second fastening member including a second mating surface, wherein the second mating surface is adapted to be disposed substantially opposite the first mating surface for releasably mating with the first mating surface. A second fastening member;
A slider for releasably engaging the first mating surface with the second mating surface;
An upper stop attached to the second fastening member, the upper stop comprising an upper stop mating surface for releasably engaging the first mating surface of the first fastening member A fastening system comprising: when the slider is advanced to the upper stop, the slider aligns the first mating surface of the first fastening member to pair with the upper stop mating surface; Fastening system.

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